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

Wed 26 Nov
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB Nightjet
1,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
ÖBB | ICE
ÖBB | Euro City (EC)
ÖBB | InterCity
ÖBB Nightjet
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Zurich

Showing times and prices for 27 Nov

Cheapest price

£42

Average price

£78

Fastest journey

2 h 49 m

Average duration

3 h 1 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

183 km

Cheap tickets

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 £78 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £42.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Karlsruhe for Zurich 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 183 km distance in an average of 3 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 49 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 15 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 5 · IC 767
07:593h01
Karlsruhe Hbf
11:00Zurich HB
£421One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 1067 · IC 485
10:273h56
Karlsruhe Hbf
14:23Zurich HB
£531One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnICE 275 · IC 771
09:593h01
Karlsruhe Hbf
13:00Zurich HB
£551One-way
1 change
Deutsche BahnECE 151
09:112h49
Karlsruhe Hbf
12:00Zurich HB
£851One-way
0 changes
ÖBB | ICEICE 275+ÖBB | InterCityIC 771
09:593h01
Karlsruhe Hbf
13:00Zurich HB
£1151One-way
1 change

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Karlsruhe to Zurich

Omio 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 £9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 9m. 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 £9, and a train costs an average of £28.

Distance: 183 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£56

Average Price

£19

Average Price

Cheapest

3h 39m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 55m

Average total duration

4h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

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 Zurich train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Zurich 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 5 · IC 767
On time
06:59 Karlsruhe Hbf
3h01
10:00 Zurich HB
1 change
deutsche_bahnECE 151
On time
08:11 Karlsruhe Hbf
2h49
11:00 Zurich HB
0 changesdirect
obb_intercity_expressICE 275+obb_intercityIC 771
On time
08:59 Karlsruhe Hbf
3h01
12:00 Zurich HB
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 275 · IC 771
On time
08:59 Karlsruhe Hbf
3h01
12:00 Zurich HB
1 change
deutsche_bahnICE 1067 · IC 485
On time
09:27 Karlsruhe Hbf
3h56
13:23 Zurich HB
1 change
obb_intercity_expressICE 71+obb_intercityIC 55510:11 Karlsruhe Hbf
3h15
13:26 Zurich HB1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Karlsruhe to Zurich 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.

Thu
27 Nov
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Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Zurich

GermanyGermany
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Zurich run on average 12 times per day, taking around 3h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £28 but you can travel from only £9 by coach.

There are 3 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.

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 £9
Distance
183 km
Average train duration
3h 9m
Cheapest ticket price
£28
Trains per day
12
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 49m
First train
00:06
Last train
23:39
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 £9

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet from Karlsruhe to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Zurich from £9. 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
2h 49m
Cheapest Price
£37
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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 | ICE

About
The ÖBB ICE is a high-speed train service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). It is one of the most popular train services in Austria, offering fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. The ICE trains are modern and well-equipped, with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, and power sockets. There are three types of ICE trains: ICE T, ICE S, and ICE Sprinter. The ICE T is the fastest, with speeds of up to 230 km/h, while the ICE S and ICE Sprinter offer slightly slower speeds. The ÖBB ICE offers a range of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include a restaurant car, free Wi-Fi, and a range of entertainment options. The most popular routes for the ÖBB ICE 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 1m
Cheapest Price
£101
ÖBB | ICE frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and drinks, bistro service with snacks and beverages, at-seat service in First Class
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Second Class: Optional reservation for €3
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
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
2h 49m
Cheapest Price
£93
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

ÖBB | InterCity

About
ÖBB Intercity is a domestic high-speed rail service operated by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) in Austria. They are addition to the Eurocity and the Railjet for long-distance travels and also include first class cars, the trains are air-conditioned, hve power sockets a minibar service and are comfortable. ÖBB Intercity trains mostly run on the inner alpine lines to cities like Graz, Linz and Salzburg and Inssbruck.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
£104
ÖBB | InterCity frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 piece of larger luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by ÖBB
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (on most routes) and at-seat service in first class. Snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for €3 in second class, included in first class ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs need ticket (50% of regular fare). Guide dogs free
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 2m
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 Zurich train

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.

FAQs
To fully experience Zurich, spending three to four days allows time to explore its cultural landmarks, enjoy the picturesque Lake Zurich, and visit nearby attractions like Uetliberg Mountain.
A day trip from Karlsruhe to Zurich is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 49m. However, there are 12 trains available per day for this route.
Booking trains from Karlsruhe to Zurich 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 Zurich is 183 km.
The cost of a train ticket from Karlsruhe to Zurich can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £28, while the average price tends to be around £56.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Zurich covers a distance of 183 km and takes approximately 2h 49m. Trains run 12 per day.
The cheapest way to get from Karlsruhe to Zurich is by coach, costing approximately £9.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Zurich leaves at 0:06.
The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Zurich is Karlsruhe Hbf, and it arrives at Zurich HB.
The last train from Karlsruhe to Zurich departs at 23:39.
In Zurich, you can hike or take a train to the summit of Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and surrounding Alps. Indulge in shopping along Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world's most exclusive shopping streets. Explore the diverse habitats and wildlife at Zurich Zoo, or enjoy a performance at the renowned Opera House. Wander through the serene Botanical Garden with its wide variety of plant species. Visit the picturesque Lake Zurich for recreational activities, or stroll through the historic Old Town with its medieval buildings and cultural landmarks. Discover art at Kunsthaus Zurich and explore Swiss cultural history at the Swiss National Museum. Relax in Lindenhof park, offering beautiful city views and a glimpse into Zurich's Roman history.
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Zurich.
Trains from Karlsruhe to Zurich run approximately 12 times per day.
Yes, there is a night train from Karlsruhe to Zurich.
The train journey from Karlsruhe to Zurich offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Black Forest and along the Rhine River, providing travellers with beautiful natural vistas.
Yes, there is a direct train between Karlsruhe and Zurich. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), ÖBB | InterCity, ÖBB Nightjet.
To get from Karlsruhe to Zurich, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Karlsruhe and Zurich

Karlsruhe
Zurich
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 Zurich.
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
Karlsruhe, Hbf SüdausgangAccessibility
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km

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