- Must visit
Museum Schloss Horst
Renaissance castle museum with exhibitions on archaeology, local history, and changing art shows in one of the city's finest historic sites.
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Travel Information
Compare train for Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €95 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 15m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €95, while a train costs an average of €95.
Distance: 172 miles (278 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
€95 Average price Cheapest | €49 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 15m Average total duration Fastest 4h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 13m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen is a train with an average price of €95.
The fastest way to travel from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen is by train with an average journey time of 4h 45m.
Yes, you can take a train between Erfurt and Gelsenkirchen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen 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 €95 compared to roughly €49 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-45.90. The journey takes 4h 45m versus 4h 13m 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
Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen train times
The table below shows live departures for Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:07 AM Erfurt | 5h17 | 1:24 PM Gelsenkirchen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen by train
Compare 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.
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Why should you book Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen.
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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen run on average 12 times per day, taking around 4h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €51 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 172 miles (278 km) distance in 4h 1m.
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
Distance 172 miles (278 km) |
Average train duration 4h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price €51 |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 4h 1m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 7 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Erfurt and Gelsenkirchen from €51. 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
4h 1m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€51
Deutsche Bahn frequency
20 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 Gelsenkirchen
Things to do in Gelsenkirchen
Discover the best of Gelsenkirchen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gelsenkirchen trip today.
- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Gelsenkirchen
Leading modern art museum in the Ruhr, noted for kinetic and contemporary works and ambitious temporary exhibitions.
- Recommended
Apothekenmuseum Schloss Horst
Museum documenting pharmacy history inside Schloss Horst, with historic equipment and displays on medicine and daily life.
- Must visit
Nordsternpark
Large leisure park on a former colliery, combining industrial heritage, greenery, playgrounds, and canal-side walking routes.
- Must visit
ZOOM Erlebniswelt
Extensive zoo and landscaped grounds famous for Alaska-themed habitats and family-friendly outdoor exploration.
- Recommended
Schlosspark Berge
Elegant lakeside park around Schloss Berge, popular for strolling, boating views, and relaxed green space in Buer.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A hearty Ruhr-area potato stew with vegetables and sausage or bacon. It is a classic workers’ dish long associated with everyday home cooking in the region.
Himmel und Äd
Pan-fried blood sausage with mashed potatoes and apples. Common across North Rhine-Westphalia, it is a traditional pub and home-style comfort meal.
Mettbrötchen
Cured minced pork spread served on rye bread with onions. Popular in the Ruhr and nearby Westphalia as a simple, traditional snack or supper item.
Restaurant Hexenstube
Refined fine-dining restaurant in Gelsenkirchen known for modern German cuisine, careful presentation, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Haus Lüttinghof
Traditional brewery-style venue serving hearty German and Ruhr-area dishes in a relaxed, rustic setting popular for local beer and classic comfort food.
Restaurant Haus Leithe
Well-known casual venue for German grills, schnitzel, and regional comfort food with a lively, approachable atmosphere suited to groups and families.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels are often cheaper than in major cities, while dining and local transit are fairly typical for the region.
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
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €7.60
To the city center
Gelsenkirchen Hbf -> Heinrich-König-Platz, Gelsenkirchen
- Distance
- 350 m
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Buy VRR tickets in the VRR App or at ticket machines before boarding. On many buses, card payment may be limited, so buying in advance is safer.
- Gelsenkirchen Hbf is already in the city center. Walking is usually fastest for central destinations such as Heinrich-König-Platz.
FAQs: Trains from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €51, while the average price is around €95.
The train from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen takes 4h 1m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen is 172 miles (278 km).
The last train from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 11:30 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen.
The train station in Erfurt that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Erfurt Hbf, which connects to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen is by train, with a cost of around €51.
The train journey from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen offers a diverse landscape experience, featuring rolling hills, picturesque towns, and stretches of greenery, particularly as you pass through the Thuringian region and parts of North Rhine-Westphalia, making it a moderately scenic route.
A day trip from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen is not feasible as the travel duration is 4h 1m. However, there are 9 train trips available per day. The distance between the two cities is 172 miles (278 km).
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore the main attractions in Gelsenkirchen, including the Veltins-Arena, ZOOM Erlebniswelt, and the Nordsternpark.
Yes, you can take the train from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen.
Since both Erfurt and Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Arnhem, Eindhoven, Osnabrück.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and major train stations. Common scams include fake charity collectors and distraction techniques in busy spots. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and stay alert in nightlife districts to avoid petty theft. Overall, standard urban safety precautions apply.
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 Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen
Most Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Erfurt Hbf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Erfurt and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Erfurt
Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Which Erfurt station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?
Trains from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen leave from Erfurt Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Erfurt city centre at Erfurt Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 12, 99084 Erfurt.
Erfurt HbfErfurt Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 12, 99084 Erfurt
City-centre transport
Getting to Erfurt Hbf from Erfurt city centre
Bus9 · 17m · every ~12 min
Tram6, 5, 1 · 5m · every ~20 min
Erfurt Hbf train station facilities and services
Erfurt 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: Istanbul Grill, McDonald's, Masala, Planet Comics
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erfurt Hbf. ATMs are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erfurt Hbf. Information desks are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erfurt Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erfurt Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erfurt Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erfurt Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Krämerbrücke, Intercity Hotel, Pension am Dom, Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior.
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains from Erfurt arrive at?
Trains from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Gelsenkirchen city centre.
Gelsenkirchen HbfGelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gelsenkirchen Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
BusE51, 382, 348 · 12m · every ~10 min
Gelsenkirchen Hbf train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen 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, Café Madrid, Shere Punjab, Café del Sol
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel St. Petrus.
Most popular train connections from Erfurt
More options for your journey from Erfurt to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Erfurt
Most popular train connections to Gelsenkirchen
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