- Must visit
Museum Ulm – Archaeology
Museum on the famous Ice Age Lion Man and regional archaeology. It presents globally important prehistoric finds from caves in the Swabian Jura.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Gelsenkirchen to Ulm
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $100 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 47m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $100, while a flight costs an average of $535.
Distance: 249 miles (402 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$159 Average price | $535 Average price | $100 Average price Cheapest | $94 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 13m Average total duration 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 47m Average total duration Fastest 1h 47m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 20h 45m Average total duration 20h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.2 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | 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 Ulm is a bus with an average price of $100.
This is compared to other travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm:
A bus is $58 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm costing on average $159.
A bus is $434 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm costing on average $535.
The fastest way to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 47m.
Other travel options to Ulm take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 43m.
Bus takes on average 20h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Gelsenkirchen and Ulm including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm 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 1h 1m sooner (4h 43m by train vs 5h 44m by car). Tickets start at around $159 compared to roughly $94 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.
Live departures
Gelsenkirchen to Ulm train times
The table below shows live departures for Gelsenkirchen to Ulm trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 2007 · ICE 2013 · ICE 517 | Delayed 7:16 AM 9:13 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf | 6h00 | 3:13 PM Ulm Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 2515 · ICE 595 | Delayed 7:48 AM 9:44 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf | 4h16 | 2:00 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 26812 · ICE 225 | Delayed 10:08 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 4h21 | 12:31 PM 12:31 PMUlm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1521 · ICE 517 | Delayed 9:13 AM 10:48 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf | 4h25 | 3:13 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1521 · ICE 29 · ICE 919 | Delayed 9:13 AM 10:48 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf | 5h38 | 4:26 PM Ulm Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2009 · IC 2044 · ICE 519 | On time 11:13 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 6h00 | 5:13 PM Ulm Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 2517 · ICE 597 | Delayed 9:52 AM 11:44 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf | 4h16 | 4:00 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 1013 | On time 4:24 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 4h09 | 8:33 PM Ulm Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 2205 · IC 2440 · ICE 615 | On time 5:13 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 5h49 | 11:02 PM Ulm Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 203 · ICE 693 | On time 5:43 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 4h17 | 10:00 PM Ulm Hbf | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Gelsenkirchen to Ulm 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.
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Why should you book Gelsenkirchen to Ulm 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 Ulm.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm.
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 Ulm.
- 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 Ulm.
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 Ulm.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm
GermanyGermany
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $86 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 01:16, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 249 miles (402 km) distance in 3h 59m.
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 249 miles (402 km) |
Average train duration 4h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $86 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 3h 59m |
First train 1:16 AM |
Last train 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Ulm from $86. 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 59m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$86
Deutsche Bahn frequency
9 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 Ulm
Things to do in Ulm
Discover the best of Ulm — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ulm trip today.
- Must visit
Kloster Wiblingen Museum
Former monastery museum famed for its splendid late Baroque library hall. One of the most beautiful interiors in the Ulm area and a favorite day trip.
- Recommended
Museum Ulm
Major art museum with strong modern and contemporary collections, including works tied to Ulm's design heritage. A top cultural stop in the city center.
- Must visit
Münsterplatz
Broad square beside the minster, ideal for appreciating the church's immense scale. It often hosts events and is a natural pause on any walking route.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Central market square framed by the Town Hall and daily urban life. A practical starting point for sightseeing and one of Ulm's liveliest gathering places.
- Recommended
Danube Promenade
Waterside promenade along the Danube with open views toward Neu-Ulm. Good for relaxed walks, photos, and linking several historic sights on foot.
- Vegetarian
Spätzle
Swabian egg noodles often served with cheese and onions or as a side. They are a signature comfort food across Ulm and the wider Swabian region.
Maultaschen
Handmade pasta pockets filled with minced meat, spinach, onions, and herbs, usually served in broth or with fried onions. A classic Swabian specialty.
Linsen mit Spätzle
A rich lentil stew served with Spätzle and usually sausages. It is a traditional everyday Swabian dish valued for its hearty, home-style character.
bi:brauderei
Refined Michelin-starred dining in an elegant setting, known for creative tasting menus and polished service in the heart of Ulm.
Zur Forelle
Historic traditional restaurant by the cathedral, valued for Swabian classics, local atmosphere, and a central old-town location.
Gasthaus zur Krone
Long-established inn focused on regional cuisine, including Maultaschen and roasts, with a classic, welcoming Swabian dining room.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-range, transit is reasonable, and budget eats are easy to find.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- 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 is standard. Tip restaurants about 5-10%, taxis by rounding up, and cafes by leaving small change.
DING App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.80
- Day pass
- €7.20
To the city center
Ulm Hbf -> Münsterplatz, Ulm
- Distance
- 800 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the DING app or from ticket machines before boarding. On most buses and trams, onboard ticket sales and card payment are limited.
- Ulm city centre is walkable from Ulm Hbf. Validate paper tickets if required and keep them until the end of your journey.
FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm 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 Ulm, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $86, while the average price is around $159.
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm takes 3h 59m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm is 249 miles (402 km).
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm leaves at 1:16 AM.
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm.
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Ulm is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Ulm Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm is by train, with a cost of around $86.
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm offers pleasant views of the German countryside, featuring rolling hills and charming towns, although it is not typically highlighted as one of the most scenic routes in Germany.
A day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 59m, and the journey covers a distance of 249 miles (402 km). However, there are 4 train trips available per day.
To fully experience Ulm, including its historic sites, the Ulm Minster, and the picturesque Danube views, a stay of 1 to 2 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm.
Since both Gelsenkirchen and Ulm 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 Ulm include Munich, Stuttgart, Memmingen, Mannheim, Augsburg.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm 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 Ulm, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the main train station and popular tourist spots. Scam attempts involving distraction techniques are less common but still possible. It is advisable to keep personal belongings secure and avoid accepting unsolicited help from strangers. Overall, Ulm is considered a safe city, with standard urban precautions recommended.
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 Ulm
Most Gelsenkirchen to Ulm trains use the Gelsenkirchen Hbf to Ulm Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Gelsenkirchen and Ulm 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 Ulm
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Ulm leave from?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm 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.
Which Ulm station do trains from Gelsenkirchen arrive at?
Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm arrive at Ulm Hbf. Ulm Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Ulm city centre.
Ulm HbfUlm Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 89073 Ulm
City-centre transport
Getting to Ulm Hbf from Ulm city centre
Bus46 · 9m · $4 · every ~1 min
Tram1 · 3m · $4 · every ~11 min
Ulm Hbf train station facilities and services
Ulm 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: Café Schmizz, Blauflesch, Wilder Mann, Gaststuben im Zunfthaus der Schiffleute
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Hbf. ATMs are available at Ulm Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ulm Hbf. Information desks are available at Ulm Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ulm Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ulm Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ulm Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Bäumle, InterCityHotel Ulm, Lehrertal Garni.
Most popular train connections from Gelsenkirchen
More options for your journey from Gelsenkirchen to Ulm
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ulm and Gelsenkirchen
Most popular train connections to Ulm
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