Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

Tue 01 Sept
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 01 Sept

Cheapest price on 01 Sept

£13

Average ticket price on 01 Sept

£29

Fastest journey on 01 Sept

2 h 11 m

Average journey duration on 01 Sept

3 h 2 m

Trains on 01 Sept

8

Distance

240 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf will cost around £29 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.

Fast trains

On Tue 01 Sept, we found 8 trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf, including 8 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 240 km distance in an average of 3 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 11 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 30 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
    17:354h24
    Cologne Hbf
    21:59Karlsruhe Hbf
    £131One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    22:424h18
    Cologne Hbf
    3:00Karlsruhe Hbf
    £181One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    4:482h11
    Cologne Hbf
    6:59Karlsruhe Hbf
    £181One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    21:424h18
    Cologne Hbf
    2:00Karlsruhe Hbf
    £181One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn
    5:533h06
    Cologne Hbf
    8:59Karlsruhe Hbf
    £221One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £18 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 58m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £18, while a train costs an average of £36.

Distance: 240 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£36

Average Price

£18

Average Price

Cheapest

2h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 21m

Average total duration

3h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trains for today, Monday 31 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn13:53 Cologne Hbf
3h05
16:58 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn20:54 Cologne Hbf
2h05
22:59 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn21:42 Cologne Hbf
4h18
2:00 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn21:55 Cologne Hbf
4h05
2:00 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn22:42 Cologne Hbf
4h18
3:00 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn4:48 Cologne Hbf
2h11
6:59 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn5:53 Cologne Hbf
3h06
8:59 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn8:43 Cologne Hbf
3h16
11:59 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn8:53 Cologne Hbf
3h30
12:23 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn9:53 Cologne Hbf
3h06
12:59 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf by train or coach

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.

Tue
01 Sept
Wed
02 Sept
Thu
03 Sept
Fri
04 Sept
Sat
05 Sept
Sun
06 Sept
Mon
07 Sept

Why should you book Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.

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 Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.
  • 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 Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconComfortable
IconQuick
IconCheap
IconSockets
IconWIFI
Disadvantages
IconMany guests
Travelling by train was very pleasant, the train is quite clean, the toilets were very clean, the seats are comfortable, there is wifi. There are power sockets on site, there are seats with tables and it is faster than by car and still the price is quite cheap. One disadvantage is that sometimes there are too many guests and then it is a bit noisy. I would definitely recommend travelling by train.
Advantages
IconVery fast
IconClean
IconPunctual departure
Disadvantages
IconSlight delay on arrival
IconA little expensive
IconDirect connection often already fully booked one day before journey
The route from Cologne to Karlsruhe is one of the few high-speed lines still operated by Deutsche Bahn. This means that you can cover this distance in about 2 hours. There is also a direct connection several times a day, but unfortunately it is often fully booked the day before departure. Both trains of the connection were very clean and in Cologne we left on time, only the ICE, which we had to change to in Mannheim, was a little late, so that we arrived late in Karlsruhe. Overall, I think the price for the connection is also a bit expensive.
Advantages
Icondirect train
Disadvantages
Icontoo full
Wifi was available, but very slow. Unfortunately, there was only one power socket for two seats. The seats were fine, you could sleep in them without any problems. Reservation of the seats was very easy and uncomplicated online, you choose the desired seat and get it. Toilets were clean that day.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:49, the last at 22:13. The fastest train covers the 240 km distance in 1h 54m.

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
240 km
Average train duration
2h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
£13
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
1h 54m
First train
1:49
Last train
22:13
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
4 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: Deutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf from £13. 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 54m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£13
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

Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH Duration
3h 26m
Cheapest Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH Price
£54
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH frequency
2 a day

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price
£67
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
5 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) Duration
3h 44m
Cheapest Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) Price
£99
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf 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 Hbf, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £36.
The train journey from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf covers a distance of 240 km and takes approximately 1h 54m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf is 240 km.
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf leaves at 1:49.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf departs at 22:13.
Trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
To get from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf is by train, costing approximately £13.
Booking trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Köln Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf offers scenic views, particularly as it travels along the picturesque Rhine Valley, where passengers can enjoy sights of vineyards, castles, and charming riverside towns.
A day trip from Köln Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 54m. However, trains run 7 times per day over a distance of 240 km.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf

Most Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trains use the Köln Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre

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

TrainRb26 · 16m · £6 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · £4 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · £4 · every ~14 min

Köln Hbf train station facilities and services

Köln 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: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.

More options for your journey from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Karlsruhe Hbf and Cologne Hbf

HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyCologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf train

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone