Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Wed, Aug 05
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iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$58

Average price

$68

Fastest journey

3 h 21 m

Average duration

3 h 42 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

300 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $58.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Hamburg Hbf for Gelsenkirchen on Wed, Aug 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 300 km distance in an average of 3 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 21 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 4 h 2 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:42 AM3h21
    Hamburg Hbf
    11:03 AMGelsenkirchen
    $581One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    5:22 PM4h02
    Hamburg Hbf
    9:24 PMGelsenkirchen
    $791One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $31. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, and a flight costs an average of $169.

Distance: 186 miles (300 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$77

Average price

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$273

Average price

$63

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 37m

Average total duration

3h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 40m

Average total duration

4h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 18m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 18m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 33m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is a bus with an average price of $37.

This is compared to other travel options from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen:

A bus is $41 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $77.

A bus is $237 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $273.

The fastest way to travel from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 18m.

Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 7m.

Bus takes on average 4h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Hamburg Hbf and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen 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 26m sooner (3h 7m by train vs 3h 33m by car). Tickets start at around $77 compared to roughly $63 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, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).

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

Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen train times

The table below shows live departures for Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn5:45 PM Hamburg Hbf
3h18
9:03 PM Gelsenkirchen0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, August 5
Deutsche Bahn7:42 AM Hamburg Hbf
3h21
11:03 AM Gelsenkirchen0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen 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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

Why should you book Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen.

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 FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen.
  • 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 Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen.

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 Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 but you can travel from only $31 by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 07:42, the last at 17:45. The fastest train covers the 186 miles (300 km) distance in 2h 56m.

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 $31
Distance
186 miles (300 km)
Average train duration
3h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
$48
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 56m
First train
7:42 AM
Last train
5:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
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 $31

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Hamburg Hbf and Gelsenkirchen from $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
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
$58
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 56m
Cheapest Price
$48
FlixTrain frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
$74
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

Complete guide to Gelsenkirchen

Things to do in Gelsenkirchen

Discover the best of Gelsenkirchen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gelsenkirchen trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum Schloss Horst

Renaissance castle museum with exhibitions on archaeology, local history, and changing art shows in one of the city's finest historic sites.

  • Must visit

Kunstmuseum Gelsenkirchen

Leading modern art museum in the Ruhr, noted for kinetic and contemporary works and ambitious temporary exhibitions.

  • Recommended

Apothekenmuseum Schloss Horst

Museum documenting pharmacy history inside Schloss Horst, with historic equipment and displays on medicine and daily life.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels are often cheaper than in major cities, while dining and local transit are fairly typical for the region.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or 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 usually included. Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48, while the average price is around $77.
The train from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen takes 2h 56m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is 186 miles (300 km).
The first train from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 7:42 AM.
The last train from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 5:45 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen.
The cheapest way to get from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is by bus, with a cost of around $31.
The train journey from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, including views of the lush countryside of Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia, interspersed with industrial areas as you approach the Ruhr region.
A day trip from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 56m. However, there are 10 trains per day available for this journey, covering a distance of 186 miles (300 km).
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore the main attractions in Gelsenkirchen, including the Veltins-Arena, ZOOM Erlebniswelt, and the Nordsternpark.
Yes, you can take the train from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen.
Since both Hamburg Hbf and Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Arnhem, Eindhoven, Osnabrück.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and major train stations. Common scams include fake charity collectors and distraction techniques in busy spots. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and stay alert in nightlife districts to avoid petty theft. Overall, standard urban safety precautions apply.
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 Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

Most Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Use this guide to compare Hamburg Hbf and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Hamburg
Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Hamburg HbfHachmannplatz 16, 20099 Hamburg, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Hamburg Hbf from Hamburg city centre

Hamburg Hbf is 2 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS5, S3, S1 · 2m · $4 · every ~44 min
BusX35, 16, 606, 17, 6 · 3m · $2 · every ~47 min
SubwayU4, U2 · 1m · $2 · every ~33 min

Hamburg Hbf train station facilities and services

Hamburg 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: Le Crobag, Burger King, Coffee Fellows, Havin Grill, KFC, Mr. CLOU, Starbucks, dean&david, SPAR Express, Pommesfreunde, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Hamburg Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Hamburg Hbf. Information desks are located in the east hall on the opposite side of the DB ticket office.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is the station has luggage lockers. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hamburg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Hamburg Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg Hbf: Wheelchair friendly with lifts and ramps. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Boutique 053 Hamburg Main Station, IntercityHotel Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, Park Hyatt Hamburg.

More options for your journey from Hamburg Hbf to Gelsenkirchen

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Hamburg Hbf

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