- 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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Travel Information
Compare train for Heidelberg to Ilmenau
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Heidelberg to Ilmenau among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $118 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 34m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $118, while a train costs an average of $118.
Distance: 132 miles (213 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$118 Average price Cheapest | $51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 34m Average total duration Fastest 4h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Heidelberg to Ilmenau is a train with an average price of $118.
The fastest way to travel from Heidelberg to Ilmenau is by train with an average journey time of 4h 4m.
Yes, you can take a between Heidelberg and Ilmenau.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Heidelberg to Ilmenau among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $118 compared to roughly $51 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-66.27. The journey takes 4h 4m versus 3h 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.
Live departures
Heidelberg to Ilmenau train times
The table below shows live departures for Heidelberg to Ilmenau 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:33 AM Heidelberg | 5h05 | 12:38 PM Ilmenau | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Heidelberg to Ilmenau by train
Compare train 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Heidelberg to Ilmenau
GermanyGermany
Trains from Heidelberg to Ilmenau run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $106 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 08:18, the last at 11:18. The fastest train covers the 132 miles (213 km) distance in 3h 49m.
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 132 miles (213 km) |
Average train duration 4h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $106 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 49m |
First train 8:18 AM |
Last train 11:18 AM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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.
VMT Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.30
- Day pass
- $null
To the city center
Ilmenau station -> Marktplatz Ilmenau
- Distance
- 850 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Local buses in Ilmenau are part of the VMT network; check current fares and timetables in the VMT Tickets app or on the VMT website.
- For central Ilmenau, walking from Ilmenau station is usually quickest. Verify onboard card payment with the operator before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Heidelberg to Ilmenau
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Heidelberg 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.
Train ticket prices from Heidelberg to Ilmenau can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $106, while the average price is around $118.
The train from Heidelberg to Ilmenau takes 3h 49m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Heidelberg to Ilmenau is 132 miles (213 km).
The first train from Heidelberg to Ilmenau leaves at 8:18 AM.
The last train from Heidelberg to Ilmenau leaves at 11:18 AM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Heidelberg to Ilmenau.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Heidelberg to Ilmenau.
The train station in Heidelberg that goes to Ilmenau is Heidelberg Hbf, which connects to Ilmenau station.
The cheapest way to get from Heidelberg to Ilmenau is by train, with a cost of around $106.
The train journey from Heidelberg to Ilmenau offers scenic views of the German countryside, passing through lush landscapes, rolling hills, and charming small towns, particularly as you travel through the Thuringian Forest region.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Heidelberg to Ilmenau.
Since both Heidelberg 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Heidelberg to Ilmenau 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 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 Heidelberg to Ilmenau
Most Heidelberg to Ilmenau trains use the Heidelberg Hbf to Ilmenau station pair. Use this guide to compare Heidelberg and Ilmenau train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Heidelberg
Arrival train stations in Ilmenau
Which Heidelberg station do trains to Ilmenau leave from?
Trains from Heidelberg to Ilmenau leave from Heidelberg Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Heidelberg city centre at Heidelberg Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 69115 Heidelberg.
Heidelberg HbfHeidelberg Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 69115 Heidelberg
City-centre transport
Getting to Heidelberg Hbf from Heidelberg city centre
Heidelberg Hbf is 1 km from Heidelberg city centre. Public transport options include:
BusRnv 35, Rnv 33, Rnv 20, RNV Moonliner 3 · 4m · $4 · every ~13 min
TramRnv 5, Rnv 23, Rnv 22, Rnv 21 · 4m · $2 · every ~20 min
Heidelberg Hbf train station facilities and services
Heidelberg 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: Heid´s Grill, McDonald's, Uuuhmami, Taj Mahal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Heidelberg Hbf. ATMs are available at Heidelberg Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Heidelberg Hbf. Information desks are available at Heidelberg Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Heidelberg Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Heidelberg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Heidelberg Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Heidelberg Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Leonardo Hotel, Qube Hotel, NH Heidelberg, Krokodil.
Which Ilmenau station do trains from Heidelberg arrive at?
Trains from Heidelberg to Ilmenau arrive at Ilmenau. Ilmenau is from Ilmenau city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Heidelberg
More options for your journey from Heidelberg to Ilmenau
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ilmenau and Heidelberg
Most popular train connections to Ilmenau
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