- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
Major art museum with strong 19th- and 20th-century collections, posters and photography. A leading cultural stop in central Essen.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Rotterdam to Essen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
- Cheapest price on 02 Nov
- £14
- Average ticket price on 02 Nov
- £16
- Fastest journey on 02 Nov
- 3 h 10 m
- Average journey duration on 02 Nov
- 3 h 39 m
- Buses on 02 Nov
- 4
- Distance
- 182 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Rotterdam to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rotterdam to Essen will cost around £16 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £14.
Fast coaches
On Mon 02 Nov, we found 4 buses from Rotterdam to Essen, including 4 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 182 km distance in an average of 3 h 39 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 10 m .
The slowest buses will take 4 h 20 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.
3:20 3h10 Rotterdam 6:30 Essen £14 1 One-way 0 changes4:20 3h10 Rotterdam 7:30 Essen £16 1 One-way 0 changes21:35 4h20 Rotterdam 1:55 Essen £17 1 One-way 0 changes7:50 3h55 Rotterdam 11:45 Essen £17 1 One-way 0 changes
4:20 3h10 Rotterdam 7:30 Essen £16 1 One-way 0 changes3:20 3h10 Rotterdam 6:30 Essen £14 1 One-way 0 changes7:50 3h55 Rotterdam 11:45 Essen £17 1 One-way 0 changes21:35 4h20 Rotterdam 1:55 Essen £17 1 One-way 0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Rotterdam to Essen
Netherlands
Germany
Buses from Rotterdam to Essen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 31m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.
There are 4 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest coach covers the 182 km distance in 3h 10m.
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 182 km |
Average bus duration 4h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price £9 |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 3h 10m |
First bus 0:05 |
Last bus 23:50 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 2 days |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Rotterdam to Essen trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Rotterdam to Essen.
Cheap coach tickets from Rotterdam to Essen can start from as little as £9 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Rotterdam to Essen is £24; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest coach from Rotterdam to Essen leaves at 0:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Rotterdam to Essen leaves at 23:50.
Yes, there are 4 direct coaches a day from Rotterdam to Essen with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
Live departures
Rotterdam to Essen bus times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Essen coaches for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus+ FlixTrain | 5:20 Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 3h42 | 9:02 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| FlixBus | 5:20 Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 3h10 | 8:30 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 5:20 Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 3h42 | 9:02 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 8:50 Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 4h13 | 13:03 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| FlixBus | 8:50 Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 3h55 | 12:45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus+FlixTrain | 8:50 Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 4h13 | 13:03 Essen Hbf | 1 change | |
| FlixBus | 17:50 Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 4h40 | 22:30 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
 4744 · 50448 | 21:10 Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 11h30 | 8:40 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 1 change | |
| FlixBus | 23:35 Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 4h20 | 3:55 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Rotterdam to Essen coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer coaches services from Rotterdam to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam to Essen.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam to Essen.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Rotterdam to Essen.
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Rotterdam to EssenYou can travel by bus between Rotterdam to Essen with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as £9. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£9
FlixBus frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar Bus
About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average BlaBlaCar Bus Duration
7h 40m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
£19
BlaBlaCar Bus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Rotterdam and Essen
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a coach from Rotterdam to Essen, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Essen. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Rotterdam and Essen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Rotterdam to Essen for coach company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Rotterdam to Essen:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Rotterdam to Essen depends on the coach companies:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company {providersWithBike}.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Rotterdam to Essen.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Rotterdam to Essen:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Rotterdam to Essen:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Rotterdam to Essen. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Rotterdam to Essen with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Rotterdam to Essen with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Rotterdam to Essen with the following coach company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Complete guide to Essen
Things to do in Essen
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
- Must visit
Ruhr Museum
Industrial history museum in the former boiler house at Zollverein. Engaging displays explain coal, steel and daily life across the Ruhr.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
Design museum inside the Zollverein complex, showing contemporary design, everyday objects and changing exhibitions in a dramatic industrial setting.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake south of the centre, popular for walks, boat trips and cycling. It combines water views, leisure activities and green surroundings.
- Must visit
Zeche Zollverein
Former industrial complex turned cultural district with open spaces, architecture, art and walking routes. It is one of Essen’s essential urban experiences.
