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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Karlsruhe
Showing times and prices for 03 Dec
Cheapest price
£39
Average price
£50
Fastest journey
2 h 50 m
Average duration
3 h 4 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
183 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Karlsruhe is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Karlsruhe will cost around £50 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £39.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Zurich for Karlsruhe 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 183 km distance in an average of 3 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 50 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 17 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.
08:593h11
Zurich12:10Karlsruhe
£391One-way
0 changes
07:592h50
Zurich10:49Karlsruhe
£391One-way
0 changes
09:083h02
Zurich12:10Karlsruhe
£511One-way
0 changes
05:083h17
Zurich08:25Karlsruhe
£571One-way
0 changes
11:083h02
Zurich14:10Karlsruhe
£661One-way
0 changes
07:592h50
Zurich10:49Karlsruhe
£391One-way
0 changes
09:083h02
Zurich12:10Karlsruhe
£511One-way
0 changes
11:083h02
Zurich14:10Karlsruhe
£661One-way
0 changes
08:593h11
Zurich12:10Karlsruhe
£391One-way
0 changes
05:083h17
Zurich08:25Karlsruhe
£571One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Zurich to Karlsruhe
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Karlsruhe 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 57m. 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 £35.
Distance: 183 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£58 Average Price | £22 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 27m Average total duration Fastest 2h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration 4h 27m 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.
Live departures
Zurich to Karlsruhe train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Karlsruhe trains for today, Tuesday 2 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 01:52
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 76 | On time 06:59 Zurich HB | 2h50 | 09:49 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| IC 764 · ICE 370 | On time 07:59 Zurich HB | 2h59 | 10:58 Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 change | |
 IC 764+ ICE 370 | On time 07:59 Zurich HB | 2h59 | 10:58 Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 change | |
| ICE 74 | On time 08:59 Zurich HB | 2h50 | 11:49 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 74 | On time 08:59 Zurich HB | 2h50 | 11:49 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| EC 8 | On time 09:59 Zurich HB | 3h11 | 13:10 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| EC 8 | On time 09:59 Zurich HB | 3h11 | 13:10 Karlsruhe Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| EC 8+ICE 278 | On time 09:59 Zurich HB | 2h59 | 12:58 Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 change | |
| EC 8 · ICE 278 | On time 09:59 Zurich HB | 2h59 | 12:58 Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 change | |
 IR 2264+EC 8 | On time 10:08 Zurich HB | 3h02 | 13:10 Karlsruhe Hbf | 1 change | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Karlsruhe
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Zurich to Karlsruhe run on average 14 times per day, taking around 2h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £35 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 183 km distance in 2h 50m.
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 £14
Distance 183 km |
Average train duration 2h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price £35 |
Trains per day 14 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
First train 00:06 |
Last train 23:48 |
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 £14
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Trenitalia EuroCity from Zurich to Karlsruhe trainsDeutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Trenitalia EuroCity trains will get you between Zurich and Karlsruhe from £14. 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 50m
Cheapest Price
£18
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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.
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.
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.
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
5 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
3h 2m
Cheapest Price
£51
ÖBB | Euro City (EC) frequency
2 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
Trenitalia EuroCity
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
£76
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Zurich to Karlsruhe train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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.
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Zurich to Karlsruhe can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £35, while the average price tends to be around £58.
Booking trains from Zurich to Karlsruhe in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
A day trip from Zurich to Karlsruhe is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 50m. However, with 14 trains per day, the route offers frequent travel options. The distance of 183 km also means significant travel time.
The train journey from Zurich to Karlsruhe covers a distance of 183 km and takes approximately 2h 50m. Trains run 14 per day.
The train journey from Zurich to Karlsruhe offers scenic views of the Swiss countryside, with picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages, especially as the train crosses into Germany and travels through the Black Forest region.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Karlsruhe is Zurich HB, and it arrives at Karlsruhe Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Karlsruhe is by coach, costing approximately £14.
The first train from Zurich to Karlsruhe leaves at 0:06.
The train distance from Zurich to Karlsruhe is 183 km.
Trains from Zurich to Karlsruhe run approximately 14 times per day.
The last train from Zurich to Karlsruhe departs at 23:48.
Yes, you can take the train from Zurich to Karlsruhe.
Yes, there is a direct train between Zurich and Karlsruhe. The service operates 6 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, ÖBB | ICE, ÖBB | Euro City (EC), Trenitalia EuroCity.
There is no night train service from Zurich to Karlsruhe.
To get from Zurich to Karlsruhe, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Zurich and Karlsruhe
Zurich
Karlsruhe
The major train station for departures in Zurich is Zürich Stadelhofen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Zürich Stadelhofen for your trip from Zurich to Karlsruhe.
Zürich Stadelhofen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
3Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available from Mühlebachstrasse.
Dining
- Outback Lodge
- Tibits
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Opera Zurich
- Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich
- Hotel Seehof
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1000 places, covered
Car Rental
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-3 for S-Bahn trains
- Hall 2: platform 4 for regional trains
Public transport options for Zürich Stadelhofen
- Tram: Line 11, Line 15
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S12, S16
Zürich Hardbrücke
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
3 kmNumber of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking available nearby with several parking options
Dining
- Brisket Southern BBQ & Bar
- Les Halles
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- 25hours Hotel Zürich West
- Sheraton Zürich Hotel
- Novotel Zurich City West
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Information Desk
- Located on the main concourse
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-8 for S-Bahn and regional trains
Public transport options for Zürich Hardbrücke
- Tram: Line 4, Line 8
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
Shower
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
26Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Gessnerallee and Sihlquai.
Dining
- Restaurant Au Premier
- Brasserie Federal
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich
- Hotel St. Gotthard
- Central Plaza Hotel
Shower
- Cost CHF 12
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 1,300 places, mostly covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 3-18 for long-distance trains
- Hall 2: S-Bahn platforms 21-24
- Hall 3: underground S-Bahn platforms 41-44
Public transport options for Zürich HB
- Tram: Lines 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 13, 14
- Bus: Several lines available
- S-Bahn: Lines S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, S8, S9, S11, S12, S15, S16, S24
The major train station for arrivals in Karlsruhe is Karlsruhe Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Karlsruhe Hbf for your journey to Karlsruhe from Zurich.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Vinarte
- Am Tiergarten
- Panorama
- Alter Brauhof
Hotel
- Hotel Barbarossa
- Hotel Avisa
- Am Tiergarten
- Aparthotel Aijana
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
Distance to city center
5 kmDining
- Hubraum
- Vogel Hausbräu Durlach
- Asia Gourmet
- Borsalino
Hotel
- Hotel Große Linde
- Zum Erwin
- Der Blaue Reiter
Karlsruhe-Mühlburg
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Beim Schupi
- McDonald's
- Oberer See
- Rhein Wok - Chinaimbiss
Hotel
- Beim Schupi
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmKarlsruhe, Hbf Südausgang
Amenities at train station
Accessibilityinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmMost popular train connections from Zurich
More options for your journey from Zurich to Karlsruhe
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Karlsruhe and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Karlsruhe
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