FRANKFURT AM MAIN to ILMENAU train from £16 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RB,RE)

2,000+ travel companies

Scan to get our free app

Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.

App Store

4.9

42K ratings

Google Play

4.6

136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau

Showing times and prices for 24 Aug

Cheapest price

£38

Average price

£65

Fastest journey

3 h 4 m

Average duration

3 h 35 m

Trains per day

Distance

170 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau will cost around £65 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £38.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Frankfurt am Main for Ilmenau 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 170 km distance in an average of 3 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 4 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 11 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.

7:153h23
Frankfurt am Main
10:38Ilmenau
£381One-way
0 changes
6:274h11
Frankfurt am Main
10:38Ilmenau
£441One-way
0 changes
10:023h04
Frankfurt am Main
13:06Ilmenau
£671One-way
0 changes
9:023h04
Frankfurt am Main
12:06Ilmenau
£771One-way
0 changes
8:274h11
Frankfurt am Main
12:38Ilmenau
£991One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach and train for Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 7m. 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 £16, and a train costs an average of £18.

Distance: 170 km

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Coach
£51 Average Price	£22 Average Price Cheapest
3h 37m Average total duration Fastest 3h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	3h 56m Average total duration 3h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time*
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.2 - 0.4kg 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

Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau train times

The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau trains for today, Sunday 23 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
ICE 2594 · 81199	On time 8:15 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h23	11:38 Ilmenau station	1 change
ICE 694 · 81199	On time 8:15 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h23	11:38 Ilmenau station	1 change
ICE 1557 · 3659 · 81201	On time 9:02 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	3h36	12:38 Ilmenau station	2 changes
ICE 932 · 81201	On time 9:02 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h36	12:38 Ilmenau station	1 change
ICE 1557 · 81203	On time 9:02 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	4h36	13:38 Ilmenau station	1 change
ICE 1557 · 3659 · 81201	On time 9:19 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h19	12:38 Ilmenau station	2 changes
S9 · ICE 2592 · 81203	9:45 Frankfurt am Main Flughafen	3h53	13:38 Ilmenau station	2 changes
S9 · ICE 692 · 81203	9:45 Frankfurt am Main Flughafen	3h53	13:38 Ilmenau station	2 changes
ICE 692 · 81203	On time 10:15 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h23	13:38 Ilmenau station	1 change
ICE 2592 · 81203	On time 10:15 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h23	13:38 Ilmenau station	1 change
ICE 930 · 81205	On time 11:02 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h36	14:38 Ilmenau station	1 change
ICE 1559 · 81207	On time 11:02 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	4h36	15:38 Ilmenau station	1 change
ICE 1559 · 3661 · 81205	On time 11:02 Frankfurt Airport long-distance station	3h36	14:38 Ilmenau station	2 changes
ICE 1559 · 3661 · 81205	On time 11:19 Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h19	14:38 Ilmenau station	2 changes
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau by coach or train

Compare coach and train 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.

Mon
24 Aug

Tue
25 Aug

Wed
26 Aug

Thu
27 Aug

Fri
28 Aug

Sat
29 Aug

Sun
30 Aug

Why should you book Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau.

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 FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau.
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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau

Germany

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £18 but you can travel from only £16 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 03:42, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 170 km distance in 3h 4m.

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 £16

Distance

170 km

Average train duration

3h 7m

Cheapest ticket price

£18

Trains per day

Fastest train

3h 4m

First train

3:42

Last train

22:20

Cheapest Month

Nov

Cheapest Day

Sun

High Season

Apr - Jun

Low Season

Jul - Sept

Busiest Day

Wed

Least Busy Day

Wed

Best time to book

42 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Coach from £16

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Frankfurt am Main and Ilmenau from £16. 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

3h 4m

Cheapest Price

£18

Deutsche Bahn frequency

32 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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

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 Duration

1h 54m

Cheapest Price

£8

FlixTrain frequency

8 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 Ilmenau

Things to do in Ilmenau

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

Recommended

GoetheStadtMuseum Ilmenau

Local museum on Ilmenau’s mining, glass and porcelain traditions, plus the town’s literary and industrial past.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Goethemuseum im Jagdhaus Gabelbach

Museum in Goethe’s former guest house at Gabelbach, focusing on his stays in the area and the surrounding forest landscape.

View on map Visit website

Ehrenbergmuseum

University museum presenting the history of TU Ilmenau, scientific instruments and technical development in the town.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and meals are reasonable, and local public transport is fairly priced for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range: €15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: €50-80 per person for an upscale dinner.
Coffee: €2.50-4 for a cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares and leave small change in cafés for good service.

FAQs: Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau 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 Ilmenau, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

The cost of a train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £18, while the average price tends to be around £51.

The train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau covers a distance of 170 km and takes approximately 3h 4m. Trains run 13 per day.

The train distance from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau is 170 km.

The first train from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau leaves at 3:42.

The last train from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau departs at 22:20.

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau run approximately 13 times per day.

Yes, there is a direct train between Frankfurt am Main and Ilmenau. The service operates 0 times per day, provided by FlixTrain.

To get from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.

There is no night train service from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau.

The train station in Frankfurt am Main that goes to Ilmenau is Frankfurt (Main) Hbf, and it arrives at Ilmenau station.

The cheapest way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau is by coach, costing approximately £16.

Booking trains from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.

The train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Thuringia, with its rolling hills and charming villages.

A day trip from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau is not feasible as the duration is 3h 4m. Trains operate 15 times per day. The distance is 170 km.

To fully explore Ilmenau, two to three days are usually sufficient to enjoy its cultural attractions, nearby hiking opportunities, and local cuisine.

Yes, you can take the train from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Frankfurt am Main and Ilmenau

Most Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau trains use the Frankfurt (Main) Hbf to Ilmenau station pair, with some services arriving at Ilmenau-Roda. Use this guide to compare Frankfurt am Main and Ilmenau train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Frankfurt am Main

Arrival train stations in Ilmenau

Which Frankfurt am Main station do trains to Ilmenau leave from?

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Ilmenau leave from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. The station is 2 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre at Im Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Frankfurt (Main) HbfIm Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS9, S8, S6, S5, S4, S3, S2, S1 · 5m · £0.90 · every ~51 min

BusN5, N12, N4 · 5m · every ~1 min

Tram18, 14, 12, 11 · 6m · £3 · every ~38 min

SubwayU5, U4 · 4m · £3 · every ~39 min

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt (Main) 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: asiagourmet, Burger King, Ciao Bella, Coffee Fellows, Crepes de France Express, dean&david, Starbucks, Uddin's Sky Sportsbar, McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.

More about Frankfurt (Main) Hbf

Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfFrankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbahnhof, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 69 2651055 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIce · 11m · £2

Trn · 12m · £3

S8, S9 · 19m · £3 · every ~5 min

BusS8e · 28m · £5

X61, 61 · 41m · every ~13 min

61, X61 · 42m · every ~13 min

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.