Essen to Rotterdam train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE)

Sun 12 Jul
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Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
2,000+ travel companies
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  • Deutsche Bahn10126 · 20074 · 32241 · IC 3550
    11:463h51
    Essen Hbf
    15:37Rotterdam Centraal
    £491One-way
    5 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn10208 · IC 3036 · IC 2036+VIAS Rail GmbH20014
    9:203h36
    Essen Hbf
    12:56Rotterdam Centraal
    £511One-way
    3 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn10212 · IC 3146 · IC 2846+VIAS Rail GmbH20018
    11:203h52
    Essen Hbf
    15:12Rotterdam Centraal
    £511One-way
    4 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn26416 · IC 3146 · IC 2846+VIAS Rail GmbH21232
    11:283h44
    Essen Hbf
    15:12Rotterdam Centraal
    £711One-way
    4 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn26412 · IC 3036 · IC 2036+VIAS Rail GmbH20014
    9:283h28
    Essen Hbf
    12:56Rotterdam Centraal
    £711One-way
    3 changes

Travel Information

Compare train, coach and flight for Essen to Rotterdam

The cheapest option from Essen to Rotterdam is coach, with an average price of £17. Omio recommends booking the bus, as it is the most popular option from Essen to Rotterdam among Omio users. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg.

Distance: 182 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach
Flight

£50

Average Price

£17

Average Price

Cheapest option

£529

Average Price

3h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest option

2h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 16m

Average total duration

3h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 8m

Average total duration

7h 8m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Essen to Rotterdam train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Rotterdam trains for tomorrow, Sunday 12 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 220 · IC 28328:56 Essen Hbf
2h46
11:42 Rotterdam Centraal2 changes
Deutsche Bahn10208 · IC 3036 · IC 2036+VIAS Rail GmbH200149:20 Essen Hbf
3h36
12:56 Rotterdam Centraal3 changes
Deutsche Bahn26412 · IC 3036 · IC 2036+VIAS Rail GmbH200149:28 Essen Hbf
3h28
12:56 Rotterdam Centraal3 changes
Deutsche BahnS3 · ICE 128 · IC 284010:56 Essen Hbf
2h46
13:42 Rotterdam Centraal2 changes
Deutsche Bahn10212 · IC 3146 · IC 2846+VIAS Rail GmbH2001811:20 Essen Hbf
3h52
15:12 Rotterdam Centraal4 changes
Deutsche Bahn26416 · IC 3146 · IC 2846+VIAS Rail GmbH2123211:28 Essen Hbf
3h44
15:12 Rotterdam Centraal4 changes
Deutsche Bahn10126 · 20074 · 32241 · IC 355011:46 Essen Hbf
3h51
15:37 Rotterdam Centraal5 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Rotterdam by train, coach or flight

Compare train, coach 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.

Sun
12 Jul
Mon
13 Jul
Tue
14 Jul
Wed
15 Jul
Thu
16 Jul
Fri
17 Jul
Sat
18 Jul

Why should you book Essen to Rotterdam trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Essen to Rotterdam.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Rotterdam.

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 VIAS Rail GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Rotterdam.
  • 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 Essen to Rotterdam.

Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Rotterdam.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Rotterdam.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Rotterdam

GermanyGermany
NetherlandsNetherlands
Icon of train

Typically, there are 7 trains per day from Essen to Rotterdam, including direct trains, taking around 2h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 but you can travel from only £11 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 182 km distance in 2h 37m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £11
Distance
182 km
Average train duration
2h 45m
Lowest ticket price
£19
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 37m
First train
0:07
Last train
23:50
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
5 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £11

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Essen to Rotterdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Essen and Rotterdam from £11. 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 Duration
2h 37m
Cheapest Price
£19
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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

VIAS Rail GmbH

About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name \VIAS\" is derived from the Latin word \"via\" (way) and \"S\" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group."
Luggage & cancellation policy
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 44m
Cheapest Price
£93
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
6 a day

FAQs: Essen to Rotterdam train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The train distance from Essen to Rotterdam is 182 km.
The first train from Essen to Rotterdam leaves at 0:07.
The last train from Essen to Rotterdam departs at 23:50.
Trains from Essen to Rotterdam run approximately 7 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Rotterdam.
To get from Essen to Rotterdam, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Essen to Rotterdam.
The train station in Essen that goes to Rotterdam is Essen Hbf, and it arrives at Rotterdam Centraal.
Booking trains from Essen to Rotterdam in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Essen to Rotterdam is not particularly scenic, as it mainly passes through urban and industrial areas with limited natural landscapes.
In Rotterdam, visitors can explore the renowned Rotterdam Zoo, enjoy an exciting Spido Harbor Tour for views of the bustling port and skyline, and wander through the historic Delfshaven with its charming canals and quaint shops. For a vibrant atmosphere, Witte de Withstraat offers an eclectic mix of art galleries, trendy bars, and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can head to Kralingse Bos for walking, cycling, and picnicking. Notable sights include the iconic Erasmus Bridge, the architecturally impressive Markthal, the unique Cube Houses, and Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, which features diverse artworks. The Euromast observation tower provides sweeping views of the city.
For an enriching experience in Rotterdam, 2 to 3 days are generally sufficient to explore its key attractions, such as the Markthal, the Cube Houses, and the Maritime Museum, while also enjoying its vibrant culinary scene and modern architecture.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Rotterdam.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Essen and Rotterdam

Most Essen to Rotterdam trains use the Essen Hbf to Rotterdam Centraal station pair, with some services arriving at Rotterdam Zuid. Use this guide to compare Essen and Rotterdam train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Essen
Arrival train stations in Rotterdam

Which Essen station do trains to Rotterdam leave from?

Trains from Essen to Rotterdam leave from Essen Hbf. The station is 1 km from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre

BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min

Essen Hbf train station facilities and services

Essen Hbf 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.

Food and drink

Food options include: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus
Essen-SteeleEssen-Steele, Steeler Platz 1, 45276 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen-Steele from Essen city centre

Essen-Steele is 4 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS1, S3 · 6m · £0.89 · every ~11 min
BusNe5 · 13m
S1, S3 · 16m · £4

Essen-Steele train station facilities and services

Essen-Steele 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.

Food and drink

Food options include: Bootshaus Ruhreck, Da Vinici, Asia-Nudeln, Bacchos

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Steele. ATMs are available at Essen-Steele.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen-Steele. Information desks are available at Essen-Steele.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Essen-Steele. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen-Steele: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Essen-Steele: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Steele.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Zur Guten Quelle, Hotel Töff-Töff, Budike.

Most popular train connections from Essen

More options for your journey from Essen to Rotterdam

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