- Must visit
Dortmunder U
A Major Art And Culture Center In A Former Brewery Tower With Exhibitions, Media Art, And Panoramic City Views.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Mainz to Dortmund
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Mainz to Dortmund among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €19. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 30m. 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 bus costs an average of €19, and a train costs an average of €28.
Distance: 111 miles (180 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€41 Average price Cheapest | €72 Average price | €33 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 0m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 38m Average total duration 3h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Mainz to Dortmund is a bus with an average price of €41.
This is compared to other travel options from Mainz to Dortmund:
A bus is €31 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Mainz to Dortmund costing on average €72.
The fastest way to travel from Mainz to Dortmund is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 30m.
Other travel options to Dortmund take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Mainz and Dortmund including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Mainz to Dortmund among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the quicker way to make this trip, and the time saved usually justifies the slightly higher cost.
You'll arrive about 30m sooner (2h 30m by bus vs 3h 0m by car). Tickets start at around €41 compared to roughly €33 in fuel and tolls — a bit more, but you're getting time back, skipping traffic and parking, and you can work or rest on board.
Direct coaches are operated by BlaBlaCar.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel splits across several people), want flexibility on timing, or plan to stop en route.
Mainz to Dortmund Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:10AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 11h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 11h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €28 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 2h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 2h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 08:20AM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €27 |
Compare prices and tickets Mainz to Dortmund by train or bus
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Mainz to Dortmund
GermanyGermany
Buses from Mainz to Dortmund run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €19 if you book in advance.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:35, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 111 miles (180 km) distance in 7h 50m.
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 111 miles (180 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price €19 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 7h 50m |
First bus 3:35 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 77 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
Bus providers: BlaBlaCar from Mainz to DortmundYou can travel by bus between Mainz to Dortmund with BlaBlaCar for as low as €19. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
BlaBlaCar
About
BlaBlaCar is a French online marketplace for carpooling, connecting drivers with empty seats and passengers traveling to the same destination to share costs. Founded in 2006, it operates in Europe and Latin America, boasting 26 million active members. The platform also includes BlaBlaCar Bus, an intercity bus service. BlaBlaCar's name comes from its rating system for drivers' chattiness: "Bla" for quiet, "BlaBla" for talkative, and "BlaBlaBla" for very chatty. The company aims to be the leading marketplace for shared travel, offering affordable and sustainable solutions by combining carpooling with bus journeys.
Luggage & cancellation policy
BlaBlaCar frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Dortmund
Things to do in Dortmund
Discover the best of Dortmund — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dortmund trip today.
- Must visit
Deutsches Fußballmuseum
One Of Europe'S Leading Football Museums, Presenting German Football History Through Trophies, Media, And Interactive Displays.
- Recommended
Museum Ostwall Im Dortmunder U
Dortmund'S Main Art Museum Shows Modern And Contemporary Works, Including Important Graphics And Painting Collections.
- Must visit
Alter Markt
Dortmund'S Central Square Hosts The Old Town'S Main Events And Christmas Market Around Historic Civic Buildings.
- Must visit
Phoenix-See
A Large Urban Lake Area With Promenades, Cafes Nearby, And Great Walks Popular With Locals And Visitors.
- Must visit
Rombergpark
One Of Germany'S Largest Botanical Parks, Featuring Themed Gardens, Woodland Paths, And A Relaxed Green Escape.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Dortmunder Export
A top-fermented pale lager long brewed in Dortmund. It is a defining local beer style tied to the city’s industrial and brewing heritage.
Westfälische Kartoffelsuppe
A hearty potato soup common in Westphalia, often enriched with vegetables and sausage. It is classic comfort food in the Ruhr area.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
A traditional rye bread from Westphalia, dense, dark and slightly sweet. It is a regional staple often served with ham, cheese or smoked fish.
The Stage
Refined modern tasting menus in an elegant setting. One of Dortmund’s best-known fine dining addresses with polished service.
Hövels Hausbrauerei
Traditional brewery restaurant serving Dortmund beer and hearty regional dishes in a lively, historic atmosphere near the city center.
