- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€232
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€232
Fastest journey on Sep 19
8 h 23 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
8 h 23 m
Trains on Sep 19
1
Distance
662 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen will cost around €232 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €232.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 1 trains from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 662 km distance in an average of 8 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 23 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 8 h 23 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:01 AM8h23Lyon4:24 PMGelsenkirchen€2321One-way0 transfers
- 8:01 AM8h23Lyon4:24 PMGelsenkirchen€2321One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lyon to Gelsenkirchen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €101 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €101, while a flight costs an average of €391.
Distance: 411 miles (662 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€156 Average price | €391 Average price | €101 Average price Cheapest | €127 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 27m Average total duration 7h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration Fastest 2h 43m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 16h 52m Average total duration 16h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen is a bus with an average price of €101.
This is compared to other travel options from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen:
A bus is €55 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen costing on average €156.
A bus is €289 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen costing on average €391.
The fastest way to travel from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 43m.
Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 57m.
Bus takes on average 16h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lyon and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen 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 28m sooner (7h 57m by train vs 8h 25m by car). Tickets start at around €156 compared to roughly €127 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.
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.
Live departures
Lyon to Gelsenkirchen train times
The table below shows live departures for Lyon to Gelsenkirchen trains for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:01 AM Lyon | 8h23 | 4:24 PM Gelsenkirchen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lyon to Gelsenkirchen by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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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Sep 19
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen
France
Germany
Trains from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen run on average 1 times per day, taking around 7h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €89 but you can travel from only €46 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:10, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 411 miles (662 km) distance in 7h 52m.
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 €46
Distance 411 miles (662 km) |
Average train duration 7h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price €89 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 7h 52m |
First train 2:10 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
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 €46
Train companies: TGV from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen trainsTGV trains will get you between Lyon and Gelsenkirchen from €46. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
TGV
About
TGV is a high-speed train company based in France. It operates a fleet of modern trains that can reach speeds of up to 320 km/h. The TGV offers a variety of train types, including the TGV Duplex, TGV Lyria, TGV InOui, and TGV OuiGo. Each train type provides different amenities, such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. Ticket options include Standard, Flexi, and Prem’s. Onboard facilities feature a bar, restaurant, and luggage storage. Popular TGV routes include Paris to Lyon, Paris to Marseille, and Paris to Lille.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TGV Duration
7h 52m
Cheapest TGV Price
€89
TGV frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage and 1 suitcase included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions and ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with full meals and bar service, at-seat dining in first class
Seat reservation
Included in first class, optional fee in second class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
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
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.
- Must visit
Nordsternpark
Large leisure park on a former colliery, combining industrial heritage, greenery, playgrounds, and canal-side walking routes.
- Must visit
ZOOM Erlebniswelt
Extensive zoo and landscaped grounds famous for Alaska-themed habitats and family-friendly outdoor exploration.
- Recommended
Schlosspark Berge
Elegant lakeside park around Schloss Berge, popular for strolling, boating views, and relaxed green space in Buer.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A hearty Ruhr-area potato stew with vegetables and sausage or bacon. It is a classic workers’ dish long associated with everyday home cooking in the region.
Himmel und Äd
Pan-fried blood sausage with mashed potatoes and apples. Common across North Rhine-Westphalia, it is a traditional pub and home-style comfort meal.
Mettbrötchen
Cured minced pork spread served on rye bread with onions. Popular in the Ruhr and nearby Westphalia as a simple, traditional snack or supper item.
Restaurant Hexenstube
Refined fine-dining restaurant in Gelsenkirchen known for modern German cuisine, careful presentation, and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Haus Lüttinghof
Traditional brewery-style venue serving hearty German and Ruhr-area dishes in a relaxed, rustic setting popular for local beer and classic comfort food.
Restaurant Haus Leithe
Well-known casual venue for German grills, schnitzel, and regional comfort food with a lively, approachable atmosphere suited to groups and families.
