- Must visit
Dortmunder U
A Major Art And Culture Center In A Former Brewery Tower With Exhibitions, Media Art, And Panoramic City Views.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Ulm to Dortmund
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$75
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$121
Fastest journey on Sep 19
4 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
5 h 40 m
Trains on Sep 19
5
Distance
391 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Ulm to Dortmund is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ulm to Dortmund will cost around $121 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 5 trains from Ulm to Dortmund, including 5 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 391 km distance in an average of 5 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 20 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 6 h 59 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.
5:59 AM4h22Ulm10:21 AMDortmund$751One-way0 transfers- 8:33 AM6h10Ulm2:43 PMDortmund$841One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 AM6h59Ulm2:14 PMDortmund$1391One-way0 transfers
- 9:01 AM4h20Ulm1:21 PMDortmund$1471One-way0 transfers
- 8:47 AM6h27Ulm3:14 PMDortmund$1591One-way0 transfers
- 9:01 AM4h20Ulm1:21 PMDortmund$1471One-way0 transfers
- 5:59 AM4h22Ulm10:21 AMDortmund$751One-way0 transfers
- 8:33 AM6h10Ulm2:43 PMDortmund$841One-way0 transfers
- 8:47 AM6h27Ulm3:14 PMDortmund$1591One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 AM6h59Ulm2:14 PMDortmund$1391One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Ulm to Dortmund
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Ulm to Dortmund among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $59 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 52m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $59, while a flight costs an average of $527.
Distance: 242 miles (391 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$138 Average price | $527 Average price | $59 Average price Cheapest | $92 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 20m Average total duration 4h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 52m Average total duration Fastest 1h 52m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 8h 42m Average total duration 8h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.2 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.0kg 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 Ulm to Dortmund is a bus with an average price of $59.
This is compared to other travel options from Ulm to Dortmund:
A bus is $79 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ulm to Dortmund costing on average $138.
A bus is $468 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ulm to Dortmund costing on average $527.
The fastest way to travel from Ulm to Dortmund is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 52m.
Other travel options to Dortmund take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 50m.
Bus takes on average 8h 12m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Ulm and Dortmund including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ulm to Dortmund 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 43m sooner (4h 50m by train vs 5h 33m by car). Tickets start at around $138 compared to roughly $92 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 Intercity (DB IC).
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
Ulm to Dortmund train times
The table below shows live departures for Ulm to Dortmund 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 610 | Delayed 10:47 AM Ulm Hbf | 4h34 | 1:28 PM 1:28 PMDortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 610 · IC 2045 | On time 10:47 AM Ulm Hbf | 5h34 | 4:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 918 | On time 11:33 AM Ulm Hbf | 4h17 | 3:50 PM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 918 · ICE 228 · ICE 518 | On time 11:33 AM Ulm Hbf | 5h48 | 5:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 598 · ICE 108 · IC 2045 | On time 12:01 PM Ulm Hbf | 4h20 | 4:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 598 · ICE 796 · 26726 | On time 12:01 PM Ulm Hbf | 6h18 | 6:19 PM Dortmund Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 518 | On time 12:47 PM Ulm Hbf | 4h34 | 5:21 PM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| ICE 518 · ICE 2012 | On time 12:47 PM Ulm Hbf | 5h45 | 6:32 PM Dortmund Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| ICE 916 | On time 1:33 PM Ulm Hbf | 4h17 | 5:50 PM Dortmund Hbf | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| 5:59 AM Ulm | 4h22 | 10:21 AM Dortmund | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:15 AM Ulm | 6h59 | 2:14 PM Dortmund | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Ulm to Dortmund by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Sat
Sep 19
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Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Ulm to Dortmund trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Ulm to Dortmund.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ulm to Dortmund.
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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Ulm to Dortmund.
- 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ulm to Dortmund.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Ulm to Dortmund.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Ulm to Dortmund
GermanyGermany
Trains from Ulm to Dortmund run on average 9 times per day, taking around 4h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 but you can travel from only $40 by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 242 miles (391 km) distance in 3h 56m.
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
Distance 242 miles (391 km) |
Average train duration 4h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 56m |
First train 12:07 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Ulm to Dortmund trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Ulm and Dortmund from $40. 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
3h 56m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$61
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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 Dortmund
Things to do in Dortmund
Discover the best of Dortmund — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dortmund trip today.
- Must visit
Deutsches Fußballmuseum
One Of Europe'S Leading Football Museums, Presenting German Football History Through Trophies, Media, And Interactive Displays.
- Recommended
Museum Ostwall Im Dortmunder U
Dortmund'S Main Art Museum Shows Modern And Contemporary Works, Including Important Graphics And Painting Collections.
- Must visit
Alter Markt
Dortmund'S Central Square Hosts The Old Town'S Main Events And Christmas Market Around Historic Civic Buildings.
- Must visit
Phoenix-See
A Large Urban Lake Area With Promenades, Cafes Nearby, And Great Walks Popular With Locals And Visitors.
