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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Jena to Erfurt
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Jena to Erfurt among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $16.
Distance: 24 miles (39 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$18 Average price | $9 Average price Cheapest | $9 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 0m Average total duration Fastest 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 7m Average total duration 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 48m 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 Jena to Erfurt is a bus with an average price of $9 (€7).
This is compared to other travel options from Jena to Erfurt:
A bus is $9 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Jena to Erfurt costing on average $18 (€14).
The fastest way to travel from Jena to Erfurt is by train with an average journey time of 30m.
Other travel options to Erfurt take longer:
Bus takes on average 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Jena and Erfurt including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Jena to Erfurt among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 18m sooner (30m by train vs 48m by car). Tickets start at around $18 (€14) compared to roughly $9 (€7) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Preßnitztalbahn.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Jena to Erfurt 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 Jena to Erfurt trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Preßnitztalbahn offer trains services from Jena to Erfurt.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Jena to Erfurt.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Preßnitztalbahn to find the best option for your trip from Jena to Erfurt.
- 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 Jena to Erfurt.
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 Jena to Erfurt.
ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Jena to Erfurt
The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
speedPersonnelEquipmentDisadvantages
UtilisationPunctualityThe train journey from Jena to Erfurt on the regional train was relatively ordinary.
The short journey time stood out positively. You arrived in Erfurt in about half an hour. In addition, the extremely dedicated staff and the solid equipment in the carriage. The toilets and doors all worked perfectly, as did the socket in the compartment at each seat. It worked well.
Unfortunately, this was once again overshadowed a little by the delay with which the regional train arrived in Jena. Nevertheless, for the price and the short journey, I am extremely satisfied with the route.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Jena to Erfurt
GermanyGermany
Trains from Jena to Erfurt run on average 25 times per day, taking around 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by bus.
There are 22 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:22, the last at 23:27. The fastest train covers the 24 miles (39 km) distance in 29m.
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 $9 (€7)
Distance 24 miles (39 km) |
Average train duration 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€13) |
Trains per day 25 |
Direct trains 22 |
Fastest train 29m |
First train 1:22 AM |
Last train 11:27 PM |
High Season Apr - Jun |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $9 (€7)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Preßnitztalbahn from Jena to Erfurt trainsDeutsche Bahn, Preßnitztalbahn trains will get you between Jena and Erfurt from $9 (€7). 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
29m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
14 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
Preßnitztalbahn
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
31m
Preßnitztalbahn frequency
10 a day
FAQs: Trains from Jena to Erfurt
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Jena to Erfurt 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 Erfurt, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Jena to Erfurt can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $16 (€13), while the average price is around $18 (€14).
The train from Jena to Erfurt takes 29m and runs 25 per day.
The distance by train from Jena to Erfurt is 24 miles (39 km).
The first train from Jena to Erfurt leaves at 1:22 AM.
The last train from Jena to Erfurt leaves at 11:27 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Jena to Erfurt. This service operates 22 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Preßnitztalbahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Jena to Erfurt.
The train station in Jena that goes to Erfurt is Jena Paradies station, which connects to Erfurt Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Jena to Erfurt is by bus, with a cost of around $9 (€7).
The train journey from Jena to Erfurt offers scenic views of Thuringia's rolling hills, lush forests, and charming countryside, providing a pleasant and picturesque travel experience.
Yes, a day trip from Jena to Erfurt is feasible. The journey takes 29m with a distance of 24 miles (39 km) and the train operates 1 time per day.
To fully explore Erfurt's historical sites, vibrant culture, and local cuisine, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Jena to Erfurt.
Since both Jena and Erfurt 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 Erfurt include Berlin, Leipzig, Nuremberg, Eisenach, Halle.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Jena to Erfurt 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 Erfurt, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unofficial guides may occur, so it’s advisable to use authorized services. Always keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid isolated streets at night for a safer experience.
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 Jena to Erfurt
Jena
Erfurt
The major train station for departures in Jena is Jena Paradies. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Jena Paradies for your trip from Jena to Erfurt.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Dining
- Eiscafe RIVA
- Portofino
- Wein-Tanne
- Subway
Hotel
- Ibis
- Thüringer Hof
- Hotel Vielharmonie
- Hotel Rasenmühle
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Eiscafe RIVA
- Portofino
- Wein-Tanne
- Subway
Hotel
- Ibis
- Thüringer Hof
- Hotel Vielharmonie
- Hotel Rasenmühle
The major train station for arrivals in Erfurt is Erfurt Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Erfurt Hbf for your journey to Erfurt from Jena.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Tuesday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Wednesday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Thursday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Friday: 08:30 - 18:30
- Saturday: 09:30 - 16:30
- Sunday: 09:30 - 16:30
Dining
- Istanbul Grill
- McDonald's
- Masala
- Planet Comics
Hotel
- Hotel Krämerbrücke
- Intercity Hotel
- Pension am Dom
- Best Western Plus Hotel Excelsior
Most popular train connections from Jena
More options for your journey from Jena to Erfurt
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Erfurt and Jena
Most popular train connections to Erfurt
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