- Must visit
Saarland Museum - Moderne Galerie
Major fine arts museum with strong modern and contemporary collections, including German and French works. One of the city's key cultural institutions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$103
Average price
$103
Fastest journey
5 h 26 m
Average duration
5 h 29 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
253 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $103.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Gelsenkirchen for Saarbrücken on Fri, Jun 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 05 the direct trains cover the 253 km distance in an average of 5 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 26 m .
On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest trains will take 5 h 32 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
7:15 AM5h26Gelsenkirchen12:41 PMSaarbrücken$1031One-way0 transfers- 4:09 AM5h32Gelsenkirchen9:41 AMSaarbrücken$1041One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 AM5h26Gelsenkirchen12:41 PMSaarbrücken$1031One-way0 transfers
- 4:09 AM5h32Gelsenkirchen9:41 AMSaarbrücken$1041One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $34. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 46m. 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 $34, and a train costs an average of $90.
Distance: 157 miles (253 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$101 Average price | $40 Average price Cheapest | $59 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 16m Average total duration Fastest 4h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 45m Average total duration 9h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 Saarbrücken is a bus with an average price of $40 (€32).
This is compared to other travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken:
A bus is $61 (€49) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken costing on average $101 (€82).
The fastest way to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken is by train with an average journey time of 4h 46m.
Other travel options to Saarbrücken take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Gelsenkirchen and Saarbrücken including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken 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 $101 (€82) compared to roughly $59 (€48) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-41.53 (€-33.53). The journey takes 4h 46m versus 3h 53m 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 Saarbrücken train times
The table below shows live departures for Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:09 AM Gelsenkirchen | 5h32 | 9:41 AM Saarbrücken | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:15 AM Gelsenkirchen | 5h26 | 12:41 PM Saarbrücken | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken 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 05
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
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Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Jun 09
Wed
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Thu
Jun 11
Jun 11
Why should you book Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) or Eurobahn offer trains services from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken.
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 Regio (DB Regional) or Eurobahn to find the best option for your trip from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken.
- 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 Saarbrücken.
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 Saarbrücken.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken
GermanyGermany
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken run on average 10 times per day, taking around 4h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $90 (€73) but you can travel from only $34 (€27) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:50, the last at 21:51. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (253 km) distance in 5h 10m.
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 $34 (€27)
Distance 157 miles (253 km) |
Average train duration 4h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $90 (€73) |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 5h 10m |
First train 2:50 AM |
Last train 9:51 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $34 (€27)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurobahn from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional), Eurobahn trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Saarbrücken from $34 (€27). 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
5h 10m
Cheapest Price
$90 (€73)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 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 Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 25m
Cheapest Price
$108 (€87)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
15 a day
Eurobahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 10m
Cheapest Price
$123 (€99)
Eurobahn frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Saarbrücken
Things to do in Saarbrücken
Discover the best of Saarbrücken — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Saarbrücken trip today.
- Recommended
Historisches Museum Saar
Regional history museum focused on Saarland's political, social, and cultural past, with notable underground fortifications and city history displays.
- Recommended
Stadtgalerie Saarbrücken
Contemporary art gallery known for rotating exhibitions, photography, media art, and smaller experimental shows in the city center.
- Must visit
St. Johanner Markt
The heart of the old town, lined with historic buildings and lively public spaces. A top area for walking, photos, and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Deutsch-Französischer Garten
Large cross-border friendship park with gardens, lakeside scenery, and relaxed walking paths. Popular with locals and visitors alike.
- Recommended
Nauwieser Viertel
Creative neighborhood known for independent shops, street life, and a more local alternative to the main old town center.
- Gluten-free
Dibbelabbes
A hearty Saarland potato dish made with grated potatoes, leeks, and onions, often baked with bacon and served with apple sauce or salad. It is one of the region’s best-known comfort foods.
- Gluten-free
Gefillde
Large potato dumplings stuffed with seasoned minced meat and usually served with a creamy bacon sauce or sauerkraut. This is a classic festive and Sunday dish in Saarland.
