Quick Overview
20-30 min
Journey Time
€8.60
Single Ticket
Every 20 min
Frequency
From Dortmund Hauptbahnhof, explore Germany using German trains. Book via DB Navigator.
Step-by-Step Directions
Exit Arrivals Hall
After collecting your luggage, follow signs for "Bus" or "AirportExpress". Exit the terminal building.
Find the AirportExpress Bus Stop
The bus stop is directly outside the terminal, clearly marked with "AirportExpress" signs. Look for yellow buses.
Buy Your Ticket
Option 1: Buy from the driver (cash or card)
Option 2: Download DSW21 app for mobile tickets
Board the Bus
Buses run every 20 minutes during the day, every 30 minutes in the evening. Check timetable at the bus stop.
Arrive at Dortmund Hauptbahnhof
The final stop is Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (main train station). Journey takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Ticket Options & Prices
Single Ticket
One-way from airport to city center
- • Valid for one journey
- • Buy from driver or DSW21 app
- • Valid for 90 minutes
€8.60
Return Ticket
Round trip between airport and city
- • Valid for both directions
- • Slightly cheaper than two singles
- • No expiration date
€15.00
Deutschland-Ticket
Unlimited travel on all regional transport
- • Includes AirportExpress bus
- • All buses, trams, S-Bahn in Germany
- • Monthly subscription
€49/mo
Bus Schedule
From Airport → City
- 🕐 Mon-Fri: 05:00 - 00:00 (every 20 min)
- 🕐 Sat: 05:00 - 00:00 (every 20 min)
- 🕐 Sun: 06:00 - 00:00 (every 20-30 min)
- 🕐 Night service: Limited (check schedule)
From City → Airport
- 🕐 Mon-Fri: 04:00 - 23:00 (every 20 min)
- 🕐 Sat: 04:00 - 23:00 (every 20 min)
- 🕐 Sun: 05:00 - 23:00 (every 20-30 min)
- 🕐 Peak times: May run more frequently
Important: Schedules align with flight times but always check current timetables at dsw21.de or on the DSW21 app.
Connecting to Other Cities
From Dortmund Hauptbahnhof, you can reach major cities across Germany:
Major Connections:
- 🚄 Cologne: 1h 15min (ICE/IC)
- 🚄 Düsseldorf: 30-40min (RE/IC)
- 🚄 Hamburg: 3h 30min (ICE)
- 🚄 Berlin: 4h 30min (ICE)
- 🚄 Munich: 5h 30min (ICE)
Regional Connections:
- 🚂 Essen: 30min (RE)
- 🚂 Bochum: 20min (S-Bahn)
- 🚂 Münster: 40min (RE)
- 🚂 Paderborn: 1h (RE)
Pro Tips
Download DSW21 App
Buy tickets in advance, check real-time schedules, and save time at the airport.
Allow Extra Time
Traffic can delay the bus. For departing flights, add 15-20 minutes buffer to your journey time.
Deutschland-Ticket Covers It
If you're traveling around Germany, the €49 Deutschland-Ticket includes the AirportExpress and all regional transport.
Luggage Space
Buses have luggage racks. Arrive early during peak times to secure space for large suitcases.
Alternative: Taxi or Uber
Taxi:
- 💶 €30-40 to city center
- ⏱️ 15-20 minutes
- 🚕 Available at terminal exit
When to Consider:
- • Late night arrivals (limited bus service)
- • Groups of 3-4 (split cost)
- • Heavy luggage
Book Your Onward Journey
Find and book train tickets from Dortmund to your destination!
Book Your Train Ticket
Book easily in English with Omio. No confusion, just clear options.
Book with OmioThe easy way to book German trains in English
Price Disclaimer: All prices mentioned on this page are non-binding and subject to change. Prices are examples only and may vary depending on booking time, route, and availability. Current and binding prices are available exclusively on the official websites of the respective providers (e.g., bahn.com or omio.com).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Dortmund Airport to the city center?
Take the AirportExpress bus (every 20 minutes) directly from the terminal to Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (main station). Journey takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Is there a direct train from Dortmund Airport?
No, Dortmund Airport doesn't have a train station. You must take the AirportExpress bus to Dortmund Hauptbahnhof, then connect to trains from there.
How much does the airport bus cost?
Single ticket costs €8.60 (as of 2024). You can buy tickets from the driver (cash or card) or via the DSW21 app.
Can I use a Deutschland-Ticket for Dortmund Airport?
Yes! The Deutschland-Ticket (€49/month) covers the AirportExpress bus and all local transport in Dortmund and the Ruhr area.
How early should I arrive at the airport?
For domestic flights: 1.5 hours. For international flights: 2 hours. Add 30-40 minutes for the bus journey from city center plus buffer time.