- Must visit
Badisches Landesmuseum
A major collection on Baden’s history, culture and global artefacts inside Karlsruhe Palace. A strong first stop for understanding the region and city.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Cologne to Karlsruhe
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 30 Oct
- Cheapest price on 30 Oct
- £23
- Average ticket price on 30 Oct
- £26
- Fastest journey on 30 Oct
- 4 h 20 m
- Average journey duration on 30 Oct
- 4 h 28 m
- Buses on 30 Oct
- 8
- Distance
- 238 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Cologne to Karlsruhe is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cologne to Karlsruhe will cost around £26 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £23.
Fast coaches
On Fri 30 Oct, we found 8 buses from Cologne to Karlsruhe, including 8 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 238 km distance in an average of 4 h 28 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 20 m .
The slowest buses will take 4 h 35 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.
FlixBus4:50 4h35 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 9:25 Karlsruhe Hbf £23 1 One-way 0 changes- FlixBus
22:20 4h40 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 3:00 Karlsruhe Hbf £25 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
18:35 4h20 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 22:55 Karlsruhe Hbf £26 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
15:35 4h35 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 20:10 Karlsruhe Hbf £26 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
8:15 5h40 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 13:55 Karlsruhe Hbf £27 1 One-way 0 changes
- FlixBus
18:35 4h20 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 22:55 Karlsruhe Hbf £26 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
23:30 4h20 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 3:50 Karlsruhe Hbf £27 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
13:35 4h30 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 18:05 Karlsruhe Hbf £27 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
15:35 4h35 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 20:10 Karlsruhe Hbf £26 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
4:50 4h35 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) 9:25 Karlsruhe Hbf £23 1 One-way 0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cologne to Karlsruhe
GermanyGermany
Buses from Cologne to Karlsruhe run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £13 but you can travel from only £7 by train.
There are 7 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 238 km distance in 4h 5m.
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
Train from £7
Distance 238 km |
Average bus duration 4h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Buses per day 7 |
Direct buses 7 |
Fastest bus 4h 5m |
First bus 0:25 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 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
Train from £7
Frequently asked questions about your Cologne to Karlsruhe trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Cheap coach tickets from Cologne to Karlsruhe can start from as little as £13 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Cologne to Karlsruhe is £22; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest coach from Cologne to Karlsruhe leaves at 0:25. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Cologne to Karlsruhe leaves at 23:55.
Yes, there are 7 direct coaches a day from Cologne to Karlsruhe with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
Live departures
Cologne to Karlsruhe bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Karlsruhe coaches for today, Thursday 29 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 23:30 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 4h20 | 3:50 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| Friday 30 October | |||||
| FlixBus | 4:50 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 4h35 | 9:25 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 8:15 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 5h40 | 13:55 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 10:45 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 5h25 | 16:10 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 13:35 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 4h30 | 18:05 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 15:35 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 4h35 | 20:10 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 18:35 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 4h20 | 22:55 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 22:20 Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) | 4h40 | 3:00 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cologne to Karlsruhe coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer coaches services from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Cologne 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Cologne to KarlsruheYou can travel by bus between Cologne to Karlsruhe with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as £7. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
4h 5m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£13
FlixBus frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar Bus
About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average BlaBlaCar Bus Duration
16h 10m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
£51
BlaBlaCar Bus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cologne and Karlsruhe
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a coach from Cologne to Karlsruhe, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Karlsruhe. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Cologne and Karlsruhe and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Cologne to Karlsruhe:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Cologne to Karlsruhe for coach company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Cologne to Karlsruhe depends on the coach companies:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company {providersWithBike}.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Cologne to Karlsruhe:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Cologne to Karlsruhe:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Cologne to Karlsruhe. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Cologne to Karlsruhe with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Cologne to Karlsruhe with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Cologne to Karlsruhe with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
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
ZKM | Zentrum für Kunst und Medien
An interactive museum on media art and digital culture in a landmark industrial complex. Ideal for contemporary art, sound and technology exhibitions.
- Recommended
Staatliche Kunsthalle Karlsruhe
A leading art museum with works from past centuries to modern pieces. The broad collection and central location make it an easy cultural highlight.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
The grand central square lined with historic buildings, the pyramid and fountains. It is the city’s main meeting point and a practical base for sightseeing.
- Must visit
Schlossgarten
This vast landscaped park behind the palace is ideal for walks, picnics and seasonal events. It offers one of Karlsruhe’s most relaxed urban green spaces.
- Recommended
Kaiserstraße
A lively shopping street with cafés, shops and everyday city life. Walk here to experience modern Karlsruhe between the market square and Ettlinger Tor.
Maultaschen
A Swabian-Baden pasta dish of filled noodle pockets, usually with minced meat and spinach. Common across south-west Germany and a staple in local inns.
- Vegetarian
Spätzle
Soft egg noodles from Swabia, often served with gravy, cheese or lentils. They are a beloved comfort food throughout Baden-Württemberg.
- Gluten-free
Badische Kartoffelsuppe
A thin Baden-style potato soup, often enriched with vegetables and stock. It is a traditional everyday dish in the region around Karlsruhe.
Restaurant Vogel Hausbrunn
Refined modern dining in an elegant setting at Hotel Der Blaue Reiter, known for carefully plated tasting menus and polished service.
