- Recommended
Kunstmuseum Gelsenkirchen
Art museum with modern and contemporary works and changing exhibitions. A rewarding stop for strong architecture, focused displays and a central location.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 09 Oct
Cheapest price on 09 Oct
£4
Average ticket price on 09 Oct
£18
Fastest journey on 09 Oct
18 m
Average journey duration on 09 Oct
20 m
Trains on 09 Oct
7
Distance
24 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen will cost around £18 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £4.
Fast trains
On Fri 09 Oct, we found 7 trains from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen, including 7 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 24 km distance in an average of 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 18 m .
The slowest trains will take 24 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.
FlixTrain16:260h18Dortmund Hbf16:44Gelsenkirchen Hbf£41One-way0 changes- FlixTrain12:260h18Dortmund Hbf12:44Gelsenkirchen Hbf£41One-way0 changes
ICE 2178:170h24Dortmund Hbf8:41Gelsenkirchen Hbf£161One-way0 changes- ICE 278:200h28Dortmund Hbf8:48Gelsenkirchen Hbf£161One-way0 changes
- ICE 6468:140h18Dortmund Hbf8:32Gelsenkirchen Hbf£161One-way0 changes
- FlixTrain16:260h18Dortmund Hbf16:44Gelsenkirchen Hbf£41One-way0 changes
- FlixTrain12:260h18Dortmund Hbf12:44Gelsenkirchen Hbf£41One-way0 changes
- ICE 6468:140h18Dortmund Hbf8:32Gelsenkirchen Hbf£161One-way0 changes
- 897108:070h22Dortmund Hbf8:29Gelsenkirchen Hbf£351One-way0 changes
- ICE 2178:170h24Dortmund Hbf8:41Gelsenkirchen Hbf£161One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen run on average 1 times per day, taking around 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £4 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 18m.
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 24 km |
Average train duration 29m |
Cheapest ticket price £4 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 18m |
First train 0:09 |
Last train 23:53 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 21 days |
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
Live departures
Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen train times
The table below shows live departures for Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen trains for today, Thursday 8 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 642 | Delayed 11:05 12:15Dortmund Hbf | 0h21 | 11:25 11:25Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 12:26 Dortmund Hbf | 0h18 | 12:44 Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 16:26 Dortmund Hbf | 0h18 | 16:44 Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixTrain | 20:26 Dortmund Hbf | 0h23 | 20:49 Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| Friday 9 October | |||||
| 89710 | 8:07 Dortmund Hbf | 0h22 | 8:29 Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 646 | On time 8:14 Dortmund Hbf | 0h18 | 8:32 Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 217 | On time 8:17 Dortmund Hbf | 0h24 | 8:41 Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| ICE 27 | On time 8:20 Dortmund Hbf | 0h28 | 8:48 Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
| 31251 | 8:33 Dortmund Hbf | 0h27 | 9:00 Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?
FlixTrain as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for FlixTrain tickets.
Why book with Omio vs FlixTrain?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixTrain, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen.
- 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 FlixTrain with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen
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
No delays and no changing trainsAcceptable capacity utilisation and volumeTrain and toilets cleanSnack and drinks vending machine availableComfortable seats with good equipmentDisadvantages
It was too hot on the trainNo staff availableThe occupancy rate on this train was acceptable, as was the noise level in the passenger compartment. However, the air conditioning was not on, which is why it was very warm inside due to the high temperatures outside. As there was no staff on the train, I was unable to point this out to them. However, the seats on the train were very comfortable and well equipped. There was also a snack machine and a drinks machine so you could cool down a bit. The train and the toilets were clean and the train arrived at its destination on time. Especially as I didn't have to change trains, the comfort was there.
Advantages
PleasantComfortableDisadvantages
NoneMy son travels to Gelsenkirchen for vocational school several times a year.
The route from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen is part of the journey.
The journey takes about half an hour and there is no need to change trains. The seats themselves are comfortable. As we only book a normal ticket, we don't have wifi. The staff are friendly when you meet them. There is no catering here, but so far the train has always been on time.
We made the reservation online and it was easy.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Dortmund and Gelsenkirchen from £4. 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
30m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£16
Deutsche Bahn frequency
1 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
FlixTrain
About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixTrain Duration
18m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
£4
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Gelsenkirchen
Things to do in Gelsenkirchen
Discover the best of Gelsenkirchen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gelsenkirchen trip today.
- Recommended
Schalke Museum
Museum dedicated to FC Schalke 04 with trophies, memorabilia and club history. A popular visit for football supporters and visitors curious about local culture.
