The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen
Cheapest price
$38
Average price
$125
Fastest journey
4 h 6 m
Average duration
4 h 7 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
445 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen will cost around $125 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.
It's difficult to get from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen without transferring at least once.
FlixBus+
FlixTrain4:00 AM7h46Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB)11:46 AMGelsenkirchen Hbf$381One-way1 transfer
ICE 142 · 101552:16 PM4h08Berlin Hbf6:24 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$1071One-way1 transfer
ICE 148 · 101318:16 AM4h08Berlin Hbf12:24 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$1311One-way1 transfer
ICE 146 · 1013910:16 AM4h08Berlin Hbf2:24 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$1311One-way1 transfer
ICE 848 · S21:47 PM4h06Berlin Hbf5:53 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$1311One-way1 transfer
ICE 942 · S29:47 AM4h06Berlin Hbf1:53 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$1531One-way1 transfer
ICE 848 · S21:47 PM4h06Berlin Hbf5:53 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$1311One-way1 transfer
ICE 642 · 101338:47 AM4h07Berlin Hbf12:54 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$1531One-way1 transfer
ICE 548 · 1014912:47 PM4h07Berlin Hbf4:54 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$1311One-way1 transfer
ICE 148 · 101318:16 AM4h08Berlin Hbf12:24 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf$1311One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Berlin to Gelsenkirchen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. 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 $24, and a flight costs an average of $73.
Distance: 276 miles (445 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$124 Average price | $46 Average price Cheapest | $209 Average price | $94 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 55m Average total duration 4h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 29m Average total duration 5h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen:
A bus is $79 (€65) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $124 (€102).
A bus is $163 (€134) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $209 (€171).
Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 25m.
Bus takes on average 5h 59m.
You'll arrive about 1h 34m sooner (4h 25m by train vs 5h 59m by car). Tickets start at around $124 (€102) compared to roughly $94 (€77) 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
Berlin to Gelsenkirchen train times
The table below shows live departures for Berlin to Gelsenkirchen trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICE 148 · 10131 | On time 8:16 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h08 | 12:24 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 642 · 10133 | On time 8:47 AM Berlin Hbf | 4h07 | 12:54 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
ICE 1052 · 10134 | On time 9:14 AM Berlin-Gesundbrunnen station | 4h19 | 1:33 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 4:00 AM Berlin, Zentraler Omnibusbahnhof (ZOB) | 7h46 | 11:46 AM Gelsenkirchen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Berlin 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.
Jun 20
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Jun 22
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Jun 26
Why should you book Berlin to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?
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 FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Berlin 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 Berlin 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 Berlin to Gelsenkirchen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen
Trains from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 (€26) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 276 miles (445 km) distance in 3h 59m.
Distance 276 miles (445 km) |
Average train duration 4h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 (€26) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 59m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 days |
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Berlin and Gelsenkirchen from $24 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
FlixTrain
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Traveling by train from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen
The train connection between Berlin and Gelsenkirchen offers a convenient way to travel across Germany, with services provided by Deutsche Bahn and FlixTrain. Passengers can enjoy comfortable rides while taking in the scenic views of the German countryside. With multiple daily departures, travelers have flexibility in planning their journeys between these two cities.
Train Connection: Berlin to Gelsenkirchen
Traveling from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen takes approximately 3 hours and 56 minutes. There are 2 direct connections available each day, departing from Berlin Hbf and arriving at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Berlin to Gelsenkirchen Train Connection
The first daily train from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen departs at 05:56 AM, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture and attractions of these two cities. The last journey of the day leaves at 08:41 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day before heading back or continuing their travels in Germany.
Train Tickets Price for Berlin and Gelsenkirchen
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Berlin and Gelsenkirchen is €24. The average ticket price typically ranges around €75, making it a cost-effective option to travel between these two vibrant German cities.
Exploring Gelsenkirchen: A Journey Through Culture and Attractions
Welcome to Gelsenkirchen, where our first stop is the Veltins-Arena, a marvel of modern architecture that opened in 2001 and has since become one of Germany's premier football stadiums. Its significance lies not only in its role as the home ground for FC Schalke 04 but also in its innovative retractable roof and pitch system, allowing it to host a variety of events year-round. As you explore this iconic venue, take note of the impressive seating capacity and state-of-the-art facilities that make every match an unforgettable experience.
Next on our journey is ZOOM Erlebniswelt, an extraordinary zoo that redefines animal encounters through immersive habitats designed to mimic their natural environments. Opened in 2004, this unique attraction emphasizes conservation education while providing visitors with up-close experiences with wildlife from around the globe—such as polar bears roaming snowy landscapes or African elephants amidst savannah-like settings. The park’s commitment to sustainability and interactive exhibits ensures both fun and learning for guests of all ages.
Finally, we arrive at Schloss Berge—a stunning neo-Gothic castle built between 1856-1862 nestled within picturesque parkland along Lake Berger See. This historical landmark serves as a symbol of local heritage while offering breathtaking views perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics by the water's edge. With its enchanting gardens and serene atmosphere, Schloss Berge invites you to step back into history while enjoying nature’s beauty right here in Gelsenkirchen.
FAQs: Trains from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen
Most Berlin to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Berlin Hbf to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Use this guide to compare Berlin and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Berlin station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?
Getting to Berlin Hbf from Berlin city centre
Berlin Hbf is 2 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
Berlin Hbf train station facilities and services
Berlin Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: backWERK, Burger King, Costa Coffee, Dunkin' Donuts, Einstein Kaffee, Le Crobag, McDonald's, Hans im Glück, Pret A Manger, Starbucks, & many more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi (30 minutes limit). ATMs are available at Berlin Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Hbf. Information desks are located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Berlin Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Hbf: Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof.
Getting to Berlin Spandau from Berlin city centre
Berlin Spandau is 14 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
Berlin Spandau train station facilities and services
Berlin Spandau 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: Unvernunft, Taverna Teloneio, Burger King, Hasir
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Berlin Spandau. ATMs are available at Berlin Spandau.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Spandau. Information desks are available at Berlin Spandau.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Berlin Spandau. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin Spandau: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Berlin Spandau: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Spandau.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Benn, Hotel Herbst, Hotel Lindenufer, Hotel Ibis Berlin Spandau.
Getting to Berlin Südkreuz from Berlin city centre
Berlin Südkreuz is 6 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:
Berlin Südkreuz train station facilities and services
Berlin Südkreuz 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: Biertempel 2, McDonald's, Eis Bär, Cafe Mon Cherie
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Berlin Südkreuz. ATMs are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Berlin Südkreuz. Information desks are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Berlin Südkreuz. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Berlin Südkreuz: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Berlin Südkreuz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Südkreuz.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Appartements Eisemann.
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains from Berlin arrive at?
Getting to Gelsenkirchen Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
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.
Getting to Wanne-Eickel Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Wanne-Eickel Hbf is 3 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
Wanne-Eickel Hbf train station facilities and services
Wanne-Eickel Hbf 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: Dschingis Khan, Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel, Nikolaus Grill, McDonald's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. ATMs are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Information desks are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.
Getting to Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen is 2 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Grill-Pizzeria Grammatikas, Viva Sevilla, Nudelland
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen-Rotthausen.
More options for your journey from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen
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