- Must visit
RothenburgMuseum
Major local museum in a former convent, covering art, history, crafts, and everyday life. The best all-round museum introduction to Rothenburg.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Showing times and prices for Aug 25
Cheapest price
€18
Average price
€33
Fastest journey
3 h 45 m
Average duration
3 h 59 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
137 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber will cost around €33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €18.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber without transferring at least 2 times.
IC 2161 · 57042 · 589071:06 PM3h45Karlsruhe Hbf4:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€181One-way2 transfers- IC 2067 · 57026 · 588999:06 AM3h45Karlsruhe Hbf12:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€181One-way2 transfers
- IC 2069 · 57034 · 5890311:06 AM3h45Karlsruhe Hbf2:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€281One-way2 transfers
- 19013 · 88619 · 57226 · 5890511:32 AM4h19Karlsruhe Hbf3:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€511One-way3 transfers
- 19009 · 88617 · 57222 · 589019:32 AM4h19Karlsruhe Hbf1:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€511One-way3 transfers
- IC 2161 · 57042 · 589071:06 PM3h45Karlsruhe Hbf4:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€181One-way2 transfers
- IC 2067 · 57026 · 588999:06 AM3h45Karlsruhe Hbf12:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€181One-way2 transfers
- IC 2069 · 57034 · 5890311:06 AM3h45Karlsruhe Hbf2:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€281One-way2 transfers
- 19013 · 88619 · 57226 · 5890511:32 AM4h19Karlsruhe Hbf3:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€511One-way3 transfers
- 19009 · 88617 · 57222 · 589019:32 AM4h19Karlsruhe Hbf1:51 PMRothenburg ob der Tauber station€511One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €26. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €26, and a train costs an average of €26.
Distance: 85 miles (137 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
€26 Average price Cheapest | €27 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 3h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a train with an average price of €26.
The fastest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 0m.
Other travel options to Rothenburg ob der Tauber take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 45m.
Yes, you can take a train between Karlsruhe and Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 €26 compared to roughly €27 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €0.15. The journey takes 3h 45m versus 2h 7m 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber train times
The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 2067 · 57026 · 58899 | 9:06 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h45 | 12:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 2 transfers | |
| 19009 · 88617 · 57222 · 58901 | 9:32 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 4h19 | 1:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2069 · 57034 · 58903 | 11:06 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h45 | 2:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 2 transfers | |
| 19013 · 88619 · 57226 · 58905 | 11:32 AM Karlsruhe Hbf | 4h19 | 3:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2161 · 57042 · 58907 | 1:06 PM Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h45 | 4:51 PM Rothenburg ob der Tauber station | 2 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber by train
Compare 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
GermanyGermany
Trains from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €26 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:58, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 85 miles (137 km) distance in 3h 45m.
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 85 miles (137 km) |
Average train duration 3h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price €26 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 3h 45m |
First train 6:58 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 49 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 Intercity (DB IC), Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Arverio Baden-Württemberg GmbH from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH, SNCF | TGV INOUI, Arverio Baden-Württemberg GmbH trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Rothenburg ob der Tauber from €26. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 23m
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 46m
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
2 a day
Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 14m
Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH frequency
7 a day
Arverio Baden-Württemberg GmbH
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 21m
Arverio Baden-Württemberg GmbH frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Discover the best of Rothenburg ob der Tauber — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rothenburg ob der Tauber trip today.
- Must visit
Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum
Interactive crime museum with legal history, punishments, and social control from the Middle Ages onward. Unusual, memorable, and very popular.
- Recommended
Deutsches Weihnachtsmuseum
Large Christmas museum and shop complex celebrating German festive traditions. A distinctive stop that is especially atmospheric in winter.
- Must visit
Plönlein
The most famous picture spot in Rothenburg, where narrow lanes and half-timbered houses create the classic fairy-tale Old Town scene.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Central square framed by the town hall and historic facades. It is the main orientation point and often hosts seasonal events and markets.
- Must visit
Stadtmauer Walk
Walkable fortification route with towers, gates, and elevated views. One of the best ways to understand Rothenburg’s preserved medieval layout.
- Vegetarian
Schneeballen
Schneeballen are Rothenburg's signature pastry: strips of shortcrust dough fried into a ball and dusted with sugar or chocolate. A famous local specialty sold across the old town.
