- 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 Zurich to Gelsenkirchen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$106
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$111
Fastest journey on Sep 18
6 h 15 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
6 h 50 m
Trains on Sep 18
2
Distance
472 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen will cost around $111 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $106.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 trains from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 472 km distance in an average of 6 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 15 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 7 h 25 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.
7:59 AM7h25Zurich3:24 PMGelsenkirchen$1061One-way0 transfers- 8:34 AM6h15Zurich2:49 PMGelsenkirchen$1171One-way0 transfers
- 8:34 AM6h15Zurich2:49 PMGelsenkirchen$1171One-way0 transfers
- 7:59 AM7h25Zurich3:24 PMGelsenkirchen$1061One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Gelsenkirchen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $95 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 32m. 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 $95, while a flight costs an average of $610.
Distance: 293 miles (472 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$171 Average price | $610 Average price | $95 Average price Cheapest | $136 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 31m Average total duration 6h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration Fastest 2h 32m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 19h 55m Average total duration 19h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 25m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.4 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.2kg 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 Zurich to Gelsenkirchen is a bus with an average price of $95.
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen:
A bus is $77 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $171.
A bus is $515 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $610.
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 32m.
Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 1m.
Bus takes on average 19h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich 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 24m sooner (6h 1m by train vs 6h 25m by car). Tickets start at around $171 compared to roughly $136 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
Zurich to Gelsenkirchen train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Gelsenkirchen trains for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:59 AM Zurich | 7h25 | 3:24 PM Gelsenkirchen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:34 AM Zurich | 6h15 | 2:49 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 Zurich 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.
Fri
Sep 18
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Sep 24
Why should you book Zurich to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich 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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen.
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 Zurich to Gelsenkirchen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen
Switzerland
Germany
Trains from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $106 but you can travel from only $95 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:04, the last at 23:30. The fastest train covers the 293 miles (472 km) distance in 5h 23m.
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 $95
Distance 293 miles (472 km) |
Average train duration 6h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $106 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 5h 23m |
First train 1:04 AM |
Last train 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $95
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Zurich and Gelsenkirchen from $95. 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
5h 23m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$106
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.
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 Zurich to Gelsenkirchen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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 Zurich to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $106, while the average price is around $171.
The train from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen takes 5h 23m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 1:04 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen is 293 miles (472 km).
The last train from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 11:30 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Zurich HB, which connects to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen is by bus, with a cost of around $95.
The train journey from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen offers scenic views, especially through the Swiss countryside and the Rhine Valley, showcasing picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and river vistas.
A day trip from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 23m each way. However, there are 8 train trips available per day for this route.
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 Zurich to Gelsenkirchen.
Since both Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich to Gelsenkirchen
Most Zurich to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Zürich HB to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Gelsenkirchen Zoo. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Which Zurich station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?
Trains from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen leave from Zürich HB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11
City-centre transport
Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre
Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS, 9 · 3m · $4 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · $1 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · $2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · $2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · $2 · every ~19 min
Zürich HB train station facilities and services
Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Au Premier, Brasserie Federal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains from Zurich arrive at?
Trains from Zurich to Gelsenkirchen most often arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Some services arrive at Gelsenkirchen Zoo, 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 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 Zurich to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Gelsenkirchen
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