- Must visit
Cathedral Treasury Aachen
Aachen Cathedral's treasury displays masterpieces of medieval goldsmithing and imperial relics. Essential for understanding the city's coronation heritage.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€23
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€38
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 8 m
Trains on Sep 19
4
Distance
109 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen will cost around €38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €23.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen without transferring at least once.
ICE 27 · 268108:49 AM2h16Gelsenkirchen Hbf11:05 AMAachen Hbf€231One-way1 transfer- 31249 · 28509 · ICE 3168:01 AM2h15Gelsenkirchen Hbf10:16 AMAachen Hbf€281One-way2 transfers
- 10114 · 264108:37 AM2h00Gelsenkirchen Hbf10:37 AMAachen Hbf€511One-way1 transfer
- 10118 · 264129:35 AM2h02Gelsenkirchen Hbf11:37 AMAachen Hbf€511One-way1 transfer
- 10114 · 264108:37 AM2h00Gelsenkirchen Hbf10:37 AMAachen Hbf€511One-way1 transfer
- 10118 · 264129:35 AM2h02Gelsenkirchen Hbf11:37 AMAachen Hbf€511One-way1 transfer
- 31249 · 28509 · ICE 3168:01 AM2h15Gelsenkirchen Hbf10:16 AMAachen Hbf€281One-way2 transfers
- ICE 27 · 268108:49 AM2h16Gelsenkirchen Hbf11:05 AMAachen Hbf€231One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train for Gelsenkirchen to Aachen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €12 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 26m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €12, while a train costs an average of €29.
Distance: 67 miles (109 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€29 Average price | €12 Average price Cheapest | €18 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 26m Average total duration Fastest 1h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration 3h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Gelsenkirchen to Aachen is a bus with an average price of €12.
This is compared to other travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen:
A bus is €17 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen costing on average €29.
The fastest way to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 56m.
Other travel options to Aachen take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 35m.
Yes, you can take a train between Gelsenkirchen and Aachen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen 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 €29 compared to roughly €18 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-11.23. The journey takes 1h 56m versus 1h 41m 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
Gelsenkirchen to Aachen train times
The table below shows live departures for Gelsenkirchen to Aachen trains for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31249 · 28509 · ICE 316 | On time 8:01 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 2h15 | 10:16 AM Aachen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 10114 · 26410 | 8:37 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 2h00 | 10:37 AM Aachen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 27 · 26810 | On time 8:49 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 2h16 | 11:05 AM Aachen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 10118 · 26412 | 9:35 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 2h02 | 11:37 AM Aachen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Gelsenkirchen to Aachen 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Gelsenkirchen to Aachen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen.
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 Gelsenkirchen to Aachen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen run on average 2 times per day, taking around 1h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €20 but you can travel from only €9 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 67 miles (109 km) distance in 1h 40m.
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 €9
Distance 67 miles (109 km) |
Average train duration 1h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price €20 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 1h 40m |
First train 12:14 AM |
Last train 11:51 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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 €9
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Aachen from €9. 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
1h 40m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€20
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
Complete guide to Aachen
Things to do in Aachen
Discover the best of Aachen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Aachen trip today.
- Recommended
Ludwig Forum for International Art
Contemporary art museum with major international exhibitions in a former umbrella factory. A leading cultural venue with ambitious rotating shows.
- Recommended
Centre Charlemagne
City museum inside the old town hall presenting Aachen's history, Charlemagne, and civic life. A strong introduction to the city before further sightseeing.
- Must visit
Markt
Main old-town square framed by the town hall and historic façades. It is the ceremonial heart of Aachen and ideal for first impressions.
- Must visit
Katschhof
Lively square beside the cathedral and town hall with cafés nearby and constant foot traffic. A prime base for exploring central Aachen on foot.
- Recommended
Friedrich-Wilhelm-Platz
Central square and boulevard around the famous pavilion and spring water. A classic meeting point that reflects Aachen's spa-town identity.
- Vegetarian
Aachener Printen
Aachen's famous spiced gingerbread, baked with syrup, nuts and warming spices. It is the city's best-known traditional specialty and a classic souvenir.
Rheinischer Sauerbraten
A hearty Rhineland beef stew marinated with vinegar and spices, then braised until tender. It is a classic festive dish in the wider Aachen region.