The ASH Dortmund
Well-established steakhouse known for quality beef, classic sides and dependable service in a smart but relaxed setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany; hotels vary, dining is reasonable, and local transit is fairly priced for city travel.
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 coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is standard. Round taxi fares up; 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
Dortmund ZOB am Hbf -> Dortmund Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in the VRR App or from ticket machines before boarding. Validators are used for some paper tickets, so check the ticket instructions.
- Contactless card payment is commonly available at ticket machines, but not always on board every bus or tram. The VRR App is the most reliable cashless option.
FAQs: Bus from Mainz to Dortmund
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mainz to Dortmund 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 Dortmund, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Mainz to Dortmund can start from as little as €19 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Mainz to Dortmund is €41 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Mainz to Dortmund is 7h 50m to travel the 111 miles (180 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Mainz to Dortmund leaves at 3:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Mainz to Dortmund leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Mainz to Dortmund with BlaBlaCar. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Mainz to Dortmund, you can count on BlaBlaCar for the best way to get you to Dortmund. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Mainz and Dortmund and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Dortmund from Mainz is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Mainz to Dortmund is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Mainz and Dortmund including taking a train and bus.
No, the bus from Mainz to Dortmund has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Mainz to Dortmund.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Dortmund are:
- Westfalenpark, a large urban park featuring gardens, a lake, and the iconic Florianturm TV tower
- Dortmund U-Tower, a former brewery turned cultural center with exhibitions and panoramic city views
- Signal Iduna Park, Germany's largest football stadium and home to Borussia Dortmund
- Dortmund Zoo, a family-friendly attraction with diverse animal species and conservation programs
- German Football Museum, an interactive museum celebrating the history and culture of German football.
The best things to do in Dortmund include:
- Explore the vibrant Kreuzviertel district, known for its trendy cafes, boutiques, and lively atmosphere
- Attend a concert or event at the Westfalenhallen, a major venue hosting a variety of performances and exhibitions
- Discover the industrial heritage at the Zollern Colliery, a museum showcasing the history of coal mining in the Ruhr area
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Phoenix See, a scenic lake with walking paths and waterfront dining
- Visit the Botanischer Garten Rombergpark, a beautiful botanical garden with diverse plant collections and serene landscapes.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Mainz to Dortmund.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Mainz to Dortmund.
No, luggage for the bus from Mainz to Dortmund needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Mainz to Dortmund.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Mainz to Dortmund.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Mainz to Dortmund.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Mainz to Dortmund.
Since both Mainz and Dortmund are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Mainz to Dortmund among Omio's users.
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 Dortmund, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and individuals offering unsolicited help with ticket machines or currency exchange, which can lead to overcharging. Staying alert in busy areas and using official services helps ensure a safe visit.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Mainz to Dortmund
Most Mainz to Dortmund buses use the Mainz, Binger Schlag (Kurzzeitparkplatz) to Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Mainz and Dortmund bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Mainz
Arrival bus stations in Dortmund
Mainz, Binger Schlag (Kurzzeitparkplatz)
City-centre transport
Getting to Mainz, Binger Schlag (Kurzzeitparkplatz) from Mainz city centre
Bus92, 76, 62 · 13m · every ~13 min
93, 76, 65, 64 · 16m · every ~6 min
Tram53, 52 · 15m · every ~10 min
Which Dortmund station do buses from Mainz arrive at?
Buses from Mainz to Dortmund arrive at Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf. Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Dortmund city centre.
Dortmund, ZOB am HbfSteinstrasse 54, 44147 Dortmund, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf from Dortmund city centre
Bus452, 453, 460 Metro: U41, U45, U47, U49 Train: S1, S2, S5
Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf bus station facilities and services
Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Express (in the station), Bistro Central (0.2 km), Restaurant Heimatliebe (0.5 km).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance of the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund, ZOB am Hbf: Elevators, ramps.
Most popular bus connections from Mainz
More options for your journey from Mainz to Dortmund
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Dortmund and Mainz
Most popular bus connections to Dortmund
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