- Recommended
Stadtgarten
Extensive park with lawns, sculptures and event spaces near Museum Folkwang. It is ideal for a central stroll and relaxed city views.
- Gluten-free
Potthucke
A hearty potato stew from the Ruhr area, traditionally cooked with beef, onions and vegetables. It is a classic working-class comfort dish in Essen.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
Mashed potatoes mixed with apples and onions, often served with black pudding or sausage. It is a well-known Rhineland and Ruhr comfort meal.
- Gluten-free
Matjes mit Hausfrauensosse
Pickled herring fillets in a sour marinade, often served with potatoes. This classic northern and western German fish dish is common in the Ruhr.
Schote
Elegant fine dining in Essen known for creative modern cooking and polished service in a calm, contemporary setting.
Hannappel
Long-established local favourite for classic German and Ruhr-style fare, with a cosy pub feel and straightforward cooking.
Meisenburg
Traditional brewery restaurant serving hearty regional German dishes and fresh beer in a lively, rustic atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are often slightly cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transport and everyday costs stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €2.80-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually not included. In restaurants, round up or tip about 5-10%. For taxis, round up the fare. In cafés, small change or rounding up is customary.
ZÄPP
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.60
- Day pass
- €7.90
To the city centre
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) -> Essen Hauptbahnhof
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
Best option: Tram/U-Bahn (Ruhrbahn, Price level A single ticket)
- Price
- €3.60
- Duration
- 5 min
- Use the Ruhrbahn app ZÄPP for journey planning and mobile tickets in Essen and Mülheim. It is the official local app.
- Ruhrbahn uses the VRR fare. For travel within Essen, use Price level A; ticket machines are available, but contactless acceptance on vehicles was not clearly confirmed from official sources.
FAQs: Rotterdam to Essen coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam to Essen by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Rotterdam and Essen including taking a coach, train and flight.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Rotterdam and Essen
Most Rotterdam to Essen buses use the Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) station pair. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Essen bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Rotterdam
Arrival bus stations in Essen
Which Rotterdam station do buses to Essen leave from?
Buses from Rotterdam to Essen leave from Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station). The station is 1 km from Rotterdam city centre at Conradstraat, 3013 AP Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station)Conradstraat, 3013 AP Rotterdam, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) from Rotterdam city centre
BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m
4 · 10m · £2
Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) bus station facilities and services
Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Centraal (in the station), Dutch Delights (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the station near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station): Elevators, ramps.
Rotterdam, ZuidpleinBusstation Rotterdam Zuidplein, Gooilandsingel 21, 3083 Rotterdam, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam, Zuidplein from Rotterdam city centre
Rotterdam, Zuidplein is 3 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus44 · 18m · £3 · every ~10 min
813, 819, N116 · 25m · £1
SubwayD, E · 10m · £2 · every ~29 min
Rotterdam, Zuidplein bus station facilities and services
Rotterdam, Zuidplein has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food outlets available within walking distance.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Rotterdam, Zuidplein. ATMs are aTM available near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam, Zuidplein.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam, Zuidplein: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam, Zuidplein: The station is wheelchair accessible.
Rotterdam, Centraal StationRotterdam Centraal, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam, Centraal Station from Rotterdam city centre
BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m
4 · 10m · £2
Rotterdam, Centraal Station bus station facilities and services
Rotterdam, Centraal Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food outlets available inside the station complex.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Rotterdam, Centraal Station. ATMs are aTMs are located within the main station building.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam, Centraal Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam, Centraal Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam, Centraal Station: The terminal is equipped with ramps and elevators for accessibility.
Which Essen station do buses from Rotterdam arrive at?
Buses from Rotterdam to Essen arrive at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof). Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) is 1 km from Essen city centre.
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 7m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) bus station facilities and services
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and snack bars nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi is available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Wheelchair accessible routes and facilities available.
Bus stations for Rotterdam to Essen
Check bus stations information for Rotterdam and Essen, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Rotterdam , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station), Rotterdam, Zuidplein, Rotterdam, Centraal Station . When arriving in Essen , you can end your route in coach stations like Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof).Passengers board the coach most frequently from Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station), which is located around 1 km away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof), located 1 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Rotterdam
More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Essen and Rotterdam
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