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

Tue, Aug 04
+ 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
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lucerne to Karlsruhe

Showing times and prices for Aug 04

Cheapest price

€58

Average price

€58

Fastest journey

3 h 28 m

Average duration

3 h 28 m

Trains per day

1

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 €58 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €58.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Lucerne for Karlsruhe on Tue, Aug 04, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Aug 04 the direct trains cover the 217 km distance in an average of 3 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 28 m .

On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest trains will take 3 h 28 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    10:05 AM3h28
    Lucerne
    1:33 PMKarlsruhe
    581One-way
    0 transfers

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 €38 but you can travel from only €19 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 3h 2m.

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 €19
Distance
134 miles (217 km)
Average train duration
2h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
€38
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 2m
First train
12:06 AM
Last train
11:54 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Wed
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €19

Live departures

Lucerne to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Lucerne to Karlsruhe trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn10:54 PM Lucerne
6h39
5:33 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, August 4
Deutsche Bahn10:05 AM Lucerne
3h28
1:33 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn from Lucerne to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Südostbahn trains will get you between Lucerne and Karlsruhe from €19. 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
3h 2m
Cheapest Price
€38
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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

Trenitalia EuroCity

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest Price
€109
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day

Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest Price
€101
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
7 a day

Südostbahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 2m
Südostbahn frequency
5 a day

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 €38, while the average price is around €69.
The train from Lucerne to Karlsruhe takes 3h 2m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Lucerne to Karlsruhe is 134 miles (217 km).
The first train from Lucerne to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:06 AM.
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.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Lucerne to Karlsruhe.
Popular day trips by train from Karlsruhe include Strasbourg, Frankfurt am Main, Stuttgart, Basel, Freiburg im Breisgau.
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, with some services arriving at Karlsruhe-Durlach. 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 · €4 · every ~7 min
BusEv1 · 17m · €9
72 · 22m · €3 · 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.

Luzern, BahnhofZentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, SwitzerlandAccessibility

Luzern, Bahnhof train station facilities and services

Luzern, Bahnhof has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luzern, Bahnhof.

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