Leipzig to Karlsruhe train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Fri, Sep 18
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Deutsche Bahn
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leipzig to Karlsruhe

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

kr534

Average ticket price on Sep 18

kr1005

Fastest journey on Sep 18

4 h 10 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

4 h 19 m

Trains on Sep 18

7

Distance

385 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leipzig to Karlsruhe will cost around kr1005 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr534.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Leipzig to Karlsruhe without transferring at least once.

  • FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain
    11:04 AM8h23
    Leipzig Hbf
    7:27 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    kr5341One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain
    10:30 AM8h57
    Leipzig, Hbf
    7:27 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    kr5611One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 595 · ICE 105
    8:49 AM4h10
    Leipzig Hbf
    12:59 PMKarlsruhe
    kr9441One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 597 · ICE 107
    10:49 AM4h10
    Leipzig Hbf
    2:59 PMKarlsruhe
    kr11521One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1652 · ICE 371
    9:27 AM4h32
    Leipzig Hbf
    1:59 PMKarlsruhe
    kr11521One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Leipzig to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leipzig to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of kr513 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 11m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr513, while a train costs an average of kr1023.

Distance: 239 miles (385 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

kr1023

Average price

kr513

Average price

Cheapest

kr852

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 11m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 10m

Average total duration

8h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 35m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

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 Leipzig to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of kr513.

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

A bus is kr510 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leipzig to Karlsruhe costing on average kr1023.

The fastest way to travel from Leipzig to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 4h 41m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 8h 40m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leipzig and Karlsruhe including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leipzig to Karlsruhe 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 54m sooner (4h 41m by train vs 5h 35m by car). Tickets start at around kr1023 compared to roughly kr852 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, Österreichische Bundesbahnen.

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

Leipzig to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Leipzig to Karlsruhe trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 595 · ICE 105
On time
8:49 AM Leipzig Hbf
4h10
12:59 PM Karlsruhe
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1652 · ICE 371
On time
9:27 AM Leipzig Hbf
4h32
1:59 PM Karlsruhe
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+FlixTrainFlixTrain10:30 AM Leipzig, Hbf
8h57
7:27 PM Karlsruhe Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 597 · ICE 107
On time
10:49 AM Leipzig Hbf
4h10
2:59 PM Karlsruhe
1 transfer
FlixTrainFlixTrain · FlixTrain11:04 AM Leipzig Hbf
8h23
7:27 PM Karlsruhe Hbf1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 1650 · ICE 373
On time
11:27 AM Leipzig Hbf
4h32
3:59 PM Karlsruhe
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 599 · ICE 109
On time
12:49 PM Leipzig Hbf
4h10
4:59 PM Karlsruhe
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leipzig 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.

Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24

Why should you book Leipzig to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Österreichische Bundesbahnen or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Leipzig to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leipzig to Karlsruhe.

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 Österreichische Bundesbahnen or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Leipzig to Karlsruhe.
  • 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leipzig to Karlsruhe

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Leipzig to Karlsruhe run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr230 if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:19, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 239 miles (385 km) distance in 3h 43m.

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
239 miles (385 km)
Average train duration
4h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
kr230
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 43m
First train
12:19 AM
Last train
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
1 day
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, FlixTrain from Leipzig to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Leipzig and Karlsruhe from kr345. 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 43m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
kr230
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.
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

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixTrain Duration
6h 38m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
kr518
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Karlsruhe

Things to do in Karlsruhe

Discover the best of Karlsruhe — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Karlsruhe trip today.

  • Must visit

Badisches Landesmuseum

Major regional museum inside Karlsruhe Palace, with archaeology, applied arts, and cultural history collections.

  • Must visit

ZKM | Center for Art and Media

Leading center for art and media with exhibitions on digital culture, contemporary art, and immersive technology.

  • Recommended

Staatliche Kunsthalle Karlsruhe

State art museum showing works from old masters to modern periods in a distinguished historic setting.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while transit is affordable and many casual meals stay reasonably priced.

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
€2.80-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Leipzig to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr230, while the average price is around kr1023.
The train from Leipzig to Karlsruhe takes 3h 43m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Leipzig to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:19 AM.
The distance by train from Leipzig to Karlsruhe is 239 miles (385 km).
The last train from Leipzig to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:45 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Leipzig to Karlsruhe. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Österreichische Bundesbahnen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leipzig to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Leipzig that goes to Karlsruhe is Leipzig Hbf, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Leipzig to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around kr345.
The train journey from Leipzig to Karlsruhe offers a scenic experience, passing through charming landscapes, including picturesque German countryside, forests, and rolling hills, providing travelers with delightful views throughout the trip.
A day trip from Leipzig to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 43m. Trains run 8 times per day.
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 Leipzig to Karlsruhe.
Since both Leipzig 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig to Karlsruhe

Most Leipzig to Karlsruhe trains use the Leipzig Hauptbahnhof to Karlsruhe Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Leipzig and Karlsruhe train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Leipzig
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Leipzig station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Leipzig to Karlsruhe leave from Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Leipzig city centre at Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany.
Leipzig HauptbahnhofWilly-Brandt-Platz 5, 04109 Leipzig, Germany+49 341 9686190WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof from Leipzig city centre

TrainS5x, S5, S4, S3, S1, S2 · 1m · kr12 · every ~23 min
BusN3, 89 · 9m · every ~11 min
Tram9 · 8m · every ~11 min

Leipzig Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services

Leipzig Hauptbahnhof has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Zchocolat, Vapiano Leipzig

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Steigenberger Grandhotel Handelshof, a&o Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Leipzig.

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