- 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 Munich to Gelsenkirchen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$53
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$60
Fastest journey on Sep 19
11 h 8 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
11 h 42 m
Buses on Sep 19
4
Distance
492 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Munich to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Munich to Gelsenkirchen will cost around $60 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $53.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Munich to Gelsenkirchen without transferring at least once.
FlixBus+
FlixTrain10:05 PM11h08München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz9:13 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf$531One-way1 transfer- FlixBus+FlixTrain9:40 PM11h33Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB)9:13 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf$541One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain8:00 AM12h49Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB)8:49 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$651One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain4:45 AM11h17Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB)4:02 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$691One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain10:05 PM11h08München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz9:13 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf$531One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain4:45 AM11h17Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB)4:02 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$691One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain9:40 PM11h33Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB)9:13 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf$541One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+FlixTrain8:00 AM12h49Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB)8:49 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$651One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Munich to Gelsenkirchen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Munich to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $77 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 3m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $77, while a flight costs an average of $490.
Distance: 305 miles (492 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$77 Average price Cheapest | $154 Average price | $490 Average price | $65 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
14h 40m Average total duration 14h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 18m Average total duration 5h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 3m Average total duration Fastest 2h 3m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Munich to Gelsenkirchen is a bus with an average price of $77 (€63).
This is compared to other travel options from Munich to Gelsenkirchen:
A bus is $78 (€63) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Munich to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $154 (€126).
A bus is $413 (€337) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Munich to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $490 (€400).
The fastest way to travel from Munich to Gelsenkirchen is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 3m.
Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 48m.
Bus takes on average 14h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Munich and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Munich to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $77 (€63) compared to roughly $65 (€53) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-12.01 (€-9.82). The journey takes 14h 10m versus 6h 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Munich to Gelsenkirchen Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:00AM | Arrival Time 04:44PM | Duration 14h44 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:45AM | Arrival Time 05:11PM | Duration 12h26 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 02:50PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 08:49PM | Duration 12h49 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 04:20AM | Duration 17h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 17h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 17h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 12:20PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 03:30PM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator BlaBlaCar | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:05PM | Arrival Time 08:07AM | Duration 12h02 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 09:07AM | Duration 12h02 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 09:13AM | Duration 11h33 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 09:13AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 12:44PM | Duration 13h59 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $72 |
Live departures
Munich to Gelsenkirchen bus times
The table below shows live departures for Munich to Gelsenkirchen buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 9:40 PM Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 11h33 | 9:13 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 10:05 PM München, Fröttmaning P+R Parkplatz | 11h08 | 9:13 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 10:45 PM Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 13h59 | 12:44 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 4:45 AM Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 11h17 | 4:02 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 8:00 AM Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) | 12h49 | 8:49 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Munich to Gelsenkirchen by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
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Why should you book Munich to Gelsenkirchen buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Munich to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Munich to Gelsenkirchen.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 Munich to Gelsenkirchen.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Munich to Gelsenkirchen.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Munich to Gelsenkirchen
GermanyGermany
Buses from Munich to Gelsenkirchen run on average 1 times per day, taking around 14h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $43 (€35) but you can travel from only $34 (€28) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 305 miles (492 km) distance in 14h 0m.
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 $34 (€28)
Distance 305 miles (492 km) |
Average bus duration 14h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€35) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 14h 0m |
First bus 12:25 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 42 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 $34 (€28)
Bus providers: FlixBus from Munich to GelsenkirchenYou can travel by bus between Munich to Gelsenkirchen with FlixBus for as low as $34 (€28). 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
14h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$43 (€35)
FlixBus frequency
1 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.
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.
FAQs: Bus from Munich to Gelsenkirchen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Munich 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Munich to Gelsenkirchen can start from as little as $43 (€35) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Munich to Gelsenkirchen is $77 (€63) ; 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 Munich to Gelsenkirchen is 14h 0m to travel the 305 miles (492 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 Munich to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 12:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Munich to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Munich to Gelsenkirchen which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Munich to Gelsenkirchen, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Gelsenkirchen. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Munich and Gelsenkirchen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Munich , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB) . When arriving in Gelsenkirchen , you can end your journey in bus stations like Gelsenkirchen, Hauptbahnhof/ZOB, Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Munich, Central Bus Station (ZOB), which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Gelsenkirchen from Munich is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 14h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Munich to Gelsenkirchen is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Munich and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Munich to Gelsenkirchen for bus company FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Munich to Gelsenkirchen:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Munich to Gelsenkirchen depends on the bus companies:
- 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 FlixBus.
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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Munich to Gelsenkirchen.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Munich to Gelsenkirchen:
- 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 Munich to Gelsenkirchen:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Munich 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 Munich to Gelsenkirchen with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Munich to Gelsenkirchen with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Munich to Gelsenkirchen with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since both Munich and Gelsenkirchen 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Munich to Gelsenkirchen 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 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Munich to Gelsenkirchen
Most Munich to Gelsenkirchen buses use the München, ZOB to Gelsenkirchen, Hauptbahnhof/ZOB station pair. Use this guide to compare Munich and Gelsenkirchen bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Munich
Arrival bus stations in Gelsenkirchen
Which Munich station do buses to Gelsenkirchen leave from?
Buses from Munich to Gelsenkirchen leave from München, ZOB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Munich city centre at Arnulfstrasse 21, 80335 Munchen, Germany.
München, ZOBArnulfstrasse 21, 80335 Munchen, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to München, ZOB from Munich city centre
München, ZOB is 1 km from Munich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1, S3, S8, S2, S6, S5, S4 · 9m · $1 · every ~61 min
Tram17, 16, N17 · 16m · $4 · every ~25 min
München, ZOB bus station facilities and services
München, ZOB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria München ZOB (in the station), Bavarian Bistro (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance and in the waiting area.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at München, ZOB.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at München, ZOB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at München, ZOB: Elevators, ramps.
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 Munich
More options for your journey from Munich to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Gelsenkirchen and Munich
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