- Must visit
Värmlands Museum
Värmlands Museum presents regional history, design, and art in a striking waterfront building, making it one of Karlstad’s essential cultural visits.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Varberg to Karlstad
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17
Cheapest price on Sep 17
$29
Average ticket price on Sep 17
$44
Fastest journey on Sep 17
3 h 38 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
3 h 53 m
Trains on Sep 17
13
Distance
263 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Varberg to Karlstad is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Varberg to Karlstad will cost around $44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Varberg to Karlstad without transferring at least once.
13156 Västtrafik · 13216 Västtrafik+
800 Värmlandstrafik · 900 Värmlandstrafik2:05 PM5h22Varberg tågstation7:27 PMKarlstad$291One-way3 transfers- 13156 Västtrafik · 13216 Västtrafik+
2 Hallandstrafiken+800 Värmlandstrafik1:54 PM5h33Varberg7:27 PMKarlstad$331One-way4 transfers - 13164 Västtrafik · 13224 Västtrafik+2 Hallandstrafiken+4 Värmlandstrafik3:53 PM5h50Varberg9:43 PMKarlstad$331One-way5 transfers
- 13156 Västtrafik · 13216 Västtrafik+1 Hallandstrafiken+900 Värmlandstrafik1:37 PM5h50Varberg7:27 PMKarlstad$331One-way4 transfers
- 3834 Västtrafik · 3334 Västtrafik+503 Värmlandstrafik · 8935 Värmlandstrafik10:40 AM8h17Varberg tågstation6:57 PMKarlstad tågstation$341One-way4 transfers
- 13140 Västtrafik+
3960 SJ10:05 AM3h38Varberg tågstation1:43 PMKarlstad tågstation$691One-way1 transfer - 13132 Västtrafik+3956 SJ8:05 AM3h38Varberg tågstation11:43 AMKarlstad tågstation$541One-way1 transfer
- 13148 Västtrafik+3964 SJ12:05 PM3h38Varberg tågstation3:43 PMKarlstad tågstation$651One-way1 transfer
- 13156 Västtrafik+3968 SJ2:05 PM3h44Varberg tågstation5:49 PMKarlstad tågstation$691One-way1 transfer
- 13216 Västtrafik+800 Värmlandstrafik+11 Hallandstrafiken+900 Värmlandstrafik2:40 PM4h47Varberg7:27 PMKarlstad$441One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Varberg to Karlstad
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Varberg to Karlstad among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $22 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 41m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $22, while a train costs an average of $22.
Distance: 163 miles (263 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$22 Average price Cheapest | $68 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
3h 41m Average total duration Fastest 3h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Varberg to Karlstad is a train with an average price of $22.
The fastest way to travel from Varberg to Karlstad is by train with an average journey time of 3h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Varberg and Karlstad including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Varberg to Karlstad among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 50m faster (3h 11m by train vs 4h 1m by car) and roughly $45 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($22 vs $68). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Varberg to Karlstad train times
The table below shows live departures for Varberg to Karlstad trains for tomorrow, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3956 SJ+13132 Västtrafik | 8:05 AM Varberg tågstation | 3h38 | 11:43 AM Karlstad tågstation | 1 transfer | |
| 3960 SJ+13140 Västtrafik | 10:05 AM Varberg tågstation | 3h38 | 1:43 PM Karlstad tågstation | 1 transfer | |
| 1 Hallandstrafiken+3834 Västtrafik · 3334 Västtrafik+500 Värmlandstrafik | 10:07 AM Varberg | 8h54 | 7:01 PM Karlstad | 5 transfers | |
3834 Västtrafik · 3334 Västtrafik+ 593 Länstrafiken Örebro+2 Hallandstrafiken | 10:24 AM Varberg | 8h37 | 7:01 PM Karlstad | 5 transfers | |
| 3834 Västtrafik · 3334 Västtrafik+593 Länstrafiken Örebro+500 Värmlandstrafik | 10:40 AM Varberg tågstation | 8h21 | 7:01 PM Karlstad | 4 transfers | |
| 3834 Västtrafik · 3334 Västtrafik+503 Värmlandstrafik+593 Länstrafiken Örebro | 10:40 AM Varberg tågstation | 8h17 | 6:57 PM Karlstad tågstation | 4 transfers | |
| 3964 SJ+13148 Västtrafik | 12:05 PM Varberg tågstation | 3h38 | 3:43 PM Karlstad tågstation | 1 transfer | |
| 13156 Västtrafik · 13216 Västtrafik+800 Värmlandstrafik+1 Hallandstrafiken | 1:37 PM Varberg | 5h50 | 7:27 PM Karlstad | 4 transfers | |
| 13156 Västtrafik · 13216 Västtrafik+2 Hallandstrafiken+800 Värmlandstrafik | 1:54 PM Varberg | 5h33 | 7:27 PM Karlstad | 4 transfers | |
| 3968 SJ+13156 Västtrafik | 2:05 PM Varberg tågstation | 3h44 | 5:49 PM Karlstad tågstation | 1 transfer | |
| 13156 Västtrafik · 13216 Västtrafik+900 Värmlandstrafik · 800 Värmlandstrafik | 2:05 PM Varberg tågstation | 5h22 | 7:27 PM Karlstad | 3 transfers | |
 20172 Öresundståg+13216 Västtrafik+800 Värmlandstrafik · 900 Värmlandstrafik | 2:40 PM Varberg | 4h47 | 7:27 PM Karlstad | 4 transfers | |
| 13164 Västtrafik · 13224 Västtrafik+806 Värmlandstrafik · 4 Värmlandstrafik | 3:53 PM Varberg | 5h50 | 9:43 PM Karlstad | 5 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Varberg to Karlstad 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.
