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Taking the train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe in 5 hours 3 minutes

Thinking about taking the train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe? We’ve got you covered.

It usually takes around 7 hours 14 minutes to travel the 266 miles (428 km) from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe by train, although you can get there in as little as 5 hours 3 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 31 trains per day running on this route. You’ll need to make 1 change along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line.

Train tickets from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe are usually cheaper when you book in advance compared to buying them on the day. Start a search in our Journey Planner to check out the latest prices.

Keen to book your train tickets to Karlsruhe? No need to wait, start a search with us today! If you want to find out a bit more about the journey first, you can find our train timetable below, tips on booking cheap tickets and our FAQs, including first and last train times.

Trains to Karlsruhe from Rotterdam

First train

06:20

Last train

23:54

Departure stationRotterdam
Arrival stationKarlsruhe
Journey time

From 5h 3m

Distance

266 miles (428 km)

Frequency

31 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train and bus operators

Flixbus

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe?

Want to know more about your journey from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do I get from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe?

You can travel from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe by train in about 7 hours and 14 minutes. With around 31 trains running each day, taking the train is easy. If you’re looking for other options, you can also catch the bus from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe. Find out more in our Journey Planner.

How long is the train journey from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe?

On average, the train journey from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe takes around 7 hours and 14 minutes, with 31 trains per day. The duration may vary slightly depending on the specific train and any potential delays. Use our Journey Planner to check out more information.

What is the fastest train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe?

The fastest trains from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe can cover the distance of 266 miles (428 km) in as little as 5 hours and 3 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe?

No, you can’t travel from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe on a direct train, you’ll need to make at least 1 change during the journey.

What are the train times from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe?

Check out the next trains departing from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe for Tuesday 20th January 2026. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
11:2016:235h 3m, 3 changes
11:2017:045h 44m, 2 changes
11:4217:596h 17m, 2 changes
12:1517:595h 44m, 4 changes
13:2018:235h 3m, 3 changes
13:4219:596h 17m, 2 changes
14:1519:595h 44m, 4 changes
15:2020:235h 3m, 3 changes
15:5822:056h 7m, 2 changes
16:1522:055h 50m, 4 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Rotterdam to Karlsruhe starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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