Salzburg to Karlsruhe train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sat, Sep 19
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ÖBB | ICE
Deutsche Bahn
Bayerische Regiobahn
ÖBB
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
ÖBB | ICE
Deutsche Bahn
Bayerische Regiobahn
ÖBB
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Salzburg to Karlsruhe

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

kr234

Average ticket price on Sep 19

kr539

Fastest journey on Sep 19

4 h 52 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

5 h 5 m

Trains on Sep 19

6

Distance

369 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Salzburg to Karlsruhe will cost around kr539 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr234.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 6 trains from Salzburg to Karlsruhe, including 6 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 369 km distance in an average of 5 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 52 m .

On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 5 h 25 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
    7:00 AM4h52
    Salzburg
    11:52 AMKarlsruhe
    kr2341One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    5:05 AM5h25
    Salzburg
    10:30 AMKarlsruhe
    kr4261One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:05 AM5h24
    Salzburg
    12:29 PMKarlsruhe
    kr4701One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    10:00 AM4h52
    Salzburg
    2:52 PMKarlsruhe
    kr4701One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:00 AM4h52
    Salzburg
    12:52 PMKarlsruhe
    kr6691One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Salzburg to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Salzburg to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of kr282 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 30m. 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 kr282, while a train costs an average of kr593.

Distance: 229 miles (369 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

kr593

Average price

kr282

Average price

Cheapest

kr349

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 48m

Average total duration

6h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 26m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

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 Salzburg to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of kr282.

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

A bus is kr311 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Salzburg to Karlsruhe costing on average kr593.

The fastest way to travel from Salzburg to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 5h 0m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 18m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Salzburg and Karlsruhe including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Salzburg to Karlsruhe among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around kr593 compared to roughly kr349 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about kr-244.26. The journey takes 5h 0m versus 4h 26m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Salzburg to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Salzburg 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 BahnICE 516 · IC 2160+Bayerische Regiobahn79024
Delayed
11:28 AM 11:05 AMSalzburg Hbf
5h48
4:53 PM Karlsruhe Hbf
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnEC 114 · ICE 910 · 19030
On time
4:00 PM Salzburg Hbf
5h25
9:25 PM Karlsruhe
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnRJX 64 · ICE 560
On time
5:00 PM Salzburg Hbf
4h52
9:52 PM Karlsruhe
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 510 · IC 2064+Bayerische Regiobahn79038
Delayed
5:28 PM 5:05 PMSalzburg Hbf
5h49
10:54 PM Karlsruhe
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1060 · 19036+Bayerische Regiobahn79042
Delayed
7:36 PM 7:05 PMSalzburg Hbf
6h14
1:19 AM Karlsruhe
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 618 · S6+Bayerische Regiobahn790469:07 PM Salzburg Hbf
8h30
5:37 AM Karlsruhe2 transfers
Saturday, September 19
EuroNight1:55 AM Salzburg
5h56
7:51 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn5:05 AM Salzburg
5h25
10:30 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:00 AM Salzburg
4h52
11:52 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:05 AM Salzburg
5h24
12:29 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:00 AM Salzburg
4h52
12:52 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn10:00 AM Salzburg
4h52
2:52 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Salzburg 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 Salzburg to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Bayerische Regiobahn, ÖBB | ICE, Meridian, BOB & BRB, Hungarian Railways (MÁV) and more offer trains services from Salzburg to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Salzburg 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 Bayerische Regiobahn, ÖBB | ICE, Meridian, BOB & BRB or Hungarian Railways (MÁV) to find the best option for your trip from Salzburg 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 Salzburg to Karlsruhe.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Bayerische Regiobahn, ÖBB | ICE, Meridian, BOB & BRB or Hungarian Railways (MÁV) to find the best option for your trip from Salzburg to Karlsruhe.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Salzburg to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Salzburg to Karlsruhe

AustriaAustria
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Salzburg to Karlsruhe run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr223 but you can travel from only kr159 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:25, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 229 miles (369 km) distance in 4h 22m.

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 kr159
Distance
229 miles (369 km)
Average train duration
5h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
kr223
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
4h 22m
First train
12:25 AM
Last train
11:08 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Fri
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 kr159

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Bayerische Regiobahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB from Salzburg to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, Bayerische Regiobahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB trains will get you between Salzburg and Karlsruhe from kr159. 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 22m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
kr223
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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

ÖBB | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB | ICE Duration
5h 19m
Cheapest ÖBB | ICE Price
kr360
ÖBB | ICE frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

ÖBB

About
ÖBB is Austria’s national railway company, offering a comprehensive network of train services across the country and to neighboring nations. Its fleet includes high-speed InterCity Express (ICE) trains for the fastest and most comfortable journeys, EuroCity (EC) trains for international connections, InterCity (IC) trains for reliable long-distance travel, and Regional Express (REX) trains for frequent local stops. Ticket types include Standard Ticket, Comfort-Ticket, ÖBB Sparschiene-Ticket, and ÖBB Sparschiene Comfort-Ticket, along with options for single, return, and group travel. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and food and beverage services. Popular routes include Vienna–Salzburg, Vienna–Innsbruck, and Vienna–Graz
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ÖBB Duration
6h 12m
Cheapest ÖBB Price
kr851
ÖBB frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on long-distance trains), bistro service, at-seat service in first class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance, and special seating areas
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare), guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Bayerische Regiobahn

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Bayerische Regiobahn Duration
4h 51m
Cheapest Bayerische Regiobahn Price
kr446
Bayerische Regiobahn frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible before first day of validity
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket and must be leashed
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 Salzburg to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Salzburg 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 Salzburg to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr223, while the average price is around kr593.
The train from Salzburg to Karlsruhe takes 4h 22m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Salzburg to Karlsruhe is 229 miles (369 km).
The first train from Salzburg to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:25 AM.
The last train from Salzburg to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:08 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Salzburg to Karlsruhe.
There is no direct train service currently available from Salzburg to Karlsruhe.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Salzburg to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Salzburg that goes to Karlsruhe is Salzburg Hbf, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Salzburg to Karlsruhe is by bus, with a cost of around kr159.
The train journey from Salzburg to Karlsruhe offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Bavaria, featuring rolling hills, charming villages, and lush forests.
A day trip from Salzburg to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 22m. The trip covers 229 miles (369 km), and there are 7 trains 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 Salzburg to Karlsruhe.
Since both Salzburg 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Salzburg 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 Salzburg to Karlsruhe

Most Salzburg to Karlsruhe trains use the Salzburg Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz. Use this guide to compare Salzburg and Karlsruhe train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Salzburg
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Salzburg station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Salzburg to Karlsruhe leave from Salzburg Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Salzburg city centre at Südtiroler Platz 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
Salzburg HbfSüdtiroler Platz 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria+43 5 1717WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Salzburg Hbf from Salzburg city centre

Salzburg Hbf is 1 km from Salzburg city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus22, 23, 25, 170 · 6m · kr16 · every ~20 min

Salzburg Hbf train station facilities and services

Salzburg Hbf 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 Imlauer, Stieglitz

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Salzburg Hbf. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Salzburg Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Salzburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Salzburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Salzburg Hbf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Europa Salzburg, Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre, H+ Hotel Salzburg.

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