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Trains from London to Dortmund

from
London, United Kingdom
to
Dortmund, Germany

Why Choose Bus from London to Dortmund

Traveling from London to Dortmund offers a unique opportunity to experience European rail travel. Choosing the right mode of transportation can significantly enhance your journey, blending comfort, speed, and convenience.

💰 Comfort and Space


pros
  • Train compartments provide more legroom and space to move around compared to cramped bus settings.
  • Amenities such as dining cars and power outlets allow for a more comfortable journey.
cons
  • The need to transfer at Brussels and Cologne could disrupt the seamless experience.

🛎️ Scenic Views


pros
  • The train journey offers scenic views of the English countryside and the picturesque landscapes of Belgium and Germany.
  • Unlike flying, passengers can enjoy these views without the rush of boarding and security checks.
cons
  • The view can sometimes be obstructed or less interesting due to urban expansions along parts of the route.

⭐ Time Efficiency


pros
  • With a travel time of approximately 5h 46m, trains can be quicker than bus journeys that exceed 12 hours with stops.
  • Train stations in city centers, like London St Pancras Intl and Dortmund Hbf, simplify the start and end of your travel.
cons
  • There are no direct trains, making transfer times an important factor in total travel duration.

highlights:

Ticket prices can be high, ranging from £135 to £433, depending on booking conditions and time of travel.

Trains offer an efficient travel time that can be quicker than buses on this route.

Passengers benefit from the reliability of scheduled train services without the unpredictability of traffic.

Dining options and onboard facilities enhance the travel experience compared to basic bus amenities.

Train Options from London to Dortmund

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
ConnectingEurostar / Deutsche BahnLondon St Pancras Intl, LondonDortmund Hbf, Dortmund07:00, 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 11:0012:46, 13:46, 14:46, 15:46, 16:46Every hour5h 46m
£
135-433
Brussel-Zuid / Bruxelles-Midi,Koeln Hbf

Comparison of Train Operators from London to Dortmund

Comparing train operators servicing the route from London to Dortmund is essential for travelers seeking the best combination of price, amenities, and policies that suit their needs. The journey requires transfers and varies significantly among operators, making it important to evaluate these factors.

CriteriaEurostarDeutsche Bahn Intercity-Express
Price Range£ 135 - £ 433£ 150 - £ 450
pricing policies
refund policyRefunds available if tickets are canceled 14 days prior to departure.Full refunds are offered for cancellations made 24 hours before departure.
Ticket ChangesChanges are allowed up to 7 days before travel with a fee.Changes allowed with a fee, depending on the fare type.
discountsDiscounts available for seniors, youth, and group bookings.Various discounts for children, students, and seniors.
amenitiesFree Wi-Fi, Onboard catering, Power outlets, Comfortable seatingFree Wi-Fi, Restaurant car, Quiet zones, Business lounge in select stations
baggage allowance
Additional FeesFees apply for additional checked bags.Extra fees for oversized luggage.
accessibilityAccessible carriages available, support for boarding provided at major stations.Fully accessible services with designated spaces and assistance available.

Travelers should consider Eurostar for a more flexible pricing policy but might find Deutsche Bahn a better option for amenities and baggage allowance. Both operators offer comparable prices and accessibility features, so the best choice will depend on individual preferences for service and travel needs.

Train Stops and Stations from London to Dortmund

Understanding the train stations between London and Dortmund is crucial for a seamless travel experience.

Main Train Stations in London

London St Pancras International

Located in the King's Cross area, just a short walk from the heart of London and well-connected to various landmarks including the British Library and Granary Square.
facilities
  • Restrooms available throughout the station
  • Waiting areas with ample seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks for convenience
  • Luggage storage lockers for only £10 per day
  • Free Wi-Fi available across the station
  • Multiple food and beverage options including cafes, restaurants, and vending machines
  • ATMs and currency exchange services located near the main concourse
  • Good accessibility features including ramps and elevators
Transportation Links
  • Multiple bus services connecting to various parts of the city
  • London Underground with direct access to King's Cross St Pancras station (Victoria, Piccadilly, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines)
  • Taxi and rideshare services readily available outside the main entrance
  • Parking facilities are located nearby for those driving to the station
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your train departs to ensure adequate time for boarding
  • Familiarize yourself with the security procedures, especially baggage checks at international departures
  • Try to avoid peak hours in the morning and late afternoon to bypass large crowds
  • Explore nearby shops or grab a meal if you have spare time before departure

Main Train Stations in Dortmund

Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (Main Station)

Situated at the heart of Dortmund, the station is adjacent to the city’s shopping district and close to attractions like Westfalenpark and the Museum Ostwall.
facilities
  • Clean and accessible restrooms
  • Waiting areas with comfortable seating arrangements
  • Ticket counters and self-service machines for easy ticket purchasing
  • Luggage storage facilities available on-site
  • Free Wi-Fi provided throughout the station
  • Variety of food and drink options including local cafés and bakeries
  • ATMs and currency exchange services available inside the station
Transportation Links
  • Local buses connecting to various parts of Dortmund and the surrounding areas
  • U-Bahn (subway) stations directly accessible from the train station
  • Extensive taxi services available just outside the station
  • Park and ride options available for travelers driving to the station
  • Arrive well ahead of any scheduled transfers or onward travel plans, especially during busy times
  • Be prepared for ticket validation for local travel after arriving
  • Avoid rush hours to make for a more pleasant arrival experience
  • Check local shops or cafés near the station if you have time to explore after arrival

En Route Stops

Brussels Midi

Duration: 15m

facilities

  • Restrooms available
  • Luggage storage services
  • Food and beverage options including grab-and-go snacks

Cologne Hbf

Duration: 20m

facilities

  • Restrooms throughout the station
  • Waiting areas and seating
  • Various restaurants and shops to browse

Familiarizing yourself with the key train stations in London and Dortmund, as well as the stops along the way, can greatly enhance your travel experience and ease concerns about logistics. Happy travels!

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Enjoy the Scenic Route

    Take advantage of the stunning scenery as you travel from London to Dortmund. The journey showcases beautiful countryside and picturesque towns. Keep your camera ready when passing through the charming landscapes around the Rhine Valley.

  • 📍 Explore Key Stopovers

    Consider planning a stop in Brussels or Cologne. Each city offers rich history and culture, making it worth the visit. Cologne's iconic Cathedral is a must-see, and Brussels is famous for its chocolates and waffles.

  • 🚍 Wi-Fi on Board

    Make sure to use the free Wi-Fi provided on many trains for convenient connectivity. This can be useful for planning your itinerary, staying in touch, or sharing your travel experiences in real-time.

  • 🎭 Dining Experience

    Take advantage of the onboard dining services. Enjoy regional specialties that can make your journey even more memorable. Try out some German snacks or a cup of tea as you travel.

  • 🏛 Pack for Varying Weather

    The weather can change dramatically on this route. Make sure to check forecasts and pack layers to stay comfortable throughout your journey.

FAQ

Most trains offer amenities such as Wi-Fi, dining cars, and power outlets for charging devices. Be sure to verify the specific train service for exact amenities.
English is commonly spoken, but it's helpful to know a few basic German phrases. Common signs are often bilingual, so you should have no problem navigating.
Yes, London operates on GMT, while Dortmund operates on CET, which is an hour ahead. Remember to adjust your watches accordingly!
Check local event calendars in advance. Popular options include Oktoberfest in Munich and Christmas markets in Cologne. Planning ahead can let you enjoy these festivities.
There are typically First and Second Class options. First Class offers more spacious seating and additional amenities. Decide based on your comfort preference and budget.