Schlossmuseum Horst
Museum in Schloss Horst covering local history and archaeology. Visit for the Renaissance setting, historical collections and insight into the region’s past.
- Must visit
Nordsternpark
Extensive park on a former industrial site with canals, paths, public art and event spaces. It is ideal for a relaxed walk and seeing Ruhr regeneration.
- Recommended
Schlosspark Horst
Large landscaped grounds around Schloss Horst with water features and walking paths. A pleasant place for a quiet stroll beside a historic setting.
- Recommended
Revierpark Nienhausen
Popular local park with woodland, lawns and play areas. It offers an easy outdoor break and shows a greener side of Gelsenkirchen beyond industry.
Ruhrpott Kartoffelsuppe
A hearty potato soup from the Ruhr area, often with vegetables and sausages. It is a classic comfort dish long linked with mining families.
Himmel und Ääd
Mashed potatoes mixed with applesauce and traditionally served with black pudding or fried sausage. A well-known homestyle dish in western Germany.
- Gluten-free
Rollmops
Pickled herring fillets in a tart marinade, often served with potatoes. It reflects the strong northern and western German taste for preserved fish.
Heiner's
Refined restaurant in an elegant setting, known for modern German and international cooking with a more formal dining feel.
Schloss Berge
Traditional brewery-style restaurant serving hearty German and Ruhr classics in a lively, rustic setting near the city centre.
Haus Lüttinghof
Well-known local venue for classic German dishes and seasonal plates, with a relaxed atmosphere suited to a traditional meal.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transport and everyday costs stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for a cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés for good service.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.80
- Day pass
- €8.10
To the city centre
Gelsenkirchen Hbf -> Bahnhofstraße, Gelsenkirchen
- Distance
- 350 m
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Use VRR fares for Gelsenkirchen local travel; a Preisstufe A ticket covers trips within the city.
- At larger stations and customer centres, digital ticket purchase is available via the VRR App. Card or contactless acceptance on board is not confirmed from the official sources reviewed.
FAQs: Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £4, while the average price tends to be around £18.
The train from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen takes 18m and runs once a day.
The train distance from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen is 24 km.
The first train from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 0:09.
The last train from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen departs at 23:53.
Trains from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen run approximately 1 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen.
Yes, there is a direct train between Dortmund and Gelsenkirchen. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by FlixTrain.
There is no night train service from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen.
The train station in Dortmund that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Dortmund Hbf, and it arrives at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Booking trains from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen is primarily urban and industrial, rather than scenic, as it passes through the Ruhr area, known for its cities and historical industrial sites.
Yes, you can take the train from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Dortmund and Gelsenkirchen
Most Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Dortmund Hbf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Use this guide to compare Dortmund and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Dortmund
Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Which Dortmund station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?
Trains from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen leave from Dortmund Hbf. The station is 1 km from Dortmund city centre at Dortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 Dortmund.
Dortmund HbfDortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund Hbf from Dortmund city centre
BusNe13, Ne12, Ne3, 460, 453 · 3m · every ~10 min
Dortmund Hbf train station facilities and services
Dortmund 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: Subway, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion, Kleimann
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Hbf. ATMs are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Hbf. Information desks are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Cityhotel Dortmund, Esplanade, Drei Kronen, Hotel Unique Novum.
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains from Dortmund arrive at?
Trains from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen most often arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Some services arrive at Wanne-Eickel Hbf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Gelsenkirchen arrival station.
Gelsenkirchen HbfGelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gelsenkirchen Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
BusE51, 382, 348 · 12m · every ~10 min
Gelsenkirchen Hbf train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen 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: Subway, Café Madrid, Shere Punjab, Café del Sol
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel St. Petrus.
Wanne-Eickel HbfWanne-Eickel Hbf, Heinz-Rühmann-Platz 1, 44649 Herne
City-centre transport
Getting to Wanne-Eickel Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Wanne-Eickel Hbf is 3 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb, Re · 4m · £2 · every ~4 min
BusRe42x, Re42, S2, Rb32 · 18m · £4
E40, 340 · 21m · every ~5 min
Wanne-Eickel Hbf train station facilities and services
Wanne-Eickel Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Dschingis Khan, Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel, Nikolaus Grill, McDonald's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. ATMs are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Information desks are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Most popular train connections from Dortmund
More options for your journey from Dortmund to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Dortmund
Most popular train connections to Gelsenkirchen
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