Karlsruhe to Hamburg train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

Wed 26 Nov
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Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
ÖBB Nightjet
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
1,000+ travel companies
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FlixTrain
ÖBB Nightjet
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Hamburg

Showing times and prices for 27 Nov

Cheapest price

£106

Average price

£119

Fastest journey

4 h 45 m

Average duration

5 h 30 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

521 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Hamburg will cost around £119 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £106.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Karlsruhe for Hamburg 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 521 km distance in an average of 5 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 45 m .

The slowest trains will take 6 h 13 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 BahnICE 374 · ICE 1672
08:005h30
Karlsruhe Hbf
13:30Hamburg Hbf
£1061One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 202 · ICE 770
09:015h35
Karlsruhe Hbf
14:36Hamburg Hbf
£1061One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 202
09:016h13
Karlsruhe Hbf
15:14Hamburg Hbf
£1271One-way
0 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 202 · ICE 692 · ICE 1586
09:015h28
Karlsruhe Hbf
14:29Hamburg Hbf
£1271One-way
2 changes
Deutsche BahnICE 78
08:514h45
Karlsruhe Hbf
13:36Hamburg Hbf
£1271One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach and train for Karlsruhe to Hamburg

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Hamburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 7h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £22, and a train costs an average of £25.

Distance: 521 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£82

Average Price

£37

Average Price

Cheapest

7h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

7h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 14m

Average total duration

8h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.5 - 1.3kg

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 Hamburg train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Hamburg trains for today, Wednesday 26 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 01:42
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
deutsche_bahnICE 206 · ICE 694 · ICE 772
On time
06:01 Karlsruhe Hbf
5h35
11:36 Hamburg Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 206
On time
06:01 Karlsruhe Hbf
6h13
12:14 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 1672
On time
06:02 Karlsruhe Hbf
6h28
12:30 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 1672 · ICE 772
On time
06:02 Karlsruhe Hbf
5h34
11:36 Hamburg Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 374 · ICE 1672
On time
07:00 Karlsruhe Hbf
5h30
12:30 Hamburg Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 78
On time
07:51 Karlsruhe Hbf
4h45
12:36 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 202
On time
08:01 Karlsruhe Hbf
6h13
14:14 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect
deutsche_bahnICE 202 · ICE 692 · ICE 1586
On time
08:01 Karlsruhe Hbf
5h28
13:29 Hamburg Hbf
2 changes
deutsche_bahnICE 202 · ICE 770
On time
08:01 Karlsruhe Hbf
5h35
13:36 Hamburg Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 372 · IC 2374
On time
09:00 Karlsruhe Hbf
5h30
14:30 Hamburg Hbf
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 76
On time
09:51 Karlsruhe Hbf
4h45
14:36 Hamburg Hbf
0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Hamburg 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.

Thu
27 Nov
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28 Nov
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29 Nov
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Karlsruhe to Hamburg?

The best time to book your train from Karlsruhe to Hamburg is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Karlsruhe to Hamburg route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Karlsruhe to Hamburg 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 Hamburg.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Karlsruhe to Hamburg