Anders auf dem Turmberg
Stylish long-running restaurant in Durlach with seasonal menus and a polished take on regional and European cooking.
Vogelbräu Karlsruhe
Traditional Baden brewery restaurant serving hearty regional dishes and house beer in a lively, wood-panelled setting near the city centre.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local transport is reasonable. Cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, but not as low-cost as smaller regional towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but small tips are expected. Round up or add 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés.
KVV.regiomove
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.70
- Day pass
- €5.60
To the city centre
Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang) -> Marktplatz, Karlsruhe
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
Best option: Tram/S-Bahn from Karlsruhe Hauptbahnhof to Marktplatz
- Price
- €3.70
- Duration
- 12 min
- Validate paper single and day tickets before travel; single tickets are valid for one journey in the direction of your destination with transfers allowed.
- The official KVV.regiomove app supports journey planning, booking and bundled payment. Check in the app or at machines for current card or contactless payment options.
FAQs: Cologne to Karlsruhe coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Karlsruhe by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Karlsruhe, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Karlsruhe including taking a train and coach.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cologne and Karlsruhe
Most Cologne to Karlsruhe buses use the Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) to Karlsruhe Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang). Use this guide to compare Cologne and Karlsruhe bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cologne
Arrival bus stations in Karlsruhe
Which Cologne station do buses to Karlsruhe leave from?
Buses from Cologne to Karlsruhe leave from Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen). The station is 13 km from Cologne city centre at Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany.
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen)Kennedystrasse, Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 8m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 12m · £4
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility and WC.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Parking, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Kennedystraße (Bonn Flughafen): Elevators, ramps.
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2)Kennedystrasse, 51147 Koln, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) from Cologne city centre
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe · 16m · £4 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 20m · £4
Re · 21m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 27m · £5
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) bus station facilities and services
Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance and baggage claim area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Köln, Köln Bonn Flughafen (Terminal 2): Elevators, ramps.
Karlsruhe Hbf
City-centre transport
Getting to Karlsruhe Hbf from Karlsruhe city centre
Train74346, 80700, 80702, 80704, 80706, 80708, 84704, 84710, 84714, 84722, 84726, 84740, 84746, 84752, 84758, 84764, 84770, 84776, 84782, 84788, 84792, 84794, 84796, 84800, 84808, 84810, 84814, 84816, 84859, 84864, 84866, 84868, 84870, 84872, 84876, 84877, 84878, 84880, 84882, 84884, 84886, 84888, 84890, 84892, 84894, 84896, 84898, 84900, 84902, 84904, 84906, 84908, 84910, 84912, 84913, 84914, 84916, 84918, 84920, 84922, 84924, 84926, 84928, 84930, 84931, 84934, 84935, 84936, 84938, 84940, 84941, 84944, 84946, 84948, 84952, 84956, 84958, 84962, 84964, 84968, 84972, 84976, 84980, 84984, 84986, 84988, 84994, 84998, 85000, 85004, 85006, 85008, 85012, 85014, 85018, 85020, 85022, 85024, 85026, 85030, 85032, 85034, 85040, 85042, 85046, 85052, 85054, 85056, 85058, 85060, 85064, 85068, 85070, 85074, 85078, 85082, 85084, 85086, 85088, 85090, 85178, 85278, 85311, 85390, 85392, 85396, 85400, 85402, 85404, 85406, 85408, 85410, 85412, 85414, 85416, 85418, 85420, 85422, 85424, 85426, 85428, 85430, 85432, 85434, 85436, 85438, 85440, 85442, 85444, 85446, 85448, 85450, 85452, 85454, 85456, 85458, 85460, 85462, 85466, 85468, 85470, 85474, 85476, 85478, 85480, 85482, 85484, 85488, 85500, 85502, 85504, 85506, 85508, 85510, 85512, 85514, 85516, 85518, 85520, 85522, 85524, 85526, 85528, 85530, 85532, 85534, 85536, 85538, 85540, 85546, 85548, 85551, 85557, 85559, 85561, 85563, 85565, 85567, 85569, 85571, 85573, 85575, 85577, 85579, 85581, 85583, 85585, 85589, 85591, 85597, 85599, 85605, 85607, 85611, 85615, 85619, 85623, 85629, 85631, 85633, 85635, 85639, 85641, 85645, 85647, 85651, 85653, 85655, 85659, 85661, 85665, 85669, 85673, 85675, 85679, 85681, 85685, 85687, 85689, 85821, 85916, 85918, 85922, 85932, 85936, 85938, 85940, 85942, 85946, 85948, 85950, 85952, 85954, 85956, 85958, 85960, 85962, 85964, 85966, 85968, 85970, 85972, 85974, 85976 · 6m · every ~10 min
Tram2, Nl2 · 6m · every ~11 min
Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang)Karlsruhe Hauptbahnhof, 76137 Karlsruhe, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang) from Karlsruhe city centre
Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang) is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Tram2, Nl2 · 1m · every ~11 min
Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang) bus station facilities and services
Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang). ATMs are available at Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe, Hinterm Hauptbahnhof (Südeingang): The station is accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
More options for your journey from Cologne to Karlsruhe
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Karlsruhe and Cologne
Most popular bus connections
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