- Must visit
Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister
World-class Old Masters gallery in the Zwinger, famous for Raphael’s Sistine Madonna and major works by Dutch, Italian, and Flemish painters.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Ilmenau to Dresden
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ilmenau to Dresden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, and a train costs an average of $73.
Distance: 125 miles (202 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$103 Average price | $52 Average price Cheapest | $43 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 28m Average total duration Fastest 2h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration 3h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Ilmenau to Dresden is a bus with an average price of $52 (€42).
This is compared to other travel options from Ilmenau to Dresden:
A bus is $51 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ilmenau to Dresden costing on average $103 (€84).
The fastest way to travel from Ilmenau to Dresden is by train with an average journey time of 2h 58m.
Other travel options to Dresden take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ilmenau and Dresden including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ilmenau to Dresden 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 $103 (€84) compared to roughly $43 (€35) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-59.64 (€-48.81). The journey takes 2h 58m versus 2h 44m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Ilmenau to Dresden by bus or train
Compare bus and 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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Why should you book Ilmenau to Dresden trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Ilmenau to Dresden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ilmenau to Dresden.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ilmenau to Dresden.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Ilmenau to Dresden.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Ilmenau to Dresden
GermanyGermany
Trains from Ilmenau to Dresden run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 (€60) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:06, the last at 23:15. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 3h 21m.
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 $37 (€30)
Distance 125 miles (202 km) |
Average train duration 2h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $73 (€60) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 21m |
First train 8:06 AM |
Last train 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 4 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $37 (€30)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Ilmenau to Dresden trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Ilmenau and Dresden from $37 (€30). 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 21m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€60)
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.
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.
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.
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
Complete guide to Dresden
Things to do in Dresden
Discover the best of Dresden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dresden trip today.
- Must visit
Grünes Gewölbe
Dresden’s celebrated treasury with dazzling royal jewels, goldsmith work, and ceremonial objects; one of the city’s most famous museum experiences.
- Recommended
Albertinum
Major fine arts museum showing Romanticism, Impressionism, and modern works alongside sculpture in a restored historic building.
- Must visit
Neumarkt
Rebuilt historic square around the Frauenkirche, central to the old town and a natural base for sightseeing and photography.
- Recommended
Theaterplatz
Elegant square framed by the Semperoper, Zwinger, and Hofkirche, offering one of Dresden’s most impressive urban ensembles.
- Recommended
Kunsthofpassage
Creative courtyard complex in the Neustadt with colorful facades and artistic design details, very popular on social media.
- Vegetarian
Dresdner Christstollen
Rich yeasted fruit bread with butter, candied peel, raisins, and powdered sugar. It is Dresden’s most famous specialty and traditionally associated with Advent and Christmas.
- Vegetarian
Dresdner Eierschecke
Classic Saxon sheet cake with a yeast or sponge base, quark filling, and a fluffy egg-butter custard topping. It is especially beloved in Dresden cafés and bakeries.
Sächsischer Sauerbraten
Saxon-style marinated pot roast, usually beef, served with a sweet-sour gravy often balanced with raisins or gingerbread. It is a traditional festive dish in the region.
bean&beluga
Established fine-dining restaurant known for modern high-end cuisine, polished service, and one of Dresden’s more refined gastronomic experiences.
Sophienkeller im Taschenbergpalais
Long-established cellar restaurant serving Saxon and German specialties in an elaborate historic setting with strong old-Dresden character.
Kutscherschänke
Well-known traditional restaurant in the Neustadt area, appreciated for generous Saxon fare, rustic interiors, and a cozy local atmosphere.
Euro
Generally cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt. Hotels vary by season, while public transport and casual dining are fairly priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up for cafés and taxis; tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service.
DVB mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 3.40 EUR
- Day pass
- 9.00 EUR
To the city center
Dresden Hbf, Dresden -> Altmarkt, Dresden
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Validate your paper ticket before boarding; mobile tickets in the official app are already time-stamped.
- Card payment is generally possible in the DVB app and at many ticket machines, but not always directly on board buses or trams.
FAQs: Trains from Ilmenau to Dresden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ilmenau to Dresden 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 Dresden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Ilmenau to Dresden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73 (€60), while the average price is around $103 (€84).
The train from Ilmenau to Dresden takes 3h 21m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Ilmenau to Dresden leaves at 8:06 AM.
The distance by train from Ilmenau to Dresden is 125 miles (202 km).
The last train from Ilmenau to Dresden leaves at 11:15 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Ilmenau to Dresden.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ilmenau to Dresden.
The train station in Ilmenau that goes to Dresden is Ilmenau station, which connects to Dresden Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Ilmenau to Dresden is by bus, with a cost of around $37 (€30).
The train journey from Ilmenau to Dresden is quite scenic, offering views of the Thuringian Forest, charming countryside landscapes, and the picturesque Elbe River as you approach Dresden.
A day trip from Ilmenau to Dresden is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 21m. However, there are 6 trips per day by train, covering a distance of 125 miles (202 km).
In Dresden, you can explore the Zwinger Palace, an iconic Baroque complex with museums and art collections, and visit the Frauenkirche, a reconstructed Lutheran church offering panoramic city views from its dome. Experience performances at the Semper Opera House, renowned for its stunning architecture. Discover history at Dresden Castle, which houses museums and the famous Green Vault. Enjoy a walk along Brühl's Terrace, a scenic promenade along the Elbe River known as the Balcony of Europe.
A 2 to 3-day trip is ideal for exploring Dresden, allowing time to visit key attractions such as the Zwinger Palace, Frauenkirche, and the Semper Opera House, as well as enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Elbe River.
Yes, you can take the train from Ilmenau to Dresden.
Since both Ilmenau and Dresden 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 Dresden include Leipzig, Görlitz, Chemnitz, Ústí nad Labem, Děčín.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ilmenau to Dresden 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 Dresden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and public transport. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have been reported. It's advisable to use official taxis, keep valuables secure, and be wary of unsolicited offers or street distractions.
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 Ilmenau to Dresden
Most Ilmenau to Dresden trains use the Ilmenau to Dresden Hauptbahnhof station pair. Use this guide to compare Ilmenau and Dresden train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Ilmenau
Arrival train stations in Dresden
Which Ilmenau station do trains to Dresden leave from?
Trains from Ilmenau to Dresden leave from Ilmenau. The station is from Ilmenau city centre at Ilmenau, Am Bahndamm 10, 98693 Ilmenau.
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.
Which Dresden station do trains from Ilmenau arrive at?
Trains from Ilmenau to Dresden arrive at Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Dresden Hauptbahnhof is 0 miles (1 km) from Dresden city centre.
Dresden HauptbahnhofWiener Platz 4, 01069 Dresden, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Dresden Hauptbahnhof from Dresden city centre
Dresden Hauptbahnhof is 1 km from Dresden city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus261, 366, 365, 360, 333, H/S · 5m · every ~5 min
Tram3 · 4m · $4 · every ~12 min
Dresden Hauptbahnhof train station facilities and services
Dresden Hauptbahnhof 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: Burger King, asiagourmet, dean&david, Hot Dog King, Starbucks, Subway, BABA Döner, Marché, backWERK, Ditsch, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof. Information desks are located by Platform 9 in the main concourse.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers close to by the waiting room and the stairs leading to Platforms 3/4. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dresden Hauptbahnhof: Accessible facilities such as toilets and ramps and additional assistance as needed. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Kipping, Pullman Dresden Newa, IntercityHotel Dresden.
Most popular train connections from Ilmenau
More options for your journey from Ilmenau to Dresden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dresden and Ilmenau
Most popular train connections to Dresden
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