- Recommended
Museum Jagdhaus Gabelbach
The city's main museum on Ilmenau's mining, glass, porcelain, and Goethe connections, housed in a historic building.
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Travel Information
Compare train for Erlangen to Ilmenau
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Erlangen to Ilmenau among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 41m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $29, and a train costs an average of $29.
Distance: 75 miles (121 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$29 Average price Cheapest | $23 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 11m Average total duration Fastest 2h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Erlangen to Ilmenau is a train with an average price of $29 (€29).
The fastest way to travel from Erlangen to Ilmenau is by train with an average journey time of 2h 41m.
Yes, you can take a train between Erlangen and Ilmenau.
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 $29 (€29) compared to roughly $23 (€23) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-6.79 (€-6.79). The journey takes 2h 41m versus 1h 51m 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 Erlangen to Ilmenau by train
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Erlangen to Ilmenau
GermanyGermany
Trains from Erlangen to Ilmenau run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€29) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 08:18, the last at 13:18. The fastest train covers the 75 miles (121 km) distance in 2h 41m.
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 75 miles (121 km) |
Average train duration 2h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€29) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 41m |
First train 8:18 AM |
Last train 1:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 3 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
Complete guide to Ilmenau
Things to do in Ilmenau
Discover the best of Ilmenau — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ilmenau trip today.
- Recommended
Goethemuseum Jagdhaus Gabelbach
Goethe-focused memorial site in the forest with literary history and exhibits tied to his stays in the Ilmenau area.
- Recommended
Thermometermuseum Geraberg
Technical museum preserving a historic glass thermometer factory, showing Ilmenau's scientific instrument tradition.
- Must visit
Kickelhahn
Popular mountain summit and walking area above town, loved for forests, viewpoints, and Goethe-related landmarks.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Central square framed by historic buildings, events, and shops. It is the best starting point for exploring old Ilmenau.
- Recommended
Talsperre Heyda
Scenic reservoir and leisure area on the edge of town, suitable for relaxed walks and views of the surrounding hills.
- Vegetarian
Thüringer Klöße
A rustic Thuringian potato dumpling, often served with roast meat and gravy. It is a regional staple and a classic of home-style Sunday meals.
- Gluten-free
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Coarse grilled pork sausage seasoned with marjoram and caraway. It is one of Thuringia’s best-known foods and widely eaten at inns and markets.
Rinderroulade Thüringer Art
Slow-cooked beef roulade filled with bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles. A beloved festive dish across Thuringia, usually served with dumplings and red cabbage.
Restaurant Irodion
Established Greek restaurant popular for grilled meats, generous portions, and a friendly relaxed atmosphere near the town center.
Hotel Tanne
Historic hotel restaurant serving regional and seasonal cuisine in a more refined setting, suitable for a classic sit-down dinner.
Brauhaus zum Löwen
Traditional brewery restaurant known for hearty Thuringian dishes and beer-focused dining in a casual, rustic setting.
Euro (€)
More affordable than big German cities. Hotels, dining, and local transit are usually cheaper, though options are smaller and peak event dates can raise prices.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10%; for taxis, round up; in cafes, leave small change.
VMT Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.30
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Ilmenau station -> Marktplatz Ilmenau
- Distance
- 850 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Local buses in Ilmenau are part of the VMT network; check current fares and timetables in the VMT Tickets app or on the VMT website.
- For central Ilmenau, walking from Ilmenau station is usually quickest. Verify onboard card payment with the operator before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Erlangen to Ilmenau
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Erlangen to Ilmenau 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 Ilmenau, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Erlangen to Ilmenau can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€29), while the average price is around $29 (€29).
The train from Erlangen to Ilmenau takes 2h 41m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Erlangen to Ilmenau is 75 miles (121 km).
The first train from Erlangen to Ilmenau leaves at 8:18 AM.
The last train from Erlangen to Ilmenau leaves at 1:18 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Erlangen to Ilmenau.
The train station in Erlangen that goes to Ilmenau is Erlangen station, which connects to Ilmenau station.
The cheapest way to get from Erlangen to Ilmenau is by train, with a cost of around $29 (€29).
The train journey from Erlangen to Ilmenau offers a scenic route with views of the Thuringian Forest, picturesque countryside, and charming small towns along the way, providing a pleasant travel experience.
A day trip from Erlangen to Ilmenau is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 41m and the frequency is 6 per day for trains. The distance is 75 miles (121 km).
To fully explore Ilmenau's attractions, including the Goethe Museum, local hiking trails, and the Thuringian Forest, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
No, you cannot take the train from Erlangen to Ilmenau.
Since both Erlangen and Ilmenau 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 Ilmenau include Erfurt, Arnstadt, Bamberg, Leipzig, Halle.
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 Ilmenau, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing in crowded areas and on public transportation. It is advisable to stay vigilant in busy places, especially around train stations and popular attractions. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting visitors, but standard precautions like avoiding unsolicited offers and securing personal belongings are recommended. Overall, Ilmenau is considered a safe destination with low crime rates.
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 Erlangen to Ilmenau
Most Erlangen to Ilmenau trains use the Erlangen to Ilmenau station pair. Use this guide to compare Erlangen and Ilmenau train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Erlangen
Arrival train stations in Ilmenau
Which Erlangen station do trains to Ilmenau leave from?
Trains from Erlangen to Ilmenau leave from Erlangen. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Erlangen city centre at Erlangen, Bahnhofsplatz 1, 91054 Erlangen.
ErlangenErlangen, Bahnhofsplatz 1, 91054 Erlangen
City-centre transport
Getting to Erlangen from Erlangen city centre
Bus295, 290, 289 · 4m · $3 · every ~14 min
Erlangen train station facilities and services
Erlangen 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: Basilikum, Ilias, Ristorante Carpaccio, Goldene Sonne
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Erlangen. ATMs are available at Erlangen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Erlangen. Information desks are available at Erlangen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Erlangen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Erlangen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Erlangen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Erlangen.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Hotel, A. B. Hotel, Zeitwohnhaus, Hotel Villa Soy.
Which Ilmenau station do trains from Erlangen arrive at?
Trains from Erlangen to Ilmenau arrive at Ilmenau. Ilmenau is from Ilmenau city centre.
IlmenauIlmenau, Am Bahndamm 10, 98693 Ilmenau
City-centre transport
Getting to Ilmenau from Ilmenau city centre
Bus300, A · 4m · every ~2 min
Ilmenau train station facilities and services
Ilmenau has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: City-Grill, MaBe`s Grillbar, Subway, Ratskeller
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ilmenau. ATMs are available at Ilmenau.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ilmenau. Information desks are available at Ilmenau.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ilmenau. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ilmenau: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ilmenau: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ilmenau.
Most popular train connections from Erlangen
More options for your journey from Erlangen to Ilmenau
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ilmenau and Erlangen
Most popular train connections to Ilmenau
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