Erfurt to Frankfurt train with Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Thu, Jun 25
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Erfurt to Frankfurt

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Erfurt to Frankfurt among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, and a train costs an average of $56.

Distance: 119 miles (192 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$56

Average price

$29

Average price

Cheapest

$45

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 45m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 3m

Average total duration

3h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 2m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Erfurt to Frankfurt is a bus with an average price of $29 (€24).

This is compared to other travel options from Erfurt to Frankfurt:

A bus is $27 (€22) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Erfurt to Frankfurt costing on average $56 (€46).

The fastest way to travel from Erfurt to Frankfurt is by train with an average journey time of 2h 15m.

Other travel options to Frankfurt take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 33m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Erfurt and Frankfurt including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt to Frankfurt 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 47m sooner (2h 15m by train vs 3h 2m by car). Tickets start at around $56 (€46) compared to roughly $45 (€37) 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 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.

Compare prices and tickets Erfurt to Frankfurt 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.

Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Mon
Jun 29
Tue
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Erfurt to Frankfurt

userReviewImage
userReviewLogo
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconPrice
IconComfort
IconSpeed
Disadvantages
IconCleanliness
IconService
IconPunctuality
All in all, I am very happy with my journey from Frankfurt to Erfurt. The ticket was good value and the ICE was comfortable. Unfortunately, the train was a bit dirty and the conductor a bit unfriendly. We were also a little late at our destination. All in all, I would book the trip again.
Advantages
IconQuick
IconClean
IconOn time
Disadvantages
IconNo wifi
I travelled second class on the ICE 1537 from Frankfurt to Erfurt. It was a pleasant journey without delays. I personally found the journey time of just under 2 hours quite short. The train was tidy and clean, and it was a relatively new train. The seats were comfortable and more ergonomic. I found it a pity that the wifi was not available for unknown reasons. Otherwise, I can recommend this connection.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Erfurt to Frankfurt

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Erfurt to Frankfurt run on average 16 times per day, taking around 2h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $56 (€46) but you can travel from only $28 (€23) by bus.

There are 16 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:29, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 119 miles (192 km) distance in 2h 6m.

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 (€23)
Distance
119 miles (192 km)
Average train duration
2h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
$56 (€46)
Trains per day
16
Direct trains
16
Fastest train
2h 6m
First train
5:29 AM
Last train
11:45 PM
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 (€23)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Erfurt to Frankfurt trainsDeutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Erfurt and Frankfurt from $28 (€23). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€46)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

FAQs: Trains from Erfurt to Frankfurt

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Erfurt to Frankfurt can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $56 (€46), while the average price is around $56 (€46).
The train from Erfurt to Frankfurt takes 2h 6m and runs 16 per day.
The first train from Erfurt to Frankfurt leaves at 5:29 AM.
The distance by train from Erfurt to Frankfurt is 119 miles (192 km).
The last train from Erfurt to Frankfurt leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Erfurt to Frankfurt.
Yes, there is a direct train from Erfurt to Frankfurt. This service operates 16 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Erfurt to Frankfurt.
The cheapest way to get from Erfurt to Frankfurt is by bus, with a cost of around $28 (€23).
The train journey from Erfurt to Frankfurt offers a pleasant experience with views of the Thuringian Forest and charming countryside, although it is not considered one of Europe's most scenic routes.
A day trip from Erfurt to Frankfurt may not be feasible as the travel time is 2h 6m. However, there are 16 train connections available per day for this 119 miles (192 km) journey.
To explore Frankfurt's main attractions, such as the Römer, Städel Museum, and Palmengarten, and to enjoy the local cuisine and shopping, 2 to 3 days are typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Erfurt to Frankfurt.
Frankfurt is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Erfurt will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt to Frankfurt 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 Frankfurt, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and individuals posing as plainclothes police officers asking for ID or money. It's advisable to keep belongings secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help.
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.

More options for your journey from Erfurt to Frankfurt

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

Return journeys for trains from Frankfurt to Erfurt
Tickets and more information for trains to Erfurt
HomeTrainsTrains in GermanyErfurt to Frankfurt train

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