- Recommended
Museum Jagdhaus Gabelbach
The city's main museum on Ilmenau's mining, glass, porcelain, and Goethe connections, housed in a historic building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Ilmenau
Showing times and prices for Jul 25
Cheapest price
$50
Average price
$51
Fastest journey
3 h 18 m
Average duration
3 h 19 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
267 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin to Ilmenau is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Berlin to Ilmenau will cost around $51 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Berlin to Ilmenau without transferring at least once.
ICE 1007 · 3297310:37 AM3h18Berlin Hbf1:55 PMIlmenau station$501One-way1 transfer- ICE 1005 · 637598:36 AM3h19Berlin Hbf11:55 AMIlmenau station$531One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1007 · 3297310:37 AM3h18Berlin Hbf1:55 PMIlmenau station$501One-way1 transfer
- ICE 1005 · 637598:36 AM3h19Berlin Hbf11:55 AMIlmenau station$531One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Berlin to Ilmenau
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berlin to Ilmenau 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 train which can get you there in 2h 48m. 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 $47.
Distance: 165 miles (267 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$78 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $48 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 18m Average total duration Fastest 2h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration 4h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus 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 Berlin to Ilmenau is a bus with an average price of $31 (€31).
This is compared to other travel options from Berlin to Ilmenau:
A bus is $47 (€47) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Berlin to Ilmenau costing on average $78 (€78).
The fastest way to travel from Berlin to Ilmenau is by train with an average journey time of 2h 48m.
Other travel options to Ilmenau take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Berlin and Ilmenau including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Berlin to Ilmenau among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 57m sooner (2h 48m by train vs 3h 45m by car). Tickets start at around $78 (€78) compared to roughly $48 (€48) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Berlin to Ilmenau train times
The table below shows live departures for Berlin to Ilmenau trains for today, Friday, July 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:52 PM Berlin | 2h50 | 9:42 PM Ilmenau | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, July 25 | |||||
| ICE 1005 · 63759 | On time 8:36 AM Berlin Hbf | 3h19 | 11:55 AM Ilmenau station | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1007 · 32973 | On time 10:37 AM Berlin Hbf | 3h18 | 1:55 PM Ilmenau station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Berlin to Ilmenau by bus or train
Compare bus 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.
Sat
Jul 25
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Jul 26
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Jul 27
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Jul 28
Jul 28
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Jul 31
Jul 31
Why should you book Berlin to Ilmenau trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Berlin to Ilmenau.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Berlin to Ilmenau.
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.
- 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 Berlin 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 Berlin to Ilmenau.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Berlin to Ilmenau
GermanyGermany
Trains from Berlin to Ilmenau run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $47 (€47) but you can travel from only $19 (€19) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:43, the last at 22:28. The fastest train covers the 165 miles (267 km) distance in 2h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $19 (€19)
Distance 165 miles (267 km) |
Average train duration 2h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€47) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
First train 3:43 AM |
Last train 10:28 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Bus from $19 (€19)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Berlin to Ilmenau trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Berlin and Ilmenau from $19 (€19). 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
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€47)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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 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
Goethemuseum Jagdhaus Gabelbach
Goethe-focused memorial site in the forest with literary history and exhibits tied to his stays in the Ilmenau area.
- Recommended
Thermometermuseum Geraberg
Technical museum preserving a historic glass thermometer factory, showing Ilmenau's scientific instrument tradition.
- Must visit
Kickelhahn
Popular mountain summit and walking area above town, loved for forests, viewpoints, and Goethe-related landmarks.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Central square framed by historic buildings, events, and shops. It is the best starting point for exploring old Ilmenau.
- Recommended
Talsperre Heyda
Scenic reservoir and leisure area on the edge of town, suitable for relaxed walks and views of the surrounding hills.
- Vegetarian
Thüringer Klöße
A rustic Thuringian potato dumpling, often served with roast meat and gravy. It is a regional staple and a classic of home-style Sunday meals.
- Gluten-free
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Coarse grilled pork sausage seasoned with marjoram and caraway. It is one of Thuringia’s best-known foods and widely eaten at inns and markets.
Rinderroulade Thüringer Art
Slow-cooked beef roulade filled with bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles. A beloved festive dish across Thuringia, usually served with dumplings and red cabbage.
Restaurant Irodion
Established Greek restaurant popular for grilled meats, generous portions, and a friendly relaxed atmosphere near the town center.
Hotel Tanne
Historic hotel restaurant serving regional and seasonal cuisine in a more refined setting, suitable for a classic sit-down dinner.
Brauhaus zum Löwen
Traditional brewery restaurant known for hearty Thuringian dishes and beer-focused dining in a casual, rustic setting.
Euro (€)
More affordable than big German cities. Hotels, dining, and local transit are usually cheaper, though options are smaller and peak event dates can raise prices.
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+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10%; for taxis, round up; in cafes, leave small change.
VMT Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.30
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Ilmenau station -> Marktplatz Ilmenau
- Distance
- 850 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Local buses in Ilmenau are part of the VMT network; check current fares and timetables in the VMT Tickets app or on the VMT website.
