- Must visit
Schlossmuseum Thun
Thun's main history museum inside the castle, showcasing regional culture, archaeology, and life in the Bernese Oberland.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Thun
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$49
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$49
Fastest journey on Sep 18
3 h 22 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
3 h 22 m
Trains on Sep 18
2
Distance
257 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Karlsruhe to Thun is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Thun will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 trains from Karlsruhe to Thun, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 257 km distance in an average of 3 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 22 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 3 h 22 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.
6:01 AM3h22Karlsruhe9:23 AMThun$491One-way0 transfers- 7:01 AM3h22Karlsruhe10:23 AMThun$491One-way0 transfers
- 6:01 AM3h22Karlsruhe9:23 AMThun$491One-way0 transfers
- 7:01 AM3h22Karlsruhe10:23 AMThun$491One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Karlsruhe to Thun
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Thun among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $57 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 52m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $57, while a train costs an average of $100.
Distance: 159 miles (257 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$100 Average price | $57 Average price Cheapest | $70 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 52m Average total duration Fastest 3h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 56m Average total duration 4h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 28m 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 Thun is a bus with an average price of $57 (€46).
This is compared to other travel options from Karlsruhe to Thun:
A bus is $43 (€35) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Karlsruhe to Thun costing on average $100 (€82).
The fastest way to travel from Karlsruhe to Thun is by train with an average journey time of 3h 22m.
Other travel options to Thun take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 26m.
Yes, you can take a train between Karlsruhe and Thun.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Thun 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 6m sooner (3h 22m by train vs 3h 28m by car). Tickets start at around $100 (€82) compared to roughly $70 (€58) 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 Thun train times
The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Thun trains for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:01 AM Karlsruhe | 3h22 | 9:23 AM Thun | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:01 AM Karlsruhe | 3h22 | 10:23 AM Thun | 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 Thun 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
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Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
Sep 21
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Sep 22
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Sep 24
Sep 24
Why should you book Karlsruhe to Thun trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Karlsruhe to Thun.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Karlsruhe to Thun.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Thun
Germany
Switzerland
Trains from Karlsruhe to Thun run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€40) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:33. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (257 km) distance in 3h 4m.
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 $29 (€24)
Distance 159 miles (257 km) |
Average train duration 3h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $49 (€40) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 4m |
First train 12:06 AM |
Last train 11:33 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 $29 (€24)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Karlsruhe to Thun trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Thun from $29 (€24). 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 4m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$49 (€40)
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.
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 Thun
Things to do in Thun
Discover the best of Thun — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thun trip today.
- Recommended
Kunstmuseum Thun
Art museum with rotating exhibitions of Swiss and international modern and contemporary art in a central riverside setting.
- Recommended
Panzermuseum Thun
Military museum presenting Swiss armored vehicles, weapons, and defense history, especially appealing to technology enthusiasts.
- Must visit
Bälliz
Thun's central island district with shops, arcades, river scenes, and easy access to the old town's main sights.
- Must visit
Schadaupark
Large lakeside park around Schadau Castle with lawns, mature trees, and some of the best walks by Lake Thun.
- Recommended
Obere Hauptgasse
Historic old town street climbing toward the castle, lined with raised sidewalks, shops, and classic Thun facades.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Rösti
Crisp potato rösti from the Bernese region, often served with bacon, egg, or cheese. It is a staple around Thun and a classic Swiss comfort dish.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Älplermagronen
A rich baked gratin of potatoes, cream, onions, and cheese from the Bernese Oberland. It is traditional alpine fare commonly found near Thun.
- Gluten-free
Bündnerfleisch
Thinly sliced cured beef from the Alps, served simply to highlight local meat traditions. It is a common Swiss specialty enjoyed in Thun restaurants.
Schlossberg
Elegant fine dining in Thun with seasonal Swiss cuisine and refined tasting menus in a polished historic setting.
Wirtshaus Zum Alten Schweizer
Well-known traditional venue serving Swiss classics, beer, and hearty regional dishes in a lively, casual atmosphere.
Chartreuse
Established lakeside restaurant known for fish, Swiss dishes, and scenic views over Lake Thun in a relaxed setting.
Swiss franc (CHF)
Thun is costly versus many European cities. Hotels, dining, and local transit are typically higher, though supermarket meals and regional passes can reduce daily spend.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave about 5-10% for excellent restaurant service. Round up taxi fares and small cafe bills as a polite gesture.
SBB Mobile
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 2.60
- Day pass
- CHF 9.60
To the city center
Thun Bahnhof -> Thun Bahnhof
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Buy tickets before boarding; Swiss local buses usually do not sell onboard tickets.
- Contactless card payment works in many ticket machines and in the SBB Mobile app, but not consistently onboard buses.
FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe to Thun
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Thun 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 Thun, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe to Thun can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€40), while the average price is around $100 (€82).
The train from Karlsruhe to Thun takes 3h 4m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Thun leaves at 12:06 AM.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe to Thun is 159 miles (257 km).
The last train from Karlsruhe to Thun leaves at 11:33 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Karlsruhe to Thun. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Karlsruhe to Thun.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Thun is Karlsruhe Hbf, which connects to Thun station.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Thun is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Thun is considered scenic, offering views of the picturesque landscapes of the Black Forest, rolling hills, and charming Swiss countryside, with glimpses of lakes and the majestic Alps as you approach Thun.
A day trip from Karlsruhe to Thun is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 4m. However, there are 7 train connections available per day, covering a distance of 159 miles (257 km).
Two to three days are ideal to explore Thun, allowing time to visit its historic Old Town, enjoy Lake Thun, and explore nearby attractions such as Thun Castle and the Schadau Park.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Thun.
Since both Karlsruhe and Thun 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 Thun include Bern, Interlaken, Zurich, Basel, Grindelwald.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Karlsruhe to Thun 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.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Thun, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the old town and train station. It's advisable to keep belongings secure and be cautious of distraction tactics. Additionally, watch out for unofficial taxi services that may overcharge. Overall, Thun is considered safe, but staying vigilant in busy spots helps prevent common scams.
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 Thun
Most Karlsruhe to Thun trains use the Karlsruhe Hbf to Thun station pair. Use this guide to compare Karlsruhe and Thun 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 Thun
Which Karlsruhe station do trains to Thun leave from?
Trains from Karlsruhe to Thun 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 Thun station do trains from Karlsruhe arrive at?
Trains from Karlsruhe to Thun arrive at Thun. Thun is 0 miles (1 km) from Thun city centre.
ThunBahnhofstrasse 2, 3600 Thun, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Thun from Thun city centre
Bus3 · 4m · $2 · every ~11 min
Thun train station facilities and services
Thun has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Dampfschiff, Restaurant Schlossberg
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Thun. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Thun. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Thun: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Thun: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Thun: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Freienhof, Hotel Krone Thun, Hotel Emmental.
Most popular train connections from Karlsruhe
More options for your journey from Karlsruhe to Thun
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Thun and Karlsruhe
Most popular train connections to Thun
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