Karlsruhe to Giessen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sat, Jun 20
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Deutsche Bahn
TGV
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
TGV
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Giessen

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$39

Average price

$42

Fastest journey

1 h 57 m

Average duration

2 h 11 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

177 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Karlsruhe to Giessen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Giessen will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Karlsruhe for Giessen on Sat, Jun 20, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 177 km distance in an average of 2 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 57 m .

On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 2 h 25 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:41 AM2h25
    Karlsruhe
    10:06 AMGiessen
    $391One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:37 AM1h57
    Karlsruhe
    9:34 AMGiessen
    $461One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Karlsruhe to Giessen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Giessen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 8m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $32.

Distance: 109 miles (177 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$53

Average price

$43

Average price

Cheapest

$35

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 38m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 19m

Average total duration

2h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 9m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Giessen is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).

This is compared to other travel options from Karlsruhe to Giessen:

A bus is $11 (€9) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Karlsruhe to Giessen costing on average $53 (€44).

The fastest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Giessen is by train with an average journey time of 2h 8m.

Other travel options to Giessen take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 49m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Karlsruhe and Giessen including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Giessen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 1m sooner (2h 8m by train vs 2h 9m by car). Tickets start at around $53 (€44) compared to roughly $35 (€29) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Karlsruhe to Giessen train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Giessen trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:37 AM Karlsruhe
1h57
9:34 AM Giessen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:41 AM Karlsruhe
2h25
10:06 AM Giessen0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Giessen by bus or train

Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

Why should you book Karlsruhe to Giessen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as TGV, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) and more offer trains services from Karlsruhe to Giessen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Karlsruhe to Giessen.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of TGV, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Karlsruhe to Giessen.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Karlsruhe to Giessen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Karlsruhe to Giessen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Giessen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Giessen run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 109 miles (177 km) distance in 1h 57m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $18 (€15)
Distance
109 miles (177 km)
Average train duration
2h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
$32 (€26)
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
1h 57m
First train
12:08 AM
Last train
11:32 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
1 day
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $18 (€15)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, TGV, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Karlsruhe to Giessen trainsDeutsche Bahn, TGV, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Giessen from $18 (€15). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 4m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone

TGV

About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
TGV frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 3m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€53)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
10 a day

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 51m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€61)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
2 a day

FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe to Giessen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Giessen by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Giessen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe to Giessen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $53 (€44).
The train from Karlsruhe to Giessen takes 1h 57m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe to Giessen is 109 miles (177 km).
The first train from Karlsruhe to Giessen leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Giessen leaves at 11:32 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Karlsruhe to Giessen. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Karlsruhe to Giessen.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Giessen is Karlsruhe Hbf, which connects to Giessen station.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Giessen is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€15).
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Giessen offers a pleasant view of the German countryside, with stretches of lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages, particularly as the route passes through the scenic regions of Hesse.
A day trip from Karlsruhe to Giessen is not feasible, as the travel duration is 1h 57m. However, there are 9 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 109 miles (177 km).
To fully explore Giessen, including its key attractions such as the Mathematikum science museum, the Botanical Garden of the University of Giessen, and the Liebig Museum, a two-day visit is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Giessen.
Since both Karlsruhe and Giessen are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Giessen include Frankfurt am Main, Kassel, Mannheim, Marburg, Heidelberg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Giessen among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Giessen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and markets. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be aware of surroundings. There are no widespread scams reported, but standard precautions against overcharging or misleading offers at local vendors are recommended. Overall, Giessen is considered a safe destination with typical urban safety concerns.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Karlsruhe to Giessen

Most Karlsruhe to Giessen trains use the Karlsruhe Hbf to Gießen station pair. Use this guide to compare Karlsruhe and Giessen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Karlsruhe
Arrival train stations in Giessen

Which Karlsruhe station do trains to Giessen leave from?

