Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken train with Deutsche Bahn (IC)

Tue, Jul 28
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Eurobahn
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Eurobahn
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken

Showing times and prices for Jul 28

Cheapest price

$87

Average price

$94

Fastest journey

4 h 25 m

Average duration

4 h 30 m

Trains per day

19

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 $94 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
    10:09 PM10h32
    Gelsenkirchen
    8:41 AMSaarbrücken
    $871One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
    5:34 AM4h41
    Gelsenkirchen
    10:15 AMSaarbrücken
    $911One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
    7:34 AM4h41
    Gelsenkirchen
    12:15 PMSaarbrücken
    $911One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
    8:34 AM4h41
    Gelsenkirchen
    1:15 PMSaarbrücken
    $911One-way
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
    9:34 AM4h39
    Gelsenkirchen
    2:13 PMSaarbrücken
    $911One-way
    2 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 $27. 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 $27, and a train costs an average of $73.

Distance: 157 miles (253 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$82

Average price

$32

Average price

Cheapest

$48

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 $32 (€32).

This is compared to other travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken:

A bus is $49 (€49) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken costing on average $82 (€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 $82 (€82) compared to roughly $48 (€48) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-33.53 (€-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 today, Monday, July 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)3:34 PM Gelsenkirchen
4h41
8:15 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)4:34 PM Gelsenkirchen
4h25
8:59 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)5:34 PM Gelsenkirchen
4h42
10:16 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)6:34 PM Gelsenkirchen
5h27
12:01 AM Saarbrücken3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)7:34 PM Gelsenkirchen
4h45
12:19 AM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)10:34 PM Gelsenkirchen
9h25
7:59 AM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Tuesday, July 28
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)1:04 AM Gelsenkirchen
7h37
8:41 AM Saarbrücken3 transfers
Eurobahn3:31 AM Gelsenkirchen
6h10
9:41 AM Saarbrücken3 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)5:34 AM Gelsenkirchen
4h41
10:15 AM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)6:34 AM Gelsenkirchen
4h25
10:59 AM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)7:34 AM Gelsenkirchen
4h41
12:15 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)8:34 AM Gelsenkirchen
4h41
1:15 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)9:34 AM Gelsenkirchen
4h39
2:13 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)10:34 AM Gelsenkirchen
4h25
2:59 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)11:34 AM Gelsenkirchen
4h41
4:15 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)12:34 PM Gelsenkirchen
4h41
5:15 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)1:34 PM Gelsenkirchen
4h41
6:15 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)2:34 PM Gelsenkirchen
4h38
7:12 PM Saarbrücken2 transfers

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.

Tue
Jul 28
Wed
Jul 29
Thu
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03

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
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken run on average 10 times per day, taking around 4h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 (€73) but you can travel from only $27 (€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 $27 (€27)
Distance
157 miles (253 km)
Average train duration
4h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
$73 (€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 $27 (€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 $27 (€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
$73 (€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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 25m
Cheapest Price
$87 (€87)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
15 a day

Eurobahn

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 10m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€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.

  • Must visit

Moderne Galerie

The region’s leading art museum, noted for modern and contemporary works and architecture. A top choice for visitors seeking major exhibitions in Saarbrücken.

  • Recommended

Historisches Museum Saar

History and culture museum inside the castle area, with archaeology and city collections. Ideal for understanding Saarbrücken and the wider Saarland region.

  • Recommended

Museum für Vor- und Frühgeschichte

Museum dedicated to prehistory and early regional history. Its compact displays make it a useful stop for visitors interested in ancient Saarland cultures.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are lower than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transit is typical and budget eats are easy to find.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants. Taxis are usually rounded up. Small change is fine in cafes.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73 (€73), while the average price is around $82 (€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 $27 (€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

Most Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken trains use the Gelsenkirchen Hbf to Saarbrücken Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Saarbrücken Ost. Use this guide to compare Gelsenkirchen and Saarbrücken 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 Saarbrücken

Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Saarbrücken leave from?

Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Saarbrücken 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 GelsenkirchenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 HerneWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · $4
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.

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