- Must visit
Museum in der Kaiserpfalz
Major art and cultural history museum in Schloss Neuhaus with changing exhibitions, archaeology, and regional collections in a palace setting.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Karlsruhe to Paderborn
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Paderborn among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €38 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €38, while a train costs an average of €135.
Distance: 188 miles (303 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€135 Average price | €38 Average price Cheapest | €53 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 4h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 23m Average total duration 7h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Paderborn is a bus with an average price of €38.
This is compared to other travel options from Karlsruhe to Paderborn:
A bus is €97 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Karlsruhe to Paderborn costing on average €135.
The fastest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Paderborn is by train with an average journey time of 4h 13m.
Other travel options to Paderborn take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Karlsruhe and Paderborn including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Paderborn among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €135 compared to roughly €53 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-81.95. The journey takes 4h 13m versus 4h 11m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Karlsruhe to Paderborn train times
The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Paderborn trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:37 AM Karlsruhe | 4h33 | 12:10 PM Paderborn | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Paderborn 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.
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Why should you book Karlsruhe to Paderborn trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Karlsruhe to Paderborn.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Karlsruhe to Paderborn.
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 Paderborn.
- 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 Paderborn.
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 Paderborn.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Paderborn
GermanyGermany
Trains from Karlsruhe to Paderborn run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €93 but you can travel from only €28 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 188 miles (303 km) distance in 3h 34m.
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 €28
Distance 188 miles (303 km) |
Average train duration 4h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price €93 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 34m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 28 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 €28
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Karlsruhe to Paderborn trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Paderborn from €28. 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
3h 34m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€93
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
Complete guide to Paderborn
Things to do in Paderborn
Discover the best of Paderborn — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Paderborn trip today.
- Must visit
Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum
Computer museum with historic machines, interactive displays, and modern tech stories; one of Germany's leading museums of information technology.
- Recommended
Diözesanmuseum Paderborn
Diocesan museum beside the cathedral, known for medieval treasures and ambitious temporary exhibitions of sacred art and design.
- Must visit
Paderquellen
Compact source area of the Pader river with clear springs, greenery, and paths beside major monuments; the city's most characteristic walk.
- Must visit
Schlosspark und Auenpark
Large baroque park around Schloss Neuhaus with canals, avenues, and event spaces; excellent for longer walks and relaxed sightseeing.
- Recommended
Marienplatz
Main square framed by the town hall and market church, lively during markets and festivals and ideal for orienting yourself in the old center.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
Westphalian rye bread baked dense and dark. It is a regional staple around Paderborn, traditionally served with ham, cheese, or butter.
Westfälische Brotzeit
A hearty Westphalian plate of rye bread with local ham, sausage, cheese, pickles, and spreads. It reflects the region's rustic farm food tradition.
- Gluten-free
Westfälischer Schinken
Air-dried Westphalian ham with a mild smoky flavor. It is one of the best-known specialties of the wider region and commonly served in local inns.
Restaurant zur Mühle
Upscale dining in Hotel zur Mühle with refined German and seasonal cuisine, polished service, and an elegant atmosphere near the city center.
Goeken backen
Traditional German restaurant known for schnitzel, steaks, and hearty regional dishes in a rustic, long-established setting.
Brauhaus Paderborn
Popular brewery-style venue serving German comfort food and beer in a lively, casual setting. A dependable choice for local flavors.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels, dining, and local transit are usually cheaper than in major cities like Munich or Frankfurt.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest: round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants. Round up small taxi fares and leave small change in cafes.
fahr mit - mobithek
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.40
- Day pass
- €7.10
To the city center
Paderborn Hbf -> Paderborn Rathausplatz
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- On PaderSprinter buses, contactless card payment is generally not available onboard; buy tickets in the app or carry cash for the driver.
- Validate ticket rules before boarding. For NRW eezy.nrw e-tickets, check in and out in the app for the correct fare.
FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe to Paderborn
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Paderborn 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 Paderborn, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe to Paderborn can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €93, while the average price is around €135.
The train from Karlsruhe to Paderborn takes 3h 34m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Paderborn leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe to Paderborn is 188 miles (303 km).
The last train from Karlsruhe to Paderborn leaves at 11:15 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Karlsruhe to Paderborn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Karlsruhe to Paderborn.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Paderborn is Karlsruhe Hbf, which connects to Paderborn Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Paderborn is by bus, with a cost of around €28.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Paderborn offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Rhine Valley, rolling hills, and picturesque towns, making it a pleasant and somewhat scenic route.
A day trip from Karlsruhe to Paderborn is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 34m. However, there are 8 trains available per day for this journey, covering a distance of 188 miles (303 km).
To fully experience Paderborn's historical landmarks, museums, and nearby natural attractions, plan for a 2 to 3-day visit.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Paderborn.
Since both Karlsruhe and Paderborn 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 Paderborn include Hanover, Dortmund, Essen, Kassel, Duisburg.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Paderborn 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 Paderborn, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as markets and public transport. While the city is generally safe, common scams like overcharging in taxis or at small shops may occur, so confirming prices upfront is advisable. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps 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 Paderborn
Most Karlsruhe to Paderborn trains use the Karlsruhe Hbf to Paderborn Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Karlsruhe and Paderborn 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 Paderborn
Which Karlsruhe station do trains to Paderborn leave from?
Trains from Karlsruhe to Paderborn 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 Karlsruhe
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.
Which Paderborn station do trains from Karlsruhe arrive at?
Trains from Karlsruhe to Paderborn arrive at Paderborn Hbf. Paderborn Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Paderborn city centre.
Paderborn HbfPaderborn Hbf, Bahnhofstr. 29, 33102 Paderborn
City-centre transport
Getting to Paderborn Hbf from Paderborn city centre
Paderborn Hbf is 1 km from Paderborn city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb74 · 2m · €1 · every ~3 min
Bus1, 5, 9, 23, 13, N1 · 3m · every ~14 min
R61, S60, 493, 471, 470, 411 · 8m
Paderborn Hbf train station facilities and services
Paderborn 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: Koya Kitchen, Café Central, Moso Sushi & Grill, Waffel Dream
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Paderborn Hbf. ATMs are available at Paderborn Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Paderborn Hbf. Information desks are available at Paderborn Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Paderborn Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Paderborn Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Paderborn Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Paderborn Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Haus Irma, Südhotel.
Most popular train connections from Karlsruhe
More options for your journey from Karlsruhe to Paderborn
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Paderborn and Karlsruhe
Most popular train connections to Paderborn
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