Trains from Karlsruhe to Giessen leave from Karlsruhe Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Karlsruhe city centre at Karlsruhe Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1a, 76137 Karlsruhe.
Karlsruhe HbfKarlsruhe Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1a, 76137 KarlsruheWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Karlsruhe Hbf from Karlsruhe city centre

Karlsruhe Hbf is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:

Train74346, 80700, 80702, 80704, 80706, 80708, 84704, 84710, 84714, 84722, 84726, 84740, 84746, 84752, 84758, 84764, 84770, 84776, 84782, 84788, 84792, 84794, 84796, 84800, 84808, 84810, 84814, 84816, 84859, 84864, 84866, 84868, 84870, 84872, 84876, 84877, 84878, 84880, 84882, 84884, 84886, 84888, 84890, 84892, 84894, 84896, 84898, 84900, 84902, 84904, 84906, 84908, 84910, 84912, 84913, 84914, 84916, 84918, 84920, 84922, 84924, 84926, 84928, 84930, 84931, 84934, 84935, 84936, 84938, 84940, 84941, 84944, 84946, 84948, 84952, 84956, 84958, 84962, 84964, 84968, 84972, 84976, 84980, 84984, 84986, 84988, 84994, 84998, 85000, 85004, 85006, 85008, 85012, 85014, 85018, 85020, 85022, 85024, 85026, 85030, 85032, 85034, 85040, 85042, 85046, 85052, 85054, 85056, 85058, 85060, 85064, 85068, 85070, 85074, 85078, 85082, 85084, 85086, 85088, 85090, 85178, 85278, 85311, 85390, 85392, 85396, 85400, 85402, 85404, 85406, 85408, 85410, 85412, 85414, 85416, 85418, 85420, 85422, 85424, 85426, 85428, 85430, 85432, 85434, 85436, 85438, 85440, 85442, 85444, 85446, 85448, 85450, 85452, 85454, 85456, 85458, 85460, 85462, 85466, 85468, 85470, 85474, 85476, 85478, 85480, 85482, 85484, 85488, 85500, 85502, 85504, 85506, 85508, 85510, 85512, 85514, 85516, 85518, 85520, 85522, 85524, 85526, 85528, 85530, 85532, 85534, 85536, 85538, 85540, 85546, 85548, 85551, 85557, 85559, 85561, 85563, 85565, 85567, 85569, 85571, 85573, 85575, 85577, 85579, 85581, 85583, 85585, 85589, 85591, 85597, 85599, 85605, 85607, 85611, 85615, 85619, 85623, 85629, 85631, 85633, 85635, 85639, 85641, 85645, 85647, 85651, 85653, 85655, 85659, 85661, 85665, 85669, 85673, 85675, 85679, 85681, 85685, 85687, 85689, 85821, 85916, 85918, 85922, 85932, 85936, 85938, 85940, 85942, 85946, 85948, 85950, 85952, 85954, 85956, 85958, 85960, 85962, 85964, 85966, 85968, 85970, 85972, 85974, 85976 · 6m · every ~10 min
Tram2, Nl2 · 6m · every ~11 min

Karlsruhe Hbf train station facilities and services

Karlsruhe Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Vinarte, Am Tiergarten, Panorama, Alter Brauhof

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Barbarossa, Hotel Avisa, Am Tiergarten, Aparthotel Aijana.

Karlsruhe WestKarlsruhe West, Hardeckstr.1, 76185 KarlsruheWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Karlsruhe West from Karlsruhe city centre

Karlsruhe West is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:

Train84792, 84794, 84796, 84800, 84808, 84810, 84814, 84816, 84864, 84866, 84868, 84870, 84872, 84880, 84886, 84910, 84936, 84938, 84940, 84944, 84956, 84962, 84980, 85022, 85024, 85046, 85052, 85054, 85056, 85058, 85060, 85064, 85068, 85070, 85074, 85078, 85082, 85084, 85086, 85088, 85178, 85278, 85390, 85392, 85396, 85918, 85936 · 14m
BusNl15 · 45m
TramE, 5 · 19m · every ~10 min

Karlsruhe West train station facilities and services

Karlsruhe West has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Beim Schupi, Rosenstüble 2.0, Saloniki, Rote Taube

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe West. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe West.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe West. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe West.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe West. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Karlsruhe West: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Karlsruhe West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe West.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Beim Schupi.

More options for your journey from Karlsruhe to Giessen

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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