- Gluten-free
Himmel Und Äd
Mashed potatoes mixed with apple sauce, often served with black pudding or sausages. This sweet-savory Rhineland comfort food is traditional around Aachen.
La Becasse
Refined Michelin-starred dining known for modern tasting menus, polished service and an elegant setting. Ideal for a high-end meal in Aachen.
Am Knipp
Established Aachen restaurant with seasonal German and European cooking, offering a more polished atmosphere than a typical tavern.
Postwagen
Historic traditional restaurant near the cathedral, known for Rhineland classics, local beer and a cozy old-town atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are usually below Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit and casual meals stay fairly reasonable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave about 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. In cafés, small change or rounding up is common.
movA
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.40
- Day pass
- €7.60
To the city center
Aachen Hbf -> Elisenbrunnen, Aachen
- Distance
- 650 m
- Travel time
- 8 min
- On ASEAG buses, contactless card payment is available on many vehicles, but carry a backup payment method or buy in the movA app.
- From Aachen Hbf, many central sights are walkable; buses to Elisenbrunnen or Bushof are frequent via ASEAG.
FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen 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 Aachen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €20, while the average price is around €29.
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen takes 1h 40m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen is 67 miles (109 km).
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen leaves at 12:14 AM.
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen leaves at 11:51 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen.
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Aachen is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Aachen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen is by bus, with a cost of around €9.
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of industrial areas, green landscapes, and the picturesque Rhine region, providing a varied visual experience.
A day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 40m and trains run 4 times per day over a distance of 67 miles (109 km).
In Aachen, you can relax at the Carolus Thermen spa, explore vibrant local markets, stroll through Lousberg Park, attend events at the Eurogress Aachen, and visit the historic Ponttor. Don't miss the Aachen Cathedral, Aachen Rathaus, Elisenbrunnen, Centre Charlemagne, and Couven Museum for a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture.
To explore Aachen's key attractions, such as the Aachen Cathedral, Carolus Thermen spa, and the historic old town, 1 to 2 days are typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen.
Since both Gelsenkirchen and Aachen 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 Aachen include Brussels, Liège, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Maastricht.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen 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 Aachen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and public transportation. Common scams include distraction techniques near popular tourist spots and overcharging by taxi drivers unfamiliar with official rates. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft.
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 Gelsenkirchen to Aachen
Most Gelsenkirchen to Aachen trains use the Gelsenkirchen Hbf to Aachen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Gelsenkirchen and Aachen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Arrival train stations in Aachen
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Aachen leave from?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen leave from Gelsenkirchen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Gelsenkirchen city centre at Gelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen.
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.
Wanne-Eickel HbfWanne-Eickel Hbf, Heinz-Rühmann-Platz 1, 44649 Herne
City-centre transport
Getting to Wanne-Eickel Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Wanne-Eickel Hbf is 3 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRb, Re · 4m · €2 · every ~4 min
BusRe42x, Re42, S2, Rb32 · 18m · €4
E40, 340 · 21m · every ~5 min
Wanne-Eickel Hbf train station facilities and services
Wanne-Eickel Hbf 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: Dschingis Khan, Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel, Nikolaus Grill, McDonald's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. ATMs are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Information desks are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Which Aachen station do trains from Gelsenkirchen arrive at?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen arrive at Aachen Hbf. Aachen Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Aachen city centre.
Aachen HbfAachen Hbf, Bahnhofstr, 2a, 52064 Aachen
City-centre transport
Getting to Aachen Hbf from Aachen city centre
Aachen Hbf is 1 km from Aachen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRe, Rb · 4m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus14, 51, 11, 21, Sb63, 31, V, 14E, 11V, E, 31E, N5, 11E · 6m · €2 · every ~24 min
Rb33, Rb20 · 11m · €3 · every ~5 min
31E, V, Sb63, N5, E, 54Alt, 54, 51, 34V, 34, 31, 21, 14E, 14, 11V, 11 · 14m · €2 · every ~28 min
Aachen Hbf train station facilities and services
Aachen 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: McDonald's, Louisiana, Dakashi sushi, Zitalia
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Aachen Hbf. ATMs are available at Aachen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Aachen Hbf. Information desks are available at Aachen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Aachen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Aachen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Aachen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Aachen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Bestprice Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Gelsenkirchen
More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Aachen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Aachen and Gelsenkirchen
Most popular train connections to Aachen
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
