FRANKFURT AM MAIN to GELSENKIRCHEN train from $22 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen

Showing times and prices for Aug 06

Cheapest price

$74

Average price

$107

Fastest journey

2 h 8 m

Average duration

2 h 37 m

Trains per day

Distance

190 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen will cost around $107 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Frankfurt am Main for Gelsenkirchen on Thu, Aug 06, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 190 km distance in an average of 2 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 8 m .

On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 3 h 53 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

7:12 AM2h31
Frankfurt am Main
9:43 AMGelsenkirchen
$741One-way
0 transfers
7:26 AM2h17
Frankfurt am Main
9:43 AMGelsenkirchen
$961One-way
0 transfers
6:26 AM2h17
Frankfurt am Main
8:43 AMGelsenkirchen
$1071One-way
0 transfers
7:31 AM3h53
Frankfurt am Main
11:24 AMGelsenkirchen
$1101One-way
0 transfers
6:41 PM2h08
Frankfurt am Main
8:49 PMGelsenkirchen
$1461One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 50m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a flight costs an average of $113.

Distance: 118 miles (190 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$71 Average price	$34 Average price Cheapest	$139 Average price	$44 Average price (fuel + tolls)
3h 58m Average total duration 3h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 32m Average total duration 4h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*	2h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions	0.6 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Most popular airline	Your own car or car rental
Direct Options	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 Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen is a bus with an average price of $34.

This is compared to other travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen:

A bus is $37 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $71.

A bus is $105 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $139.

The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen is by flight with an average journey time of 50m.

Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 28m.

Bus takes on average 4h 2m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Frankfurt am Main and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt am Main 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 $71 compared to roughly $44 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-26.87. The journey takes 3h 28m versus 2h 53m 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

Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen train times

The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen trains for tomorrow, Thursday, August 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
	6:26 AM Frankfurt am Main	2h17	8:43 AM Gelsenkirchen	0 transfersDirect
	7:12 AM Frankfurt am Main	2h31	9:43 AM Gelsenkirchen	0 transfersDirect
	7:26 AM Frankfurt am Main	2h17	9:43 AM Gelsenkirchen	0 transfersDirect
	7:31 AM Frankfurt am Main	3h53	11:24 AM Gelsenkirchen	0 transfersDirect
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight 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
Aug 06

Fri
Aug 07

Sat
Aug 08

Sun
Aug 09

Mon
Aug 10

Tue
Aug 11

Wed
Aug 12

Why should you book Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.

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 Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen

Germany

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen run on average 16 times per day, taking around 3h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 but you can travel from only $22 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (190 km) distance in 2h 2m.

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 $22

Distance

118 miles (190 km)

Average train duration

3h 28m

Cheapest ticket price

$29

Trains per day

Fastest train

2h 2m

First train

12:01 AM

Last train

11:39 PM

Cheapest Month

Jan

Cheapest Day

Wed

High Season

Jan - Mar

Low Season

Oct - Dec

Busiest Day

Tue

Least Busy Day

Tue

Best time to book

14 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $22

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, Hessische Landesbahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Frankfurt am Main and Gelsenkirchen from $22. 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

2h 2m

Cheapest Price

$29

Deutsche Bahn frequency

15 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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

Hessische Landesbahn

About

Hessische Landesbahn (HLB) is a regional transport company owned by the German state of Hesse, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main. It provides extensive bus and rail passenger transport services within Hesse and extends its operations into neighboring states like Bavaria, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Thuringia. HLB operates as a holding company with subsidiaries managing rail services (HLB Hessenbahn GmbH), bus services (HLB Hessenbus GmbH), and infrastructure/vehicle resources (HLB Basis AG). Their diverse fleet includes modern train types such as Stadler FLIRT, Alstom LINT, and Coradia Continental trains. Tickets from Deutsche Bahn are also valid on HLB trains.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Hessische Landesbahn frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage free of charge

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to fare conditions

Refund

Full refund for canceled services

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Snack and beverage service available on some routes

Seat reservation

Seat reservations available for an additional fee

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a ticket and must be leashed

Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

2h 14m

Cheapest Price

$63

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

12 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

2h 24m

Cheapest Price

$139

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency

7 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.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Kunstmuseum Gelsenkirchen

Leading modern art museum in the Ruhr, noted for kinetic and contemporary works and ambitious temporary exhibitions.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Apothekenmuseum Schloss Horst

Museum documenting pharmacy history inside Schloss Horst, with historic equipment and displays on medicine and daily life.

View on map Visit website

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 Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29, while the average price is around $71.

The train from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen takes 2h 2m and runs 16 per day.

The first train from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 12:01 AM.

The distance by train from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen is 118 miles (190 km).

The last train from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 11:39 PM.

There is no direct train service currently available from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.

The train station in Frankfurt am Main that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Frankfurt (Main) Hbf, which connects to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.

The cheapest way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen is by bus, with a cost of around $22.

The train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring views of the Rhine River and picturesque landscapes in the Rhine-Ruhr region, although the route is primarily practical rather than exceptionally scenic.

A day trip from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 2m. However, trains run 19 times per day for this 118 miles (190 km) journey.

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 Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen.

Since both Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen

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

Departure train stations in Frankfurt am Main

Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen

Which Frankfurt am Main station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Gelsenkirchen leave from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Frankfurt am Main city centre at Im Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Frankfurt (Main) HbfIm Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS9, S8, S6, S5, S4, S3, S2, S1 · 5m · $1 · every ~51 min

BusN5, N12, N4 · 5m · every ~1 min

Tram18, 14, 12, 11 · 6m · $4 · every ~38 min

SubwayU5, U4 · 4m · $4 · every ~39 min

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt (Main) 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: asiagourmet, Burger King, Ciao Bella, Coffee Fellows, Crepes de France Express, dean&david, Starbucks, Uddin's Sky Sportsbar, McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.

More about Frankfurt (Main) Hbf

Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfFrankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbahnhof, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 69 2651055 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIce · 11m · $2

Trn · 12m · $4

S8, S9 · 19m · $4 · every ~5 min

BusS8e · 28m · $7

X61, 61 · 41m · every ~13 min

61, X61 · 42m · every ~13 min

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.