- 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.
Cheapest price
£21
Average price
£49
Fastest journey
1 h 40 m
Average duration
1 h 40 m
Trains per day
45
Distance
172 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Karlsruhe is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Karlsruhe will cost around £49 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £21.
Of the 45 trains that leave Basel for Karlsruhe every day 45 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 172 km distance in an average of 1 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 40 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.
ICE 2
IC 60470
IC 60402
ICE 272
ICE 100
ICE 374
ICE 272
ICE 274
ICE 372
ICE 278Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £9, and a train costs an average of £5.
Distance: 172 km
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£19 Average Price | £13 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 32m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 34m Average total duration 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Karlsruhe trains for today, Friday 21 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 276 | 16:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 17:57 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 102 | 17:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 18:57 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 102 | On time 17:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 18:57 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 274 | 18:16 Basel SBB | 1h40 | 19:56 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 274 | On time 18:16 Basel SBB | 1h40 | 19:56 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
RE7 | 18:32 Basel SBB | 2h54 | 21:26 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 100 | 19:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 20:57 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 100 | On time 19:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 20:57 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 272 | On time 20:16 Basel SBB | 1h40 | 21:56 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 272 | 20:16 Basel SBB | 1h40 | 21:56 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 60409 | 21:16 Basel SBB | 1h48 | 23:04 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 60409 | On time 21:16 Basel SBB | 1h48 | 23:04 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 60470 | 22:16 Basel SBB | 1h58 | 0:14 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 60470 | On time 22:16 Basel SBB | 1h58 | 0:14 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 60402 | 23:16 Basel SBB | 2h04 | 1:20 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
IC 60402 | On time 23:16 Basel SBB | 2h04 | 1:20 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
| Saturday 22 August | |||||
ICE 374 | 8:16 Basel SBB | 1h40 | 9:56 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 374 | On time 8:16 Basel SBB | 1h40 | 9:56 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 74 | 8:46 Basel SBB | 1h47 | 10:33 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 74 | On time 8:46 Basel SBB | 1h47 | 10:33 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 200 | 9:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 10:57 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 200 | On time 9:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 10:57 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 372 | 10:16 Basel SBB | 1h40 | 11:56 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 372 | On time 10:16 Basel SBB | 1h40 | 11:56 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 6 | 10:46 Basel SBB | 1h47 | 12:33 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 6 | On time 10:46 Basel SBB | 1h47 | 12:33 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 108 | 11:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 12:57 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 108 | On time 11:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 12:57 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 370 | 12:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 13:57 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 370 | On time 12:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 13:57 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 72 | 12:46 Basel SBB | 1h47 | 14:33 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 72 | On time 12:46 Basel SBB | 1h47 | 14:33 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 106 | 13:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 14:57 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 106 | On time 13:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 14:57 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 278 | 14:16 Basel SBB | 1h40 | 15:56 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 278 | On time 14:16 Basel SBB | 1h40 | 15:56 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
EC 4 | 14:46 Basel SBB | 1h47 | 16:33 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ECE 4 | On time 14:46 Basel SBB | 1h47 | 16:33 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 104 | 15:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 16:57 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 104 | On time 15:16 Basel SBB | 1h41 | 16:57 Karlsruhe | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and coach 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.

Trains from Basel to Karlsruhe run on average 16 times per day, taking around 2h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £5 if you book in advance.
There are 16 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 172 km distance in 1h 39m.
Distance 172 km |
Average train duration 2h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price £5 |
Trains per day 16 |
Direct trains 16 |
Fastest train 1h 39m |
First train 0:06 |
Last train 23:54 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Karlsruhe — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Karlsruhe trip today.
A major collection on Baden’s history, culture and global artefacts inside Karlsruhe Palace. A strong first stop for understanding the region and city.
An interactive museum on media art and digital culture in a landmark industrial complex. Ideal for contemporary art, sound and technology exhibitions.
A leading art museum with works from past centuries to modern pieces. The broad collection and central location make it an easy cultural highlight.
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.
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.
A lively shopping street with cafés, shops and everyday city life. Walk here to experience modern Karlsruhe between the market square and Ettlinger Tor.
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.
Soft egg noodles from Swabia, often served with gravy, cheese or lentils. They are a beloved comfort food throughout Baden-Württemberg.
A thin Baden-style potato soup, often enriched with vegetables and stock. It is a traditional everyday dish in the region around Karlsruhe.
Refined modern dining in an elegant setting at Hotel Der Blaue Reiter, known for carefully plated tasting menus and polished service.
Stylish long-running restaurant in Durlach with seasonal menus and a polished take on regional and European cooking.
Traditional Baden brewery restaurant serving hearty regional dishes and house beer in a lively, wood-panelled setting near the city centre.
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.
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.
Official public transport app
Karlsruhe Hbf -> Marktplatz, Karlsruhe
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel 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.

Most Basel to Karlsruhe trains use the Basel SBB to Karlsruhe Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Karlsruhe-Durlach. Use this guide to compare Basel and Karlsruhe train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Basel SBB is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
Basel SBB 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, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Da Roberto, Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Basel SBB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Basel SBB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Basel SBB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Basel SBB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel SBB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Victoria, Hotel Schweizerhof Basel, GAIA Hotel.
Basel Bad Bhf is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
Basel Bad Bhf 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 options include: Restaurant Les Gareçons, Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Basel Bad Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Basel Bad Bhf: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel Bad Bhf: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Alexander, Hotel Wettstein, Hotel Balade.
Basel, Badischer Bahnhof is 2 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
Basel, Badischer Bahnhof has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Basel, Badischer Bahnhof.
ATMs are available at Basel, Badischer Bahnhof.
Available at Basel, Badischer Bahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Basel, Badischer Bahnhof: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel, Badischer Bahnhof.
Karlsruhe Hbf is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlsruhe 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 options include: Vinarte, Am Tiergarten, Panorama, Alter Brauhof
Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Barbarossa, Hotel Avisa, Am Tiergarten, Aparthotel Aijana.
Karlsruhe-Durlach is 5 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlsruhe-Durlach 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 options include: Hubraum, Vogel Hausbräu Durlach, Asia Gourmet, Borsalino
Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe-Durlach. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe-Durlach.
Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe-Durlach. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe-Durlach.
Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe-Durlach. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Karlsruhe-Durlach: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Karlsruhe-Durlach: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe-Durlach.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Große Linde, Zum Erwin, Der Blaue Reiter.
Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need