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

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

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

€23

Average ticket price on Sep 19

€25

Fastest journey on Sep 19

1 h 47 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

3 h 8 m

Trains on Sep 19

2

Distance

136 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Ulm to Karlsruhe will cost around €25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €23.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 2 trains from Ulm to Karlsruhe, including 2 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 136 km distance in an average of 3 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 47 m .

On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 4 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.

  • TGV
    6:04 AM1h47
    Ulm
    7:51 AMKarlsruhe
    231One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    12:16 AM4h28
    Ulm
    4:44 AMKarlsruhe
    261One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Ulm to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ulm to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €14 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 16m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €14, while a train costs an average of €48.

Distance: 84 miles (136 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

€48

Average price

€14

Average price

Cheapest

€24

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 16m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 47m

Average total duration

2h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 0m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

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 Ulm to Karlsruhe is a bus with an average price of €14.

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

A bus is €34 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ulm to Karlsruhe costing on average €48.

The fastest way to travel from Ulm to Karlsruhe is by train with an average journey time of 1h 46m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 17m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ulm and Karlsruhe including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Ulm to Karlsruhe among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 14m sooner (1h 46m by train vs 2h 0m by car). Tickets start at around €48 compared to roughly €24 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, TGV, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Ulm to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Ulm 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 Bahn5:20 AM Ulm
1h32
6:52 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn6:15 AM Ulm
2h13
8:28 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:29 AM Ulm
2h24
9:53 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:47 AM Ulm
2h06
9:53 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:15 AM Ulm
2h15
10:30 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn1:33 PM Ulm
1h55
3:28 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn4:33 PM Ulm
1h58
6:31 PM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect
Saturday, September 19
Deutsche Bahn12:16 AM Ulm
4h28
4:44 AM Karlsruhe0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Ulm to Karlsruhe by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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 Ulm to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

TGV as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Ulm to Karlsruhe.
Omio is the only official third party seller for TGV tickets.

Why book with Omio vs TGV?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for TGV, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Ulm 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 TGV with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ulm to Karlsruhe.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Ulm to Karlsruhe

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Ulm to Karlsruhe run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €19 but you can travel from only €9 by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 1h 21m.

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 €9
Distance
84 miles (136 km)
Average train duration
1h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
€19
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
1h 21m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:15 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Fri
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 €9

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, TGV from Ulm to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, TGV trains will get you between Ulm 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
1h 21m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€22
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

TGV

About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TGV Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest TGV Price
€19
TGV frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
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 Ulm to Karlsruhe

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ulm 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 Ulm to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €19, while the average price is around €48.
The train from Ulm to Karlsruhe takes 1h 21m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Ulm to Karlsruhe is 84 miles (136 km).
The first train from Ulm to Karlsruhe leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Ulm to Karlsruhe leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Ulm to Karlsruhe.
Yes, there is a direct train from Ulm to Karlsruhe. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by TGV.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ulm to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Ulm that goes to Karlsruhe is Ulm Hbf, which connects to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Ulm to Karlsruhe is by train, with a cost of around €19.
The train journey from Ulm to Karlsruhe offers scenic views as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Swabian Alps and the Black Forest region, featuring rolling hills, dense forests, and charming villages.
Yes, a day trip from Ulm to Karlsruhe is feasible. The journey takes 1h 21m and covers 84 miles (136 km). There are 8 trains per day for this route.
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 Ulm to Karlsruhe.
Since both Ulm 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 Ulm 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.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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 Ulm to Karlsruhe

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

Departure train stations in Ulm
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Ulm station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Ulm to Karlsruhe leave from Ulm Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Ulm city centre at Ulm Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 89073 Ulm.
Ulm HbfUlm Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 89073 UlmWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Ulm Hbf from Ulm city centre

Bus46 · 9m · €3 · every ~1 min
Tram1 · 3m · €3 · every ~11 min

Ulm Hbf train station facilities and services

Ulm Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café Schmizz, Blauflesch, Wilder Mann, Gaststuben im Zunfthaus der Schiffleute

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Hbf. ATMs are available at Ulm Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Ulm Hbf. Information desks are available at Ulm Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Ulm Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Ulm Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Bäumle, InterCityHotel Ulm, Lehrertal Garni.

Ulm OstUlm Ost, An der Brenzbahn, 89073 UlmWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Ulm Ost from Ulm city centre

TrainRs51 · 2m · €2
BusE, 7 · 6m · €3 · every ~6 min

Ulm Ost train station facilities and services

Ulm Ost has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Bodhi, Schwarze Henne, Café Schmizz, Kornhäusle

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Ost. ATMs are available at Ulm Ost.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Ulm Ost. Information desks are available at Ulm Ost.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Ulm Ost. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Ulm Ost: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Ulm Ost: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Ost.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Hotel Comfor, Bäumle, Stern.

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