Karlsruhe to Kassel train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Fri, Sep 18
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Deutsche Bahn
Hessische Landesbahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Hessische Landesbahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Kassel

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

Kč1632

Average ticket price on Sep 18

Kč1792

Fastest journey on Sep 18

2 h 34 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

2 h 49 m

Trains on Sep 18

5

Distance

269 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Kassel will cost around Kč1792 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only Kč1632.

Fast trains

On Fri, Sep 18, we found 5 trains from Karlsruhe to Kassel, including 3 direct services.

On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 269 km distance in an average of 2 h 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 34 m .

On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 3 h 12 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 BahnICE 376
    7:59 AM2h45
    Karlsruhe
    10:44 AMKassel-Wilhelmshöhe
    16321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnECE 8
    8:37 AM2h34
    Karlsruhe
    11:11 AMKassel-Wilhelmshöhe
    16321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 202 · ICE 692 · ICE 992
    8:59 AM2h47
    Karlsruhe
    11:46 AMKassel-Wilhelmshöhe
    18131One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 374
    9:59 AM2h45
    Karlsruhe
    12:44 PMKassel-Wilhelmshöhe
    18131One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 202 · ICE 772
    8:59 AM3h12
    Karlsruhe
    12:11 PMKassel-Wilhelmshöhe
    20721One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Karlsruhe to Kassel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Kassel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of Kč756 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 26m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of Kč756, while a train costs an average of Kč1855.

Distance: 167 miles (269 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

Kč1855

Average price

Kč756

Average price

Cheapest

Kč1206

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 32m

Average total duration

5h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 21m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

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 Kassel is a bus with an average price of Kč756.

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

A bus is Kč1099 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Karlsruhe to Kassel costing on average Kč1855.

The fastest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Kassel is by train with an average journey time of 2h 56m.

Other travel options to Kassel take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 2m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Karlsruhe and Kassel including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Kassel 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 25m sooner (2h 56m by train vs 3h 21m by car). Tickets start at around Kč1855 compared to roughly Kč1206 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.

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 Kassel train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Kassel trains for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:41 AM Karlsruhe
3h46
11:27 AM Kassel0 transfersDirect
Friday, September 18
Deutsche BahnICE 376
On time
7:59 AM Karlsruhe
2h45
10:44 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnECE 88:37 AM Karlsruhe
2h34
11:11 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 202 · ICE 692 · ICE 992
On time
8:59 AM Karlsruhe
2h47
11:46 AM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 202 · ICE 772
On time
8:59 AM Karlsruhe
3h12
12:11 PM Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Kassel by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24

Why should you book Karlsruhe to Kassel trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Hessische Landesbahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Karlsruhe to Kassel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Karlsruhe to Kassel.

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 Hessische Landesbahn or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Karlsruhe to Kassel.
  • 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Karlsruhe to Kassel.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Kassel

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Kassel run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at Kč466 if you book in advance.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:46. The fastest train covers the 167 miles (269 km) distance in 2h 29m.

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
Distance
167 miles (269 km)
Average train duration
2h 56m
Cheapest ticket price
Kč466
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
2h 29m
First train
12:11 AM
Last train
11:46 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
14 days
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn from Karlsruhe to Kassel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Kassel from Kč466. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
2h 29m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
Kč466
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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

Hessische Landesbahn

About
Hessische Landesbahn (HLB) is a regional transport company owned by the German state of Hesse, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. It provides extensive bus and rail passenger transport services within Hesse and extends its operations into neighboring states like Bavaria, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Thuringia. HLB operates as a holding company with subsidiaries managing rail services (HLB Hessenbahn GmbH), bus services (HLB Hessenbus GmbH), and infrastructure/vehicle resources (HLB Basis AG). Their diverse fleet includes modern train types such as Stadler FLIRT, Alstom LINT, and Coradia Continental trains. Tickets from Deutsche Bahn are also valid on HLB trains.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Hessische Landesbahn Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest Hessische Landesbahn Price
Kč699
Hessische Landesbahn frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a ticket and must be leashed
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Kassel

Things to do in Kassel

Discover the best of Kassel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kassel trip today.

  • Must visit

Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister

Major Old Masters gallery in Wilhelmshöhe Palace with works by Rembrandt, Rubens and Dürer in a grand historic setting.

  • Must visit

Kunsthalle Fridericianum

Contemporary art venue in a former spa building, best known as a key documenta location with rotating international exhibitions.

  • Must visit

GRIMMWELT Kassel

Compact museum on the Grimm brothers in the Palais Bellevue, highlighting their lives, scholarship and worldwide fairy-tale legacy.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Frankfurt or Munich, while local transit and everyday costs stay fairly manageable for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€2.80-4.20 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Round up or tip 5-10% in restaurants for good service. In taxis, round up the fare. In cafes, small change or rounding up is customary.

FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe to Kassel

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Kassel 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 Kassel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe to Kassel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at Kč466, while the average price is around Kč1855.
The train from Karlsruhe to Kassel takes 2h 29m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Kassel leaves at 12:11 AM.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe to Kassel is 167 miles (269 km).
The last train from Karlsruhe to Kassel leaves at 11:46 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Karlsruhe to Kassel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Karlsruhe to Kassel.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Kassel is Karlsruhe Hbf, which connects to Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Kassel is by train, with a cost of around Kč466.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Kassel offers scenic views of the German countryside, passing through picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming towns, especially as it traverses regions like the Swabian Alps and the edges of the Odenwald.
A day trip from Karlsruhe to Kassel is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 29m. Trains operate 7 times per day for this 167 miles (269 km) journey.
To fully experience Kassel, including its renowned art exhibitions, parks like Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, and cultural attractions, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Kassel.
Since both Karlsruhe and Kassel 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 Kassel include Hanover, Fulda, Göttingen, Würzburg, Marburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Kassel 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 Kassel, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and individuals offering unsolicited help with luggage or directions, often expecting a tip. Staying vigilant and keeping personal belongings secure can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Kassel

Most Karlsruhe to Kassel trains use the Karlsruhe Hbf to Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe station pair, with some services arriving at Kassel Hbf. Use this guide to compare Karlsruhe and Kassel 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 Kassel

Which Karlsruhe station do trains to Kassel leave from?

Trains from Karlsruhe to Kassel 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.

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