- Must visit
Optisches Museum Jena
Major science center with hands-on exhibitions on light, optics, and perception, ideal for families and curious adults.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Erfurt to Jena
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Erfurt to Jena among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 29m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $8, and a train costs an average of $21.
Distance: 24 miles (39 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$24 Average price | $8 Average price Cheapest | $7 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
59m Average total duration Fastest 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 5m Average total duration 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 52m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Erfurt to Jena is a bus with an average price of $8 (€8).
This is compared to other travel options from Erfurt to Jena:
A bus is $16 (€16) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Erfurt to Jena costing on average $24 (€24).
The fastest way to travel from Erfurt to Jena is by train with an average journey time of 29m.
Other travel options to Jena take longer:
Bus takes on average 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Erfurt and Jena including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt to Jena 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 23m sooner (29m by train vs 52m by car). Tickets start at around $24 (€24) compared to roughly $7 (€7) 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, Preßnitztalbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
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
Erfurt to Jena train times
The table below shows live departures for Erfurt to Jena trains for today, Monday, July 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
.png) | 3:52 PM Erfurt | 0h28 | 4:20 PM Jena | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 4:00 PM Erfurt | 0h39 | 4:39 PM Jena | 1 transfer | |
| 4:20 PM Erfurt | 0h28 | 4:48 PM Jena | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:51 PM Erfurt | 0h29 | 5:20 PM Jena | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 5:16 PM Erfurt | 0h35 | 5:51 PM Jena | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Erfurt to Jena 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.
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Why should you book Erfurt to Jena trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Preßnitztalbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), ABELLIO Rail Mitteldeutschland GmbH and more offer trains services from Erfurt to Jena.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Erfurt to Jena.
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 Preßnitztalbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or ABELLIO Rail Mitteldeutschland GmbH to find the best option for your trip from Erfurt to Jena.
- 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 Erfurt to Jena.
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 Erfurt to Jena.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Erfurt to Jena
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
Equipment of the trainSeats were very comfortableAll toilets functionalDisadvantages
Overcrowded train resulting in stressed staffMany stops on this route with the regional trainThe train journey between Erfurt and Jena was a rather mediocre experience. Even though the train itself didn't have any particular flaws, it was unfortunately very overcrowded, which meant that the staff were also extremely stressed and couldn't really do their job, many people didn't have a seat and it was therefore quite cramped and uncomfortable on the train, the route itself is a nice one, but it is noticeable that when you travel by regional train, there are an extremely large number of stops, which takes the flow out of the journey a bit and this uneven movement makes the route feel even longer than it actually is
Journey information
Overview: Train from Erfurt to Jena
GermanyGermany
Trains from Erfurt to Jena run on average 1 times per day, taking around 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€21) but you can travel from only $8 (€8) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:15, the last at 05:22. The fastest train covers the 24 miles (39 km) distance in 29m.
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 $8 (€8)
Distance 24 miles (39 km) |
Average train duration 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€21) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 29m |
First train 2:15 AM |
Last train 5:22 AM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
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 $8 (€8)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Preßnitztalbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), ABELLIO Rail Mitteldeutschland GmbH from Erfurt to Jena trainsDeutsche Bahn, Preßnitztalbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), ABELLIO Rail Mitteldeutschland GmbH trains will get you between Erfurt and Jena from $8 (€8). 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
29m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€23)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
1 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
Preßnitztalbahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
34m
Preßnitztalbahn frequency
7 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
29m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€25)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
26m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€14)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
13 a day
ABELLIO Rail Mitteldeutschland GmbH
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
38m
ABELLIO Rail Mitteldeutschland GmbH frequency
6 a day
Complete guide to Jena
Things to do in Jena
Discover the best of Jena — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Jena trip today.
- Recommended
Universitätsmuseum Jena
University museum presenting the city's academic history, student culture, and notable scholars in a compact setting.
- Recommended
Schillers Gartenhaus
Literary memorial house dedicated to Romantic writer Friedrich Schiller, who lived and worked in Jena.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Central market square framed by historic buildings, a main gathering point and practical base for exploring old Jena.
- Must visit
Botanischer Garten Jena
One of Germany's oldest botanical gardens, ideal for a peaceful walk among themed plant collections and greenhouses.
- Recommended
Jenzig
Popular limestone hill viewpoint above the city with rewarding hikes and classic vistas over Jena and the Saale valley.
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Thuringia’s famous grilled pork sausage, seasoned with marjoram and traditionally cooked over charcoal. It is one of the region’s best-known street foods.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Thüringer Klöße
A hearty potato dumpling central to Thuringian cooking, usually served with roasts and gravy. It is a defining staple of Sunday and festive meals.
Rinderroulade
Slow-cooked beef roulade filled with bacon, onion, mustard, and pickles. It is a classic celebratory dish across Thuringia and often paired with dumplings.
