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

Wed 03 Dec
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf

Showing times and prices for 04 Dec

Cheapest price

£22

Average price

£48

Fastest journey

2 h 3 m

Average duration

3 h 12 m

Trains per day

5

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 £48 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £22.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne Hbf for Karlsruhe Hbf every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 240 km distance in an average of 3 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 3 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 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
03:324h25
Cologne Hbf
07:57Karlsruhe Hbf
£221One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
10:533h04
Cologne Hbf
13:57Karlsruhe Hbf
£461One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
04:552h03
Cologne Hbf
06:58Karlsruhe Hbf
£521One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
06:532h54
Cologne Hbf
09:47Karlsruhe Hbf
£551One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
11:534h00
Cologne Hbf
15:53Karlsruhe Hbf
£661One-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 prices starting from £11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 31m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £11, and a train costs an average of £14.

Distance: 240 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£48

Average Price

£20

Average Price

Cheapest

3h 1m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 22m

Average total duration

3h 52m

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, Wednesday 3 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 02:06
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 10307:41 Cologne Hbf
2h17
09:58 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
deutsche_bahnEC 7
On time
07:53 Cologne Hbf
2h54
10:47 Karlsruhe Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 915 · ICE 71
On time
08:01 Cologne Hbf
2h08
10:09 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 121 · ICE 277
On time
08:28 Cologne Hbf
2h29
10:57 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnS 11 · ICE 515 · ICE 277
On time
08:47 Cologne Hbf
2h10
10:57 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 27 · ICE 225 · ICE 73
On time
08:53 Cologne Hbf
3h16
12:09 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnEC 9
On time
09:53 Cologne Hbf
2h54
12:47 Karlsruhe Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 105
On time
09:55 Cologne Hbf
2h03
11:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnRE 22137 · ICE 225 · ICE 73
On time
10:03 Cologne Hbf
2h06
12:09 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnIC 2013 · ICE 107
On time
10:14 Cologne Hbf
3h44
13:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 517 · ICE 279
On time
10:41 Cologne Hbf
2h17
12:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnIC 1744 · ICE 371
On time
11:53 Cologne Hbf
3h04
14:57 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 107
On time
11:55 Cologne Hbf
2h03
13:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 229 · RE 4481
On time
12:53 Cologne Hbf
4h00
16:53 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 519 · ICE 371
On time
12:55 Cologne Hbf
2h02
14:57 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 315 · ICE 577 · RE 38959
On time
13:27 Cologne Hbf
2h18
15:45 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnIC 1746 · ICE 373
On time
13:53 Cologne Hbf
3h05
16:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 109
On time
13:55 Cologne Hbf
2h03
15:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 1011 · ICE 77
On time
14:01 Cologne Hbf
2h08
16:09 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 125 · ICE 373
On time
14:28 Cologne Hbf
2h30
16:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 611 · ICE 373
On time
14:41 Cologne Hbf
2h17
16:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 927 · RE 4483
On time
14:53 Cologne Hbf
4h00
18:53 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 1748 · ICE 375
On time
15:53 Cologne Hbf
3h05
18:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 201
On time
15:55 Cologne Hbf
2h03
17:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 1013 · ICE 79
On time
16:01 Cologne Hbf
2h08
18:09 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 127 · ICE 375
On time
16:28 Cologne Hbf
2h30
18:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 929 · RE 4485
On time
16:53 Cologne Hbf
4h00
20:53 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 2340 · ICE 377
On time
17:52 Cologne Hbf
3h06
20:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 20317:55 Cologne Hbf
2h03
19:58 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 1015 · ICE 1171
On time
18:01 Cologne Hbf
2h08
20:09 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 129 · ICE 377
On time
18:28 Cologne Hbf
2h30
20:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 615 · ICE 377
On time
18:41 Cologne Hbf
2h17
20:58 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 19 · ICE 773 · RE 26157
On time
19:20 Cologne Hbf
2h29
21:49 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnS 19 · ICE 205
On time
19:41 Cologne Hbf
2h18
21:59 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnIC 2342 · ICE 775
On time
19:53 Cologne Hbf
3h39
23:32 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 617 · ICE 77520:55 Cologne Hbf
2h37
23:32 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 909 · RB 15443 · S 3
On time
21:27 Cologne Hbf
4h02
01:29 Karlsruhe Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnIC 2344 · IC 60403
On time
21:53 Cologne Hbf
5h08
03:01 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 619 · IC 60403
On time
22:55 Cologne Hbf
4h06
03:01 Karlsruhe Hbf
1 change

This is the last train of the day.

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.

Thu
04 Dec
Fri
05 Dec
Sat
06 Dec
Sun
07 Dec
Mon
08 Dec
Tue
09 Dec
Wed
10 Dec
Thu
11 Dec
Fri
12 Dec
Sat
13 Dec
Sun
14 Dec
Mon
15 Dec
Tue
16 Dec
Wed
17 Dec

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 7 times per day, taking around 2h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £14 but you can travel from only £11 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:32, the last at 22:42. The fastest train covers the 240 km distance in 2h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £11
Distance
240 km
Average train duration
2h 31m
Cheapest ticket price
£14
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 3m
First train
03:32
Last train
22:42
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
Coach from £11

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf from £11. 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 Duration
2h 3m
Cheapest Price
£14
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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

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
A day trip from Köln Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 3m. However, trains run 7 times per day over a distance of 240 km.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf is by coach, costing approximately £11.
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 distance from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf is 240 km.
The train journey from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf covers a distance of 240 km and takes approximately 2h 3m. Trains run 7 per day.
The last train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf departs at 22:42.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
The first train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf leaves at 3:32.
There is no night train service from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.
Trains from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf run approximately 7 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cost of a train ticket from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £14, while the average price tends to be around £48.
To get from Cologne Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
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.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cologne Hbf and Karlsruhe Hbf

Cologne
Karlsruhe
The major train station for departures in Cologne is Köln Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Köln Hbf for your trip from Cologne to Karlsruhe.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 21:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only.
Lockers
Lockers
  • There are luggage lockers in the station.
Dining
Dining
  • asiagourmet
  • Coffee Fellows
  • dean&david
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • KFC
  • McDonald's
  • Pizza Hut
  • Nordsee
  • Starbucks
  • Schweinske
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • Wyndham Koeln
  • Hilton Cologne
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • One near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.

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