Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE)

Wed, Nov 11
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
FlixTrain
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 11
Cheapest price on Nov 11
€102
Average ticket price on Nov 11
€118
Fastest journey on Nov 11
3 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Nov 11
4 h 18 m
Trains on Nov 11
5
Distance
292 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen will cost around €118 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €102.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche BahnSTR 3 · ICE 376 · IC 2049 · ICE 202
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnSTR 3 · ICE 76 · ICE 1014 · ICE 1022
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnSTR 3 · ICE 204 · 89875
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnSTR 3 · ICE 76 · ICE 1014 · S2
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnSTR 3 · ICE 376 · ICE 614 · 31257
    3 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €26 but you can travel from only €22 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:20, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 181 miles (292 km) distance in 2h 43m.

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 €22
Distance
181 miles (292 km)
Average train duration
3h 35m
Cheapest ticket price
€26
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 43m
First train
1:20 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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 €22

Frequently asked questions about your Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen.

Train ticket prices from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €26, while the average price is around €106.
The train from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen takes 2h 43m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 1:20 AM.
The distance by train from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen is 181 miles (292 km).
The last train from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen.

Live departures

Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen train times

The table below shows live departures for Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnSTR 3 · ICE 76 · ICE 1014 · ICE 10226:24 AM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)
5h04
11:28 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf4 transfers
Deutsche BahnSTR 3 · ICE 76 · ICE 1014 · S26:24 AM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)
3h40
10:04 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf3 transfers
Deutsche BahnSTR 3 · ICE 204 · 898756:44 AM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)
3h44
10:28 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf2 transfers
Deutsche BahnSTR 3 · ICE 376 · IC 2049 · ICE 2027:44 AM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)
4h44
12:28 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf4 transfers
Deutsche BahnSTR 3 · ICE 376 · ICE 614 · 312577:44 AM Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)
4h16
12:00 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf3 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain offer trains services from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen.

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 FlixTrain to find the best option for your trip from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen.
  • 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Karlsruhe and Gelsenkirchen from €22. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
2h 43m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€58
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.
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.
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.
Quiet zone

FlixTrain

About
FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixTrain Duration
9h 44m
Cheapest FlixTrain Price
€26
FlixTrain frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Karlsruhe and Gelsenkirchen

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a night train from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen.
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.

Complete guide to Gelsenkirchen

Things to do in Gelsenkirchen

Discover the best of Gelsenkirchen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gelsenkirchen trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum Schloss Horst

Renaissance castle museum with exhibitions on archaeology, local history, and changing art shows in one of the city's finest historic sites.

  • Must visit

Kunstmuseum Gelsenkirchen

Leading modern art museum in the Ruhr, noted for kinetic and contemporary works and ambitious temporary exhibitions.

  • Recommended

Apothekenmuseum Schloss Horst

Museum documenting pharmacy history inside Schloss Horst, with historic equipment and displays on medicine and daily life.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels are often cheaper than in major cities, while dining and local transit are fairly typical for the region.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes.

Plan your visit to Gelsenkirchen

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Gelsenkirchen.

The train journey from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen offers a mix of urban and rural views, showcasing picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and industrial areas as it travels through the diverse scenery of western Germany.
Popular day trips by train from Gelsenkirchen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Arnhem, Eindhoven, Osnabrück.
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 Gelsenkirchen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and major train stations. Common scams include fake charity collectors and distraction techniques in busy spots. It is advisable to keep valuables secure and stay alert in nightlife districts to avoid petty theft. Overall, standard urban safety precautions apply.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen

Most Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Karlsruhe Hbf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Karlsruhe and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Karlsruhe
Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen

Which Karlsruhe station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?

Trains from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen leave from Karlsruhe Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Karlsruhe city centre at Karlsruhe Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1a, 76137 Karlsruhe.
Karlsruhe HbfKarlsruhe Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1a, 76137 KarlsruheWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Karlsruhe Hbf from Karlsruhe city centre

Karlsruhe Hbf is 1 km from Karlsruhe city centre. Public transport options include:

Train74346, 80700, 80702, 80704, 80706, 80708, 84704, 84710, 84714, 84722, 84726, 84740, 84746, 84752, 84758, 84764, 84770, 84776, 84782, 84788, 84792, 84794, 84796, 84800, 84808, 84810, 84814, 84816, 84859, 84864, 84866, 84868, 84870, 84872, 84876, 84877, 84878, 84880, 84882, 84884, 84886, 84888, 84890, 84892, 84894, 84896, 84898, 84900, 84902, 84904, 84906, 84908, 84910, 84912, 84913, 84914, 84916, 84918, 84920, 84922, 84924, 84926, 84928, 84930, 84931, 84934, 84935, 84936, 84938, 84940, 84941, 84944, 84946, 84948, 84952, 84956, 84958, 84962, 84964, 84968, 84972, 84976, 84980, 84984, 84986, 84988, 84994, 84998, 85000, 85004, 85006, 85008, 85012, 85014, 85018, 85020, 85022, 85024, 85026, 85030, 85032, 85034, 85040, 85042, 85046, 85052, 85054, 85056, 85058, 85060, 85064, 85068, 85070, 85074, 85078, 85082, 85084, 85086, 85088, 85090, 85178, 85278, 85311, 85390, 85392, 85396, 85400, 85402, 85404, 85406, 85408, 85410, 85412, 85414, 85416, 85418, 85420, 85422, 85424, 85426, 85428, 85430, 85432, 85434, 85436, 85438, 85440, 85442, 85444, 85446, 85448, 85450, 85452, 85454, 85456, 85458, 85460, 85462, 85466, 85468, 85470, 85474, 85476, 85478, 85480, 85482, 85484, 85488, 85500, 85502, 85504, 85506, 85508, 85510, 85512, 85514, 85516, 85518, 85520, 85522, 85524, 85526, 85528, 85530, 85532, 85534, 85536, 85538, 85540, 85546, 85548, 85551, 85557, 85559, 85561, 85563, 85565, 85567, 85569, 85571, 85573, 85575, 85577, 85579, 85581, 85583, 85585, 85589, 85591, 85597, 85599, 85605, 85607, 85611, 85615, 85619, 85623, 85629, 85631, 85633, 85635, 85639, 85641, 85645, 85647, 85651, 85653, 85655, 85659, 85661, 85665, 85669, 85673, 85675, 85679, 85681, 85685, 85687, 85689, 85821, 85916, 85918, 85922, 85932, 85936, 85938, 85940, 85942, 85946, 85948, 85950, 85952, 85954, 85956, 85958, 85960, 85962, 85964, 85966, 85968, 85970, 85972, 85974, 85976 · 6m · every ~10 min
Tram2, Nl2 · 6m · every ~11 min

Karlsruhe Hbf train station facilities and services

Karlsruhe 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: Vinarte, Am Tiergarten, Panorama, Alter Brauhof

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. ATMs are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Information desks are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Karlsruhe Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Karlsruhe Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Karlsruhe Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Barbarossa, Hotel Avisa, Am Tiergarten, Aparthotel Aijana.

Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße)76133 Karlsruhe, GermanyParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental

Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße) train station facilities and services

Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße): Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Europaplatz/Post Galerie (Karlstraße).

Train stations for Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen

Check train stations information for Karlsruhe and Gelsenkirchen, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Karlsruhe that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Karlsruhe Hbf, which connects to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.

More options for your journey from Karlsruhe to Gelsenkirchen

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone