Pforzheim to Karlsruhe train with Deutsche Bahn (RE,IC)

Thu 17 Sept
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Deutsche Bahn
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 17 Sept

Cheapest price on 17 Sept

£17

Average ticket price on 17 Sept

£24

Fastest journey on 17 Sept

20 m

Average journey duration on 17 Sept

21 m

Trains on 17 Sept

21

Distance

26 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe will cost around £24 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £17.

Fast trains

On Thu 17 Sept, we found 21 trains from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe, including 9 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 26 km distance in an average of 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 20 m .

The slowest trains will take 22 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 BahnIC 2168
    8:330h20
    Pforzheim Hbf
    8:53Karlsruhe Hbf
    £171One-way
    0 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn17912 · IC 2168
    8:230h30
    Pforzheim Maihälden
    8:53Karlsruhe Hbf
    £171One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche BahnS6 · 19006
    8:370h48
    Pforzheim Maihälden
    9:25Karlsruhe Hbf
    £241One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche Bahn17916 · 19672
    9:190h33
    Pforzheim Maihälden
    9:52Karlsruhe Hbf
    £241One-way
    1 change
  • Deutsche Bahn19006
    9:030h22
    Pforzheim Hbf
    9:25Karlsruhe Hbf
    £241One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Pforzheim to Karlsruhe

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £23 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 58m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £23, while a train costs an average of £23.

Distance: 26 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

£23

Average Price

Cheapest

£4

Average Price

(fuel + tolls)

58m

Average total duration

Fastest

28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

34m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe is a coach with an average price of £3.

This is compared to other travel options from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe:

A coach is £19 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe costing on average £22.

The fastest way to travel from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe is by coach with an average journey time of 25m.

Other travel options to Karlsruhe take longer:

Train takes on average 26m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Pforzheim and Karlsruhe including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 8m sooner (26m by train vs 34m by car). Tickets start at around £22 compared to roughly £4 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, DB Regio Stuttgart, Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Pforzheim to Karlsruhe train times

The table below shows live departures for Pforzheim to Karlsruhe trains for tomorrow, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnS5 · S36:25 Pforzheim Hbf
0h52
7:17 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnS6 · 190026:30 Pforzheim Maihälden
0h55
7:25 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnS6 · S36:30 Pforzheim Maihälden
1h03
7:33 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnS66:30 Pforzheim Maihälden
1h05
7:35 Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnS5 · S36:46 Pforzheim Hbf
0h47
7:33 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnS6 · 17904 · 190026:47 Pforzheim Maihälden
0h38
7:25 Karlsruhe Hbf2 changes
Deutsche Bahn190027:03 Pforzheim Hbf
0h22
7:25 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnS67:07 Pforzheim Maihälden
0h58
8:05 Karlsruhe Bahnhofsvorplatz0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn17908 · 196707:23 Pforzheim Maihälden
0h29
7:52 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
Deutsche Bahn196707:31 Pforzheim Hbf
0h21
7:52 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn17910 · 190047:56 Pforzheim Maihälden
0h29
8:25 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
Deutsche Bahn190048:03 Pforzheim Hbf
0h22
8:25 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnS6 · 195508:07 Pforzheim Maihälden
0h35
8:42 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
Deutsche Bahn195508:18 Pforzheim Hbf
0h24
8:42 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn17912 · IC 21688:23 Pforzheim Maihälden
0h30
8:53 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
Deutsche BahnIC 21688:33 Pforzheim Hbf
0h20
8:53 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche BahnS6 · 190068:37 Pforzheim Maihälden
0h48
9:25 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
Deutsche Bahn190069:03 Pforzheim Hbf
0h22
9:25 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn17916 · 196729:19 Pforzheim Maihälden
0h33
9:52 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change
Deutsche Bahn196729:31 Pforzheim Hbf
0h21
9:52 Karlsruhe Hbf0 changesdirect
Deutsche Bahn17918 · 190089:49 Pforzheim Maihälden
0h36
10:25 Karlsruhe Hbf1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Pforzheim to Karlsruhe 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
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept

Why should you book Pforzheim to Karlsruhe trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, DB Regio Stuttgart, Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH and more offer trains services from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, DB Regio Stuttgart or Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH to find the best option for your trip from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe

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
IconVery fast
IconOn time
Disadvantages
IconSticky floor
The train journey from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe was very pleasant overall. Accessibility at the station and on the train was well ensured, with ramps and lifts for wheelchair users. The train was on time, the toilet and the bistro were clean and well equipped. Seating comfort was adequate, but the seats could be a little more comfortable and soft. The staff were very friendly and helpful. There were power sockets which was very positive, cleanliness on the train was acceptable but the floor in the aisle seemed a bit sticky, otherwise a very pleasant train journey.
Advantages
IconSolid and reliable
Disadvantages
IconImprovements possible
The train connection from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe offers average comfort. The cleanliness of the toilet facilities is acceptable, but could be better. The seating comfort is adequate, but not exceptional. The train staff is friendly and helpful. Power outlets are available but may not be sufficient for all passengers. Overall, a solid travel option with room for improvement in several areas.
Advantages
IconA train connection you can rely on
Disadvantages
IconNone
The train connection was very punctual. The train departed and arrived in Karlsruhe at exactly the scheduled time. The cleanliness of the train was very good overall. The seats and floor were clean and there were no noticeable stains. It was great to have access to power sockets during the journey to charge my devices. The train was fully accessible. There was plenty of space for wheelchairs and people with reduced mobility. The toilets on the train were clean and well maintained. Overall, a very pleasant train journey from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe.
Advantages
IconPrice
IconSimple
Disadvantages
IconTrain cancellations
IconDelays
A very relaxed, short journey. Unfortunately, the trains are often far too small, so the train is almost always far too full and you can hardly stand. Even more so if you can't find a seat. Standing so close together the whole way is very uncomfortable. But apart from that, it's cheap and easy. You're also doing something good for the environment. Ultimately, I would choose the train again and again, but I could do without the delays.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe run on average 11 times per day, taking around 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £6 if you book in advance.

