- Recommended
Stadtmuseum Erlangen
The city's main museum presents Erlangen's Huguenot origins, urban growth, and everyday life through objects, models, and changing exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Dortmund to Erlangen
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€123
Average price
€123
Fastest journey
5 h 16 m
Average duration
5 h 16 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
328 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Dortmund to Erlangen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Dortmund to Erlangen will cost around €123 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €123.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Dortmund for Erlangen on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 328 km distance in an average of 5 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 16 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 5 h 16 m 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.
6:39 AM5h16Dortmund11:55 AMErlangen€1231One-way0 transfers
- 6:39 AM5h16Dortmund11:55 AMErlangen€1231One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Dortmund to Erlangen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dortmund to Erlangen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €32. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €32, and a flight costs an average of €413.
Distance: 203 miles (328 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€100 Average price | €39 Average price Cheapest | €443 Average price | €62 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 11m Average total duration 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration 5h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 23m Average total duration Fastest 3h 23m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Dortmund to Erlangen is a bus with an average price of €39.
This is compared to other travel options from Dortmund to Erlangen:
A bus is €61 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dortmund to Erlangen costing on average €100.
A bus is €404 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Dortmund to Erlangen costing on average €443.
The fastest way to travel from Dortmund to Erlangen is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 23m.
Other travel options to Erlangen take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 41m.
Bus takes on average 5h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Dortmund and Erlangen including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund to Erlangen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €100 compared to roughly €62 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-37.31. The journey takes 5h 41m versus 4h 34m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Dortmund to Erlangen train times
The table below shows live departures for Dortmund to Erlangen trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:39 AM Dortmund | 5h16 | 11:55 AM Erlangen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Dortmund to Erlangen by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Wed
Aug 05
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Aug 08
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Aug 11
Aug 11
Why should you book Dortmund to Erlangen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Dortmund to Erlangen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Dortmund to Erlangen.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Dortmund to Erlangen.
- 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Dortmund to Erlangen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Dortmund to Erlangen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Dortmund to Erlangen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Dortmund to Erlangen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €54 but you can travel from only €32 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:02, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 203 miles (328 km) distance in 5h 16m.
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 €32
Distance 203 miles (328 km) |
Average train duration 5h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price €54 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 16m |
First train 5:02 AM |
Last train 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 28 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
Bus from €32
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Dortmund to Erlangen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Dortmund and Erlangen from €32. 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
5h 16m
Cheapest Price
€54
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 55m
Cheapest Price
€101
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Erlangen
Things to do in Erlangen
Discover the best of Erlangen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Erlangen trip today.
- Recommended
Medizinhistorisches Museum Erlangen
Museum on medical history and anatomy at the university. It is a niche but fascinating stop for science, medicine, and research heritage.
- Recommended
Kunstpalais
Art space in a historic tower showing contemporary exhibitions. It is a local favorite for small-scale, thoughtful programs in an unusual venue.
- Must visit
Schlossgarten
Formal baroque palace garden with broad lawns, sculptures, and event spaces. It is Erlangen's classic promenade and a top place to relax.
- Must visit
Botanischer Garten
University botanical garden with outdoor collections and greenhouses. A peaceful, educational retreat close to the historic center.
- Recommended
Schlossplatz
Large central square framed by major civic buildings. It hosts events and offers the best overall view of Erlangen's planned baroque layout.
Schäufele
Smoked pork shoulder cured with spices and slow-cooked. A Franconian specialty often served with sauerkraut and bread or dumplings.
Fränkische Bratwurst
Coarse Franconian bratwurst, usually grilled and served with sauerkraut or potato salad. It is a classic local pub and beer garden dish.
- Vegetarian
Fränkische Klöße
Potato dumplings common across Franconia, served with roasts and rich gravy. They are a staple of traditional Sunday meals.
Schlotfeger
Established fine dining restaurant with a Michelin-level reputation. Expect seasonal tasting menus and polished modern service.
Steinbach Bräu
Historic brewery inn known for Franconian classics and house-brewed beer. Traditional atmosphere and a reliable choice in the old town.
Kulmbacher Bierkeller
Well-known traditional venue serving Franconian and Bavarian dishes with its own beer. Rustic setting and popular beer garden.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, local transit is reasonable, and student-oriented spots help keep daily tourist costs manageable.
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
- €2.80-4.20 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or add about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
VGN Fahrplan & Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.00
- Day pass
- €8.80
To the city center
Erlangen Hbf -> Schlossplatz, Erlangen
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets in the VGN app, at machines, or on DB channels before boarding. Validate paper tickets if required.
- Contactless card payment is available in the VGN app and at many ticket machines, but not reliably on board Erlangen buses.