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.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €7.60
To the city center
Gelsenkirchen Hbf -> Heinrich-König-Platz, Gelsenkirchen
- Distance
- 350 m
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Buy VRR tickets in the VRR App or at ticket machines before boarding. On many buses, card payment may be limited, so buying in advance is safer.
- Gelsenkirchen Hbf is already in the city center. Walking is usually fastest for central destinations such as Heinrich-König-Platz.
FAQs: Trains from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lyon 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.
Train ticket prices from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €89, while the average price is around €156.
The train from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen runs once a day and takes approximately 7h 52m.
The first train from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 2:10 AM.
The distance by train from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen is 411 miles (662 km).
The last train from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen.
The train station in Lyon that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Lyon Part Dieu, which connects to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen is by bus, with a cost of around €46.
The train journey from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen offers scenic views, especially as it traverses the picturesque regions of eastern France and the rolling landscapes of western Germany, providing a visually pleasing experience.
A day trip from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen is not feasible due to the travel duration of 7h 52m and a distance of 411 miles (662 km). Trains are available 3 times per day.
Two to three days are typically sufficient to explore the main attractions in Gelsenkirchen, including the Veltins-Arena, ZOOM Erlebniswelt, and the Nordsternpark.
Yes, you can take the train from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen.
Since both Lyon and Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Arnhem, Eindhoven, Osnabrück.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen 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.
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen
Most Lyon to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Lyon Part Dieu to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Use this guide to compare Lyon and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lyon
Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Which Lyon station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?
Trains from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen leave from Lyon Part Dieu. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Lyon city centre at 5 Place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon, France.
Lyon Part Dieu5 Place Charles Béraudier, 69003 Lyon, France+33 184943635 
City-centre transport
Getting to Lyon Part Dieu from Lyon city centre
Lyon Part Dieu is 1 km from Lyon city centre. Public transport options include:
BusX75 · 25m · €3 · every ~1 min
Lyon Part Dieu train station facilities and services
Lyon Part Dieu has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Alto Café, Paul, Paul The Café, Starbucks, Exki, Sushi Shop, Carrefour
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free unlimited WiFi. ATMs are located in the station's main hall.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Wed: 05:00 - 20:45, Thu - Sat: 05:00 - 21:45, Sun: 06:45 - 21:45. Information desks are located in the station's main hall. .
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are available daily from 06:15 to 23:15. They are located near the station's reception desk. .
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lyon Part Dieu: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lyon Part Dieu: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lyon Part Dieu: Complimentary personalized care is available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Radisson Blu Hotel Lyon, Mercure Lyon Center, ibis Styles Lyon Center.
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains from Lyon arrive at?
Trains from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen most often arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Some services arrive at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Gelsenkirchen arrival station.
Gelsenkirchen HbfGelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gelsenkirchen Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
BusE51, 382, 348 · 12m · every ~10 min
Gelsenkirchen Hbf train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen 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: Subway, Café Madrid, Shere Punjab, Café del Sol
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel St. Petrus.
Gelsenkirchen-RotthausenGelsenkirchen-Rotthausen, Karl-Mayer-Straße 58, 45884 Gelsenkirchen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen is 2 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS2 · 3m · €1 · every ~3 min
BusNe14, 381 · 6m · every ~6 min
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen 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: Grill-Pizzeria Grammatikas, Viva Sevilla, Nudelland
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
Gelsenkirchen ZooGelsenkirchen Zoo, Münsterstr.1, 45889 Gelsenkirchen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gelsenkirchen Zoo from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen Zoo is 3 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
BusNe12, 382 · 27m · every ~8 min
382, Ne12 · 33m · every ~8 min
Tram301 · 13m · €2 · every ~13 min
Gelsenkirchen Zoo train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen Zoo 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: Zum Bürgerplatz, Pangung, Pizzeria Avanti, Star Chief Diner
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen Zoo. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen Zoo.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen Zoo. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen Zoo.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen Zoo. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen Zoo: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen Zoo: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen Zoo.
More options for your journey from Lyon to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Lyon
Most popular train connections to Gelsenkirchen
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