Scala Restaurant
Refined fine dining with modern German cuisine and tasting menus in an elegant setting. A strong choice for a special meal in Jena.
Zur Noll
Historic traditional inn known for Thuringian specialties, local beer, and a warm rustic atmosphere. Good for classic regional dishes.
Brauhaus Papiermühle
Popular brewery restaurant serving hearty German fare and house-brewed beer in a lively, casual setting near the center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels, dining, and local transit are generally cheaper than in Berlin or Munich, but pricier than smaller towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a 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, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares and leave small change at cafes for good service.
FAQs: Trains from Erfurt to Jena
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Erfurt to Jena 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 Jena, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Erfurt to Jena can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€21), while the average price is around $24 (€24).
The train from Erfurt to Jena runs once a day and takes approximately 29m.
The distance by train from Erfurt to Jena is 24 miles (39 km).
The first train from Erfurt to Jena leaves at 2:15 AM.
The last train from Erfurt to Jena leaves at 5:22 AM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Erfurt to Jena. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Preßnitztalbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Erfurt to Jena.
The train station in Erfurt that goes to Jena is Erfurt Hbf, which connects to Jena Paradies station.
The cheapest way to get from Erfurt to Jena is by bus, with a cost of around $8 (€8).
Yes, the train journey from Erfurt to Jena is quite scenic, as it passes through the picturesque Thuringian countryside, offering views of rolling hills, forests, and charming small towns.
Yes, a day trip from Erfurt to Jena is feasible. The journey takes 29m and covers 24 miles (39 km). There is 1 train per day.
Two to three days in Jena is ideal to explore its cultural landmarks, such as the Zeiss Planetarium, the Optical Museum, and the scenic Saale Valley, while also enjoying the local cuisine and vibrant student atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Erfurt to Jena.
Since both Erfurt and Jena 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 Jena include Leipzig, Saalfeld/Saale, Magdeburg, Weimar, Lichtenfels.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Erfurt to Jena 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 Jena, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded places like public transportation and popular tourist spots. It is advisable to stay alert when using ATMs and avoid sharing personal information with strangers. Overall, Jena is considered a safe city, but standard precautions for urban areas 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 Jena
Most Erfurt to Jena trains use the Erfurt Hbf to Jena West station pair, with some services arriving at Jena-Göschwitz. Use this guide to compare Erfurt and Jena 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 Jena
Which Erfurt station do trains to Jena leave from?
Trains from Erfurt to Jena 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 Jena station do trains from Erfurt arrive at?
Trains from Erfurt to Jena most often arrive at Jena West. Some services arrive at Jena-Göschwitz, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Jena arrival station.
Jena West07745 Jena, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena West from Jena city centre
Jena West is 1 km from Jena city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10, 12, 11 · 3m · every ~17 min
410 · 8m · every ~2 min
Jena West train station facilities and services
Jena West 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: Eiscafe RIVA, Portofino, Wein-Tanne, Subway
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena West. ATMs are available at Jena West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena West. Information desks are available at Jena West.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena West. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena West: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena West.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis, Thüringer Hof, Hotel Vielharmonie, Hotel Rasenmühle.
Jena-GöschwitzJena-Göschwitz, Am Bahnhof 2, 07745 Jena
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena-Göschwitz from Jena city centre
Jena-Göschwitz is 4 km from Jena city centre. Public transport options include:
Train61, 18, Ic51, 51 · 4m · $2
Bus492, 481, 480 · 25m
12 · 33m · every ~5 min
Tram5, 4, 1 · 11m · every ~10 min
5, 4 · 13m · every ~19 min
Jena-Göschwitz train station facilities and services
Jena-Göschwitz 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: Gleis3viertel, Imbiss, Diener's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena-Göschwitz. ATMs are available at Jena-Göschwitz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena-Göschwitz. Information desks are available at Jena-Göschwitz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena-Göschwitz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena-Göschwitz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena-Göschwitz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena-Göschwitz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Haus Orchideental.
Jena Paradies07743 Jena, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Jena Paradies from Jena city centre
Bus431, 426, 422, 420, 410 · 3m · every ~3 min
Tram2 · 6m · every ~10 min
Jena Paradies train station facilities and services
Jena Paradies 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: Eiscafe RIVA, Portofino, Wein-Tanne, Subway
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Jena Paradies. ATMs are available at Jena Paradies.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Jena Paradies. Information desks are available at Jena Paradies.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Jena Paradies. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Jena Paradies: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Jena Paradies: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Jena Paradies.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis, Thüringer Hof, Hotel Vielharmonie, Hotel Rasenmühle.
Most popular train connections from Erfurt
More options for your journey from Erfurt to Jena
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Jena and Erfurt
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