- Must visit
Dortmunder U
A Former Brewery Tower Turned Center For Contemporary Art And Culture, Known For Exhibitions, Events, And Its Rooftop City Views.
.png){kind=small}
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
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. 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 $9, and a train costs an average of $24.
Distance: 14 miles (24 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$31 Average price | $9 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* | 35m 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 Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund is a bus with an average price of $9 (€7).
This is compared to other travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund:
A bus is $22 (€18) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund costing on average $31 (€25).
The fastest way to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund is by train with an average journey time of 29m.
Other travel options to Dortmund take longer:
Bus takes on average 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Gelsenkirchen and Dortmund including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund 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 6m sooner (29m by train vs 35m by car). Tickets start at around $31 (€25) compared to roughly $7 (€5) 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, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurobahn.
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 Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund 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.
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Why should you book Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurobahn and more offer trains services from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund.
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 FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or Eurobahn to find the best option for your trip from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund.
- 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 Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund.
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 Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund
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
Easy to bookComfortableFastDisadvantages
NoneMy nephew often travels this route as part of his training and it is part of his overall journey.
The ticket is quick and easy to book online, and you can also reserve a seat without any problems. The seats, corridors and toilets are clean. The staff are friendly and helpful. You also get free wifi and power sockets at your seat, even in 2nd class.
There is also a kitchen on the train, although the prices here are not quite as favourable.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund
GermanyGermany
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund run on average 1 times per day, taking around 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 (€20) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 14 miles (24 km) distance in 12m.
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 (€7)
Distance 14 miles (24 km) |
Average train duration 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€20) |
Trains per day 1 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 12m |
First train 12:10 AM |
Last train 11:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $9 (€7)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurobahn from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurobahn trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Dortmund from $9 (€7). 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
12m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€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
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
21m
Cheapest Price
$5 (€4)
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 Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
27m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€11)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
35 a day
Eurobahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
27m
Cheapest Price
$15 (€12)
Eurobahn frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Dortmund
Things to do in Dortmund
Discover the best of Dortmund — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dortmund trip today.
- Must visit
German Football Museum
An Interactive National Museum Dedicated To German Football History, Trophies, Media Installations, And Family-Friendly Exhibits Near The Main Station.
- Recommended
Museum Ostwall im Dortmunder U
The City’S Major Modern And Contemporary Art Museum, Featuring Expressionism, Fluxus, And Rotating Exhibitions Inside Dortmunder U.
- Must visit
Westfalenpark
A Large Urban Park Famous For Gardens, Seasonal Events, Open Space, And Social-Media-Friendly Views Around Florian Tower.
- Must visit
Phoenix See
A Popular Lakeside Redevelopment Area With Walking Paths, Modern Architecture, And Sunset Views, Especially Trendy With Locals And Visitors.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
The Historic Old Market Square In Central Dortmund, A Classic Meeting Point Surrounded By Important City-Center Buildings.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with pepper, slowly cooked until tender. It is one of Dortmund’s best-known regional specialties.
- Gluten-free
Westfälischer Schinken
Air-dried and lightly smoked Westphalian ham, prized across the region for its deep flavor. It is often served with dark bread and pickles.
- Vegetarian
Salzkuchen
A Dortmund bakery classic: a small savory roll topped with salt and caraway, traditionally eaten with Mett, butter, or cheese.
Emil Grill & Meer
An established seafood-focused restaurant with a polished setting and strong reputation for quality ingredients and refined preparation.
Pfefferkorn NY Steakhouse Dortmund
A well-known central steakhouse with a classic atmosphere, strong service, and substantial meat-focused dishes. Good for a more upscale meal.
Wenkers am Markt
A long-established brewery restaurant near the market square, known for hearty regional food and Dortmund beer in a lively traditional setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards: public transport and casual food are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more during trade fairs and football weekends.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-14 for kebab, bakery, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. In restaurants, round up or leave about 5-10% for good service. Round up in taxis. Small tips are appreciated in bars; no tip is expected for counter service.
DSW21 App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 7.10
To the city center
Dortmund Hbf, Dortmund -> Dortmund City Center, Dortmund
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Check tickets in the DSW21 App before boarding for the easiest local travel planning and purchase.
- On many VRR buses and trams, card payment is available at ticket machines, but carrying a backup payment method is wise.
FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund 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 Dortmund, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24 (€20), while the average price is around $31 (€25).
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund runs once a day and takes approximately 12m.
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund leaves at 12:10 AM.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund is 14 miles (24 km).
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund leaves at 11:44 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurobahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund.
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Dortmund is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Dortmund Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund is by bus, with a cost of around $9 (€7).
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund primarily passes through urban and industrial areas, offering views of cityscapes and industrial landscapes rather than scenic countryside vistas.
Yes, a day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund is feasible. The journey takes 12m, the distance is 14 miles (24 km), and there are 1 train per day.
In Dortmund, you can explore the vibrant Kreuzviertel district for trendy cafes and boutiques, attend concerts at the Westfalenhallen, and discover industrial heritage at the Zollern Colliery museum. Enjoy a stroll along Phoenix See or visit the Botanischer Garten Rombergpark for its serene landscapes. Key sights include Westfalenpark with its iconic Florianturm, the cultural Dortmund U-Tower, Signal Iduna Park, the Dortmund Zoo, and the German Football Museum.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Dortmund's key attractions, such as the Zollern Colliery, Dortmund U-Tower, and Westfalenpark, while also enjoying local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund.
Since both Gelsenkirchen and Dortmund 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 Dortmund include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Enschede, Münster, Essen.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund 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 Dortmund, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and individuals offering unsolicited help with ticket machines or currency exchange, which can lead to overcharging. Staying alert in busy areas and using official services helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Dortmund
Most Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund trains use the Gelsenkirchen Hbf to Dortmund Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Gelsenkirchen and Dortmund 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 Dortmund
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Dortmund leave from?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund 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 · $5
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 Dortmund station do trains from Gelsenkirchen arrive at?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund arrive at Dortmund Hbf. Dortmund Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Dortmund city centre.
Dortmund HbfDortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund Hbf from Dortmund city centre
BusNe13, Ne12, Ne3, 460, 453 · 3m · every ~10 min
Dortmund Hbf train station facilities and services
Dortmund 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, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion, Kleimann
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Hbf. ATMs are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Hbf. Information desks are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Cityhotel Dortmund, Esplanade, Drei Kronen, Hotel Unique Novum.
Most popular train connections from Gelsenkirchen
More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Dortmund
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dortmund and Gelsenkirchen
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.
