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

Mon, 10 Nov
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Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB Nightjet
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
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Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB Nightjet
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Cologne

Showing times and prices for 12 Nov

Cheapest price

£49

Average price

£59

Fastest journey

1 h 57 m

Average duration

2 h 38 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

238 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Cologne will cost around £59 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £49.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Karlsruhe for Cologne every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 238 km distance in an average of 2 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 57 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 BahnRE 4470 · ICE 1020
08:064h00
Karlsruhe Hbf
12:06Cologne Hbf
£491One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 374 · IC 1749
08:003h06
Karlsruhe Hbf
11:06Cologne Hbf
£531One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 202
09:012h04
Karlsruhe Hbf
11:05Cologne Hbf
£531One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 78 · ICE 1012
08:511h57
Karlsruhe Hbf
10:48Cologne Messe/Deutz
£701One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 374 · ICE 614
08:002h05
Karlsruhe Hbf
10:05Cologne Hbf
£701One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Karlsruhe to Cologne

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Cologne among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 34m. 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 £13, and a train costs an average of £18.

Distance: 238 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£66

Average Price

£22

Average Price

Cheapest

3h 4m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 25m

Average total duration

3h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Karlsruhe to Cologne train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Cologne trains for today, Tuesday 11 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 05:18
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 374 · IC 1749
On time
07:00 Karlsruhe Hbf
3h06
10:06 Cologne Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 374 · ICE 614
On time
07:00 Karlsruhe Hbf
2h05
09:05 Cologne Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnRE 4470 · ICE 1020
Delayed
07:06 Karlsruhe Hbf
4h00
11:09 11:09Cologne Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 78 · ICE 1012
On time
07:51 Karlsruhe Hbf
1h57
09:48 Cologne Messe/Deutz
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 202
On time
08:01 Karlsruhe Hbf
2h04
10:05 Cologne Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn03:57 Karlsruhe
2h08
06:05 Cologne0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahn05:01 Karlsruhe
3h05
08:06 Cologne0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Cologne 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.

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ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne

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
IconWi-Fi available
IconToilets are clean
IconTrain conductors are nice
IconSockets are available
Disadvantages
IconFood unfortunately got cold
IconTrain wobbles a bit
The journey was very pleasant and passed quickly. There was wifi and power sockets, the comfort of the seats was very good. The train was a bit noisy, but you were well catered for. The train attendants were very nice and always gave the information in time. The toilets are very hygienic but the train unfortunately not so, the journey was very punctual and you did not have to change trains. The price was very good. But in all I would recommend it.
Advantages
IconWifi available
IconSockets available
IconComfortable journey
IconToilet available
Disadvantages
IconThe train is a bit noisy
The journey was quite comfortable and cosy. You have wifi and power sockets available on site, the staff are quite friendly, you have a TV on site showing the next station. The train was pretty punctual and I didn't have to change trains. The price is pretty okay for me, it was pretty worth it. The only downside is that the train was a bit noisy.
Advantages
IconOn time
IconFriendly
Disadvantages
IconLack of connections
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne was a pleasant and comfortable travel experience. The train was on time and well organised so that I could reach my destination without any problems. The seats on the train were comfortable and offered enough space to sit back and relax during the journey. The train staff were friendly and helpful and the service on board was satisfactory. However, a minor drawback is the limited train frequency on this route. It would be desirable if there were more connections to be more flexible in planning your journey. Nevertheless, I was able to plan my journey well and only had to spend minimal effort on booking tickets and changing trains.All in all, I can recommend the train journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne. It was a relaxed and enjoyable journey with a good combination of comfort, service and scenic enjoyment. Whether for a weekend getaway or a business trip, the train offers a reliable and comfortable transport option.
Advantages
IconPunctual
IconVery quiet
Disadvantages
IconNone
I travelled on the ICE 102 from Karlsruhe to Cologne in first class, which was very empty and quiet. My seat had 2 armrests and 2 power sockets. The wifi on the train worked well all the time except for a few minutes. The staff came by twice in between and asked if we would like something from the on-board bistro. The second time he gave me a small chocolate and was very friendly both times. The carriage, including the toilet, was clean. The train arrived about 5 minutes late. I could only find out about the train journey in the DB app, as the screens in the centre of the aisle only showed the route and no other information. In my opinion, the price-performance ratio was okay.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Cologne

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Cologne run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £18 but you can travel from only £13 by coach.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 238 km distance in 1h 57m.