FAQs: Trains from Dortmund to Erlangen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dortmund to Erlangen 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 Erlangen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Dortmund to Erlangen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €54, while the average price is around €100.
The train from Dortmund to Erlangen takes 5h 16m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Dortmund to Erlangen is 203 miles (328 km).
The first train from Dortmund to Erlangen leaves at 5:02 AM.
The last train from Dortmund to Erlangen leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Dortmund to Erlangen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Dortmund to Erlangen.
The train station in Dortmund that goes to Erlangen is Dortmund Hbf, which connects to Erlangen station.
The cheapest way to get from Dortmund to Erlangen is by bus, with a cost of around €32.
The train journey from Dortmund to Erlangen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Ruhr area’s industrial scenery transitioning into the rolling hills and forests of Bavaria, providing a moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Dortmund to Erlangen is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 16m, which exceeds the maximum recommended travel time. Trains run 8 times per day on this route.
Erlangen is a charming city where you can explore its historical sites, botanical gardens, and cultural attractions comfortably in 1 to 2 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Dortmund to Erlangen.
Since both Dortmund and Erlangen 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 Erlangen include Munich, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Würzburg, Erfurt.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund to Erlangen 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 Erlangen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as markets and public transport. While the city is generally safe, it is advisable to stay alert in busy spots and avoid displaying valuables openly. Scams are rare but travelers should be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed providers. Staying informed about local safety guidelines enhances a secure 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 train stations
Popular train stations from Dortmund to Erlangen
Most Dortmund to Erlangen trains use the Dortmund Hbf to Erlangen station pair, with some services arriving at Erlangen-Bruck. Use this guide to compare Dortmund and Erlangen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Dortmund
Arrival train stations in Erlangen
Which Dortmund station do trains to Erlangen leave from?
Trains from Dortmund to Erlangen leave from Dortmund Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Dortmund city centre at Dortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 Dortmund.
Dortmund HbfDortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund Hbf from Dortmund city centre
BusNe13, Ne12, Ne3, 460, 453 · 3m · every ~10 min
Dortmund Hbf train station facilities and services
Dortmund 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, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion, Kleimann
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Hbf. ATMs are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Hbf. Information desks are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Cityhotel Dortmund, Esplanade, Drei Kronen, Hotel Unique Novum.
Which Erlangen station do trains from Dortmund arrive at?
Trains from Dortmund to Erlangen most often arrive at Erlangen. Some services arrive at Erlangen-Bruck, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Erlangen arrival station.
ErlangenErlangen, Bahnhofsplatz 1, 91054 Erlangen
City-centre transport
Getting to Erlangen from Erlangen city centre
Bus295, 290, 289 · 4m · €3 · every ~14 min
Erlangen train station facilities and services
Erlangen 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: Basilikum, Ilias, Ristorante Carpaccio, Goldene Sonne
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen. ATMs are available at Erlangen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen. Information desks are available at Erlangen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erlangen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erlangen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Hotel, A. B. Hotel, Zeitwohnhaus, Hotel Villa Soy.
Erlangen-BruckErlangen-Bruck, Am Brucker Bahnhof 21, 91058 Erlangen
City-centre transport
Getting to Erlangen-Bruck from Erlangen city centre
Erlangen-Bruck is 2 km from Erlangen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1 · 6m · €1 · every ~6 min
BusS1 · 12m · €4
290 · 17m · every ~5 min
Erlangen-Bruck train station facilities and services
Erlangen-Bruck 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: Kaffee- und Snackbar Oase, Gaststätte TV 1861 Bruck, Der Beck, Hoang Kim Imbiss
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen-Bruck. ATMs are available at Erlangen-Bruck.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen-Bruck. Information desks are available at Erlangen-Bruck.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen-Bruck. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erlangen-Bruck: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erlangen-Bruck: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen-Bruck.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Weißes Lamm, Hotel Smart-Inn, The niu Cure.
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-StraßeErlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße, Paul-Gossen-Straße 25, 91051 Erlangen
City-centre transport
Getting to Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße from Erlangen city centre
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße is 1 km from Erlangen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS1 · 2m · €1 · every ~6 min
BusS1 · 7m · €3
281S, 289, 281 · 8m · every ~9 min
209 · 9m · €3
289, 281, 281S · 10m · every ~9 min
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße train station facilities and services
Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße 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: Bistro bareva, Zum Angerwirt, Turandot, Hoang Kim Imbiss
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. ATMs are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. Information desks are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen Paul-Gossen-Straße.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Art Hotel, The niu Cure.
Most popular train connections from Dortmund
More options for your journey from Dortmund to Erlangen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Erlangen and Dortmund
Most popular train connections to Erlangen
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