Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE,RB)

Wed 03 Dec
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FlixTrain
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main

Showing times and prices for 04 Dec

Cheapest price

£9

Average price

£16

Fastest journey

1 h 1 m

Average duration

1 h 4 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

125 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main will cost around £16 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £9.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Karlsruhe for Frankfurt am Main 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 125 km distance in an average of 1 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 1 m .

The slowest trains will take 1 h 6 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
20:021h06
Karlsruhe
21:08Frankfurt am Main
£91One-way
0 changes
FlixTrain
09:231h45
Karlsruhe
11:08Frankfurt am Main
£101One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
10:361h28
Karlsruhe
12:04Frankfurt am Main
£171One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
19:021h04
Karlsruhe
20:06Frankfurt am Main
£181One-way
0 changes
Deutsche Bahn
15:551h04
Karlsruhe
16:59Frankfurt am Main
£281One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach and train for Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £6. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £6, and a train costs an average of £7.

Distance: 125 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£16

Average Price

£8

Average Price

Cheapest

1h 51m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 28m

Average total duration

1h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

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 Frankfurt am Main train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main trains for today, Wednesday 3 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 01:41
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 374
On time
07:00 Karlsruhe Hbf
1h08
08:08 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 374 · ICE 614
On time
07:00 Karlsruhe Hbf
1h07
08:07 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 78 · ICE 1012
On time
07:51 Karlsruhe Hbf
1h00
08:51 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 78
On time
07:51 Karlsruhe Hbf
1h01
08:52 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 202
On time
08:01 Karlsruhe Hbf
1h06
09:07 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 202 · ICE 692
On time
08:01 Karlsruhe Hbf
1h07
09:08 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
1 change
tgvTGV 9561
Delayed
09:10 08:55Karlsruhe Hbf
1h04
10:14 10:14Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
0 changesdirect
tgvTGV 9561+deutsche_bahnICE 126
Delayed
09:10 08:55Karlsruhe Hbf
1h43
10:38 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 372
On time
09:00 Karlsruhe Hbf
1h08
10:08 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 372 · ICE 612
On time
09:00 Karlsruhe Hbf
1h07
10:07 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 76 · ICE 1010
On time
09:51 Karlsruhe Hbf
1h00
10:51 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station
1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main by coach or train

Compare coach and train 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main?

The best time to book your train from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main

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
IconPlace
IconComfortable
IconSockets
IconFast ride
IconPrice
Disadvantages
IconDelay
IconFew/no alternatives
IconNo wifi
The train was about 30 minutes late. There were no alternatives at this time of day. Which is a real pity. But if you travel with DB, you're used to delays. This was the RE4 from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt. After the train arrived late, it went well. There were enough seats. There were power sockets at least at the 4-seater seats. But unfortunately no wifi. The journey went smoothly and the journey time was reasonable.
Advantages
IconPunctual and reliable
Disadvantages
IconI have not had any negative experiences
The train connection was very punctual overall. The train departed and arrived on schedule. The price of the train ticket was reasonable compared to other means of transport. The train was clean and well maintained. The seats, aisles and toilets were cleaned regularly. The wifi on board was available but the connection was occasionally unstable. The toilets were in an acceptable condition and were cleaned regularly during the journey. The seats were comfortable and there was plenty of legroom on the floor. The backrests were adjustable and there was enough space to feel comfortable during the journey. Overall, the train journey from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt was a positive experience.
Advantages
IconVery clean
IconStrong wifi
Disadvantages
IconEverything works smoothly
A fast and reliable train service that is rarely delayed. The prices are reasonable, but some discounts would be nice. Accessibility is good, but cleanliness could be improved. Power sockets were plentiful, wifi stable. The toilet situation was acceptable, but could be fresher. Seating comfort was solid but could be softer. Overall a good option, with room for improvement.
Advantages
IconPositive train connection
IconStable wifi
IconVery clean
The train connection impressed me overall. Punctuality was outstanding, the train arrived exactly on schedule. The price was reasonable and offered excellent value for money. The cleanliness of the train was exemplary and the wifi worked really well, which is especially important for business travellers. The toilet facilities were always clean and well maintained. The seating comfort was excellent, with plenty of space and comfortable seats. Overall, a train journey worth recommending, combining comfort, cleanliness and punctuality.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main run on average 15 times per day, taking around 1h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £7 but you can travel from only £6 by coach.

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 125 km distance in 1h 1m.

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 £6
Distance
125 km
Average train duration
1h 21m
Cheapest ticket price
£7
Trains per day
15
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
1h 1m
First train
00:01
Last train
23:57
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 £6

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, TGV, FlixTrain, TGV INOUI from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main trainsDeutsche Bahn, TGV, FlixTrain, TGV INOUI trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Frankfurt am Main from £6. 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 1m
Cheapest Price
£6
Deutsche Bahn frequency
16 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

TGV

About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 4m
Cheapest Price
£17
TGV frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

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
1h 37m
Cheapest Price
£6
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

TGV INOUI

About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a \Bistro TGV INOUI\" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 4m
Cheapest Price
£51
TGV INOUI frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main train

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

FAQs
To explore the key attractions and get a sense of the city, you typically need about 2 to 3 days in Frankfurt am Main.
Yes, a day trip from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main is feasible. The journey takes 1h 1m, covering a distance of 125 km. There are 15 trains per day available for this route.
In Frankfurt am Main, you can ascend the Main Tower for panoramic city views, explore the vibrant Kleinmarkthalle for diverse culinary delights, and visit the Senckenberg Natural History Museum, renowned for its dinosaur fossils. Stroll along the River Main for scenic vistas, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the Zeil, the city's premier shopping street. Key sights include the historic Römer city hall, the Städel Museum with its extensive art collection, the Palmengarten botanical garden, the Goethe House museum, and the impressive Frankfurt Cathedral.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main is by coach, costing approximately £6.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Rhine Valley, vineyards, and charming German villages, making it a moderately scenic route.
The train distance from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main is 125 km.
The cost of a train ticket from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £7, while the average price tends to be around £16.
Booking trains from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main departs at 23:57.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main covers a distance of 125 km and takes approximately 1h 1m. Trains run 15 per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Karlsruhe and Frankfurt am Main. The service operates 7 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, TGV, FlixTrain, TGV INOUI.
There is no night train service from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Frankfurt am Main is Karlsruhe Hbf, and it arrives at Frankfurt Airport long-distance station.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main leaves at 0:01.
Trains from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main run approximately 15 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main.
To get from Karlsruhe to Frankfurt am Main, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Karlsruhe and Frankfurt am Main

Karlsruhe
Frankfurt am Main
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 Frankfurt am Main.
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
Karlsruhe-HagsfeldWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost 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
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
Dining
Dining
  • Adler
  • Denkfabrik
  • Cafeteria
  • Asia Imbiss
Hotel
Hotel
  • Auerhahn

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