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

Fri, Sep 18
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Trenitalia EuroCity
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Südostbahn
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Trenitalia EuroCity
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Südostbahn
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Lucerne to Karlsruhe

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

zł181

Average ticket price on Sep 18

zł209

Fastest journey on Sep 18

3 h 2 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

3 h 13 m

Trains on Sep 18

5

Distance

217 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Lucerne to Karlsruhe will cost around zł209 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł181.

Fast trains

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

  • Deutsche BahnRE 4714 · IC 612 · ICE 6
    9:05 AM3h28
    Lucerne station
    12:33 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    1811One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnRE 4718 · IC 616 · ICE 72
    11:05 AM3h28
    Lucerne station
    2:33 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    1811One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 668 · ICE 108
    9:54 AM3h03
    Lucerne station
    12:57 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    2271One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIR 2312 · ICE 372
    8:54 AM3h02
    Lucerne station
    11:56 AMKarlsruhe Hbf
    2271One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnIR 2316 · ICE 370
    10:54 AM3h03
    Lucerne station
    1:57 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
    2271One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Lucerne to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lucerne to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of zł155 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 20m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of zł155, while a train costs an average of zł277.

Distance: 134 miles (217 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

zł277

Average price

zł155

Average price

Cheapest

zł448

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 20m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 8m

Average total duration

5h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 51m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

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 Lucerne to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of zł155.

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

A bus is zł122 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lucerne to Karlsruhe costing on average zł277.

The fastest way to travel from Lucerne to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 2h 50m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 38m.

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

The journey is about 1m faster (2h 50m by train vs 2h 51m by car) and roughly zł171 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (zł277 vs zł448). 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.

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

Live departures

Lucerne to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Lucerne 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 BahnIR 2312 · ICE 372
On time
8:54 AM Lucerne station
3h02
11:56 AM Karlsruhe Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnRE 4714 · IC 612 · ICE 6
On time
9:05 AM Lucerne station
3h28
12:33 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 668 · ICE 108
On time
9:54 AM Lucerne station
3h03
12:57 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIR 2316 · ICE 370
On time
10:54 AM Lucerne station
3h03
1:57 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnRE 4718 · IC 616 · ICE 72
On time
11:05 AM Lucerne station
3h28
2:33 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Lucerne to Karlsruhe by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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 Lucerne to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn and more offer trains services from Lucerne to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lucerne 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 Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Südostbahn to find the best option for your trip from Lucerne 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lucerne to Karlsruhe.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Lucerne to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lucerne to Karlsruhe

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Lucerne to Karlsruhe run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł121 but you can travel from only zł102 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 134 miles (217 km) distance in 2h 41m.

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 zł102
Distance
134 miles (217 km)
Average train duration
2h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
zł121
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 41m
First train
12:06 AM
Last train
11:54 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from zł102

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Lucerne to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Lucerne and Karlsruhe from zł102. 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
2h 41m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
zł121
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

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 Lucerne to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lucerne 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 Lucerne to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at zł121, while the average price is around zł277.
The train from Lucerne to Karlsruhe takes 2h 41m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Lucerne to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:06 AM.
The distance by train from Lucerne to Karlsruhe is 134 miles (217 km).
The last train from Lucerne to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lucerne to Karlsruhe.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lucerne to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Lucerne that goes to Karlsruhe is Lucerne station, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lucerne to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around zł102.
Yes, the train journey from Lucerne to Karlsruhe is scenic, as it passes through picturesque Swiss landscapes, including views of the Swiss Alps, charming villages, and lush countryside before entering the rolling hills and forests of southwestern Germany.
A day trip from Lucerne to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 41m. However, there are 8 train trips per day available for this route, covering a distance of 134 miles (217 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 Lucerne to Karlsruhe.
Since both Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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.
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 Lucerne to Karlsruhe

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

Departure train stations in Lucerne
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Lucerne station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Lucerne to Karlsruhe leave from Luzern Bhf. The station is from Lucerne city centre at Zentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland.
Luzern BhfZentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Luzern Bhf from Lucerne city centre

TrainRe24, S1, Sn1 · 11m · zł19 · every ~7 min
BusEv1 · 17m · zł42
72 · 22m · zł14 · every ~2 min

Luzern Bhf train station facilities and services

Luzern Bhf 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, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant La Cucina, Restaurant Bellini Locanda Ticinese

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luzern Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Luzern Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luzern Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Luzern Bhf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luzern Bhf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Monopol Luzern, Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel, Hotel Central Luzern.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone