- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts Ghent
Major fine arts museum with Flemish masters, Belgian art, and rotating exhibitions. Essential for understanding Ghent's artistic heritage.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$125
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$137
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 11 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h 11 m
Trains on Sep 20
3
Distance
242 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent will cost around $137 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $125.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent without transferring at least 2 times.
26808 · ICE 316 · IC 28338:08 AM4h11Gelsenkirchen Hbf12:19 PMGhent St Pieters$1251One-way2 transfers- 26812 · ICE 16 · IC 283510:08 AM4h11Gelsenkirchen Hbf2:19 PMGhent St Pieters$1371One-way2 transfers
- 26816 · ICE 314 · IC 283712:08 PM4h11Gelsenkirchen Hbf4:19 PMGhent St Pieters$1501One-way2 transfers
- 26812 · ICE 16 · IC 283510:08 AM4h11Gelsenkirchen Hbf2:19 PMGhent St Pieters$1371One-way2 transfers
- 26808 · ICE 316 · IC 28338:08 AM4h11Gelsenkirchen Hbf12:19 PMGhent St Pieters$1251One-way2 transfers
- 26816 · ICE 314 · IC 283712:08 PM4h11Gelsenkirchen Hbf4:19 PMGhent St Pieters$1501One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Gelsenkirchen to Ghent
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $41 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 58m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $41, while a flight costs an average of $661.
Distance: 150 miles (242 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$99 Average price | $41 Average price Cheapest | $661 Average price | $54 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 58m Average total duration Fastest 3h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 17m Average total duration 8h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration 2h 57m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - 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 Gelsenkirchen to Ghent is a bus with an average price of $41.
This is compared to other travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent:
A bus is $58 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent costing on average $99.
A bus is $620 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent costing on average $661.
The fastest way to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 57m.
Other travel options to Ghent take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 28m.
Bus takes on average 8h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Gelsenkirchen and Ghent including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent 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 $99 compared to roughly $54 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-44.95. The journey takes 3h 28m versus 3h 21m 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 Ghent train times
The table below shows live departures for Gelsenkirchen to Ghent trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26808 · ICE 316 · IC 2833 | 8:08 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 4h11 | 12:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 2 transfers | |
| 26812 · ICE 16 · IC 2835 | 10:08 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 4h11 | 2:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 2 transfers | |
| 26816 · ICE 314 · IC 2837 | 12:08 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 4h11 | 4:19 PM Ghent St Pieters | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Gelsenkirchen to Ghent 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Gelsenkirchen to Ghent trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent.
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.
- 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 Gelsenkirchen to Ghent.
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 Gelsenkirchen to Ghent.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 but you can travel from only $37 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 21:25. The fastest train covers the 150 miles (242 km) distance in 3h 19m.
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 $37
Distance 150 miles (242 km) |
Average train duration 3h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $73 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 3h 19m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 9:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
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 $37
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Ghent from $37. 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
3h 19m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$73
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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 Ghent
Things to do in Ghent
Discover the best of Ghent — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ghent trip today.
- Must visit
S.M.A.K.
Bold contemporary art museum beside the fine arts museum, known for modern Belgian and international works and ambitious temporary shows.
- Recommended
STAM Ghent City Museum
Museum in the former Bijloke abbey and hospital complex exploring the city's history through objects, stories, and changing exhibitions.
- Must visit
Graslei
Historic quay lined with guild houses and river views. It is Ghent's signature postcard scene and one of the best places for a stroll.
- Must visit
Korenlei
Opposite the Graslei, this elegant quay offers classic canal panoramas, boat departures, and some of the city's finest evening views.
- Recommended
Korenmarkt
Lively square in the medieval core surrounded by major landmarks. A practical meeting point and excellent base for exploring central Ghent.
Waterzooi
A creamy Gentian stew of chicken or veal with mushrooms, meatballs and white wine, traditionally served with fries or bread.
- Gluten-free
Stoemp
A rich mash of potatoes with carrots and onions, often served with sausage or bacon; a classic hearty Flemish comfort dish.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Tierenteyn Mustard
A smooth mustard from nearby East Flanders, known for its strong fresh heat and traditional stone-ground character.
Stadsbrouwerij Gruut
City brewery and taproom pouring house-brewed gruut beers with a relaxed atmosphere and good introduction to Ghent beer culture.
Brasserie Pakhuis
Historic brasserie in central Ghent known for refined Belgian classics, seafood and elegant Art Nouveau surroundings.
Du Progres
Traditional restaurant focused on East Flemish cuisine, especially waterzooi and other regional dishes, in a warm classic setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while transit is reasonable. Cheaper than Brussels in some areas, but pricier than smaller Belgian cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Round up for taxis, and small change is enough at cafes.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Gent Sint-Pieters -> Korenmarkt, Ghent
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available on De Lijn trams and buses via onboard validators. The onboard fare is higher than some advance-purchase options.
- Use De Lijn for city trams and buses in Ghent. Buy and validate your ticket before travel if using a mobile or pre-purchased ticket.
FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent 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 Ghent, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73, while the average price is around $99.
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent takes 3h 19m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent is 150 miles (242 km).
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent leaves at 12:03 AM.
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent leaves at 9:25 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent.
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Ghent is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Ghent St Pieters.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent is by bus, with a cost of around $37.
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the rolling landscapes of the German and Belgian countryside, showcasing picturesque towns and lush greenery along the route.
A day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 19m. However, there are 9 train trips available per day for this route, covering a distance of 150 miles (242 km).
In Ghent, explore the charming Patershol neighborhood with its narrow streets and diverse dining options, and discover the vibrant street art scene with murals throughout the city. Visit the Design Museum Ghent for contemporary and historical design, and take a boat tour along the canals for a unique city view. Don't miss the medieval Gravensteen castle, Saint Bavo's Cathedral with the Ghent Altarpiece, and the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei streets. The Belfry of Ghent offers panoramic views, and the Museum of Fine Arts showcases Flemish art. Enjoy a bike ride through Ghent's extensive cycling paths.
Spending 2 to 3 days in Ghent is ideal to explore its historic sites, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent.
Since both Gelsenkirchen and Ghent 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 Ghent include Brussels, Bruges, Lille, Antwerp, Rotterdam.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Ghent, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and near major attractions. Common scams include distraction techniques where individuals create a commotion to divert attention while accomplices steal belongings. It's advisable to keep valuables secure and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Additionally, travelers should use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked vehicles to prevent fare scams.
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 Ghent
Most Gelsenkirchen to Ghent trains use the Gelsenkirchen Hbf to Gent St Pieters station pair. Use this guide to compare Gelsenkirchen and Ghent 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 Ghent
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Ghent leave from?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent 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 Ghent station do trains from Gelsenkirchen arrive at?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent arrive at Gent St Pieters. Gent St Pieters is 1 miles (2 km) from Ghent city centre.
Gent St PietersKoningin Maria Hendrikaplein, 9000 Ghent, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Gent St Pieters from Ghent city centre
Gent St Pieters is 1 km from Ghent city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus60 · 8m · $4 · every ~3 min
TramT1, Gf, T3, T4 · 14m · $4 · every ~32 min
Gent St Pieters train station facilities and services
Gent St Pieters has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: De Graslei, Restaurant Patrick Foley's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gent St Pieters. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gent St Pieters. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gent St Pieters: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gent St Pieters: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gent St Pieters: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Gent Sint Pieters, Hotel Carlton, Astoria Hotel Gent.
Most popular train connections from Gelsenkirchen
More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Ghent
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ghent and Gelsenkirchen
Most popular train connections to Ghent
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