- Must visit
Kunsthaus Zürich
Major art museum with Swiss and European works from the Middle Ages to today, ideal for a broad overview of Zurich’s cultural life.
Cheapest price
£29
Average price
£80
Fastest journey
2 h 59 m
Average duration
2 h 59 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
183 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Karlsruhe to Zurich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Zurich will cost around £80 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £29.
Of the 9 trains that leave Karlsruhe for Zurich every day 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 183 km distance in an average of 2 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 59 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 59 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.
IC 60471 · IC 563
ICE 275
ICE 273
ICE 275
ICE 277
ICE 275
ICE 273
ICE 275
ICE 277
ICE 273Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Karlsruhe to Zurich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 52m. 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 £14, and a train costs an average of £20.
Distance: 183 km
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£48 Average Price | £21 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 22m Average total duration Fastest 2h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 52m Average total duration 4h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Zurich trains for today, Tuesday 25 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
IC 60471 · IC 563 | Delayed 4:04 6:04Karlsruhe | 3h22 | 9:26 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 273 | Delayed 5:01 7:01Karlsruhe | 2h59 | 8:00 8:00Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 371+ IC 779 | 14:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h59 | 17:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 371 · IC 779 | Delayed 12:14 14:01Karlsruhe | 2h59 | 17:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 107 · IC 781 | Delayed 13:31 15:01Karlsruhe | 2h59 | 18:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 107+ IC 781 | 15:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h59 | 18:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 73+ IC 581 | 15:26 Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h00 | 18:26 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 73 · IC 581 | Delayed 13:37 15:26Karlsruhe | 3h00 | 18:26 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 373 | 16:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h59 | 19:00 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 373 | Delayed 14:06 16:01Karlsruhe | 2h59 | 19:00 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 109 | 17:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h59 | 20:00 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 109 | On time 17:01 Karlsruhe | 2h59 | 20:00 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 7+ TGV 9219 | 17:26 Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h00 | 20:26 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 7+ TGV 9219 | On time 17:26 Karlsruhe | 3h00 | 20:26 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 375+ IC 787 | 18:00 Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h00 | 21:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 375 · IC 787 | On time 18:00 Karlsruhe | 3h00 | 21:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 1064+ IC 587 | 18:24 Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h02 | 21:26 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 1064 · IC 587 | On time 18:24 Karlsruhe | 3h02 | 21:26 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 201+ IC 789 | 19:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h59 | 22:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 201 · IC 789 | On time 19:01 Karlsruhe | 2h59 | 22:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 75+ TGV 9223 | 19:26 Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h00 | 22:26 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 75+ TGV 9223 | On time 19:26 Karlsruhe | 3h00 | 22:26 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 377+ IR 1991 | 20:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h23 | 23:24 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
ICE 377+ IC 989 · IC 837 | 20:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h00 | 23:01 Zurich HB | 2 changes | |
| Wednesday 26 August | |||||
IC 60471 · IC 563 | 6:04 Karlsruhe Hbf | 3h22 | 9:26 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
IC 60471 | 6:04 Karlsruhe Hbf | 4h01 | 10:05 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 273 | 7:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h59 | 10:00 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 275 | 8:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h59 | 11:00 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 275 | On time 8:01 Karlsruhe | 2h59 | 11:00 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 277 | 10:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h59 | 13:00 Zurich HB | 0 changesdirect | |
ICE 103+ IC 795 | 11:01 Karlsruhe Hbf | 2h59 | 14:00 Zurich HB | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Karlsruhe to Zurich run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £20 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 183 km distance in 2h 49m.
Distance 183 km |
Average train duration 2h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price £20 |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 49m |
First train 0:06 |
Last train 23:39 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 21 days |
Discover the best of Zurich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Zurich trip today.
Major art museum with Swiss and European works from the Middle Ages to today, ideal for a broad overview of Zurich’s cultural life.
National museum in a castle-like building near the main station, presenting Swiss history, design, and everyday life through varied displays.
Leading design museum with changing exhibitions on architecture, graphics, fashion, and product design in a well-run central venue.
Zurich’s best-known shopping boulevard, lined with elegant buildings, trams, and easy walks between the station, lake, and old town.
Historic old-town quarter of lanes, squares, churches, and river views, ideal for walking, sightseeing, and discovering Zurich’s medieval core.
Hilltop viewpoint and green area above the city, known for broad panoramas, woodland paths, and a quick escape from the urban centre.
Veal in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce, traditionally served with rösti. It is Zurich’s signature dish and a classic of local taverns.
Pan-fried grated potato cake, crisp outside and soft inside. A Swiss staple closely linked with Zurich and often served with meat, eggs or cheese.
Melted cheese blended with white wine and kirsch, eaten by dipping bread. A beloved Swiss communal dish, especially in colder months.
Classic Zurich restaurant known for Zürcher Geschnetzeltes and other Swiss specialities in an elegant old-town atmosphere.
Traditional Swiss beer hall serving fondue, rösti and sausages in a lively, wood-panelled setting near the station.
Long-running vegetarian restaurant with a large buffet and Swiss-international dishes in a bright, central setting.
Very high prices for hotels, dining and transport. Zurich costs more than most European city breaks, especially in central tourist areas.
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great service. Round up taxi fares and small café bills.
Official public transport app
Zürich HB -> Zürich HB
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Zurich 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 Zurich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Karlsruhe to Zurich trains use the Karlsruhe Hbf to Zürich HB station pair, with some services arriving at Zürich Stadelhofen. Use this guide to compare Karlsruhe and Zurich train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Karlsruhe Hbf is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlsruhe Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: Vinarte, Am Tiergarten, Panorama, Alter Brauhof
Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Barbarossa, Hotel Avisa, Am Tiergarten, Aparthotel Aijana.
Karlsruhe, Hbf Südausgang is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlsruhe, Hbf Südausgang has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe, Hbf Südausgang.
Karlsruhe-Durlach is 5 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlsruhe-Durlach has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food options include: Hubraum, Vogel Hausbräu Durlach, Asia Gourmet, Borsalino
Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe-Durlach. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe-Durlach.
Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe-Durlach. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe-Durlach.
Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe-Durlach. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Karlsruhe-Durlach: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Karlsruhe-Durlach: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe-Durlach.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Große Linde, Zum Erwin, Der Blaue Reiter.
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Zürich Stadelhofen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Outback Lodge, Tibits
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Opera Zurich, Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich, Hotel Seehof.
Zürich Hardbrücke is 3 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
Zürich Hardbrücke has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Brisket Southern BBQ & Bar, Les Halles
Free.
Ticket office support is available at Zürich Hardbrücke. Information desks are located on the main concourse.
Available at Zürich Hardbrücke: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Zürich Hardbrücke: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Hardbrücke: Ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include 25hours Hotel Zürich West, Sheraton Zürich Hotel, Novotel Zurich City West.
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