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

Thu, May 07
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Kiel to Karlsruhe

Showing times and prices for May 07

Cheapest price

$74

Average price

$82

Fastest journey

5 h 58 m

Average duration

9 h 27 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

603 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Kiel to Karlsruhe will cost around $82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Kiel for Karlsruhe on Thu, May 07, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, May 07 the direct trains cover the 603 km distance in an average of 9 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 58 m .

On Thu, May 07 the slowest trains will take 12 h 56 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
    1:30 AM12h56
    Kiel
    2:26 PMKarlsruhe
    $741One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    10:11 AM5h58
    Kiel
    4:09 PMKarlsruhe
    $901One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Kiel to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kiel to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 44m. 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 $39, and a train costs an average of $25.

Distance: 374 miles (603 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$93

Average price

$59

Average price

Cheapest

$133

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 14m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

14h 13m

Average total duration

13h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 28m

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 Kiel to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of $59 (€47).

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

A bus is $35 (€28) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kiel to Karlsruhe costing on average $93 (€75).

The fastest way to travel from Kiel to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 6h 44m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 13h 43m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Kiel and Karlsruhe including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Karlsruhe among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 44m faster (6h 44m by train vs 7h 28m by car) and roughly $40 (€32) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($93 (€75) vs $133 (€106)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Kiel to Karlsruhe train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
flixbus_flixtrain1:30 AM Kiel
12h56
2:26 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn10:11 AM Kiel
5h58
4:09 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Kiel to Karlsruhe 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.

Thu
May 07
Fri
May 08
Sat
May 09
Sun
May 10
Mon
May 11
Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13

Why should you book Kiel to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Kiel to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kiel to Karlsruhe.

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.
  • 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 Kiel to Karlsruhe.

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 Kiel to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Kiel to Karlsruhe

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Kiel to Karlsruhe run on average 9 times per day, taking around 6h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $25 (€20) if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:07. The fastest train covers the 374 miles (603 km) distance in 5h 58m.

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 44m
Cheapest ticket price
$25 (€20)
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
5h 58m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:07 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Tue
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

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Kiel to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Kiel and Karlsruhe from $25 (€20). 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
5h 58m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FAQs: Trains from Kiel to Karlsruhe

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Kiel to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $25 (€20), while the average price is around $93 (€75).
The train from Kiel to Karlsruhe takes 5h 58m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Kiel to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:05 AM.
The distance by train from Kiel to Karlsruhe is 374 miles (603 km).
The last train from Kiel to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:07 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Kiel to Karlsruhe. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kiel to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Karlsruhe is Kiel Hbf, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Kiel to Karlsruhe is by train, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The train journey from Kiel to Karlsruhe offers scenic views, particularly as it traverses the picturesque landscapes of northern Germany, including lush countryside and charming towns.
A day trip from Kiel to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 58m. However, there are 9 trips per day available by train, covering a distance of 374 miles (603 km).
Two to three days are ideal to explore Karlsruhe's main attractions, including the Karlsruhe Palace, ZKM Center for Art and Media, and the Botanical Garden.
Yes, you can take the train from Kiel to Karlsruhe.
Since both Kiel and Karlsruhe 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 Karlsruhe include Strasbourg, Frankfurt am Main, Stuttgart, Basel, Freiburg im Breisgau.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Karlsruhe 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 Karlsruhe, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overcharging in taxis can occur, so it's advisable to use official transportation services and verify fares beforehand. 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 Kiel to Karlsruhe

Kiel
Karlsruhe
The major train station for departures in Kiel is Kiel Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kiel Hbf for your trip from Kiel to Karlsruhe.
Kiel HbfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
address
Address
Kiel Hbf, Sophienblatt 25-27, 24114 Kiel
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 05:45 - 20:30
  • Tuesday: 05:45 - 20:30
  • Wednesday: 05:45 - 20:30
  • Thursday: 05:45 - 20:30
  • Friday: 05:45 - 20:30
  • Saturday: 06:45 - 20:00
  • Sunday: 06:45 - 20:00
Dining
Dining
  • MUM&DAD
  • Lunatique
  • McDonald's
  • Campus Suite
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Wiking
  • Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel
  • Astor
  • InterCityHotel Kiel
Kiel Schulen am LangseeParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike Parking
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
address
Address
24143 Kiel, Germany
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km

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