Karlsruhe to Erfurt train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Sat 13 Dec
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Rail
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Erfurt

Showing times and prices for 16 Dec

Cheapest price

£34

Average price

£60

Fastest journey

3 h 14 m

Average duration

3 h 25 m

Trains per day

12

Distance

290 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Erfurt will cost around £60 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £34.

Fast trains

Of the 12 trains that leave Karlsruhe for Erfurt every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 290 km distance in an average of 3 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 14 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 28 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.

FlixTrainFlixTrain
14:233h44
Karlsruhe Hbf
18:07Erfurt Hbf
£341One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 278 · ICE 1655
15:593h42
Karlsruhe Hbf
19:41Erfurt Hbf
£531One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 106 · ICE 596
14:593h28
Karlsruhe Hbf
18:27Erfurt Hbf
£531One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 104 · ICE 594
16:593h28
Karlsruhe Hbf
20:27Erfurt Hbf
£531One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 370 · ICE 1653
13:593h42
Karlsruhe Hbf
17:41Erfurt Hbf
£601One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Karlsruhe to Erfurt

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Erfurt among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £21, and a train costs an average of £11.

Distance: 290 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£34

Average Price

£31

Average Price

Cheapest

4h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 5m

Average total duration

4h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

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 Erfurt train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Erfurt trains for today, Monday 15 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 02:54
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
flixbus_flixtrain07:30 Karlsruhe
3h49
11:19 Erfurt0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Erfurt 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
16 Dec
Wed
17 Dec
Thu
18 Dec
Fri
19 Dec
Sat
20 Dec
Sun
21 Dec
Mon
22 Dec

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Erfurt

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Erfurt run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £11 if you book in advance.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:37, the last at 23:41. The fastest train covers the 290 km distance in 3h 25m.

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
290 km
Average train duration
3h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
£11
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
3h 25m
First train
00:37
Last train
23:41
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, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) from Karlsruhe to Erfurt trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC) trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Erfurt 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
3h 25m
Cheapest Price
£42
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 49m
Cheapest Price
£11
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

ÖBB | Euro City (EC)

About
The ÖBB Euro City is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, connecting major cities across the country. The Euro City trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioned coaches and plenty of legroom. There are two types of Euro City trains: the EC (Euro City) and the IC (InterCity). The EC trains are the fastest, with speeds of up to 200 km/h, while the IC trains are slightly slower, with speeds of up to 160 km/h. The ÖBB Euro City offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a restaurant car. The most popular routes for the ÖBB Euro City include Vienna to Salzburg, Vienna to Innsbruck, and Vienna to Graz. These routes offer stunning views of the Austrian countryside and provide a convenient way to travel between major cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 37m
Cheapest Price
£54
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro available on most routes serving hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional in 2nd class for additional fee, included in 1st class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require ticket (50% of 2nd class fare). Guide dogs free.
Quiet zone

FAQs: Karlsruhe to Erfurt train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Karlsruhe to Erfurt can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £11, while the average price tends to be around £34.
To fully explore Erfurt's historical sites, charming old town, and cultural attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Erfurt is by train, costing approximately £11.
Booking trains from Karlsruhe to Erfurt in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train distance from Karlsruhe to Erfurt is 290 km.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Erfurt covers a distance of 290 km and takes approximately 3h 25m. Trains run 8 per day.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Erfurt departs at 23:41.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Erfurt is Karlsruhe Hbf, and it arrives at Erfurt Hbf.
Yes, there is a direct train between Karlsruhe and Erfurt. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, ÖBB | Euro City (EC).
The first train from Karlsruhe to Erfurt leaves at 0:37.
There is no night train service from Karlsruhe to Erfurt.
Trains from Karlsruhe to Erfurt run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Erfurt.
To get from Karlsruhe to Erfurt, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
A day trip from Karlsruhe to Erfurt is not feasible due to the journey taking 3h 25m. However, with a frequency of 8 trains per day, there are multiple travel options available. The distance is 290 km.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Erfurt offers a variety of scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, charming villages, and the lush greenery of the Thuringian Forest. Passengers can enjoy a visually pleasing experience as the route passes through regions known for their natural beauty.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Karlsruhe and Erfurt

Karlsruhe
Erfurt
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 Erfurt.
Karlsruhe HbfWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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
address
Address
Karlsruhe Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1a, 76137 Karlsruhe
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
Karlsruhe-DurlachWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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
address
Address
Karlsruhe-Durlach, Hauptbahnstr. 1, 76227 Karlsruhe
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

More options for your journey from Karlsruhe to Erfurt

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

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