- Recommended
Museum Jagdhaus Gabelbach
The city's main museum on Ilmenau's mining, glass, porcelain, and Goethe connections, housed in a historic building.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Hanover to Ilmenau
GermanyGermany
Take a train from Hanover to Ilmenau and enjoy the approximately 127 miles (205 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 03:43, the last at 22:20.
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 127 miles (205 km) |
Trains per day 9 |
First train 3:43 AM |
Last train 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 70 days |
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
Complete guide to Ilmenau
Things to do in Ilmenau
Discover the best of Ilmenau — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ilmenau trip today.
- Recommended
Goethemuseum Jagdhaus Gabelbach
Goethe-focused memorial site in the forest with literary history and exhibits tied to his stays in the Ilmenau area.
- Recommended
Thermometermuseum Geraberg
Technical museum preserving a historic glass thermometer factory, showing Ilmenau's scientific instrument tradition.
- Must visit
Kickelhahn
Popular mountain summit and walking area above town, loved for forests, viewpoints, and Goethe-related landmarks.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
Central square framed by historic buildings, events, and shops. It is the best starting point for exploring old Ilmenau.
- Recommended
Talsperre Heyda
Scenic reservoir and leisure area on the edge of town, suitable for relaxed walks and views of the surrounding hills.
- Vegetarian
Thüringer Klöße
A rustic Thuringian potato dumpling, often served with roast meat and gravy. It is a regional staple and a classic of home-style Sunday meals.
- Gluten-free
Thüringer Rostbratwurst
Coarse grilled pork sausage seasoned with marjoram and caraway. It is one of Thuringia’s best-known foods and widely eaten at inns and markets.
Rinderroulade Thüringer Art
Slow-cooked beef roulade filled with bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles. A beloved festive dish across Thuringia, usually served with dumplings and red cabbage.
Restaurant Irodion
Established Greek restaurant popular for grilled meats, generous portions, and a friendly relaxed atmosphere near the town center.
Hotel Tanne
Historic hotel restaurant serving regional and seasonal cuisine in a more refined setting, suitable for a classic sit-down dinner.
Brauhaus zum Löwen
Traditional brewery restaurant known for hearty Thuringian dishes and beer-focused dining in a casual, rustic setting.
Euro (€)
More affordable than big German cities. Hotels, dining, and local transit are usually cheaper, though options are smaller and peak event dates can raise prices.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10%; for taxis, round up; in cafes, leave small change.
FAQs: Trains from Hanover to Ilmenau
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Hanover to Ilmenau 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 Ilmenau, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The first train from Hanover to Ilmenau leaves at 3:43 AM.
The distance by train from Hanover to Ilmenau is 127 miles (205 km).
The last train from Hanover to Ilmenau leaves at 10:20 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Hanover to Ilmenau.
The train station in Hanover that goes to Ilmenau is Hanover Hbf, which connects to Ilmenau station.
The train journey from Hanover to Ilmenau offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the Thuringian Forest, showcasing picturesque landscapes and lush greenery.
To fully explore Ilmenau's attractions, including the Goethe Museum, local hiking trails, and the Thuringian Forest, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
No, you cannot take the train from Hanover to Ilmenau.
Since both Hanover and Ilmenau 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 Ilmenau include Erfurt, Arnstadt, Bamberg, Leipzig, Halle.
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 Ilmenau, travelers should be aware of typical urban safety concerns such as pickpocketing in crowded areas and on public transportation. It is advisable to stay vigilant in busy places, especially around train stations and popular attractions. There are no widespread reports of specific scams targeting visitors, but standard precautions like avoiding unsolicited offers and securing personal belongings are recommended. Overall, Ilmenau is considered a safe destination with low crime rates.
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 Hanover to Ilmenau
Most Hanover to Ilmenau trains use the Hannover Hbf to Ilmenau station pair, with some services arriving at Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe. Use this guide to compare Hanover and Ilmenau train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Hanover
Arrival train stations in Ilmenau
Which Hanover station do trains to Ilmenau leave from?
Trains from Hanover to Ilmenau leave from Hannover Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Hanover city centre at Ernst-August-Platz 1, 30159, Hannover, Germany.
Hannover HbfErnst-August-Platz 1, 30159, Hannover, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Hannover Hbf from Hanover city centre
Bus120 · 10m · every ~10 min
170, 700, 500, 300 · 12m · every ~35 min
Hannover Hbf train station facilities and services
Hannover 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: Balzac Coffee, Burger King, McDonald's, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, asiahung, Mr. CLOU, Nordsee, Starbucks, Pizza Hut, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Hannover Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Hannover Hbf. Information desks are located near the main entrance by the DB ticket office.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located near the main entrance. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hannover Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Hannover Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hannover Hbf: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Grand Hotel Mussmann, IntercityHotel Hannover, Hotel Loccumer Hof.
Which Ilmenau station do trains from Hanover arrive at?
Trains from Hanover to Ilmenau most often arrive at Ilmenau. Some services arrive at Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Ilmenau arrival station.
IlmenauIlmenau, Am Bahndamm 10, 98693 Ilmenau
City-centre transport
Getting to Ilmenau from Ilmenau city centre
Bus300, A · 4m · every ~2 min
Ilmenau train station facilities and services
Ilmenau 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: City-Grill, MaBe`s Grillbar, Subway, Ratskeller
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ilmenau. ATMs are available at Ilmenau.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ilmenau. Information desks are available at Ilmenau.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ilmenau. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ilmenau: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ilmenau: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ilmenau.
Ilmenau Pörlitzer HöheIlmenau-Pörlitzer Höhe, Ziolkowskistraße 16, 98693 Ilmenau
City-centre transport
Getting to Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe from Ilmenau city centre
Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe is 1 km from Ilmenau city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus11, A · 9m · every ~4 min
Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe train station facilities and services
Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe 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: ASIA Restaurant MEKONG, Asian Wok, Efes Bistro, Sharma's Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe. ATMs are available at Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe. Information desks are available at Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ilmenau Pörlitzer Höhe.
More options for your journey from Hanover to Ilmenau
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ilmenau and Hanover
Most popular train connections to Ilmenau
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