- For central Ilmenau, walking from Ilmenau station is usually quickest. Verify onboard card payment with the operator before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Berlin to Ilmenau
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin 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.
Train ticket prices from Berlin to Ilmenau can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $47 (€47), while the average price is around $78 (€78).
The train from Berlin to Ilmenau takes 2h 50m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Berlin to Ilmenau leaves at 3:43 AM.
The distance by train from Berlin to Ilmenau is 165 miles (267 km).
The last train from Berlin to Ilmenau leaves at 10:28 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Berlin to Ilmenau.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Berlin to Ilmenau.
The train station in Berlin that goes to Ilmenau is Berlin Hbf, which connects to Ilmenau station.
The cheapest way to get from Berlin to Ilmenau is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€19).
The train journey from Berlin to Ilmenau offers scenic views of the Thuringian Forest, charming small towns, and picturesque countryside landscapes, making it a pleasant experience for travelers.
A day trip from Berlin to Ilmenau is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 50m. However, trains run 6 times per day between these two cities.
To fully explore Ilmenau's attractions, including the Goethe Museum, local hiking trails, and the Thuringian Forest, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Berlin to Ilmenau.
Since both Berlin and Ilmenau 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.
Popular day trips by train from Ilmenau include Erfurt, Arnstadt, Bamberg, Leipzig, Halle.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Berlin to Ilmenau among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
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 Ilmenau, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing in crowded areas and on public transportation. It is advisable to stay vigilant in busy places, especially around train stations and popular attractions. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting visitors, but standard precautions like avoiding unsolicited offers and securing personal belongings are recommended. Overall, Ilmenau is considered a safe destination with low crime rates.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Berlin to Ilmenau
Most Berlin to Ilmenau trains use the Berlin Hbf to Ilmenau station pair. Use this guide to compare Berlin and Ilmenau train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Berlin
Arrival train stations in Ilmenau
Which Berlin station do trains to Ilmenau leave from?
Trains from Berlin to Ilmenau leave from Berlin Hbf. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Berlin city centre at Europaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany.
Berlin HbfEuropaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Berlin Hbf from Berlin city centre
Berlin Hbf is 2 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb23, Re2, Rb14, Re7, Fex · 5m · $3 · every ~6 min
U5 · 8m · $3 · every ~25 min
BusN40, 142 · 12m · $2 · every ~8 min
170, 270, 170A, 157A, 157 · 18m · $1
TramM8 · 13m · $3 · every ~12 min
Berlin Hbf train station facilities and services
Berlin Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: backWERK, Burger King, Costa Coffee, Dunkin' Donuts, Einstein Kaffee, Le Crobag, McDonald's, Hans im Glück, Pret A Manger, Starbucks, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi (30 minutes limit). ATMs are available at Berlin Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Hbf. Information desks are located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Berlin Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Hbf: Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof.
Berlin SüdkreuzBerlin Südkreuz, General-Pape-Straße 1, 12101 Berlin
City-centre transport
Getting to Berlin Südkreuz from Berlin city centre
Berlin Südkreuz is 6 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainFex, Re20, Re4, Re5, Re3 · 7m · $1 · every ~18 min
S26, S25, S2 · 13m · $3 · every ~25 min
Bus025, N67, N44, 065, 032 · 25m · $1
248 · 34m · $3 · every ~11 min
Berlin Südkreuz train station facilities and services
Berlin Südkreuz 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: Biertempel 2, McDonald's, Eis Bär, Cafe Mon Cherie
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Berlin Südkreuz. ATMs are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Südkreuz. Information desks are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Berlin Südkreuz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin Südkreuz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Berlin Südkreuz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Appartements Eisemann.
Berlin SpandauBerlin-Spandau, Seegefelder Str. 1, 13597 Berlin
City-centre transport
Getting to Berlin Spandau from Berlin city centre
Berlin Spandau is 14 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS3, S9, S5 · 10m · $3 · every ~14 min
S9, S5, S3 · 25m · $3 · every ~14 min
Berlin Spandau train station facilities and services
Berlin Spandau 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: Unvernunft, Taverna Teloneio, Burger King, Hasir
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Berlin Spandau. ATMs are available at Berlin Spandau.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Spandau. Information desks are available at Berlin Spandau.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Berlin Spandau. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin Spandau: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Berlin Spandau: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Spandau.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Benn, Hotel Herbst, Hotel Lindenufer, Hotel Ibis Berlin Spandau.
Which Ilmenau station do trains from Berlin arrive at?
Trains from Berlin to Ilmenau most often arrive at Ilmenau. Some services arrive at Erfurt Hbf, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Ilmenau arrival station.
IlmenauIlmenau, Am Bahndamm 10, 98693 Ilmenau
City-centre transport
Getting to Ilmenau from Ilmenau city centre
Bus300, A · 4m · every ~2 min
Ilmenau train station facilities and services
Ilmenau has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: City-Grill, MaBe`s Grillbar, Subway, Ratskeller
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ilmenau. ATMs are available at Ilmenau.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ilmenau. Information desks are available at Ilmenau.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ilmenau. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ilmenau: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ilmenau: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ilmenau.
More options for your journey from Berlin to Ilmenau
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ilmenau and Berlin
Most popular train connections to Ilmenau
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