Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Dortmund Airport (DTM) to the city center (Reinoldikirche) for most travelers is the AirportExpress (AirportShuttle) bus. It offers a direct, non-stop connection to Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (main station) in about 15-20 minutes for a fare of approximately â¬5-â¬8. From the main station, it's a short 5-minute walk or one tram stop to the Reinoldikirche area. For budget travelers, public buses 490/491 are the cheapest (â¬3) but require a transfer and take longer (40-50 mins).
By Train: S-Bahn and Regional Trains
While there is a train station directly at Dortmund Airport (Dortmund Flughafen), it's important to understand that a direct, single-train journey to Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (Hbf) is not available. The station is served by the S-Bahn S1 line (Dortmund-Duisburg) and some regional trains (RE), but these require a strategic change of trains or modes to reach the central city area around Reinoldikirche.
Recommended Route via S-Bahn S1
This is the most straightforward rail option, though it involves a short walk or tram ride at the end.
- Step 1: At the airport, follow signs to the "Dortmund Flughafen" station.
- Step 2: Take the S-Bahn S1 in the direction of Dortmund Hbf or Solingen Hbf.
- Step 3: Disembark at Dortmund Stadtgarten (2nd stop, ~8 mins).
- Step 4: Walk ~15 minutes north to Reinoldikirche, OR transfer to Tram U43/U44 at "Stadtgarten" station for one stop to "Reinoldikirche".
Total Time: 20-30 minutes. Cost: Standard VRR fare (â¬3.20 for a short-trip ticket within Dortmund as of 2023).
Alternative Route via Dortmund Hauptbahnhof
If your final destination is near the main station or you prefer a hub, you can take a train to Dortmund Hbf and walk.
- Take the Regional Express (RE) or S1 from Dortmund Flughafen to Dortmund Hbf. Note: Not all S1 trains go directly to Hbf; some terminate earlier. Check displays.
- The journey takes 10-15 minutes.
- From Dortmund Hbf, it's a 5-7 minute walk south to Reinoldikirche.
| Train Line | Destination Stop | Travel Time | Final Step to Reinoldikirche | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-Bahn S1 | Dortmund Stadtgarten | ~8 minutes | 15 min walk or 3 min tram | Those comfortable with a short walk/tram transfer |
| RE / S1 (select trains) | Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (Hbf) | ~10-15 minutes | 5-7 minute walk | Those with heavy luggage or staying near Hbf |
Key Consideration: The train is efficient but lacks door-to-door convenience. For a truly seamless journey to the city center, the direct AirportExpress bus often outperforms the train option.
By AirportExpress (AirportShuttle) Bus
The AirportExpress (also marketed as AirportShuttle) is a dedicated, private bus service that provides the most direct and hassle-free public transport link between Dortmund Airport and the central train station (Dortmund Hbf).
Route & Stops
- Departure: Directly outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 (well-signed).
- Destination: Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (Main Station), stopping at the long-distance bus terminal (ZOB) on the north side.
- Journey: Non-stop service using the A40/B1 roads.
- Final Walk: From the ZOB, it's a 5-minute walk through the station to the southern exit, placing you at Reinoldikirche.
Schedule & Frequency
- Buses typically run every 20-30 minutes during peak hours and daily operation.
- First bus from the airport is usually around 5:30 AM, with the last bus departing around 11:30 PM (always verify current times before travel).
- Travel time is consistently 15-20 minutes, largely immune to rail network delays.
Tickets & Pricing
- Price: Approximately â¬5 - â¬8 for a one-way ticket (prices subject to change).
- Purchase: Tickets can be bought from the driver (cash/contactless), at vending machines at the bus stop, or sometimes online in advance.
- Important: This service is operated by a private company (e.g., DSW21 or a partner). Standard VRR public transport tickets (like the DeutschlandTicket) are NOT valid on this specific bus.
Verdict: The AirportExpress is the ideal compromise between cost, speed, and convenience for most travelers heading to the city center.
By Public Bus (VRR Network)
For the absolute lowest cost, the local public buses operated within the VRR transport network are your option. However, this comes with the trade-off of a longer journey involving at least one transfer.
Primary Bus Lines: 490 & 491
These lines connect the airport to the wider Dortmund suburban network.
- Departure: Bus stops at Terminal 1/2.
- Key Transfer Point: You must disembark at either "Dortmund-Ampen" or "Dortmund-Wickede" station.
- Connection: At Ampen or Wickede, transfer to an S-Bahn (S1 or S2) or a regional train heading towards Dortmund Stadtgarten or Dortmund Hbf.
- Total Journey Time: 40 to 50 minutes, depending on transfer wait times.
Tickets & Cost Advantage
- Cost: A standard short-trip ticket within Dortmund (Kurzstrecke) is sufficient and costs around â¬3.00. A regular single ticket (Preisstufe A) is also valid.
- Ticket Validity: Your ticket covers the entire journey, including the bus and the subsequent train transfer, within the specified time and zone.
- Major Benefit: All VRR network passes, including the popular DeutschlandTicket (â¬49 ticket), 24-hour tickets, and group tickets, are fully valid on this route.
Who Should Use This Option?
This method is recommended only for:
- Extremely budget-conscious travelers.
- Those already holding a valid DeutschlandTicket or VRR network pass.
- Travelers with minimal luggage and plenty of time.
For others, the time saved and directness of the AirportExpress bus is worth the small additional cost.
By Taxi or Private Transfer
Taxi and private transfer services offer the ultimate in door-to-door convenience, available directly outside the arrivals hall of both terminals. This is the most expensive option by a significant margin.
