- Must visit
Gutenberg Museum
One of the world’s leading museums of printing and book culture, dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg and the history of movable type.
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Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Gelsenkirchen to Mainz
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $73. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 50m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $73, and a flight costs an average of $173.
Distance: 116 miles (188 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$82 Average price | $73 Average price Cheapest | $173 Average price | $45 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 20m Average total duration 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 25m Average total duration 19h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.6 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Mainz is a bus with an average price of $73 (€60).
This is compared to other travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz:
A bus is $9 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz costing on average $82 (€67).
A bus is $100 (€82) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz costing on average $173 (€142).
The fastest way to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz is by flight with an average journey time of 50m.
Other travel options to Mainz take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 50m.
Bus takes on average 19h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Gelsenkirchen and Mainz including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz 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 10m sooner (2h 50m by train vs 3h 0m by car). Tickets start at around $82 (€67) compared to roughly $45 (€37) 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.
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 Mainz 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 Mainz trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Train Charter Services, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurobahn and more offer trains services from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz.
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 Train Charter Services, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Eurobahn to find the best option for your trip from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz.
- 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 Mainz.
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 Mainz.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz
GermanyGermany
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $82 (€67) but you can travel from only $73 (€60) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 22:42. The fastest train covers the 116 miles (188 km) distance in 4h 0m.
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 $73 (€60)
Distance 116 miles (188 km) |
Average train duration 2h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $82 (€67) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 0m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 10:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Thu |
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 $73 (€60)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Train Charter Services, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurobahn from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz trainsDeutsche Bahn, Train Charter Services, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Eurobahn trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Mainz from $73 (€60). 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 0m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€67)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
Train Charter Services
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 8m
Train Charter Services frequency
1 a day
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 21m
Cheapest Price
$77 (€63)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
6 a day
Eurobahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 11m
Cheapest Price
$70 (€57)
Eurobahn frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Mainz
Things to do in Mainz
Discover the best of Mainz — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Mainz trip today.
- Recommended
Landesmuseum Mainz
Major regional museum with archaeology, medieval art, paintings, and Roman-era finds, offering one of the best overviews of Rhineland-Palatinate history.
- Recommended
Naturhistorisches Museum Mainz
Natural history museum known for regional geology, fossils, biodiversity, and family-friendly exhibitions.
- Must visit
Mainz Old Town
The most atmospheric area for walking, with narrow lanes, historic facades, shops, and many of the city’s best-known sights.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Central square by the cathedral, lively with markets, events, and classic city views that define the heart of Mainz.
- Recommended
Augustinerstraße
Popular old-town street lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and photo-friendly urban scenery.
- Vegetarian
Spundekäs
A Rheinhessen cheese spread made with fresh cheese, quark, paprika, and spices, traditionally served with pretzels in wine taverns.
Weck, Worscht un Woi
A classic Mainz snack of bread roll, sausage, and local wine, strongly associated with everyday life and regional wine culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Handkäs mit Musik
A pungent sour milk cheese marinated with onions and vinegar, popular across the Rhine-Main region and commonly enjoyed with bread.
Steins Traube
Established fine dining restaurant with a strong reputation for refined seasonal cuisine and polished service.
Weinhaus Wilhelmi
Traditional Mainz wine tavern known for local specialties, regional wines, and a classic cozy atmosphere.
Heiliggeist
A well-known restaurant in a historic former church hall, serving German and regional dishes in a striking atmospheric setting.
Euro
Prices are moderate by German standards. Casual dining is reasonable, while hotels and central restaurants cost more.
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 60-100 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up in cafés and taxis; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service, often by stating the total when paying.
MVGmeinRad
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 6.60
To the city center
Mainz Hbf, Mainz -> Schillerplatz, Mainz
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Tickets can be bought in the Mainzer Mobilität app and at ticket machines before boarding. Validate paper tickets if required.
- Card payment is generally available at ticket machines, but not always on every bus or tram. Buying in the app is the safest option.
FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz 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 Mainz, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $82 (€67), while the average price is around $82 (€67).
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz takes 4h 0m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz is 116 miles (188 km).
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz leaves at 10:42 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz.
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Mainz is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Mainz Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz is by bus, with a cost of around $73 (€60).
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, known for its vineyards, castles, and charming villages along the riverbanks.
A day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 0m and the distance is 116 miles (188 km). However, there are 5 trains per day.
Two to three days are ideal for exploring Mainz, allowing time to visit its historic sites, such as the Mainz Cathedral and Gutenberg Museum, while enjoying the local cuisine and Rhine River views.
Yes, you can take the train from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz.
Since both Gelsenkirchen and Mainz 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 Mainz include Cologne, Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Frankfurt am Main, Mannheim.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz 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 Mainz, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overcharging in taxis or at markets can occur, so always agree on prices beforehand. It's advisable to stay vigilant in busy places and keep valuables secure to 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 Mainz
Most Gelsenkirchen to Mainz trains use the Gelsenkirchen Hbf to Mainz Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Gelsenkirchen and Mainz 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 Mainz
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Mainz leave from?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz 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 Mainz station do trains from Gelsenkirchen arrive at?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz arrive at Mainz Hbf. Mainz Hbf is 1 miles (2 km) from Mainz city centre.
Mainz HbfMainz Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 55116 Mainz
City-centre transport
Getting to Mainz Hbf from Mainz city centre
Mainz Hbf is 2 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus92, 76, 62 · 9m · every ~13 min
93, 76, 65, 64 · 12m · every ~6 min
Tram52, 50 · 12m · every ~11 min
Mainz Hbf train station facilities and services
Mainz 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: Mangal, Asia Wok, Bistrorante Midi, McDonald's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Hbf. ATMs are available at Mainz Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mainz Hbf. Information desks are available at Mainz Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mainz Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mainz Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mainz Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Advena Europa Hotel, GuestHouse Mainz, Terminus, Hotel Moguntia.
Most popular train connections from Gelsenkirchen
More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Mainz
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Mainz and Gelsenkirchen
Most popular train connections to Mainz
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