- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$67
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$67
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 52 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 52 m
Trains on Sep 19
1
Distance
188 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen will cost around $67 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $67.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen without transferring at least once.
5:14 PM2h52Mainz8:06 PMGelsenkirchen$671One-way1 transfer
- 5:14 PM2h52Mainz8:06 PMGelsenkirchen$671One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train for Mainz to Gelsenkirchen
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $118 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 2h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $118, while a flight costs an average of $201.
Distance: 116 miles (188 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$118 Average price Cheapest | $201 Average price | $120 Average price | $45 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 1m Average total duration 2h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 45m Average total duration Fastest 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 19h 3m Average total duration 18h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen is a train with an average price of $118 (€96).
This is compared to other travel options from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen:
A train is $3 (€2) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $120 (€98).
A train is $83 (€68) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $201 (€164).
The fastest way to travel from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen is by flight with an average journey time of 45m.
Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 31m.
Bus takes on average 18h 33m.
Yes, you can take a train between Mainz and Gelsenkirchen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Mainz 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 32m sooner (2h 31m by train vs 3h 3m by car). Tickets start at around $118 (€96) compared to roughly $45 (€37) 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
Mainz to Gelsenkirchen train times
The table below shows live departures for Mainz to Gelsenkirchen trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 920 | Delayed 10:04 PM 12:01 AMMainz Hbf | 3h25 | 1:26 AM 1:26 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| IC 60402 · 26805 | 3:49 AM Mainz Hbf | 3h07 | 6:56 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| S8 · ICE 222 · 26807 | 5:02 AM Mainz Hbf | 2h54 | 7:56 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 29551 · ICE 826 · ICE 845 | On time 5:06 AM Mainz Hbf | 3h20 | 8:26 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| 4250 · 28508 · ICE 1036 | On time 5:32 AM Mainz Hbf | 4h08 | 9:40 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| S8 · ICE 18 · 26809 | 6:02 AM Mainz Hbf | 2h54 | 8:56 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Mainz to Gelsenkirchen by train
Compare 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Mainz to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as vlexx offer trains services from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Mainz 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 vlexx to find the best option for your trip from Mainz 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen
GermanyGermany
Trains from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $88 (€72) but you can travel from only $88 (€72) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:30, the last at 22:42. The fastest train covers the 116 miles (188 km) distance in 2h 8m.
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 $88 (€72)
Distance 116 miles (188 km) |
Average train duration 2h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $88 (€72) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 8m |
First train 2:30 AM |
Last train 10:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 $88 (€72)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Mainz and Gelsenkirchen from $88 (€72). 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 8m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$88 (€72)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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 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 Mainz to Gelsenkirchen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mainz 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 Mainz to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $88 (€72), while the average price is around $118 (€96).
The train from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen takes 2h 8m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen is 116 miles (188 km).
The first train from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 2:30 AM.
The last train from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 10:42 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen.
The train station in Mainz that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Mainz Hbf, which connects to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen is by bus, with a cost of around $88 (€72).
The train journey from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen offers views of picturesque landscapes, including sections along the scenic Rhine River, with its rolling vineyards and charming villages, especially in the initial part of the trip.
A day trip from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 8m, covering a distance of 116 miles (188 km). Trains operate 9 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 Mainz to Gelsenkirchen.
Since both Mainz 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 Mainz 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.
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 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 Mainz to Gelsenkirchen
Most Mainz to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Mainz Hbf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Mainz and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Mainz
Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Which Mainz station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?
Trains from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen leave from Mainz Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Mainz city centre at Mainz Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 55116 Mainz.
Mainz HbfMainz Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 55116 Mainz
City-centre transport
Getting to Mainz Hbf from Mainz city centre
Mainz Hbf is 2 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus92, 76, 62 · 9m · every ~13 min
93, 76, 65, 64 · 12m · every ~6 min
Tram52, 50 · 12m · every ~11 min
Mainz Hbf train station facilities and services
Mainz 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: Mangal, Asia Wok, Bistrorante Midi, McDonald's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Mainz Hbf. ATMs are available at Mainz Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mainz Hbf. Information desks are available at Mainz Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mainz Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mainz Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mainz Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mainz Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Advena Europa Hotel, GuestHouse Mainz, Terminus, Hotel Moguntia.
Bahnstrecke Mainz–MannheimMainz, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim from Mainz city centre
Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim is 2 km from Mainz city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus92, 62 · 8m · every ~8 min
660S · 18m
93, 76, 65, 64 · 31m · every ~6 min
Tram52 · 17m · every ~6 min
Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim train station facilities and services
Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Several restaurants available on-site.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs located near ticket office.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bahnstrecke Mainz–Mannheim: Wheelchair accessible with elevators.
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains from Mainz arrive at?
Trains from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Gelsenkirchen city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Mainz
More options for your journey from Mainz to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Mainz
Most popular train connections to Gelsenkirchen
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.