Lyoner Mit Weck
Slices of Saarland-style Lyoner sausage served in a bread roll with mustard. It is a beloved local snack strongly associated with everyday food culture in Saarbrücken and the wider Saarland.
GästeHaus Klaus Erfort
A renowned fine-dining restaurant led by Michelin-starred chef Klaus Erfort, known for refined modern French cuisine and an elegant atmosphere.
Maharaja
An established Indian restaurant in Saarbrücken with a strong local reputation for flavorful curries, tandoori dishes, and dependable service in a welcoming setting.
Staden
A well-known casual dining spot in Saarbrücken appreciated for quality food, relaxed service, and a stylish but approachable setting near the river area.
Euro
Prices are moderate by German standards. Casual dining is affordable, while hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or lunch special.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. Leave about 5-10% in restaurants for good service; round up for taxis. Little or no tip is fine for counter service.
saarVV
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.00
- Day pass
- EUR 6.60
To the city center
Saarbrücken Hbf, Saarbrücken -> St. Johanner Markt, Saarbrücken
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Single tickets and day passes are available in the saarVV app, at ticket machines, and at many sales points.
- Card payment is possible in the saarVV app, but availability on buses depends on the operator, so carry a backup payment method.
FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken 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 Saarbrücken, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $90 (€73), while the average price is around $101 (€82).
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken takes 5h 10m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken is 157 miles (253 km).
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken leaves at 2:50 AM.
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken leaves at 9:51 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken.
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Saarbrücken is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Saarbrücken Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken is by bus, with a cost of around $34 (€27).
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken offers a pleasant view, especially as it passes through the rolling hills and green landscapes of the Saarland region, making it a moderately scenic route.
A day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 10m. However, there are 8 train trips available per day for this route.
In Saarbrücken, visitors can explore the historical Saarbrücken Castle for guided tours and panoramic views, enjoy a family day at Saarbrücker Zoo, or delve into industrial history at the UNESCO-listed Völklinger Hütte. Relax at Saarland Therme's spa facilities or immerse in local culture at St. Johanner Markt. For sightseeing, admire the baroque architecture of Ludwigskirche, visit the Saarland Museum for diverse art collections, stroll through the Deutsch-Französischer Garten, or appreciate the neo-Gothic beauty of the Basilica of St. John the Baptist.
Two to three days in Saarbrücken are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the city's vibrant culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken.
Since both Gelsenkirchen and Saarbrücken 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 Saarbrücken include Luxembourg, Strasbourg, Forbach, Metz, Mannheim.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken 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 Saarbrücken, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and public transport. Common scams include distraction techniques near popular attractions and at train stations. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings 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 Saarbrücken
Gelsenkirchen
Saarbrücken
The major train station for departures in Gelsenkirchen is Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Gelsenkirchen Hbf for your trip from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Tuesday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Wednesday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Thursday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Friday: 09:00 - 18:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Subway
- Café Madrid
- Shere Punjab
- Café del Sol
Hotel
- Hotel St. Petrus
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Dschingis Khan
- Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel
- Nikolaus Grill
- McDonald's
The major train station for arrivals in Saarbrücken is Saarbrücken Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Saarbrücken Hbf for your journey to Saarbrücken from Gelsenkirchen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Tuesday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Wednesday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Thursday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Friday: 06:00 - 21:15
- Saturday: 07:00 - 19:00
- Sunday: 07:00 - 19:00
Dining
- Il Giardino
- Eiscafe Jesolo
- Pizza Hut
- Brauhaus zum Stiefel
Hotel
- Premier Inn Saarbrücken City Centre Hotel
- Mercure SB City
- Europa Hotel Saarbrücken
- Hotel Stadt Hamburg Saarbrücken
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- GästeHaus Klaus Erfort
- Schubert
- McDonald's
- Hokkaido
Hotel
- Hotel Restaurant Bruchwiese
Most popular train connections from Gelsenkirchen
More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Saarbrücken and Gelsenkirchen
Most popular train connections to Saarbrücken
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