Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Wed, Sep 02
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Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 02

Cheapest price on Sep 02

€28

Average ticket price on Sep 02

€52

Fastest journey on Sep 02

3 h 5 m

Average journey duration on Sep 02

3 h 17 m

Trains on Sep 02

6

Distance

302 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Hamburg 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 to Gelsenkirchen will cost around €52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €28.

Fast trains

On Wed, Sep 02, we found 6 trains from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen, including 6 direct services.

On Wed, Sep 02 the direct trains cover the 302 km distance in an average of 3 h 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 5 m .

On Wed, Sep 02 the slowest trains will take 3 h 23 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
    7:19 AM3h05
    Hamburg
    10:24 AMGelsenkirchen
    281One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixTrain
    5:30 AM10h07
    Hamburg
    3:37 PMGelsenkirchen
    291One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:45 PM3h23
    Hamburg
    11:08 PMGelsenkirchen
    301One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:45 AM3h18
    Hamburg
    12:03 PMGelsenkirchen
    551One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:42 AM3h21
    Hamburg
    11:03 AMGelsenkirchen
    731One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €36 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 39m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €36, while a flight costs an average of €427.

Distance: 187 miles (302 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

€70

Average price

€36

Average price

Cheapest

€427

Average price

€52

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 39m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 49m

Average total duration

5h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 5m

Average total duration

2h 5m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

4h 9m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

0.9 - 1.8kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Lufthansa

Most popular airline

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 Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen is a bus with an average price of €36.

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

A bus is €34 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen costing on average €70.

A bus is €391 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen costing on average €427.

The fastest way to travel from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 5m.

Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 9m.

Bus takes on average 5h 19m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Hamburg and Gelsenkirchen including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Hamburg 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 1h 0m sooner (3h 9m by train vs 4h 9m by car). Tickets start at around €70 compared to roughly €52 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 to Gelsenkirchen train times

The table below shows live departures for Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen trains for today, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixTrain12:50 PM Hamburg
2h56
3:46 PM Gelsenkirchen0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, September 2
FlixTrain5:30 AM Hamburg
10h07
3:37 PM Gelsenkirchen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:19 AM Hamburg
3h05
10:24 AM Gelsenkirchen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:42 AM Hamburg
3h21
11:03 AM Gelsenkirchen0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:45 AM Hamburg
3h18
12:03 PM Gelsenkirchen0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08

Why should you book Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Hamburg 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 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €14 if you book in advance.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 187 miles (302 km) distance in 2h 37m.

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
187 miles (302 km)
Average train duration
3h 9m
Cheapest ticket price
€14
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 37m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:44 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
1 day
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, FlixTrain from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Hamburg and Gelsenkirchen from €14. 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
2h 37m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€25
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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 FlixTrain Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
€14
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

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 to Gelsenkirchen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hamburg 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 to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €14, while the average price is around €70.
The train from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen takes 2h 37m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 12:01 AM.
The distance by train from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen is 187 miles (302 km).
The last train from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 11:44 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Hamburg 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 to Gelsenkirchen.
The train station in Hamburg that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Hamburg Hbf, which connects to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen is by train, with a cost of around €14.
The train journey from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen offers views of the picturesque Lower Saxony landscapes, with stretches of lush countryside, quaint villages, and glimpses of the scenic Elbe River, providing a pleasant travel experience.
A day trip from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 37m, and trains run 10 times per day over a distance of 187 miles (302 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 to Gelsenkirchen.
Since both Hamburg 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 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 to Gelsenkirchen

Most Hamburg 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 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

Which Hamburg station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?

Trains from Hamburg to Gelsenkirchen leave from Hamburg Hbf. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Hamburg city centre at Hachmannplatz 16, 20099 Hamburg, Germany.
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 · €3 · 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.

Hamburg-HarburgHamburg-Harburg, Hannoversche Str. 85, 21079 HamburgWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Hamburg-Harburg from Hamburg city centre

Hamburg-Harburg is 13 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS3, S5 · 10m · €3 · every ~25 min
S3, S5 · 18m · €3 · every ~14 min
Bus641 · 24m · €3

Hamburg-Harburg train station facilities and services

Hamburg-Harburg 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 Bom Dia, Hünkar, Yoko Sushi Harburg, Mathewes Grill

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Hamburg-Harburg. ATMs are available at Hamburg-Harburg.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Hamburg-Harburg. Information desks are available at Hamburg-Harburg.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Hamburg-Harburg. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hamburg-Harburg: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Hamburg-Harburg: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg-Harburg.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Panorama, Hotel Harburger Hof, Hotel Jeta, Hotel Süderelbe.

Hamburg-AltonaHamburg-Altona, Scheel-Plessen-Str. 17, 22765 HamburgWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Hamburg-Altona from Hamburg city centre

Hamburg-Altona is 5 km from Hamburg city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS3, S1, S7, S5 · 7m · €3 · every ~56 min
S3, S1, S7, S5 · 9m · €3 · every ~56 min
BusRe7 · 14m
16 · 18m · €3 · every ~11 min
2 · 20m · €3 · every ~13 min
16, 601 · 20m · €3 · every ~12 min

Hamburg-Altona train station facilities and services

Hamburg-Altona 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: Ethio, Trattoria Toscana, Marta, Pavillon

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Hamburg-Altona. ATMs are available at Hamburg-Altona.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Hamburg-Altona. Information desks are available at Hamburg-Altona.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Hamburg-Altona. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hamburg-Altona: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Hamburg-Altona: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hamburg-Altona.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Schanzenstern Bio-Restaurant, Hotel Hamburg Altona, Hotel Central, Best Western Raphael Hotel Altona.

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