Ulm to Dortmund train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

Wed, Aug 05
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Ulm to Dortmund

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

€96

Average price

€109

Fastest journey

5 h 34 m

Average duration

5 h 39 m

Trains per day

3

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 €109 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €96.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Ulm for Dortmund on Wed, Aug 05, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 391 km distance in an average of 5 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 34 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 5 h 48 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:33 AM5h48
    Ulm
    2:21 PMDortmund
    961One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    5:47 AM5h34
    Ulm
    11:21 AMDortmund
    1011One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:47 AM5h34
    Ulm
    2:21 PMDortmund
    1311One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Ulm to Dortmund

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ulm to Dortmund among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €34. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €34, and a flight costs an average of €207.

Distance: 242 miles (391 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

€111

Average price

€41

Average price

Cheapest

€399

Average price

€74

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 33m

Average total duration

5h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 46m

Average total duration

8h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 35m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 35m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

5h 33m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

1.2 - 2.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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 €41.

This is compared to other travel options from Ulm to Dortmund:

A bus is €70 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ulm to Dortmund costing on average €111.

A bus is €358 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ulm to Dortmund costing on average €399.

The fastest way to travel from Ulm to Dortmund is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 35m.

Other travel options to Dortmund take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 3m.

Bus takes on average 8h 16m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Ulm and Dortmund including taking a train, bus, 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 30m sooner (5h 3m by train vs 5h 33m by car). Tickets start at around €111 compared to roughly €74 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, 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, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:04 AM Ulm
6h52
1:56 PM Dortmund0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:47 AM Ulm
5h34
1:21 PM Dortmund0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn1:47 PM Ulm
5h34
7:21 PM Dortmund0 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 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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

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 train, bus 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 train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Ulm to Dortmund.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Ulm to Dortmund

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Ulm to Dortmund run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €61 but you can travel from only €34 by bus.

There are 2 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 4h 20m.

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 €34
Distance
242 miles (391 km)
Average train duration
5h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
€61
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
4h 20m
First train
12:07 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
1 day
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 €34

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Ulm to Dortmund trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Ulm and Dortmund from €34. 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
4h 20m
Cheapest Price
€61
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.
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 14m
Cheapest Price
€75
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
11 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 48m
Cheapest Price
€229
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

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

Dortmunder U

A Major Art And Culture Center In A Former Brewery Tower With Exhibitions, Media Art, And Panoramic City Views.

  • 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.

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.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Ulm to Dortmund can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €61, while the average price is around €111.
The train from Ulm to Dortmund takes 4h 20m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Ulm to Dortmund leaves at 12:07 AM.
The distance by train from Ulm to Dortmund is 242 miles (391 km).
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 2 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC).
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 €34.
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 4h 20m. 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, with some services arriving at Dortmund-Germania. 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 UlmWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Ulm Hbf from Ulm city centre

Bus46 · 9m · €3 · every ~1 min
Tram1 · 3m · €3 · 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.

Ulm OstUlm Ost, An der Brenzbahn, 89073 UlmWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Ulm Ost from Ulm city centre

TrainRs51 · 2m · €2
BusE, 7 · 6m · €3 · every ~6 min

Ulm Ost train station facilities and services

Ulm Ost 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: Bodhi, Schwarze Henne, Café Schmizz, Kornhäusle

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Ulm Ost. ATMs are available at Ulm Ost.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Ulm Ost. Information desks are available at Ulm Ost.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Ulm Ost. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Ulm Ost: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Ulm Ost: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Ulm Ost.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Neuthor, Hotel Comfor, Bäumle, Stern.

More options for your journey from Ulm to Dortmund

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

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