Dortmund to Ludwigshafen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Tue, May 26
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen

Showing times and prices for May 26

Cheapest price

$64

Average price

$64

Fastest journey

2 h 42 m

Average duration

2 h 47 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

237 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen will cost around $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Dortmund for Ludwigshafen on Tue, May 26, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, May 26 the direct trains cover the 237 km distance in an average of 2 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 42 m .

On Tue, May 26 the slowest trains will take 2 h 52 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    5:34 AM2h52
    Dortmund
    8:26 AMLudwigshafen
    $641One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
    6:11 AM2h42
    Dortmund
    8:53 AMLudwigshafen
    $641One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Dortmund to Ludwigshafen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 14m. 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 $23, and a train costs an average of $86.

Distance: 147 miles (237 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$103

Average price

$27

Average price

Cheapest

$55

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 50m

Average total duration

3h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 32m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

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 Dortmund to Ludwigshafen is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).

This is compared to other travel options from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen:

A bus is $76 (€62) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen costing on average $103 (€83).

The fastest way to travel from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen is by train with an average journey time of 3h 14m.

Other travel options to Ludwigshafen take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 20m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Dortmund and Ludwigshafen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen 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 18m sooner (3h 14m by train vs 3h 32m by car). Tickets start at around $103 (€83) compared to roughly $55 (€44) 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.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

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

Dortmund to Ludwigshafen train times

The table below shows live departures for Dortmund to Ludwigshafen trains for today, Monday, May 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)5:34 AM Dortmund
2h52
8:26 AM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)6:11 AM Dortmund
2h42
8:53 AM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)6:36 AM Dortmund
2h49
9:25 AM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)7:36 AM Dortmund
2h50
10:26 AM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)8:10 AM Dortmund
2h43
10:53 AM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)8:36 AM Dortmund
2h49
11:25 AM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)8:39 AM Dortmund
3h12
11:51 AM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)9:16 AM Dortmund
4h05
1:21 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)9:36 AM Dortmund
2h50
12:26 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)10:36 AM Dortmund
2h49
1:25 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)11:36 AM Dortmund
2h50
2:26 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)12:11 PM Dortmund
2h42
2:53 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)12:36 PM Dortmund
2h49
3:25 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)1:36 PM Dortmund
2h50
4:26 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)2:11 PM Dortmund
2h42
4:53 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)2:36 PM Dortmund
2h49
5:25 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)3:36 PM Dortmund
2h50
6:26 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)4:09 PM Dortmund
2h44
6:53 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)4:36 PM Dortmund
2h49
7:25 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)5:36 PM Dortmund
2h50
8:26 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)6:11 PM Dortmund
2h42
8:53 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)6:36 PM Dortmund
2h49
9:25 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)7:36 PM Dortmund
2h50
10:26 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)8:36 PM Dortmund
2h49
11:25 PM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)10:45 PM Dortmund
3h23
2:08 AM Ludwigshafen0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Dortmund to Ludwigshafen by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Tue
May 26
Wed
May 27
Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01

Why should you book Dortmund to Ludwigshafen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen.

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 Ludwigshafen.
  • 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 14m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $86 (€69) but you can travel from only $23 (€18) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:55, the last at 17:48. The fastest train covers the 147 miles (237 km) distance in 4h 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 $23 (€18)
Distance
147 miles (237 km)
Average train duration
3h 14m
Cheapest ticket price
$86 (€69)
Trains per day
11
Fastest train
4h 16m
First train
12:55 AM
Last train
5:48 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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 $23 (€18)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Dortmund and Ludwigshafen from $23 (€18). 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
4h 16m
Cheapest Price
$97 (€78)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
10 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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
$64 (€52)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

FAQs: Trains from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen 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 Ludwigshafen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $86 (€69), while the average price is around $103 (€83).
The train from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen takes 4h 16m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen leaves at 12:55 AM.
The distance by train from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen is 147 miles (237 km).
The last train from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen leaves at 5:48 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen.
The train station in Dortmund that goes to Ludwigshafen is Dortmund Hbf, which connects to Ludwigshafen Central Station.
The cheapest way to get from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen is by bus, with a cost of around $23 (€18).
The train journey from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen am Rhein offers varied scenery, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, with views of rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages along the way.
A day trip from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen am Rhein is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 16m. There are 6 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 147 miles (237 km).
To fully experience Ludwigshafen am Rhein, including its cultural sites and nearby attractions, spending 1 to 2 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen.
Since both Dortmund and Ludwigshafen 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 Ludwigshafen include Frankfurt am Main, Stuttgart, Mainz, Karlsruhe, Bad Kreuznach.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen 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 Ludwigshafen am Rhein, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and public transport. It's advisable to stay vigilant when using ATMs and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting travelers, but standard precautions against common travel scams are recommended.
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 Ludwigshafen

Dortmund
Ludwigshafen
The major train station for departures in Dortmund is Dortmund Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dortmund Hbf for your trip from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
Dining
  • Subway
  • Caliente
  • Ong Bui Asia Fusion
  • Kleimann
Hotel
Hotel
  • Cityhotel Dortmund
  • Esplanade
  • Drei Kronen
  • Hotel Unique Novum
Dortmund MöllerbrückeWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Subway
  • Kleimann
  • Linus
  • Teheran
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ringhotel Drees
  • Cityhotel Dortmund
  • Hotel Fürst garden
  • Hotel Unique Novum
Dortmund StadthausWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
Dining
Dining
  • Westermanns Deli
  • Subway
  • Caliente
  • Ong Bui Asia Fusion
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ringhotel Drees
  • La Villa am Kaiserbrunnen
  • Hotel Neuhaus
  • Cityhotel Dortmund

More options for your journey from Dortmund to Ludwigshafen

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone