- Must visit
Gutenberg Museum
One of the world’s most important museums of printing history, dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg and early bookmaking. A flagship Mainz attraction with historic presses and notable Bible displays.
Cheapest price
$159
Average price
$172
Fastest journey
5 h 27 m
Average duration
5 h 28 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
417 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Hamburg to Mainz is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Hamburg to Mainz will cost around $172 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $159.
It's difficult to get from Hamburg to Mainz without transferring at least once.
ICE 787 · ICE 1073 · 29522
ICE 577 · 4479
ICE 73 · 4497
ICE 577 · 4479
ICE 73 · 4497
ICE 787 · ICE 1073 · 29522Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Hamburg to Mainz among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a flight costs an average of $116.
Distance: 259 miles (417 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$109 Average price | $60 Average price Cheapest | $189 Average price | $27 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 48m Average total duration 6h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 26m Average total duration 7h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 1h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Hamburg to Mainz:
A bus is $48 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Hamburg to Mainz costing on average $109 (€88).
A bus is $128 (€104) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Hamburg to Mainz costing on average $189 (€153).
Other travel options to Mainz take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 18m.
Bus takes on average 7h 56m.
Tickets start at around $109 (€88) compared to roughly $27 (€22) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-81.76 (€-66.15). The journey takes 6h 18m versus 5h 38m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Hamburg to Mainz trains for today, Wednesday, June 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 921 · 4251 | On time 10:23 PM Hamburg Hbf | 7h43 | 6:06 AM Mainz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 921 | On time 10:23 PM Hamburg Hbf | 8h04 | 6:27 AM Mainz Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
ICE 921 · ICE 827 · S8 | On time 10:23 PM Hamburg Hbf | 7h02 | 5:25 AM Mainz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| Thursday, June 4 | |||||
ICE 577 · 4479 | On time 8:44 AM Hamburg Hbf | 5h27 | 2:11 PM Mainz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 787 · ICE 1073 · 29522 | On time 9:19 AM Hamburg Hbf | 5h30 | 2:49 PM Mainz Hbf | 2 transfers | |
ICE 73 · 4497 | On time 9:44 AM Hamburg Hbf | 5h27 | 3:11 PM Mainz Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Hamburg to Mainz run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 259 miles (417 km) distance in 4h 28m.
Distance 259 miles (417 km) |
Average train duration 6h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 28m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 56 days |
Discover the best of Mainz — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Mainz trip today.
One of the world’s most important museums of printing history, dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg and early bookmaking. A flagship Mainz attraction with historic presses and notable Bible displays.
Major state museum with archaeology, medieval art, Roman finds, and changing exhibitions. Strong choice for understanding Mainz and Rhineland-Palatinate history in one visit.
Archaeological museum focused on Roman navigation, best known for its preserved late Roman ships found in Mainz. Compact but distinctive and especially good for Roman-history fans.
Mainz’s old town is the best area for strolling, with historic lanes, squares, churches, and traditional architecture. It is the city’s core walking district and a must for first visits.
Central market square by the cathedral, surrounded by historic buildings and often lively with events and local activity. A natural starting point for exploring the center.
Charming old-town street known for its handsome facades and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. Popular for photos and one of the most pleasant streets to walk in Mainz.
A Rheinhessen cheese spread made with cream cheese, quark, paprika, and spices, traditionally served with pretzels. It is a classic Mainz wine tavern snack.
A famous regional trio of bread roll, sausage, and local wine that symbolizes everyday food culture in Mainz and the surrounding Rheinhessen region.
A sour milk cheese served with onions, vinegar, and oil. It is a traditional tavern dish in the Rhine-Main area, often enjoyed with bread and wine.
An established fine dining restaurant just outside central Mainz, recognized for refined cuisine, polished service, and a long-standing reputation.
A traditional Mainz wine tavern known for Rheinhessen specialties, local wines, and a cozy, classic Weinstube atmosphere.
A well-known restaurant in a historic former hospital building, offering regional German dishes, local wine, and an atmospheric vaulted interior.
Prices are moderate by German standards. Groceries and casual meals are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxi fares. Small tips are appreciated in cafes; not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Mainz Hbf, Mainz -> Schillerplatz, Mainz
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hamburg to Mainz 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 Mainz, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

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