Karlsruhe to Kiel train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE)

Fri, May 08
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Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
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Frecciarossa
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Kiel

Showing times and prices for May 08

Cheapest price

$62

Average price

$73

Fastest journey

13 h 47 m

Average duration

13 h 54 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

603 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Kiel will cost around $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $62.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Karlsruhe for Kiel on Fri, May 08, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, May 08 the direct trains cover the 603 km distance in an average of 13 h 54 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 47 m .

On Fri, May 08 the slowest trains will take 14 h 8 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.

  • FlixTrain
    1:23 PM13h47
    Karlsruhe
    3:10 AMKiel
    $621One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    12:23 PM13h47
    Karlsruhe
    2:10 AMKiel
    $781One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    12:02 PM14h08
    Karlsruhe
    2:10 AMKiel
    $801One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Karlsruhe to Kiel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 46m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, and a train costs an average of $43.

Distance: 374 miles (603 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$93

Average price

$64

Average price

Cheapest

$35

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 16m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

17h 5m

Average total duration

16h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 18m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 Kiel is a bus with an average price of $64 (€51).

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

A bus is $35 (€28) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Karlsruhe to Kiel costing on average $99 (€79).

The fastest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Kiel is by train with an average journey time of 6h 46m.

Other travel options to Kiel take longer:

Bus takes on average 16h 35m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Karlsruhe and Kiel including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Kiel 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 32m sooner (6h 46m by train vs 7h 18m by car). Tickets start at around $99 (€79) compared to roughly $35 (€28) 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 Kiel train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Kiel trains for today, Thursday, May 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
flixbus_flixtrain12:23 PM Karlsruhe
13h47
2:10 AM Kiel0 transfersDirect
flixbus_flixtrain1:23 PM Karlsruhe
13h47
3:10 AM Kiel0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Kiel 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.

Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13
Thu
May 14

Why should you book Karlsruhe to Kiel trains with Omio?

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

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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Karlsruhe to Kiel.
  • 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 Kiel.

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 Kiel.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Kiel

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Kiel run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€32) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 374 miles (603 km) distance in 6h 15m.

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
374 miles (603 km)
Average train duration
6h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
$40 (€32)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
6h 15m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:05 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
35 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, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Karlsruhe to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Kiel from $40 (€32). 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
6h 15m
Cheapest Price
$96 (€77)
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 13m
Cheapest Price
$140 (€112)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
5 a day

FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe to Kiel

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $43 (€34), while the average price is around $93 (€75).
The train from Karlsruhe to Kiel takes 6h 15m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe to Kiel is 374 miles (603 km).
The first train from Karlsruhe to Kiel leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Kiel leaves at 10:25 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Karlsruhe to Kiel. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Karlsruhe to Kiel.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Kiel is Karlsruhe Hbf, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Kiel is by bus, with a cost of around $43 (€34).
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Kiel offers a scenic experience, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the lush greenery of northern Germany, providing travelers with beautiful views of rolling hills, quaint villages, and expansive countryside.
A day trip from Karlsruhe to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 15m and the distance is 374 miles (603 km). There are 8 trips per day by train.
To fully explore Kiel's maritime history, museums, and nearby attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Kiel.
Since both Karlsruhe and Kiel 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 Kiel include Hamburg, Rødekro, Neumünster, Padborg, Flensburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Kiel 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 Kiel, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and public transport. Common scams include overcharging in taxis and unofficial currency exchange offers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and official exchange offices, and to keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Overall, Kiel is considered a safe city with typical urban precautions.
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 Kiel

Karlsruhe
Kiel
The major train station for departures in Karlsruhe is Karlsruhe Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Karlsruhe Hbf for your trip from Karlsruhe to Kiel.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Tuesday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Wednesday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Thursday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Friday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Vinarte
  • Am Tiergarten
  • Panorama
  • Alter Brauhof
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Barbarossa
  • Hotel Avisa
  • Am Tiergarten
  • Aparthotel Aijana
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Tuesday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Wednesday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Thursday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Friday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 - 13:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
Dining
Dining
  • Hubraum
  • Vogel Hausbräu Durlach
  • Asia Gourmet
  • Borsalino
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Große Linde
  • Zum Erwin
  • Der Blaue Reiter
Karlsruhe WestWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Beim Schupi
  • Rosenstüble 2.0
  • Saloniki
  • Rote Taube
Hotel
Hotel
  • Beim Schupi

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