Fränkische Bratwurst
Franconian bratwurst is a regional grilled pork sausage, often served with sauerkraut or potato salad. It is a staple of local taverns and beer gardens.
Fränkisches Schäufele
Schäufele is Franconian roast pork shoulder with a crispy crust, usually paired with dumplings and gravy. It is one of the area's classic Sunday dishes.
Reichsküchenmeister Restaurant
Casual long-running tavern popular for sausages, schnitzel, and regional beer in a lively medieval atmosphere.
Baumeisterhaus
Historic traditional inn in the old town known for Franconian classics, local wine, and atmospheric timbered dining rooms.
Restaurant M - Hotel Eisenhut
Well-known restaurant in a heritage hotel serving refined Franconian and German cuisine in an elegant historic setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: lodging in the walled old town can be pricey, but dining is reasonable and the compact center keeps local transport costs low.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-14 for fast food, bakery items, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50-90 per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes if service was good.
VGN Fahrplan & Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.10
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Rothenburg ob der Tauber Bahnhof -> Marktplatz, Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Most local buses are integrated into VGN fares; buy tickets in the VGN app or check whether the bus accepts cash only before boarding.
- Rothenburg’s old town is compact and walkable from the station. Card or contactless payment on board is not reliably available on all regional buses.
FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €26, while the average price is around €26.
The train from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber takes 3h 45m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves at 6:58 AM.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is 85 miles (137 km).
The last train from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves at 11:05 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
There is no direct train service currently available from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is Karlsruhe Hbf, which connects to Rothenburg ob der Tauber station.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is by train, with a cost of around €26.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is considered scenic, as it passes through picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, charming villages, and lush countryside typical of the Franconia region in Bavaria.
A day trip from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 45m. The distance is 85 miles (137 km), and there are 4 train trips available per day.
In Rothenburg ob der Tauber, explore the Old Town with its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Experience the Night Watchman Tour for historical insights, and visit the festive Rothenburg Christmas Market. Enjoy Franconian cuisine at local restaurants. Take a scenic bike ride along the Tauber Valley. Key sights include the Rothenburg Town Walls for panoramic views, the iconic Plönlein street corner, St. Jakob's Church with the Holy Blood altarpiece, the striking Rothenburg Town Hall, and the intriguing Medieval Crime and Justice Museum.
Typically, a stay of 1 to 2 days is sufficient to explore Rothenburg ob der Tauber, allowing time to visit its medieval old town, walk along the city walls, and enjoy local attractions like the Christmas Museum and the Crime Museum.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Since both Karlsruhe and Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber include Nuremberg, Würzburg, Bamberg, Erlangen, Aschaffenburg.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing risks, especially in crowded areas like the town center and popular attractions. Scams are rare, but it is advisable to be cautious when approached by street vendors or individuals offering unsolicited services. Always use official ticket counters for transportation and guided tours to avoid overcharging or counterfeit tickets.
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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Most Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber trains use the Karlsruhe Hbf to Rothenburg ob der Tauber station pair. Use this guide to compare Karlsruhe and Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Which Karlsruhe station do trains to Rothenburg ob der Tauber leave from?
Trains from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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 Rothenburg ob der Tauber station do trains from Karlsruhe arrive at?
Trains from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber most often arrive at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Some services arrive at Hartershofen, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Rothenburg ob der Tauber arrival station.
Rothenburg ob der TauberRothenburg ob der Tauber, Bahnhofstr. 12, 91541 Rothenburg ob der Tauber
City-centre transport
Getting to Rothenburg ob der Tauber from Rothenburg ob der Tauber city centre
Bus854 · 5m · €3
Rothenburg ob der Tauber train station facilities and services
Rothenburg ob der Tauber 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: Gusto Kaffeemanufaktur & Spezialitäten, Imbiss Heller, Brothaus Café im Schlachthof, Pizzeria & Eis-Café Roma
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. ATMs are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Information desks are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schranne, Villa Mittermeier, Hotel Hornburg Garni, Glocke.
Most popular train connections from Karlsruhe
More options for your journey from Karlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Karlsruhe
Most popular train connections to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyTrain Times to Rothenburg ob der TauberKarlsruhe to Rothenburg ob der Tauber train
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