Cost & Practical Details
- Fare Range: Expect to pay between â¬25 and â¬35 for the trip to Reinoldikirche or the central city. The meter is based on time and distance, so traffic can increase the cost.
- Journey Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes in normal traffic conditions.
- Taxi Stands: Clearly marked outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Official taxis are beige.
- Ride-Hailing: Services like Uber and FREE NOW operate in Dortmund and may offer fixed-price quotes, which can be advantageous.
- Pre-booked Private Transfer: You can arrange a private car in advance through various online platforms. This guarantees a fixed price and a driver waiting for you, often at a similar cost to a taxi.
When is a Taxi the Right Choice?
Consider a taxi or private transfer if:
- You are traveling in a group of 3-4 people, splitting the cost can make it competitive with multiple bus/train tickets.
- You have a lot of or very heavy luggage.
- You arrive very late at night or very early in the morning when public transport options are sparse or non-existent.
- You have mobility issues or require direct access to a specific hotel entrance.
- Your company is covering travel expenses (business travel).
For solo travelers or couples on a standard budget, public transport is overwhelmingly more cost-effective.
Cost, Time & Convenience Comparison
This table summarizes all options to help you make a quick, informed decision.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Total Travel Time | Transfers | Convenience Level | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirportExpress Bus | â¬5 - â¬8 | 15-20 min + 5 min walk | None (Direct) | High | Most travelers (Best Overall) |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | â¬25 - â¬35 | 15-20 min | None (Door-to-Door) | Very High | Groups, late arrivals, heavy luggage, business |
| Train (S-Bahn) via Stadtgarten | ~â¬3.20 | 20-30 min | Walk/Tram at end | Medium | Those near Stadtgarten, comfortable with short transfer |
| Public Bus + Train (490/491) | ~â¬3.00 (Cheapest) | 40-50 min | 1 (Bus to Train) | Low | Budget travelers, DeutschlandTicket holders |
Traveler Tips & Practical Advice
1. Luggage Considerations
All buses and trains have space for luggage, but the AirportExpress bus and taxis are easiest. If you have excessive or very bulky items, a taxi saves significant hassle.
2. Ticket Purchasing & Validation
- VRR App/DB Navigator: The easiest way to buy and hold valid tickets for trains and public buses. You activate them before boarding.
- Vending Machines: Located at all stations and major bus stops. Select English language, choose your tariff zone (Dortmund is usually Preisstufe A).
- Validation: Paper tickets from machines must be stamped (entwertet) in the red or yellow validation boxes before your first journey. Mobile tickets do not need validation.
3. Timing Your Journey
While the AirportExpress is frequent, always check the latest schedule the day of your travel, especially for early morning or late evening flights. During major events in Dortmund (e.g., football matches at Signal Iduna Park), allow extra time as traffic increases.
4. For DeutschlandTicket Holders
If you have the â¬49 ticket, your cheapest and simplest route is: Take Bus 490/491 to Ampen/Wickede, then transfer to the S-Bahn/RE to Dortmund Hbf or Stadtgarten. Remember, your ticket is NOT valid on the AirportExpress bus.
5. Arrival at Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (Hbf)
The main station is large. When you arrive, follow signs for the "City / Innenstadt" exit (typically the south exit) to walk towards Reinoldikirche. The station has shops, eateries, and luggage lockers if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the fastest way from Dortmund Airport to the city center?
The AirportExpress (AirportShuttle) bus is often the fastest and most direct option, taking about 15-20 minutes non-stop to Dortmund Hauptbahnhof (main station). From there, it's a short walk or tram ride to Reinoldikirche.
What is the cheapest way to get from DTM to Dortmund city?
Public bus lines 490 and 491 are the cheapest, costing around â¬3 (standard VRR fare). However, they require a transfer at the "Ampen" or "Wickede" stops to reach the main station, making the journey longer (40-50 mins).
Is there a direct train from Dortmund Airport to Dortmund Hauptbahnhof?
No, there is no direct train. The airport's train station (Dortmund Flughafen) is served by the S-Bahn S1 line and regional trains, but you must travel to Dortmund Stadtgarten or Dortmund Hauptbahnhof and change for a train/tram to reach the central station area.
How much is a taxi from Dortmund Airport to Reinoldikirche?
A taxi fare typically ranges from â¬25 to â¬35 for the 15-20 minute ride, depending on traffic and time of day. It's the most expensive but most convenient door-to-door option.
How do I get to the city center if my flight arrives late at night?
Options are limited late at night. The AirportExpress bus runs until around midnight. After that, a taxi is your only direct option. Check the latest schedules for S-Bahn and buses on the VRR website before traveling.
Where can I buy tickets for public transport at Dortmund Airport?
Tickets can be purchased from vending machines at the bus stops outside Terminal 1/2 and at the S-Bahn station. You can also use the VRR app or DB Navigator app for mobile tickets.
Is the Dortmund Airport (DTM) close to the city?
Yes, Dortmund Airport is only about 10 km east of the city center, making transfers relatively quick. The road (B1) and rail connections are good, with travel times ranging from 15 minutes by taxi/bus to 40+ minutes by local public transport with transfers.
Can I use my DeutschlandTicket or regional travel pass from the airport?
Yes, the DeutschlandTicket (â¬49 monthly ticket) and all VRR network tickets (like the 24-hour ticket) are valid on all S-Bahn, regional trains, and public buses (including bus 490/491) from Dortmund Airport. They are NOT valid on the private AirportExpress bus.