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
IconHygiene
IconDisabled Friendly
IconOn time
Disadvantages
IconSEAT OFFER
IconFood is not optimal
IconUnfortunately no large soft drink selection
I am very satisfied with the journey, I went from Karlsruhe to Hamburg very quickly, there were no interruptions apart from the plan. I arrived in Hamburg 5min earlier than scheduled. So it is a recommended choice to take the train with this long route. There is also a good offer of food and hot or cold drinks. But that is also necessary, as it takes quite a while to get to Hamburg. All in all, I was satisfied and had a good chat with the DB staff.
Advantages
IconOften direct connection
IconDeparted and arrived on time
IconClean
IconWifi worked great
IconQuiet
Disadvantages
IconOn this day exceptionally with change in Frankfurt
On this route from Karlsruhe to Hamburg, there is a direct connection every 2 hours from 5 a.m., which takes about 5.5 hours. On this day, I had to change trains in Frankfurt, but since both trains left and arrived on time, this was not a big deal. The train was very clean, it was pleasantly quiet and the wifi worked great.
Advantages
IconFast
IconPunctual
Disadvantages
IconNone
The train connection was very punctual. The train departed exactly at the scheduled departure time and also arrived at its destination on time. This made planning the journey and connecting to other means of transport much easier. The cleanliness of the train was very satisfactory. The seats and carriages were clean and tidy. However, there was some rubbish on the floor which was not removed during the journey. Overall the cleanliness could be improved. It was great to have access to power outlets during the journey. This allowed me to charge my devices and work productively or enjoy my entertainment. The train connection from Karlsruhe to Hamburg was very accessible. There was enough space for wheelchairs and pushchairs. The toilets were well maintained and well equipped. Overall, a decent train connection that you can use without hesitation.
Advantages
IconFavourable and fast
Disadvantages
IconI have not had any negative experiences
The train connection from Karlsruhe to Hamburg was punctual overall and arrived in Hamburg with only minimal delays. However, it would be even better if punctuality could be maintained at the highest level. The cleanliness of the train was impressive. The seats and floors were well maintained and the carriages were kept clean throughout the journey. The availability of power outlets on the train was very convenient, especially for business travellers who need to charge their electronic devices. The toilets on the train were clean and well maintained. However, there were slight bottlenecks at peak times. Overall, the train was a pleasant and comfortable travelling experience. I would definitely recommend it, with room for slight improvement, such as punctuality.
Advantages
IconPunctuality
Disadvantages
IconHard seats
The ICE is the best way to travel from Karlsruhe to Hamburg. The toilets were clean, the staff were friendly and catering was provided. It was also possible to connect and charge your mobile phone or tablet between the seats. It was also cheaper and quicker than travelling by car. Unlike in most cases, the train was even very punctual.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Hamburg

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Hamburg run on average 11 times per day, taking around 7h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £25 but you can travel from only £22 by coach.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 521 km distance in 4h 45m.

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 £22
Distance
521 km
Average train duration
7h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
£25
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
4h 45m
First train
00:11
Last train
23:55
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 £22

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, ÖBB Nightjet from Karlsruhe to Hamburg trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, ÖBB Nightjet trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Hamburg from £22. 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
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
£26
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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

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
8h 37m
Cheapest Price
£24
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 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
7h 34m
Cheapest Price
£142
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 Hamburg train

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

FAQs
In Hamburg, visitors can explore the vibrant nightlife of the Reeperbahn, take a scenic boat tour of the Port of Hamburg, and visit the lively Hamburg Fish Market. Discover the city's rich maritime history at the International Maritime Museum, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Alster Lakes, and visit top sights such as Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, and Speicherstadt. St. Michael's Church offers sweeping views, while Planten un Blomen provides themed gardens and recreational activities.
A visit of three to four days is generally recommended to explore the main attractions in Hamburg, including the Miniatur Wunderland, the Elbphilharmonie, and the Port of Hamburg.
A day trip from Karlsruhe to Hamburg is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 45m. The distance is 521 km, and there are 11 train trips per day.
Booking trains from Karlsruhe to Hamburg in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, there is a direct train between Karlsruhe and Hamburg. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB Nightjet.
The train distance from Karlsruhe to Hamburg is 521 km.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Hamburg covers a distance of 521 km and takes approximately 4h 45m. Trains run 11 per day.
The cost of a train ticket from Karlsruhe to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £25, while the average price tends to be around £82.
To get from Karlsruhe to Hamburg, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Hamburg leaves at 0:11.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Hamburg is by coach, costing approximately £22.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Hamburg departs at 23:55.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Hamburg is Karlsruhe Hbf, and it arrives at Hamburg Hbf.
Trains from Karlsruhe to Hamburg run approximately 11 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Hamburg.
Yes, there is a night train from Karlsruhe to Hamburg.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Hamburg offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring picturesque views of the Rhine Valley, charming small towns, and expansive countryside landscapes as you travel through central Germany.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Karlsruhe and Hamburg

Karlsruhe
Hamburg
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 Hamburg.
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

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