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

Sun 11 Oct
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Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Rotterdam

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 11 Oct

Cheapest price on 11 Oct

£55

Average ticket price on 11 Oct

£65

Fastest journey on 11 Oct

3 h 22 m

Average journey duration on 11 Oct

3 h 33 m

Trains on 11 Oct

5

Distance

182 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Rotterdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Essen to Rotterdam will cost around £65 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £55.

Fast trains

To travel from Essen to Rotterdam you need to make at least 2 changes.

  • Deutsche Bahn63612 · 20084 · IC 3568 · IC 1166
    16:043h40
    Essen Hbf
    19:44Rotterdam Centraal
    £551One-way
    3 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn63628 · 20078 · IC 3556 · IC 1154
    13:043h40
    Essen Hbf
    16:44Rotterdam Centraal
    £551One-way
    3 changes
  • Deutsche Bahn63630 · 20082 · IC 3564 · IC 1162
    15:043h40
    Essen Hbf
    18:44Rotterdam Centraal
    £551One-way
    3 changes
  • Deutsche BahnS6 · ICE 126 · IC 2848
    12:183h22
    Essen Hbf
    15:40Rotterdam Centraal
    £711One-way
    2 changes
  • Deutsche BahnS6 · ICE 124 · IC 2856
    14:183h22
    Essen Hbf
    17:40Rotterdam Centraal
    £881One-way
    2 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Rotterdam

GermanyGermany
NetherlandsNetherlands
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Rotterdam run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £18 but you can travel from only £10 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 182 km distance in 2h 17m.

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 £10
Distance
182 km
Average train duration
2h 55m
Cheapest ticket price
£18
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 17m
First train
0:07
Last train
23:50
Cheapest Month
Sept
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
14 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 £10

Live departures

Essen to Rotterdam train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Rotterdam trains for today, Saturday 10 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Deutsche BahnS6 · ICE 128 · IC 284010:18 Essen Hbf
3h22
13:40 Rotterdam Centraal2 changes
Deutsche Bahn63626 · 20074 · IC 3548 · IC 114611:04 Essen Hbf
3h40
14:44 Rotterdam Centraal3 changes
Deutsche BahnS6 · ICE 126 · IC 284812:18 Essen Hbf
3h22
15:40 Rotterdam Centraal2 changes
Deutsche Bahn63628 · 20078 · IC 3556 · IC 115413:04 Essen Hbf
3h40
16:44 Rotterdam Centraal3 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Essen to Rotterdam trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH 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 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 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.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Essen to Rotterdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Essen and Rotterdam from £10. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£18
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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
Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
£21
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
1 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

Complete guide to Rotterdam

Things to do in Rotterdam

Discover the best of Rotterdam — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Rotterdam trip today.

  • Must visit

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen

Major museum with Dutch and European art from the Middle Ages to today. Visit for paintings, design and changing exhibitions in a landmark building.

  • Must visit

Kunsthal Rotterdam

Contemporary art museum in the Museumpark, known for bold installations, photography and fashion exhibitions in a striking silver building.

  • Recommended

Nederlands Fotomuseum

Museum on Dutch and international photography in former warehouse buildings on Wilhelminapier. Expect strong documentary and art photography shows.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Western Europe: hotels and dining are not cheap, but public transport is efficient and budget eats are easy to find.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
Mid-range
€20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
€3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small change for cafés is appreciated.

Best day trips from Rotterdam by train

The most popular day trips by train from Rotterdam are The Hague, Amsterdam, Utrecht, Delft and Leiden. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Rotterdam on Omio.

A view of The Hague

Day trip from Rotterdam to The Hague by train

Why visit The Hague for the day?

The Hague is known as the seat of the Dutch government and a centre of international law. Its elegant streets, notable museums and the beach at Scheveningen give the city a formal yet relaxed character.

How to get from Rotterdam to The Hague by train?

There are 16 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 21 km distance in 17m.

A view of Amsterdam

Day trip from Rotterdam to Amsterdam by train

Why visit Amsterdam for the day?

Amsterdam is known for its canals, gabled houses and strong artistic heritage. Its compact centre mixes historic streets with a relaxed, bike-friendly atmosphere.

How to get from Rotterdam to Amsterdam by train?

There are 15 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 57 km distance in 33m.

A view of Utrecht

Day trip from Rotterdam to Utrecht by train

Why visit Utrecht for the day?

Utrecht is known for its canal wharves, medieval centre and the Dom Tower above a lively old city. Its large student population gives historic streets, cafés and museums an energetic but relaxed feel.

How to get from Rotterdam to Utrecht by train?

There are 22 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 48 km distance in 37m.

A view of Delft

Day trip from Rotterdam to Delft by train

Why visit Delft for the day?

Delft is known for its blue-and-white pottery, canal-lined old centre and its connection to Vermeer. Historic churches and a strong TU Delft student presence give the city a calm but lively character.

How to get from Rotterdam to Delft by train?

There are 33 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 13 km distance in 10m.

A view of Leiden

Day trip from Rotterdam to Leiden by train

Why visit Leiden for the day?

Leiden is a compact canal city shaped by its historic university, museums and links to Rembrandt. Its gabled streets, courtyards and calm waters give it an academic, lived-in character.

How to get from Rotterdam to Leiden by train?

There are 16 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 26 km distance in 30m.

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 cost of a train ticket from Essen to Rotterdam can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £18, while the average price tends to be around £58.
The train journey from Essen to Rotterdam covers a distance of 182 km and takes approximately 2h 17m. Trains run 7 per day.
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.
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.
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 Alexander. 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 ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, GermanyWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre

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Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus train station facilities and services

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.

Essen-WerdenEssen-Werden, Im Löwental 11, 45239 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen-Werden from Essen city centre

Essen-Werden is 7 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6 · 11m · £2 · every ~6 min
BusS6 · 14m · £4
Ne8 · 22m · £4

Essen-Werden train station facilities and services

Essen-Werden 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: Kettner's Kamota, Abraham Konditorei & Cafe Werntges seit 1962, La Piazzetta, Pia

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

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

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Werden.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Hohenstein, Domstuben.

Most popular train connections from Essen

More options for your journey from Essen to Rotterdam

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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