- Must visit
Hamburger Kunsthalle
Internationally respected art museum with major works from medieval altarpieces to modern masters. Essential for art lovers in Hamburg.
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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Ilmenau to Hamburg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ilmenau to Hamburg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $40. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $40, and a train costs an average of $67.
Distance: 203 miles (327 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$97 Average price | $52 Average price Cheapest | $73 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 2m Average total duration Fastest 5h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 40m Average total duration 10h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Ilmenau to Hamburg is a bus with an average price of $52 (€42).
This is compared to other travel options from Ilmenau to Hamburg:
A bus is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ilmenau to Hamburg costing on average $97 (€79).
The fastest way to travel from Ilmenau to Hamburg is by train with an average journey time of 5h 32m.
Other travel options to Hamburg take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ilmenau and Hamburg including taking a bus and train.
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 $97 (€79) compared to roughly $73 (€60) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-23.60 (€-19.20). The journey takes 5h 32m versus 4h 57m 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 Hamburg 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Ilmenau to Hamburg
GermanyGermany
Trains from Ilmenau to Hamburg run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 (€55) but you can travel from only $40 (€32) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:48, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 203 miles (327 km) distance in 5h 11m.
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 $40 (€32)
Distance 203 miles (327 km) |
Average train duration 5h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $67 (€55) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 5h 11m |
First train 4:48 AM |
Last train 10:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 $40 (€32)
Complete guide to Hamburg
Things to do in Hamburg
Discover the best of Hamburg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Hamburg trip today.
- Must visit
Miniatur Wunderland
Large railway model world with intricate miniature cities, airports, and landscapes. Technically not a museum, but one of Hamburg’s top attractions.
- Recommended
Deichtorhallen Hamburg
Contemporary art museum in a former market hall, showing ambitious international exhibitions. A strong choice for modern art and photography.
- Must visit
Jungfernstieg
Historic lakeside promenade and central square, ideal for people-watching, shopping, and views over the Inner Alster and city skyline.
- Must visit
Landungsbrücken
Harborfront district with piers, ferries, and fish market atmosphere. A lively base for boat trips and classic views of the port.
- Must visit
Outer Alster
Lakeside quarter around the Outer Alster, popular for strolling, sailing views, and elegant residential scenery close to the city center.
Hamburger Aalsuppe
A rich fish soup from the old port, made with several fish species, vegetables and broth. It reflects Hamburg’s long maritime and fishing tradition.
Finkenwerder Scholle
Pan-fried fillet of North Sea plaice, often served with bacon, potatoes and salad. A classic Northern German fish dish common in Hamburg.
- Vegetarian
Franzbrötchen
A sweet yeast pastry shaped like a knot, traditionally baked in Hamburg and often enjoyed with coffee. It is a long-standing local bakery specialty.
Restaurant Haerlin
Two-Michelin-star dining with modern, highly refined tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting near the Inner Alster.
Fischereihafen Restaurant
Historic fish hall on the Elbe known for fresh seafood platters, harbour views and classic Hamburg maritime atmosphere.
Old Commercial Room
Beloved traditional inn serving robust Northern German classics such as Labskaus in a cozy, old-Hamburg setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels can be pricey in peak season, but dining and transit are reasonable versus major Western European capitals.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or street food.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often included, but rounding up or tipping 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafes.
hvv switch
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.80
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city center
Hamburg Hbf -> Hamburg City Center (Rathausmarkt)
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Buy tickets in the hvv switch app or at station machines before boarding. Card and contactless payment are widely accepted at machines and in the app.
- Hamburg Hbf is already central; Rathausmarkt is walkable in about 15 min. U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and buses also connect the center quickly.
FAQs: Trains from Ilmenau to Hamburg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ilmenau to Hamburg 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 Hamburg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Ilmenau to Hamburg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $67 (€55), while the average price is around $97 (€79).
The train from Ilmenau to Hamburg takes 5h 11m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Ilmenau to Hamburg leaves at 4:48 AM.
The distance by train from Ilmenau to Hamburg is 203 miles (327 km).
The last train from Ilmenau to Hamburg leaves at 10:50 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ilmenau to Hamburg.
The train station in Ilmenau that goes to Hamburg is Ilmenau station, which connects to Hamburg Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Ilmenau to Hamburg is by bus, with a cost of around $40 (€32).
The train journey from Ilmenau to Hamburg offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque Thuringian Forest and the charming landscapes of Lower Saxony before reaching the vibrant cityscape of Hamburg.
A day trip from Ilmenau to Hamburg is not feasible, as the journey takes 5h 11m. However, trains run with a frequency of 7 per day, covering a distance of 203 miles (327 km).
In Hamburg, you can explore the vibrant nightlife of the Reeperbahn, enjoy a scenic boat tour of the Port of Hamburg, visit the lively Hamburg Fish Market, and discover the International Maritime Museum. Stroll along the Alster Lakes for picturesque views, and don't miss the Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, Speicherstadt, St. Michael's Church, and Planten un Blomen for diverse attractions and experiences.
Three days in Hamburg are generally sufficient to explore major attractions such as the Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie, and the historic Speicherstadt, as well as to experience its vibrant neighborhoods and local cuisine.
No, you cannot take the train from Ilmenau to Hamburg.
Since both Ilmenau and Hamburg 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 Hamburg include Bremen, Kiel, Schwerin, Lübeck, Bremerhaven.
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 Hamburg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Reeperbahn, St. Pauli, and public transport. Common scams include distraction tactics near popular tourist spots and overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers. It's advisable to use official transportation services and stay alert in busy nightlife districts to ensure safety.
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 Hamburg
Most Ilmenau to Hamburg trains use the Ilmenau to Hamburg Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Hamburg-Harburg. Use this guide to compare Ilmenau and Hamburg 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 Hamburg
Which Ilmenau station do trains to Hamburg leave from?
Trains from Ilmenau to Hamburg 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 Hamburg station do trains from Ilmenau arrive at?
Trains from Ilmenau to Hamburg most often arrive at Hamburg Hbf. Some services arrive at Hamburg-Harburg, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Hamburg arrival station.
Hamburg HbfHachmannplatz 16, 20099 Hamburg, Germany
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 · $4 · 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 Hamburg
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 · $4 · every ~25 min
S3, S5 · 18m · $4 · every ~14 min
Bus641 · 24m · $4
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.
Most popular train connections from Ilmenau
More options for your journey from Ilmenau to Hamburg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Hamburg and Ilmenau
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