- Must visit
Rombergpark
One Of Germany'S Largest Botanical Parks, Featuring Themed Gardens, Woodland Paths, And A Relaxed Green Escape.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Dortmunder Export
A top-fermented pale lager long brewed in Dortmund. It is a defining local beer style tied to the city’s industrial and brewing heritage.
Westfälische Kartoffelsuppe
A hearty potato soup common in Westphalia, often enriched with vegetables and sausage. It is classic comfort food in the Ruhr area.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Pumpernickel
A traditional rye bread from Westphalia, dense, dark and slightly sweet. It is a regional staple often served with ham, cheese or smoked fish.
The Stage
Refined modern tasting menus in an elegant setting. One of Dortmund’s best-known fine dining addresses with polished service.
Hövels Hausbrauerei
Traditional brewery restaurant serving Dortmund beer and hearty regional dishes in a lively, historic atmosphere near the city center.
The ASH Dortmund
Well-established steakhouse known for quality beef, classic sides and dependable service in a smart but relaxed setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany; hotels vary, dining is reasonable, and local transit is fairly priced for city travel.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- 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, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is standard. Round taxi fares up; 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
Dortmund Hbf -> Dortmund City Center
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Buy tickets in the VRR App or from ticket machines before boarding. Proof-of-payment inspections are common on buses, trams, and Stadtbahn.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not reliably onboard every bus or tram. Use the app for the most consistent cashless purchase option.
FAQs: Trains from Ulm to Dortmund
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ulm to Dortmund 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 Dortmund, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Ulm to Dortmund can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61, while the average price is around $138.
The train from Ulm to Dortmund takes 3h 56m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Ulm to Dortmund is 242 miles (391 km).
The first train from Ulm to Dortmund leaves at 12:07 AM.
The last train from Ulm to Dortmund leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Ulm to Dortmund. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ulm to Dortmund.
The train station in Ulm that goes to Dortmund is Ulm Hbf, which connects to Dortmund Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Ulm to Dortmund is by bus, with a cost of around $40.
The train journey from Ulm to Dortmund offers a mix of scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Swabian Jura and the rolling hills of North Rhine-Westphalia. However, some segments also include urban and industrial areas.
A day trip from Ulm to Dortmund is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 56m. However, there are 8 trains per day covering a distance of 242 miles (391 km).
In Dortmund, you can explore the vibrant Kreuzviertel district for trendy cafes and boutiques, attend concerts at the Westfalenhallen, and discover industrial heritage at the Zollern Colliery museum. Enjoy a stroll along Phoenix See or visit the Botanischer Garten Rombergpark for its serene landscapes. Key sights include Westfalenpark with its iconic Florianturm, the cultural Dortmund U-Tower, Signal Iduna Park, the Dortmund Zoo, and the German Football Museum.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Dortmund's key attractions, such as the Zollern Colliery, Dortmund U-Tower, and Westfalenpark, while also enjoying local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
Yes, you can take the train from Ulm to Dortmund.
Since both Ulm and Dortmund 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 Dortmund include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Enschede, Münster, Essen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ulm to Dortmund 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 Dortmund, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and individuals offering unsolicited help with ticket machines or currency exchange, which can lead to overcharging. Staying alert in busy areas and using official services helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Ulm to Dortmund
Most Ulm to Dortmund trains use the Ulm Hbf to Dortmund Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Ulm and Dortmund train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Ulm
Arrival train stations in Dortmund
Which Ulm station do trains to Dortmund leave from?
Trains from Ulm to Dortmund leave from Ulm Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Ulm city centre at Ulm Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 89073 Ulm.
Ulm HbfUlm Hbf, Bahnhofplatz 1, 89073 Ulm
City-centre transport
Getting to Ulm Hbf from Ulm city centre
Bus46 · 9m · $4 · every ~1 min
Tram1 · 3m · $4 · every ~11 min
Ulm Hbf train station facilities and services
Ulm 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: Café Schmizz, Blauflesch, Wilder Mann, Gaststuben im Zunfthaus der Schiffleute
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Hbf. ATMs are available at Ulm Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ulm Hbf. Information desks are available at Ulm Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Ulm Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ulm Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ulm Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Bäumle, InterCityHotel Ulm, Lehrertal Garni.
Which Dortmund station do trains from Ulm arrive at?
Trains from Ulm to Dortmund arrive at Dortmund Hbf. Dortmund Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Dortmund city centre.
Dortmund HbfDortmund Hbf, Königswall 15, 44137 Dortmund
City-centre transport
Getting to Dortmund Hbf from Dortmund city centre
BusNe13, Ne12, Ne3, 460, 453 · 3m · every ~10 min
Dortmund Hbf train station facilities and services
Dortmund 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, Caliente, Ong Bui Asia Fusion, Kleimann
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dortmund Hbf. ATMs are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dortmund Hbf. Information desks are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Dortmund Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dortmund Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dortmund Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Cityhotel Dortmund, Esplanade, Drei Kronen, Hotel Unique Novum.
Most popular train connections from Ulm
More options for your journey from Ulm to Dortmund
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dortmund and Ulm
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