Essen to Gelsenkirchen train with FlixTrain

Wed, Aug 05
+ Add return
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Essen to Gelsenkirchen

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Essen to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from zł23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 9m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of zł23, and a train costs an average of zł21.

Distance: 6 miles (10 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

zł28

Average price

zł23

Average price

Cheapest

zł8

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

39m

Average total duration

Fastest

9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

56m

Average total duration

26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

23m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.0 - 0.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

FlixTrain

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 Essen to Gelsenkirchen is a bus with an average price of zł23.

This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Gelsenkirchen:

A bus is zł5 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Gelsenkirchen costing on average zł28.

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Gelsenkirchen is by train with an average journey time of 9m.

Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:

Bus takes on average 26m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Gelsenkirchen 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 14m sooner (9m by train vs 23m by car). Tickets start at around zł28 compared to roughly zł8 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 FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn, 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.

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Gelsenkirchen 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.

Wed
Aug 05
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Aug 07
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Aug 08
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Aug 11

Why should you book Essen to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?

FlixTrain as well as Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) and more offer trains services from Essen to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for FlixTrain tickets.

Why book with Omio vs FlixTrain?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixTrain, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Gelsenkirchen.
  • 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 FlixTrain with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Gelsenkirchen.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Essen to Gelsenkirchen

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
IconClean train and hygienic toilets
IconSufficient equipment
IconNo delays and no need to change trains
IconFriendly staff with competent announcements
IconNo high capacity utilisation
Disadvantages
IconVery loud in the passenger compartment due to many families
The train from Essen to Gelsenkirchen wasn't that full, but it was very noisy as there were a lot of families on the train. Apart from that, the seats were very comfortable and the train had power sockets and an internet connection. The seats and aisles were clean and I found the toilets to be hygienic. The staff here were friendly and made good and informative announcements, which were very competent, especially when it came to connections. This train was very punctual and I didn't have to change trains. All in all, it was a good journey!

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Gelsenkirchen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Gelsenkirchen run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at zł21 if you book in advance.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 6 miles (10 km) distance in 11m.

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
6 miles (10 km)
Average train duration
9m
Cheapest ticket price
zł21
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
11m
First train
12:12 AM
Last train
9:23 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Best time to book
1 day
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: FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Essen to Gelsenkirchen trainsFlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Essen and Gelsenkirchen from zł21. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11m
Cheapest Price
zł21
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

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
8m
Cheapest Price
zł37
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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9m
Cheapest Price
zł96
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
4 a day

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8m
Cheapest Price
zł41
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
18 a day

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

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.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Essen to Gelsenkirchen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at zł21, while the average price is around zł28.
The train from Essen to Gelsenkirchen takes 11m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Essen to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 12:12 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Gelsenkirchen is 6 miles (10 km).
The last train from Essen to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 9:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Essen to Gelsenkirchen.
Yes, there is a direct train from Essen to Gelsenkirchen. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Gelsenkirchen.
The train station in Essen that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Essen Hbf, which connects to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Gelsenkirchen is by train, with a cost of around zł21.
The train journey from Essen to Gelsenkirchen is primarily urban and industrial, offering limited scenic views, with occasional glimpses of green spaces and residential areas.
Yes, a day trip from Essen to Gelsenkirchen is feasible with a journey duration of 11m and a distance of 6 miles (10 km). There are 2 trips available per day by train.
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 Essen to Gelsenkirchen.
Since both Essen 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Essen 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 Essen to Gelsenkirchen

Most Essen to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Essen Hbf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Use this guide to compare Essen and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Essen
Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen

Which Essen station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?

Trains from Essen to Gelsenkirchen leave from Essen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre

BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min

Essen Hbf train station facilities and services

Essen 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: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.

Essen-BergeborbeckEssen-Bergeborbeck, Hafenstr. 7-11, 45356 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen-Bergeborbeck from Essen city centre

Essen-Bergeborbeck is 3 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

BusNe16, 166 · 12m · zł14 · every ~6 min
196, Ne12 · 23m · every ~6 min
Tram106 · 29m · every ~10 min

Essen-Bergeborbeck train station facilities and services

Essen-Bergeborbeck 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: Italia 2010, Grillimbis Patris, Abu Tayyeb Grill, Imbißstube Kapadokya

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Bergeborbeck. ATMs are available at Essen-Bergeborbeck.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen-Bergeborbeck. Information desks are available at Essen-Bergeborbeck.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Essen-Bergeborbeck. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen-Bergeborbeck: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Essen-Bergeborbeck: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Bergeborbeck.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Leckebusch GmbH.

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