Trains to Rotterdam

Trains to Rotterdam

Fast and frequent trans-continental trains to Rotterdam are easily the most efficient way of arriving in this vibrant Dutch city. Arrival at the city's superb Centraal Station puts you right in the centre of Rotterdam, with a wide choice of public transport available.

Which is the main train station in Rotterdam?

Rotterdam Centraal Station, with its striking ultra-modern architecture, is the main railway station for rail services to Rotterdam. The station is conveniently located in the city centre. Among the many facilities are two supermarkets along with cafes and other shops. There are public toilets, cash machines and currency exchange facilities too, along with easy connections on Rotterdam's highly efficient metro, bus and tram services.

Which train companies offer trains to Rotterdam?

Eurostar operates frequent train services into Rotterdam direct from London's St Pancras International Station. There are also services from other European cities, including Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, operated by Thalys. InterCity services to other Dutch cities are also available.

Why travel by train to Rotterdam?

Using trains to Rotterdam means you'll arrive right in the very centre of this fascinating, bustling Dutch city, with little need for onward travel. Should you need them, there are connections on all of Rotterdam's public transport systems direct from the station. Bicycles can be hired very near to the station, too.

Before you travel to Rotterdam by train - good to know!

Rotterdam's an easy city to get around using the tram, metro or bus services. There's unlimited travel on all three services using the city's Rotterdam Welcome Card which is available for one, two or three days. This card also provides for discounts on attractions, museums and restaurants. You might also consider renting a bicycle to experience Rotterdam as many of its citizens do, using the many cycle lanes that run throughout the city. The city's Markthal or Market Hall really mustn't be missed in a landmark piece of modern architecture and selling a wide variety of fresh food as well as serving customers at a selection of eateries. Fans of contemporary architecture only need to look up to find work by one of Rotterdam's favourite sons, the multiple award winning Rem Koolhaas. His gravity defying De Rotterdam skyscrapers on the waterfront are a particular highlight.

How to Get to Rotterdam by Train

Rotterdam Central is one of the largest railway stations in the Netherlands and has extensive links with a number of international destinations. There are no direct trains to Rotterdam from the UK, but it is possible to reach the Dutch city by rail via Brussels or Paris. London St Pancras International operates regular Eurostar services to Brussels Midi Station every day. From Brussels, Thalys run a regular service to Rotterdam which takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes. Trains to Rotterdam from Paris Gare Du Nord take much longer to reach the final destination - over 2.5 hours - but regular Eurostar services operate between London St Pancras International and Paris Gare Du Nord.

Rotterdam

The second-largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam has a well-earned reputation as a contemporary metropolis with a vibrant cultural scene. The city plays host to numerous festivals throughout the year including the North Sea Jazz Festival and the Rotterdam International Film Festival. The city's cultural reputation is further enhanced by its selection of excellent museums. For over 100 years, the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen has housed a vast collection of art from the likes of Monet, Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Dali. One of the oldest zoos in the country, Diergaarde Blijdorp, is situated in Rotterdam. First opened to the public in 1857, it remains a popular tourist attraction today. A brand new aquarium, called the Oceanium, opened within the grounds of the zoo in 2001 as part of a major expansion.