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

Sat, Sep 19
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

CHF53

Average ticket price on Sep 19

CHF65

Fastest journey on Sep 19

5 h 44 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

6 h 20 m

Trains on Sep 19

4

Distance

426 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe will cost around CHF65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF53.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe without transferring at least 3 times.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · ICE 29
    8:15 AM7h08
    Rotterdam Centraal
    3:23 PMKarlsruhe
    CHF531One-way
    5 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · ICE 2517
    9:15 AM5h44
    Rotterdam Centraal
    2:59 PMKarlsruhe
    CHF551One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 10619
    8:15 AM5h44
    Rotterdam Centraal
    1:59 PMKarlsruhe
    CHF611One-way
    5 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 10621
    9:15 AM6h44
    Rotterdam Centraal
    3:59 PMKarlsruhe
    CHF921One-way
    5 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Rotterdam to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of CHF62 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 58m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of CHF62, while a train costs an average of CHF146.

Distance: 264 miles (426 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

CHF146

Average price

CHF62

Average price

Cheapest

5h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 46m

Average total duration

10h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of CHF62.

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

A bus is CHF84 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe costing on average CHF146.

The fastest way to travel from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 5h 28m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 10h 16m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rotterdam and Karlsruhe including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe among Omio's users.

Live departures

Rotterdam to Karlsruhe train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnIC 2027 · ICE 225 · ECE 5
On time
8:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal
5h18
1:23 PM Karlsruhe
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 10619
On time
8:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal
5h44
1:59 PM Karlsruhe
5 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · ICE 29
On time
8:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal
7h08
3:23 PM Karlsruhe
5 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · ICE 1079:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal
5h46
3:01 PM Karlsruhe3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 10621
On time
9:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal
6h44
3:59 PM Karlsruhe
5 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2043 · ICE 125 · ICE 375
On time
12:05 PM Rotterdam Centraal
5h53
5:58 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 2043 · ICE 125 · ICE 1011 · ICE 7
On time
12:05 PM Rotterdam Centraal
5h18
5:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1143 · IC 3541 · 20083 · ICE 927
On time
12:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal
7h08
7:23 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
5 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1143 · IC 3541 · 20083 · 10627
On time
12:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal
5h43
5:58 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
5 transfers
Deutsche BahnECD 9536 · ICE 17 · ICE 201
Delayed
12:42 PM Rotterdam Centraal
6h17
5:01 PM 5:01 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085 · ICE 201
Delayed
1:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal
5h44
5:01 PM 5:01 PMKarlsruhe Hbf
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085 · 10629
On time
1:15 PM Rotterdam Centraal
6h44
7:59 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
5 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Rotterdam 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.

Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Rotterdam to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Eurostar offer trains services from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam 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 Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Karlsruhe.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe

NetherlandsNetherlands
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF49 but you can travel from only CHF32 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:28, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 264 miles (426 km) distance in 4h 30m.

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 CHF32
Distance
264 miles (426 km)
Average train duration
5h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
CHF49
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
4h 30m
First train
12:28 AM
Last train
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
14 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 CHF32

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Rotterdam and Karlsruhe from CHF32. 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
4h 30m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
CHF49
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 Rotterdam to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF49, while the average price is around CHF146.
The train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe takes 4h 30m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe is 264 miles (426 km).
The first train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:28 AM.
The last train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Rotterdam that goes to Karlsruhe is Rotterdam Centraal, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around CHF32.
The train journey from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque Rhine Valley and offering views of charming German towns, rolling hills, and the famous Rhine River along parts of the route.
A day trip from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 30m. The distance is 264 miles (426 km), and there are 7 trips per day by train.
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 Rotterdam to Karlsruhe.
Since both Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Karlsruhe

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

Departure train stations in Rotterdam
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Rotterdam station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe leave from Rotterdam Centraal. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Rotterdam city centre at Stationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Rotterdam CentraalStationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 302357822WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre

BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m
4 · 10m · CHF2

Rotterdam Centraal train station facilities and services

Rotterdam Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Smullers, Albert Heijn to go, Starbucks, La Place, Julia's, Ekmekci, LEON, The Doner Company, StationsHuiskamer, De Broodzaak, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are aTM machines are located outside the north side entrance and south side entrance.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00. Information desks are located inside the central hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located at the north side of the station, next to the escalator to Platform 15. A small safe costs €6.00 and a large safe costs €9.00 for 24 hours.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Centraal: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, Layin’ Rotterdam Central, Hostel Ani & Haakien.

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