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Journey information
Overview: Train from Varberg to Karlstad
SwedenSweden
Trains from Varberg to Karlstad run on average 54 times per day, taking around 3h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:33, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 163 miles (263 km) distance in 3h 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
Distance 163 miles (263 km) |
Average train duration 3h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 |
Trains per day 54 |
Fastest train 3h 3m |
First train 12:33 AM |
Last train 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Train companies: SJ, VR from Varberg to Karlstad trainsSJ, VR trains will get you between Varberg and Karlstad from $13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SJ
About
SJ is a Swedish train company that offers a wide range of services to its passengers. It operates high-speed trains, regional trains, and night trains, all of which are comfortable and reliable. The high-speed trains, X2000, are the fastest way to travel between cities, while the regional trains, Pågatåg, are perfect for shorter trips. The night trains, SJ Nattåg, offer a comfortable way to travel overnight. SJ offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and SJ Prio tickets, which offer discounts for frequent travelers. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a café car. The most popular routes for SJ are between Stockholm and Gothenburg, Stockholm and Malmö, and Stockholm and Uppsala.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SJ Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest SJ Price
$13
SJ frequency
47 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on long-distance trains, bistro car with snacks and drinks, at-seat service in 1st class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee in 2nd class, included in 1st class ticket
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets free in carrier, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
VR
About
VR Group is a state-owned railway company in Finland, operating passenger and freight services in Finland and Sweden. They manage approximately 250 long-distance and 800 commuter rail services daily. VR offers various train types, including the high-speed Pendolino (Sm3), InterCity trains with double-deck coaches, and Sm2, Sm4, and Sm5 electric multiple units for commuter services. Ticket options include single, multi, and season tickets, with different travel classes like Eko and Ekstra, and specialized services such as night trains and car-carrier trains.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average VR Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest VR Price
$18
VR frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on long-distance trains, at-seat service in first class, kiosk service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional for second class (additional fee), included in first class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket (50% of adult fare), guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Karlstad
Things to do in Karlstad
Discover the best of Karlstad — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Karlstad trip today.
- Must visit
Sandgrund Lars Lerin
Sandgrund Lars Lerin is a celebrated art gallery showing Lars Lerin’s watercolor works in a former dance hall by the river.
- Recommended
Brigadmuseum
Brigadmuseum explores Sweden’s Cold War and military history through immersive exhibitions, vehicles, and personal stories.
- Must visit
Mariebergsskogen
Mariebergsskogen is Karlstad’s beloved city park, with lakeside walks, gardens, playgrounds, and easy year-round outdoor recreation.
- Recommended
Sandgrundsudden
Sandgrundsudden is a scenic waterfront peninsula with museum architecture, river views, and one of the city’s most pleasant walking areas.
- Recommended
Stora Torget
Stora Torget is the central square, surrounded by shops and civic buildings, and an easy starting point for exploring Karlstad on foot.
Värmlandsk nävgröt med fläsk
A crisp potato waffle from Värmland, traditionally served with lingonberries and often pork or cream. It is one of the region’s best-known heritage dishes.
Nävgröt
A dense porridge of roasted oat or barley flour, shaped by hand and served with fried pork and lingonberries. Strongly linked to old farm cooking in Värmland.
- Gluten-free
Inlagd sill
Pickled herring in classic Swedish styles such as onion, mustard, or dill. Common on festive tables in Värmland and across Sweden.
Restaurant Nivå
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for seasonal Nordic tasting menus, careful technique, and a polished atmosphere in central Karlstad.
Good Guys Brewery
Popular casual venue and brewery known for craft beer, hearty Swedish pub food, and a lively waterfront setting.
Olssons Bazar
Well-known restaurant serving grilled meats, classic dishes, and drinks in a relaxed brasserie-style atmosphere.
Swedish krona (kr)
Moderate for Sweden: hotels and dining are not cheap, but local transit is manageable and Karlstad is usually less costly than Stockholm or Gothenburg.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- 90-140 kr for fast food or lunch.
