- 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £78 but you can travel from only £56 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 02:15, the last at 22:34. The fastest train covers the 503 km distance in 5h 31m.
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 £56
Distance 503 km |
Average train duration 6h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £78 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 31m |
First train 2:15 |
Last train 22:34 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 £56
Why should you book Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Lucerne and Gelsenkirchen from £56. 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
5h 31m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£78
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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
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.
Best day trips from Gelsenkirchen by train
The most popular day trips by train from Gelsenkirchen are Dortmund, Essen, Bochum, Düsseldorf and Cologne. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Gelsenkirchen on Omio.
Day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund by train
Why visit Dortmund for the day?
Dortmund is a Ruhr city known for football, brewing heritage and its industrial roots. Former worksites, parks and modern cultural venues give it a practical, lively character.
How to get from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund by train?
The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 22m.
Day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Essen by train
Why visit Essen for the day?
Essen is a Ruhr city known for its industrial heritage and modern cultural scene. The Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex and broad green spaces give it a practical, contemporary character.
How to get from Gelsenkirchen to Essen by train?
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:43, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 10 km distance in 12m.
Day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Bochum by train
Why visit Bochum for the day?
Bochum is a Ruhr city known for its mining heritage, strong theatre scene and football culture. The Deutsches Bergbau-Museum and its large university help give it an industrious yet youthful feel.
How to get from Gelsenkirchen to Bochum by train?
The earliest train runs at 01:33, the last at 18:25.
Day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Düsseldorf by train
Why visit Düsseldorf for the day?
Düsseldorf is known for fashion, contemporary art and its lively Altstadt on the Rhine. Sleek shopping streets, traditional breweries and bold modern architecture give it a polished yet sociable character.
How to get from Gelsenkirchen to Düsseldorf by train?
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 40 km distance in 31m.
Day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne by train
Why visit Cologne for the day?
Cologne is known for its towering cathedral, Roman heritage and relaxed Rhineland spirit. Museums, riverfront views and a strong brewing culture give the city an open, sociable feel.
How to get from Gelsenkirchen to Cologne by train?
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 65 km distance in 53m.
FAQs: Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lucerne 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 Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £78, while the average price tends to be around £105.
The train journey from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen covers a distance of 503 km and takes approximately 5h 31m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen is 503 km.
The first train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 2:15.
The last train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen departs at 22:34.
Trains from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen run approximately 7 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.
There is no night train service from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.
The train station in Lucerne that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Lucerne station, and it arrives at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Booking trains from Lucerne 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 Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen offers scenic views, particularly as it traverses the Swiss landscapes, featuring picturesque mountains and lakes, before transitioning to more urban vistas in Germany.
Yes, you can take the train from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Lucerne and Gelsenkirchen
Most Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Luzern Bhf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Lucerne and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lucerne
Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Which Lucerne station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?
Trains from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen leave from Luzern Bhf. The station is from Lucerne city centre at Zentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland.
Luzern BhfZentralstrasse 1, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Luzern Bhf from Lucerne city centre
TrainRe24, S1, Sn1 · 11m · £4 · every ~7 min
BusEv1 · 17m · £8
72 · 22m · £3 · every ~2 min
Luzern Bhf train station facilities and services
Luzern Bhf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant La Cucina, Restaurant Bellini Locanda Ticinese
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luzern Bhf. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Luzern Bhf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luzern Bhf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luzern Bhf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luzern Bhf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Monopol Luzern, Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel, Hotel Central Luzern.
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains from Lucerne arrive at?
Trains from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from Lucerne to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Lucerne
Most popular train connections to Gelsenkirchen
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