- Must visit
Museum Hof van Busleyden
Mechelen’s flagship city museum in a Renaissance palace, presenting art, humanism, and Burgundian history in an impressive setting.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Dortmund to Mechelen
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Dortmund to Mechelen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $42 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, while a flight costs an average of $570.
Distance: 133 miles (215 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$98 Average price | $570 Average price | $42 Average price Cheapest | $49 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 59m Average total duration Fastest 3h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration 2h 15m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 54m Average total duration 6h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Dortmund to Mechelen is a bus with an average price of $42 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from Dortmund to Mechelen:
A bus is $56 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dortmund to Mechelen costing on average $98 (€79).
A bus is $529 (€428) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Dortmund to Mechelen costing on average $570 (€461).
The fastest way to travel from Dortmund to Mechelen is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 15m.
Other travel options to Mechelen take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 29m.
Bus takes on average 6h 24m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Dortmund and Mechelen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund to Mechelen 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 $98 (€79) compared to roughly $49 (€39) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-49.20 (€-39.79). The journey takes 3h 29m versus 3h 11m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Dortmund to Mechelen 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 Dortmund to Mechelen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) as well as Eurostar offer trains services from Dortmund to Mechelen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Dortmund to Mechelen.
- 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 Intercity (DB IC) with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Dortmund to Mechelen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Dortmund to Mechelen
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Dortmund to Mechelen run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $69 (€56) but you can travel from only $28 (€22) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:20, the last at 20:14. The fastest train covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 3h 15m.
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 $28 (€22)
Distance 133 miles (215 km) |
Average train duration 3h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $69 (€56) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 3h 15m |
First train 1:20 AM |
Last train 8:14 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 $28 (€22)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Dortmund to Mechelen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Dortmund and Mechelen from $28 (€22). 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$69 (€56)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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 Mechelen
Things to do in Mechelen
Discover the best of Mechelen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Mechelen trip today.
- Must visit
Kazerne Dossin
A powerful memorial museum about the Holocaust and human rights, internationally respected for its thoughtful permanent exhibition.
- Recommended
Clock and Watch Museum
Interactive museum on clocks, carillons, and bell-ringing traditions, ideal for understanding Mechelen’s renowned musical heritage.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
Mechelen’s central square, framed by monumental buildings and lively terraces, is the natural starting point for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Grand Beguinage
A peaceful UNESCO-listed quarter of cobbled lanes, small houses, and gardens that preserves the atmosphere of historic beguine life.
- Must visit
Skywalk
A scenic tower-top viewpoint with sweeping views over the city and beyond, especially rewarding in clear weather.
- Vegetarian
Gouden Carolus Classic
A dark, malty Belgian strong ale brewed in Mechelen since the 15th century. It is the city’s signature beer and closely tied to local identity.
- Vegetarian
Gouden Carolus Christmas
A richer, spiced Christmas version of Gouden Carolus, released seasonally. It is famous among Belgian beer lovers and strongly linked to Mechelen’s brewery tradition.
- Vegetarian
Maneblusser
A pale, hoppy Belgian ale from Het Anker in Mechelen. It reflects the city’s long brewing heritage and is a staple for visitors exploring local beers.
Tinèlle
Refined fine dining in a historic setting, known for modern Belgian cuisine and polished service. A destination restaurant for special occasions.
Cosma Foodhouse
Well-regarded restaurant focused on seasonal Belgian cuisine with a warm, contemporary atmosphere. Good choice for a polished dinner in Mechelen.
Brasserie Het Anker
Historic brewery restaurant at Het Anker, best for Gouden Carolus beers and hearty Flemish dishes in a traditional, lively atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local transit is reasonable. Cheaper than Brussels in many cases, but not a budget destination.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up. Small change for cafes is appreciated.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Mechelen Station -> Grote Markt, Mechelen
- Distance
- 1.4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can pay contactless on De Lijn buses and trams; the contactless fare is the standard single fare.
