BERLIN to GELSENKIRCHEN train from $23 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,RE)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

$97

Average ticket price on Sep 08

$131

Fastest journey on Sep 08

4 h 8 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

4 h 22 m

Trains on Sep 08

Distance

445 km

Cheap tickets

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 $131 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $97.

Fast trains

On Tue, Sep 08, we found 6 trains from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen, including 6 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 445 km distance in an average of 4 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 8 m .

On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 4 h 49 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.

8:12 AM4h21
Berlin
12:33 PMGelsenkirchen
$971One-way
0 transfers
8:46 AM5h14
Berlin
2:00 PMGelsenkirchen
$1151One-way
0 transfers
10:13 AM4h17
Berlin
2:30 PMGelsenkirchen
$1281One-way
0 transfers
6:46 PM4h49
Berlin
11:35 PMGelsenkirchen
$1291One-way
0 transfers
9:46 AM4h08
Berlin
1:54 PMGelsenkirchen
$1321One-way
0 transfers

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 an average ticket price of $48 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 11m. 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 $48, while a flight costs an average of $519.

Distance: 276 miles (445 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$128 Average price	$48 Average price Cheapest	$519 Average price	$96 Average price (fuel + tolls)
4h 46m Average total duration 4h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	6h 58m Average total duration 6h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 11m Average total duration Fastest 2h 11m Onboard + 2h 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.

The cheapest way to travel from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen is a bus with an average price of $48.

This is compared to other travel options from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen:

A bus is $79 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $128.

A bus is $471 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen costing on average $519.

The fastest way to travel from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 11m.

Other travel options to Gelsenkirchen take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 16m.

Bus takes on average 6h 28m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berlin and Gelsenkirchen including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Berlin 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 1h 43m sooner (4h 16m by train vs 5h 59m by car). Tickets start at around $128 compared to roughly $96 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, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
ICE 546	Delayed 12:52 PM 2:47 PMBerlin Hbf	3h45	4:35 PM 4:35 PMGelsenkirchen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
ICE 556 · 89732	On time 3:04 PM Berlin Hbf	4h25	7:29 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 1544 · 89732	On time 3:26 PM Berlin Spandau	4h03	7:29 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 846 · 31273	On time 3:47 PM Berlin Hbf	4h13	8:00 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	1 transfer
FlixTrain	4:28 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	4h21	8:49 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain	4:39 PM Berlin Hbf	4h10	8:49 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
ICE 544	On time 4:47 PM Berlin Hbf	3h54	8:41 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
FlixTrain	4:48 PM Berlin Spandau	4h01	8:49 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
ICE 554 · 89736	On time 5:04 PM Berlin Hbf	4h25	9:29 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 1542 · 89736	On time 5:26 PM Berlin Spandau	4h03	9:29 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 844 · 31277	On time 5:47 PM Berlin Hbf	4h13	10:00 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	1 transfer
ICE 542	On time 6:47 PM Berlin Hbf	3h51	10:38 PM Gelsenkirchen Hbf	0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, September 8
	8:12 AM Berlin	4h21	12:33 PM Gelsenkirchen	0 transfersDirect
	8:46 AM Berlin	5h14	2:00 PM Gelsenkirchen	0 transfersDirect
	9:46 AM Berlin	4h08	1:54 PM Gelsenkirchen	0 transfersDirect
	10:13 AM Berlin	4h17	2:30 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 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.

Tue
Sep 08

Wed
Sep 09

Thu
Sep 10

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Sep 11

Sat
Sep 12

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Sep 13

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Sep 14

Why should you book Berlin to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Berlin 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 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

Germany

Trains from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 276 miles (445 km) distance in 3h 45m.

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

Distance

276 miles (445 km)

Average train duration

4h 16m

Cheapest ticket price

$22

Trains per day

Fastest train

3h 45m

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

1 day

Price information

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain trains will get you between Berlin and Gelsenkirchen from $22. 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 45m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

$33

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.

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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FlixTrain

About

FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average FlixTrain Duration

3h 53m

Cheapest FlixTrain Price

$22

FlixTrain frequency

2 a day

Luggage included

1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions

Refund

Full refund if train is cancelled by operator

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service

Seat reservation

Seat reservation included in ticket price

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle

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

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.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Kunstmuseum Gelsenkirchen

Leading modern art museum in the Ruhr, noted for kinetic and contemporary works and ambitious temporary exhibitions.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Apothekenmuseum Schloss Horst

Museum documenting pharmacy history inside Schloss Horst, with historic equipment and displays on medicine and daily life.

View on map Visit website

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.

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.

Train ticket prices from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22, while the average price is around $128.

The train from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen takes 3h 45m and runs 6 per day.

The distance by train from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen is 276 miles (445 km).

The first train from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 12:04 AM.

The last train from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 11:55 PM.

There is no direct train service currently available from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen.

The train station in Berlin that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Berlin Hbf, which connects to Gelsenkirchen Hbf.

The cheapest way to get from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen is by train, with a cost of around $22.

The train journey from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen offers views of picturesque landscapes, including stretches of lush greenery and charming small towns, though it is primarily characterized by urban and industrial vistas as it passes through major cities like Hanover and Dortmund.

A day trip from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 45m. Trains run 10 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 Berlin to Gelsenkirchen.

Since both Berlin 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 Berlin 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 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.

Departure train stations in Berlin

Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen

Which Berlin station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?

Trains from Berlin to Gelsenkirchen leave from Berlin Hbf. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Berlin city centre at Europaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany.

Berlin HbfEuropaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Berlin Hbf from Berlin city centre

Berlin Hbf is 2 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb23, Re2, Rb14, Re7, Fex · 5m · $4 · every ~6 min

U5 · 8m · $4 · every ~25 min

BusN40, 142 · 12m · $2 · every ~8 min

170, 270, 170A, 157A, 157 · 18m · $1

TramM8 · 13m · $4 · every ~12 min

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.

More about Berlin Hbf

Berlin SpandauBerlin-Spandau, Seegefelder Str. 1, 13597 Berlin Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Berlin Spandau from Berlin city centre

Berlin Spandau is 14 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS3, S9, S5 · 10m · $4 · every ~14 min

S9, S5, S3 · 25m · $4 · every ~14 min

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.