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

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

Showing times and prices for Aug 04

Cheapest price

€101

Average price

€106

Fastest journey

6 h 8 m

Average duration

6 h 26 m

Trains per day

2

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 €106 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €101.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Rotterdam for Karlsruhe on Tue, Aug 04, 2 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 426 km distance in an average of 6 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 8 m .

On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest trains will take 6 h 44 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
    8:15 AM6h44
    Rotterdam
    2:59 PMKarlsruhe
    1011One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:15 AM6h08
    Rotterdam
    1:23 PMKarlsruhe
    1101One-way
    0 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 prices starting from €27. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 15m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €27, and a train costs an average of €40.

Distance: 264 miles (426 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€107

Average price

€43

Average price

Cheapest

6h 45m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 36m

Average total duration

10h 6m

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 €43.

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

A bus is €63 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe costing on average €107.

The fastest way to travel from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 6h 15m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 10h 6m.

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 tomorrow, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:15 AM Rotterdam
6h08
1:23 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:15 AM Rotterdam
6h44
2:59 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect

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.

Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10

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 6h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €40 but you can travel from only €27 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 5h 3m.

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 €27
Distance
264 miles (426 km)
Average train duration
6h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
€40
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
5h 3m
First train
12:28 AM
Last train
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Thu
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 €27

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar trains will get you between Rotterdam and Karlsruhe from €27. 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 3m
Cheapest Price
€40
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

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 25m
Cheapest Price
€178
Eurostar frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
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 €40, while the average price is around €107.
The train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe takes 5h 3m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:28 AM.
The distance by train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe is 264 miles (426 km).
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 €27.
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 5h 3m. 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, with some services arriving at Karlsruhe-Durlach. 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 · €2

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.

Rotterdam ZuidAnnie M.G. Schmidtplein 20, 3083 NZ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Rotterdam Zuid from Rotterdam city centre

Rotterdam Zuid is 2 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSprinter · 3m · €1 · every ~9 min
Bus32 · 12m · €2 · every ~8 min
Stopbus ipv trein, Taxibus ipv trein · 13m · every ~1 min
Tram3 · 18m · €2 · every ~23 min

Rotterdam Zuid train station facilities and services

Rotterdam Zuid has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant De Hef, Restaurant Fenix Food Factory

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam Zuid. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Rotterdam Zuid. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Rotterdam Zuid: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Rotterdam Zuid: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Zuid.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Zuid, Art Hotel Rotterdam, Hotel New York.

Rotterdam BlaakBlaak 1, 3011 TA Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 30 235 7822WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Rotterdam Blaak from Rotterdam city centre

TrainSprinter, Intercity · 3m · €1 · every ~16 min
Tram1, 11 · 6m · €1 · every ~14 min

Rotterdam Blaak train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurant Fitzgerald, Markthal Rotterdam

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam Blaak. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Rotterdam Blaak. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Rotterdam Blaak: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Blaak: Ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Motto by Hilton Rotterdam Blaak, citizenM Rotterdam, Ibis Rotterdam City Centre.

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