- Must visit
Gutenberg Museum
One of the world’s leading museums of printing and book culture, dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg and the history of movable type.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Mainz
Showing times and prices for Jun 28
Cheapest price
$36
Average price
$47
Fastest journey
1 h 41 m
Average duration
1 h 57 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
109 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Karlsruhe to Mainz is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Mainz will cost around $47 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Karlsruhe for Mainz on Sun, Jun 28, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 28 the direct trains cover the 109 km distance in an average of 1 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 41 m .
On Sun, Jun 28 the slowest trains will take 2 h 26 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.
44848:06 AM1h41Karlsruhe Hbf9:47 AMMainz Hbf$361One-way0 transfers- ECE 8 · S58:37 AM1h59Karlsruhe Hbf10:36 AMMainz Hbf$411One-way1 transfer
- ICE 202 · 4560 · 13661 · 47568:59 AM1h47Karlsruhe Hbf10:46 AMMainz Hbf$491One-way3 transfers
- S9 · 13713 · S59:12 AM2h26Karlsruhe Hbf11:38 AMMainz Hbf$491One-way2 transfers
- ICE 202 · 295148:59 AM1h50Karlsruhe Hbf10:49 AMMainz Hbf$611One-way1 transfer
- 44848:06 AM1h41Karlsruhe Hbf9:47 AMMainz Hbf$361One-way0 transfers
- ICE 202 · 4560 · 13661 · 47568:59 AM1h47Karlsruhe Hbf10:46 AMMainz Hbf$491One-way3 transfers
- ICE 202 · 295148:59 AM1h50Karlsruhe Hbf10:49 AMMainz Hbf$611One-way1 transfer
- ECE 8 · S58:37 AM1h59Karlsruhe Hbf10:36 AMMainz Hbf$411One-way1 transfer
- S9 · 13713 · S59:12 AM2h26Karlsruhe Hbf11:38 AMMainz Hbf$491One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Karlsruhe to Mainz
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Mainz among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $8, and a train costs an average of $17.
Distance: 67 miles (109 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$36 Average price | $17 Average price Cheapest | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 54m Average total duration Fastest 1h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 37m Average total duration 2h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Mainz is a bus with an average price of $17 (€14).
This is compared to other travel options from Karlsruhe to Mainz:
A bus is $19 (€16) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Karlsruhe to Mainz costing on average $36 (€30).
The fastest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Mainz is by train with an average journey time of 1h 24m.
Other travel options to Mainz take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 7m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Karlsruhe and Mainz including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Mainz 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 7m sooner (1h 24m by train vs 1h 31m by car). Tickets start at around $36 (€30) compared to roughly $25 (€21) 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, Süwex, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
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 Mainz train times
The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Mainz trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4484 | 8:06 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1h41 | 9:47 AM Mainz Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ECE 8 · S5 | On time 8:37 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1h59 | 10:36 AM Mainz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 202 · 4560 · 13661 · 4756 | On time 8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1h47 | 10:46 AM Mainz Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 202 · 29514 | On time 8:59 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 1h50 | 10:49 AM Mainz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| S9 · 13713 · S5 | 9:12 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h26 | 11:38 AM Mainz Hbf | 2 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Mainz 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.
Sun
Jun 28
Jun 28
Mon
Jun 29
Jun 29
Tue
Jun 30
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01
Jul 01
Thu
Jul 02
Jul 02
Fri
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Jul 03
Sat
Jul 04
Jul 04
Why should you book Karlsruhe to Mainz trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Süwex, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) and more offer trains services from Karlsruhe to Mainz.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Karlsruhe to Mainz.
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 Süwex, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Karlsruhe to Mainz.
- 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 Mainz.
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 Mainz.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Mainz
GermanyGermany
Trains from Karlsruhe to Mainz run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) but you can travel from only $8 (€6) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 67 miles (109 km) distance in 1h 19m.
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 $8 (€6)
Distance 67 miles (109 km) |
Average train duration 1h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 19m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:49 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 6 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $8 (€6)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Süwex, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Karlsruhe to Mainz trainsDeutsche Bahn, Süwex, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Mainz from $8 (€6). 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
1h 19m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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.
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.
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.
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
Süwex
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 41m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
Süwex frequency
3 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 16m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€44)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
13 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
8 a day
Complete guide to Mainz
Things to do in Mainz
Discover the best of Mainz — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Mainz trip today.
- Recommended
Landesmuseum Mainz
Major regional museum with archaeology, medieval art, paintings, and Roman-era finds, offering one of the best overviews of Rhineland-Palatinate history.