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 26 km distance in 20m.

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
26 km
Average train duration
28m
Cheapest ticket price
£6
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
20m
First train
0:06
Last train
23:57
Cheapest Month
Sept
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
1 day
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, ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, DB Regio Stuttgart, Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH, DB Regio Stuttgart, Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH trains will get you between Pforzheim and Karlsruhe from £3. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
20m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£6
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

​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH Duration
22m
Cheapest ​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH Price
£12
​Go-Ahead Baden-Württemberg GmbH frequency
2 a day

DB Regio Stuttgart

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average DB Regio Stuttgart Duration
24m
DB Regio Stuttgart frequency
4 a day

Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH Duration
37m
Albtal-Verkehrs-Gesellschaft mbH frequency
21 a day

Complete guide to Karlsruhe

Things to do in Karlsruhe

Discover the best of Karlsruhe — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Karlsruhe trip today.

  • Must visit

Badisches Landesmuseum

A major collection on Baden’s history, culture and global artefacts inside Karlsruhe Palace. A strong first stop for understanding the region and city.

  • Must visit

ZKM | Zentrum für Kunst und Medien

An interactive museum on media art and digital culture in a landmark industrial complex. Ideal for contemporary art, sound and technology exhibitions.

  • Recommended

Staatliche Kunsthalle Karlsruhe

A leading art museum with works from past centuries to modern pieces. The broad collection and central location make it an easy cultural highlight.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local transport is reasonable. Cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, but not as low-cost as smaller regional towns.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but small tips are expected. Round up or add 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés.

FAQs: Pforzheim to Karlsruhe train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £6, while the average price tends to be around £22.
The train journey from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe covers a distance of 26 km and takes approximately 20m. Trains run 10 per day.
The train distance from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe is 26 km.
The first train from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe leaves at 0:06.
The last train from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe departs at 23:57.
Trains from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe run approximately 10 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Pforzheim and Karlsruhe. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
To get from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe.
The train station in Pforzheim that goes to Karlsruhe is Pforzheim Hbf, and it arrives at Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe is by coach, costing approximately £3.
Booking trains from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe is moderately scenic, offering views of the picturesque Black Forest region, rolling hills, and charming German countryside.
Yes, a day trip from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe is feasible with a journey taking 20m and a distance of 26 km. Trains run 12 times per day, making it convenient for a day trip.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Karlsruhe, covering its key attractions such as the Karlsruhe Palace, ZKM Centre for Art and Media, and the Botanical Garden.
Yes, you can take the train from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Pforzheim and Karlsruhe

Most Pforzheim to Karlsruhe trains use the Pforzheim Hbf to Karlsruhe Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Karlsruhe-Durlach. Use this guide to compare Pforzheim and Karlsruhe train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Pforzheim
Arrival train stations in Karlsruhe

Which Pforzheim station do trains to Karlsruhe leave from?

Trains from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe leave from Pforzheim Hbf. The station is 1 km from Pforzheim city centre at Pforzheim Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 75175 Pforzheim.
Pforzheim HbfPforzheim Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 75175 PforzheimWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Pforzheim Hbf from Pforzheim city centre

Pforzheim Hbf is 1 km from Pforzheim city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus666 · 5m · £3
4, 41, 20 · 7m · £3 · every ~5 min

Pforzheim Hbf train station facilities and services

Pforzheim 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 and drink

Food options include: Gaststätte Fürst Blücher, Pizza Point, Ali Baba, Sawasdee - Thai-Imbiss

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Pforzheim Hbf. ATMs are available at Pforzheim Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Pforzheim Hbf. Information desks are available at Pforzheim Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Pforzheim Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Pforzheim Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Pforzheim Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Pforzheim Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Pension Morlock, Hotel Ruf, Hotel am Theater, Hotel Montana.

Pforzheim Maihälden75172 Pforzheim, GermanyParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Pforzheim Maihälden from Pforzheim city centre

Pforzheim Maihälden is 1 km from Pforzheim city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb74 · 2m · £4 · every ~3 min
Bus9, 1 · 12m · £3 · every ~10 min

Pforzheim Maihälden train station facilities and services

Pforzheim Maihälden has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Pforzheim Maihälden.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Pforzheim Maihälden.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Pforzheim Maihälden: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Pforzheim Maihälden: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Pforzheim Maihälden.

Pforzheim, ZOB/Hbf75175 Pforzheim, GermanyAccessibility

Pforzheim, ZOB/Hbf train station facilities and services

Pforzheim, ZOB/Hbf has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Pforzheim, ZOB/Hbf: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.

More options for your journey from Pforzheim to Karlsruhe

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

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