- Must visit
Museum Schloss Horst
Renaissance castle museum with exhibitions on archaeology, local history, and changing art shows in one of the city's finest historic sites.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $30
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $33
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 11 h 30 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 11 h 40 m
- Buses on Nov 04
- 3
- Distance
- 190 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.
Fast buses
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 3 buses from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen, including 3 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct buses cover the 190 km distance in an average of 11 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 11 h 30 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest buses will take 12 h 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.
9:00 AM 12h00 Frankfurt am Main 9:00 PM Gelsenkirchen $30 1 One-way 0 transfers9:30 AM 11h30 Frankfurt am Main 9:00 PM Gelsenkirchen $34 1 One-way 0 transfers10:30 AM 11h30 Frankfurt am Main 10:00 PM Gelsenkirchen $36 1 One-way 0 transfers
10:30 AM 11h30 Frankfurt am Main 10:00 PM Gelsenkirchen $36 1 One-way 0 transfers9:30 AM 11h30 Frankfurt am Main 9:00 PM Gelsenkirchen $34 1 One-way 0 transfers9:00 AM 12h00 Frankfurt am Main 9:00 PM Gelsenkirchen $30 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen
GermanyGermany
Buses from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen run on average 3 times per day, taking around 10h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $23 but you can travel from only $18 by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 118 miles (190 km) distance in 4h 10m.
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
Train from $18
Distance 118 miles (190 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 4h 10m |
First bus 12:25 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $18
Frequently asked questions about your Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.
Cheap bus tickets from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen can start from as little as $23 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen is $55 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 12:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 08:07AM | Duration 5h52 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:20AM | Arrival Time 09:07AM | Duration 6h47 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 09:07AM | Duration 5h52 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00AM | Arrival Time 10:07AM | Duration 5h07 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 11:07AM | Duration 5h07 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 02:07PM | Duration 5h37 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 03:07PM | Duration 6h17 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 11h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 11h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 04:07PM | Duration 5h17 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:58AM | Arrival Time 04:20AM | Duration 16h22 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:58PM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 16h22 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:02PM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 14h18 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:03PM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 14h17 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 13h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $28 |
Live departures
Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen bus times
The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:30 AM Frankfurt am Main | 12h30 | 9:00 PM Gelsenkirchen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:58 AM Frankfurt am Main | 16h22 | 4:20 AM Gelsenkirchen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:02 PM Frankfurt am Main | 14h18 | 5:20 AM Gelsenkirchen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:03 PM Frankfurt am Main | 14h17 | 5:20 AM Gelsenkirchen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer buses services from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Frankfurt am Main to GelsenkirchenYou can travel by bus between Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as $18. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$23
FlixBus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar Bus
About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average BlaBlaCar Bus Duration
18h 40m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
$74
BlaBlaCar Bus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Frankfurt am Main and Gelsenkirchen
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Gelsenkirchen. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Frankfurt am Main and Gelsenkirchen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen for bus company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen depends on the bus companies:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
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.
- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Gelsenkirchen
Leading modern art museum in the Ruhr, noted for kinetic and contemporary works and ambitious temporary exhibitions.
- Recommended
Apothekenmuseum Schloss Horst
Museum documenting pharmacy history inside Schloss Horst, with historic equipment and displays on medicine and daily life.
- Must visit
Nordsternpark
Large leisure park on a former colliery, combining industrial heritage, greenery, playgrounds, and canal-side walking routes.
- Must visit
ZOOM Erlebniswelt
Extensive zoo and landscaped grounds famous for Alaska-themed habitats and family-friendly outdoor exploration.
- Recommended
Schlosspark Berge
Elegant lakeside park around Schloss Berge, popular for strolling, boating views, and relaxed green space in Buer.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A hearty Ruhr-area potato stew with vegetables and sausage or bacon. It is a classic workers’ dish long associated with everyday home cooking in the region.
Himmel und Äd
Pan-fried blood sausage with mashed potatoes and apples. Common across North Rhine-Westphalia, it is a traditional pub and home-style comfort meal.
Mettbrötchen
Cured minced pork spread served on rye bread with onions. Popular in the Ruhr and nearby Westphalia as a simple, traditional snack or supper item.
Restaurant Hexenstube
Refined fine-dining restaurant in Gelsenkirchen known for modern German cuisine, careful presentation, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Haus Lüttinghof
Traditional brewery-style venue serving hearty German and Ruhr-area dishes in a relaxed, rustic setting popular for local beer and classic comfort food.
Restaurant Haus Leithe
Well-known casual venue for German grills, schnitzel, and regional comfort food with a lively, approachable atmosphere suited to groups and families.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels are often cheaper than in major cities, while dining and local transit are fairly typical for the region.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €7.60
To the city center
Gelsenkirchen Hauptbahnhof/ZOB -> Gelsenkirchen Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 0.1 km
- Travel time
- 2 min
- Buy tickets in the VRR App or from ticket machines before boarding. On many local buses, cash payment may be limited or unavailable.
- Contactless card payment is commonly available at ticket machines and in the app. Availability directly on board buses or trams can vary by operator.
Plan your visit to Gelsenkirchen
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Gelsenkirchen.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Gelsenkirchen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and major train stations. Common scams include fake charity collectors and distraction techniques in busy spots. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and stay alert in nightlife districts to avoid petty theft. Overall, standard urban safety precautions apply.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Gelsenkirchen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Frankfurt am Main and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen
Most Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen buses use the Frankfurt, Stuttgarter Straße (Fermomnibusbahnhof) to Gelsenkirchen, Hauptbahnhof/ZOB station pair. Use this guide to compare Frankfurt am Main and Gelsenkirchen bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Frankfurt am Main
Arrival bus stations in Gelsenkirchen
Frankfurt, Stuttgarter Straße (Fermomnibusbahnhof)
City-centre transport
Getting to Frankfurt, Stuttgarter Straße (Fermomnibusbahnhof) from Frankfurt am Main city centre
Tram12 · 10m · $4 · every ~13 min
12 · 14m · $4 · every ~13 min
Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36)Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36)
City-centre transport
Getting to Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36) from Frankfurt am Main city centre
Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36) is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainIce · 19m · $3
S9, S8 · 24m · $4 · every ~9 min
BusBlaBlaCar Bus · 15m · $2 · every ~1 min
: Amsterdam Central Sloterdijk Train Station - Prague Central Bus Station, RegioJet 540 · 30m · $2
X61, 61 · 35m · every ~13 min
61, X61 · 36m · every ~13 min
Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36) bus station facilities and services
Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: McDonald's (in the station), Hausmann's (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the terminal, offering various banking services.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt am Main, Flughafen Frankfurt (Terminal 1 - Busparkplatz P36): Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Gelsenkirchen, Hauptbahnhof/ZOBGelsenkirchen Bahnhofsvorpl., Bahnhofsvorpl. 5, 45879
City-centre transport
Getting to Gelsenkirchen, Hauptbahnhof/ZOB from Gelsenkirchen city centre
BusE51, 382, 348 · 12m · every ~10 min
Most popular bus connections from Frankfurt am Main
More options for your journey from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Gelsenkirchen and Frankfurt am Main
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