- Recommended
Naturhistorisches Museum Mainz
Natural history museum known for regional geology, fossils, biodiversity, and family-friendly exhibitions.
- Must visit
Mainz Old Town
The most atmospheric area for walking, with narrow lanes, historic facades, shops, and many of the city’s best-known sights.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Central square by the cathedral, lively with markets, events, and classic city views that define the heart of Mainz.
- Recommended
Augustinerstraße
Popular old-town street lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and photo-friendly urban scenery.
- Vegetarian
Spundekäs
A Rheinhessen cheese spread made with fresh cheese, quark, paprika, and spices, traditionally served with pretzels in wine taverns.
Weck, Worscht un Woi
A classic Mainz snack of bread roll, sausage, and local wine, strongly associated with everyday life and regional wine culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Handkäs mit Musik
A pungent sour milk cheese marinated with onions and vinegar, popular across the Rhine-Main region and commonly enjoyed with bread.
Steins Traube
Established fine dining restaurant with a strong reputation for refined seasonal cuisine and polished service.
Weinhaus Wilhelmi
Traditional Mainz wine tavern known for local specialties, regional wines, and a classic cozy atmosphere.
Heiliggeist
A well-known restaurant in a historic former church hall, serving German and regional dishes in a striking atmospheric setting.
Euro
Prices are moderate by German standards. Casual dining is reasonable, while hotels and central restaurants cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-100 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up in cafés and taxis; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service, often by stating the total when paying.
MVGmeinRad
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 6.60
To the city center
Mainz Hbf, Mainz -> Schillerplatz, Mainz
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tickets can be bought in the Mainzer Mobilität app and at ticket machines before boarding. Validate paper tickets if required.
- Card payment is generally available at ticket machines, but not always on every bus or tram. Buying in the app is the safest option.
FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe to Mainz
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Mainz 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 Mainz, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe to Mainz can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $17 (€14), while the average price is around $36 (€30).
The train from Karlsruhe to Mainz takes 1h 19m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe to Mainz is 67 miles (109 km).
The first train from Karlsruhe to Mainz leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Mainz leaves at 11:49 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Karlsruhe to Mainz. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Süwex, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Karlsruhe to Mainz.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Mainz is Karlsruhe Hbf, which connects to Mainz Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Mainz is by bus, with a cost of around $8 (€6).
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Mainz offers picturesque views of the Rhine Valley, with lush vineyards, charming villages, and historic castles along the way. It's considered a scenic route, especially between Bingen and Mainz.
Yes, a day trip from Karlsruhe to Mainz is feasible as the journey takes 1h 19m, covering 67 miles (109 km), with trains running 9 times per day.
Two to three days are ideal for exploring Mainz, allowing time to visit its historic sites, such as the Mainz Cathedral and Gutenberg Museum, while enjoying the local cuisine and Rhine River views.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Mainz.
Since both Karlsruhe and Mainz 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 Mainz include Cologne, Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Frankfurt am Main, Mannheim.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Mainz 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 Mainz, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overcharging in taxis or at markets can occur, so always agree on prices beforehand. It's advisable to stay vigilant in busy places and keep valuables secure to 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 Mainz
Karlsruhe
Mainz
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 Mainz.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
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
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Vinarte
- Am Tiergarten
- Panorama
- Alter Brauhof
Hotel
- Hotel Barbarossa
- Hotel Avisa
- Am Tiergarten
- Aparthotel Aijana
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
Distance to city center
5 kmDining
- Hubraum
- Vogel Hausbräu Durlach
- Asia Gourmet
- Borsalino
Hotel
- Hotel Große Linde
- Zum Erwin
- Der Blaue Reiter
Karlsruhe Albtalbf
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmThe major train station for arrivals in Mainz is Mainz Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Mainz Hbf for your journey to Mainz from Karlsruhe.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Tuesday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Wednesday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Thursday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Friday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Saturday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Sunday: 08:00 - 20:00
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Mangal
- Asia Wok
- Bistrorante Midi
- McDonald's
Hotel
- Advena Europa Hotel
- GuestHouse Mainz
- Terminus
- Hotel Moguntia
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- McDonald's
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Hans im Glück
- The Big Easy
Hotel
- Hyatt Regency Mainz
- Favorite Parkhotel
- Ibis Hotel Mainz City
- Hof Ehrenfels
Mainz-Laubenheim
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Zum Laubenheimer Ried - Da Giovanni
- Mainzer Hof
- Pizza Roma
- Bäckerei Werner
Hotel
- Goldene Ente
Most popular train connections from Karlsruhe
More options for your journey from Karlsruhe to Mainz
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Mainz and Karlsruhe
Most popular train connections to Mainz
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