- Mid-range
- 180-320 kr per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- 700+ kr per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- 35-50 kr for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or adding 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated but not expected. Taxis may be rounded up; cafes usually do not require tips.
Värmlandstrafik
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 38 kr
- Day pass
- 100 kr
To the city center
Karlstad tågstation -> Stora Torget, Karlstad
- Distance
- 850 m
- Travel time
- 11 min
- You can buy tickets in the Värmlandstrafik app. On many local buses, onboard card or cash sales are limited or unavailable, so buy before boarding.
- Karlstad city buses accept contactless bank card payment on board on many services, but the app is the safest option for all ticket types.
FAQs: Trains from Varberg to Karlstad
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Varberg to Karlstad 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 Karlstad, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Varberg to Karlstad can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13, while the average price is around $22.
The train from Varberg to Karlstad takes 3h 3m and runs 54 per day.
The first train from Varberg to Karlstad leaves at 12:33 AM.
The distance by train from Varberg to Karlstad is 163 miles (263 km).
The last train from Varberg to Karlstad leaves at 11:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Varberg to Karlstad.
There is no direct train service currently available from Varberg to Karlstad.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Varberg to Karlstad.
The cheapest way to get from Varberg to Karlstad is by train, with a cost of around $13.
Yes, the train journey from Varberg to Karlstad offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of forests, lakes, and charming Swedish countryside along the route.
A day trip from Varberg to Karlstad is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 3m. Trains operate 22 times per day. The distance covered is 163 miles (263 km).
In Karlstad, you can explore Vänern Lake, Sweden's largest lake, ideal for boating, fishing, and scenic walks. Catch a hockey game or concert at Löfbergs Lila Arena, or visit Karlstad University for its impressive architecture. Discover local cuisine at bustling food markets and unwind at Sundstabadet, a water park with pools and spa facilities. Don't miss the Värmlands Museum for regional history and art, Alsters Herrgård, the birthplace of poet Gustaf Fröding, and Mariebergsskogen, a city park with a zoo and nature trails. Art enthusiasts will appreciate Sandgrund Lars Lerin gallery, and the Karlstad Cathedral offers beautiful architecture and a peaceful setting.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Karlstad allows you to explore its main attractions, such as the Värmland Museum, Mariebergsskogen park, and the scenic Lake Vänern, while also enjoying local dining and cultural experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Varberg to Karlstad.
Since both Varberg and Karlstad 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 Karlstad include Arvika, Kongsvinger, Åmål, Sunne, Kil.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Varberg to Karlstad 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.
Sweden uses the Swedish krona (SEK) as its currency. It is generally better for travelers to use cards, as card payments are widely accepted across the country, including in most shops, restaurants, and public transportation. Cash is less commonly used but can be handy in smaller towns or for small purchases.
In Karlstad, travelers should be mindful of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Scams targeting visitors are rare, but it is advisable to stay cautious when approached by strangers offering unsolicited services or deals. Always keep personal belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings to 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 Varberg to Karlstad
Most Varberg to Karlstad trains use the Varberg tågstation to Karlstad tågstation station pair. Use this guide to compare Varberg and Karlstad train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Varberg
Arrival train stations in Karlstad
Which Varberg station do trains to Karlstad leave from?
Trains from Varberg to Karlstad leave from Varberg tågstation. The station is from Varberg city centre at Otto Torells gata 7, 432 44 Varberg, Sweden.
Varberg tågstationOtto Torells gata 7, 432 44 Varberg, Sweden+46 340 880 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Varberg tågstation from Varberg city centre
Bus1 · 10m · $1 · every ~6 min
Varberg tågstation train station facilities and services
Varberg tågstation 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: Restaurang Zorba, John's Place
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Varberg tågstation. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Varberg tågstation. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Varberg tågstation: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Varberg tågstation: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Varberg tågstation: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clarion Collection Hotel Fregatten, Hotell Gästis, Varbergs Stadshotell & Asia Spa.
Which Karlstad station do trains from Varberg arrive at?
Trains from Varberg to Karlstad arrive at Karlstad tågstation. Karlstad tågstation is from Karlstad city centre.
Karlstad tågstationKarlstad Centralstation, 652 25 Karlstad, Sweden
City-centre transport
Getting to Karlstad tågstation from Karlstad city centre
BusSeveral lines available
TaxiAvailable outside the station
Karlstad tågstation train station facilities and services
Karlstad tågstation has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Frost, Br. Olssons Elektriska
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Karlstad tågstation. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Karlstad tågstation. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Karlstad tågstation: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Karlstad tågstation: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlstad tågstation: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clarion Collection Hotel Drott, Elite Stadshotellet Karlstad, Scandic Karlstad City.
Most popular train connections from Varberg
More options for your journey from Varberg to Karlstad
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Karlstad and Varberg
Most popular train connections to Karlstad
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