- Mechelen local buses are operated by De Lijn. Buy tickets in the De Lijn app or use contactless onboard to avoid higher paper ticket costs.
FAQs: Trains from Dortmund to Mechelen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dortmund to Mechelen 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 Mechelen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Dortmund to Mechelen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $69 (€56), while the average price is around $98 (€79).
The train from Dortmund to Mechelen takes 3h 15m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Dortmund to Mechelen is 133 miles (215 km).
The first train from Dortmund to Mechelen leaves at 1:20 AM.
The last train from Dortmund to Mechelen leaves at 8:14 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Dortmund to Mechelen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Dortmund to Mechelen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Dortmund to Mechelen.
The train station in Dortmund that goes to Mechelen is Dortmund Hbf, which connects to Mechelen station.
The cheapest way to get from Dortmund to Mechelen is by bus, with a cost of around $28 (€22).
The train journey from Dortmund to Mechelen offers picturesque views, especially as it passes through the scenic landscapes of the German and Belgian countryside, with rolling hills, lush greenery, and charming towns along the route.
A day trip from Dortmund to Mechelen is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 15m and the distance is 133 miles (215 km). However, there are 8 train trips available per day.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Mechelen's historical sites, museums, and local cuisine, while also enjoying its charming atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Dortmund to Mechelen.
Since both Dortmund and Mechelen 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 Mechelen include Brussels, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Paris, Breda.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dortmund to Mechelen 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Mechelen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or unauthorized ticket sellers can also occur. Staying vigilant in busy places and using official transportation services helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Dortmund to Mechelen
Most Dortmund to Mechelen trains use the Dortmund Hbf to Mechelen station pair, with some services arriving at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel. Use this guide to compare Dortmund and Mechelen 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 Mechelen
Which Dortmund station do trains to Mechelen leave from?
Trains from Dortmund to Mechelen 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.
Dortmund StadthausDortmund-Stadthaus, Ruhrallee/Sonnenstr., 44149 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund Stadthaus from Dortmund city centre
Bus400, Sev · 9m · every ~11 min
SubwayU49, U47, U45, U41 · 3m · every ~51 min
Dortmund Stadthaus train station facilities and services
Dortmund Stadthaus 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: Westermanns Deli, Subway, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Stadthaus. ATMs are available at Dortmund Stadthaus.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Stadthaus. Information desks are available at Dortmund Stadthaus.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Stadthaus. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund Stadthaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund Stadthaus: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Stadthaus.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ringhotel Drees, La Villa am Kaiserbrunnen, Hotel Neuhaus, Cityhotel Dortmund.
Dortmund MöllerbrückeDortmund-Möllerbrücke, Hollestr., 44137 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund Möllerbrücke from Dortmund city centre
Dortmund Möllerbrücke is 1 km from Dortmund city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus400 · 23m · every ~10 min
SubwayU42 · 4m · every ~12 min
Dortmund Möllerbrücke train station facilities and services
Dortmund Möllerbrücke 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, Kleimann, Linus, Teheran
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke. ATMs are available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke. Information desks are available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Möllerbrücke.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ringhotel Drees, Cityhotel Dortmund, Hotel Fürst garden, Hotel Unique Novum.
Which Mechelen station do trains from Dortmund arrive at?
Trains from Dortmund to Mechelen most often arrive at Mechelen. Some services arrive at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Mechelen arrival station.
MechelenStationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium+32 15 29 80 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 1a · 3m · $4 · every ~12 min
Mechelen train station facilities and services
Mechelen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant De Graspoort, Il Cardinale
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mechelen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mechelen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mechelen: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Mechelen, Hotel Elisabeth, Martin's Patershof.
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel2800 Mechelen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen-Nekkerspoel from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1 · 8m · $4 · every ~5 min
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel train station facilities and services
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Most popular train connections from Dortmund
More options for your journey from Dortmund to Mechelen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Mechelen and Dortmund
Most popular train connections to Mechelen
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