- Must visit
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
Major art museum of Kiel University with European paintings, sculptures, and modern works; one of the city's key cultural institutions.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Gelsenkirchen to Kiel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $56. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 15m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $56, and a flight costs an average of $145.
Distance: 231 miles (372 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$97 Average price | $262 Average price | $75 Average price Cheapest | $81 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 59m Average total duration 4h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 1h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 14h 25m Average total duration 13h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.1 - 2.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Kiel is a bus with an average price of $75 (€61).
This is compared to other travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel:
A bus is $23 (€19) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel costing on average $97 (€80).
A bus is $187 (€153) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel costing on average $262 (€215).
The fastest way to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 15m.
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 29m.
Bus takes on average 13h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Gelsenkirchen and Kiel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel 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 33m sooner (4h 29m by train vs 5h 2m by car). Tickets start at around $97 (€80) compared to roughly $81 (€66) 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.
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 Kiel 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.
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Why should you book Gelsenkirchen to Kiel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel.
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel.
- 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 Kiel.
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 Kiel.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel
GermanyGermany
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 02:05, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 231 miles (372 km) distance in 4h 37m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 231 miles (372 km) |
Average train duration 4h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 37m |
First train 2:05 AM |
Last train 11:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 2 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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Kiel from $38 (€31). 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
4h 37m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
$125 (€102)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
1 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€92)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Kiel
Things to do in Kiel
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
- Must visit
Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel
Maritime museum on the fjord covering naval, shipping, and harbor history, with exhibits linked to Kiel's seafaring identity.
- Recommended
Stadtmuseum Warleberger Hof
City museum in Kiel's oldest preserved townhouse, presenting local history, maritime life, and changing exhibitions.
- Must visit
Kiellinie
The city's signature waterfront promenade along Kiel Fjord, ideal for walking, harbor views, and watching ships pass.
- Must visit
Alter Markt
Historic market square in the center, surrounded by key city sights and a natural starting point for exploring old Kiel.
- Recommended
Schrevenpark
Beloved local park with lawns, paths, and a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere, especially popular in good weather.
- Gluten-free
Kieler Sprotten
Lightly smoked small sprats traditionally associated with Kiel. They are a classic North German seaside snack and a local culinary symbol.
- Gluten-free
Labskaus
A hearty northern sailor’s dish of corned beef, potatoes and beetroot, often served with pickled herring and egg. It is iconic across Schleswig-Holstein.
- Gluten-free
Matjes Mit Hausfrauensoße
Young pickled herring served with a creamy apple-onion sauce, usually with potatoes. It is a staple fish dish in northern coastal cuisine.
Pier 16
Established waterfront restaurant known for fish, seafood and modern regional cooking, with a refined atmosphere by the harbor.
Restaurant Kielwasser
Well-known spot for northern German and seafood dishes with harbor views and an upscale yet relaxed setting.
Ratskeller Kiel
Traditional cellar restaurant serving German classics in a historic atmosphere, suitable for trying hearty regional fare.
Euro
Prices are moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and waterfront dining cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 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 taxi fares. Small tips are appreciated in cafes; hotel staff may get EUR 1-2.
NAH.SH
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.10
- Day pass
- EUR 8.40
To the city center
Kiel Hbf, Kiel -> Kiel Hbf, Kiel
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- Regional buses and ferries in Kiel are integrated in the NAH.SH network, so the same local tickets are valid on many connections.
- Card payment is commonly available in the NAH.SH app and at many ticket machines, but onboard bus payment options can vary, so buying before boarding is safest.
FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel 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 Kiel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $97 (€80).
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel takes 4h 37m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel leaves at 2:05 AM.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel is 231 miles (372 km).
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel leaves at 11:05 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel.
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Kiel is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel is by train, with a cost of around $38 (€31).
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel offers some scenic views, especially as it travels through the lush landscapes of North Rhine-Westphalia and into the coastal areas of Schleswig-Holstein, providing glimpses of picturesque countryside and waterways.
A day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 37m. Trains run 6 times per day.
To fully explore Kiel's maritime history, museums, and nearby attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel.
Since both Gelsenkirchen and Kiel 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 Kiel include Hamburg, Rødekro, Neumünster, Padborg, Flensburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel 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 Kiel, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and public transport. Common scams include overcharging in taxis and unofficial currency exchange offers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and official exchange offices, and to keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Overall, Kiel is considered a safe city with typical urban precautions.
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 Kiel
Most Gelsenkirchen to Kiel trains use the Gelsenkirchen Hbf to Kiel Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Gelsenkirchen and Kiel 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 Kiel
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Kiel leave from?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel 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.
Gelsenkirchen-RotthausenGelsenkirchen-Rotthausen, Karl-Mayer-Straße 58, 45884 Gelsenkirchen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen is 2 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS2 · 3m · $1 · every ~3 min
BusNe14, 381 · 6m · every ~6 min
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen 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: Grill-Pizzeria Grammatikas, Viva Sevilla, Nudelland
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
Which Kiel station do trains from Gelsenkirchen arrive at?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel arrive at Kiel Hbf. Kiel Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Kiel city centre.
Kiel HbfKiel Hbf, Sophienblatt 25-27, 24114 Kiel
City-centre transport
Getting to Kiel Hbf from Kiel city centre
BusN22, N14, N12, N11, 91, 81, 71, X60, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11 · 4m · every ~47 min
765, 744 · 6m · every ~2 min
Kiel Hbf train station facilities and services
Kiel 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: MUM&DAD, Lunatique, McDonald's, Campus Suite
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kiel Hbf. ATMs are available at Kiel Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kiel Hbf. Information desks are available at Kiel Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Kiel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kiel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kiel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Wiking, Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel, Astor, InterCityHotel Kiel.
Most popular train connections from Gelsenkirchen
More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Gelsenkirchen
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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