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 £13
Distance
238 km
Average train duration
2h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
£18
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
1h 57m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:58
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 £13

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet from Karlsruhe to Cologne trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Cologne 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 Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Price
£18
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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

ÖBB Nightjet

About
ÖBB Nightjet is an Austrian train company that offers overnight services across Europe. It has a range of train types, including the EuroNight, CityNightLine and Nightjet, which all offer comfortable sleeping compartments and couchettes. The EuroNight is the most luxurious option, with private compartments and a restaurant car. The CityNightLine is a more affordable option, with compartments and couchettes, while the Nightjet is the most basic option, with couchettes and reclining seats. Ticket types include Economy, Comfort and Business, with the latter offering the most luxurious experience. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, a restaurant car and a bar. The most popular routes for ÖBB Nightjet are from Vienna to Munich, Berlin, Zurich, Amsterdam, Prague and Budapest.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 30m
Cheapest Price
£134
ÖBB Nightjet frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks above seats, at end of carriages, and under seats. Special storage for bikes and ski equipment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes. Night trains offer breakfast service in sleeper and couchette cars.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Additional fee applies. Free for certain ticket types and first class.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs need ticket (50% of 2nd class fare) and muzzle. Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

FAQs: Karlsruhe to Cologne train

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

FAQs
Booking trains from Karlsruhe to Cologne in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
To fully enjoy Cologne's main attractions, including the Cologne Cathedral, museums, and Rhine River cruises, plan to spend about 2 to 3 days.
The train distance from Karlsruhe to Cologne is 238 km.
The cost of a train ticket from Karlsruhe to Cologne can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £18, while the average price tends to be around £66.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Cologne covers a distance of 238 km and takes approximately 1h 57m. Trains run 9 per day.
In Cologne, visitors can explore the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Gothic architecture, and visit the Museum Ludwig for modern art by artists like Picasso and Warhol. A Rhine River Cruise offers scenic views of the city's skyline and landmarks, while the Hohenzollern Bridge is known for love locks and panoramic river views. The Old Town (Altstadt) charms with historic streets and traditional beer halls. Families might enjoy the Cologne Zoo, which is rich in diverse animal species. For culture and entertainment, attend a concert at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall, or discover the Belgian Quarter’s trendy boutiques and cafes. The Cologne Chocolate Museum provides an interactive experience about chocolate history, and the Botanical Gardens Flora showcases beautiful plant species and floral displays.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Cologne is by coach, costing approximately £13.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Cologne leaves at 0:01.
Yes, there is a direct train between Karlsruhe and Cologne. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Cologne departs at 23:58.
To get from Karlsruhe to Cologne, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Trains from Karlsruhe to Cologne run approximately 9 times per day.
Yes, there is a night train from Karlsruhe to Cologne.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Cologne is Karlsruhe Hbf, and it arrives at Cologne Hbf.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Cologne.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Karlsruhe and Cologne

Karlsruhe
Cologne
The major train station for departures in Karlsruhe is Karlsruhe Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Karlsruhe Hbf for your trip from Karlsruhe to Cologne.
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
  • Monday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Tuesday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Wednesday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Thursday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Friday: 06:30 - 21:00
  • Saturday: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 20:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Vinarte
  • Am Tiergarten
  • Panorama
  • Alter Brauhof
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Barbarossa
  • Hotel Avisa
  • Am Tiergarten
  • Aparthotel Aijana
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
  • Monday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Tuesday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Wednesday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Thursday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Friday: 08:00 13:30 - 12:30 18:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 - 13:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
Dining
Dining
  • Hubraum
  • Vogel Hausbräu Durlach
  • Asia Gourmet
  • Borsalino
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotel Große Linde
  • Zum Erwin
  • Der Blaue Reiter
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Karlsruhe, Hbf SüdausgangAccessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km

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