- Recommended
Kunstmuseum Gelsenkirchen
Art museum with modern and contemporary works and changing exhibitions. A rewarding stop for strong architecture, focused displays and a central location.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 03 Nov
- Cheapest price on 03 Nov
- £57
- Average ticket price on 03 Nov
- £57
- Fastest journey on 03 Nov
- 3 h 9 m
- Average journey duration on 03 Nov
- 3 h 9 m
- Trains on 03 Nov
- 1
- Distance
- 188 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen will cost around £57 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £57.
Fast trains
On Tue 03 Nov, we found 1 trains from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 188 km distance in an average of 3 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 9 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 9 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.
10:15 3h09 Rotterdam 13:24 Gelsenkirchen £57 1 One-way 0 changes
10:15 3h09 Rotterdam 13:24 Gelsenkirchen £57 1 One-way 0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £39 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 03:31, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 188 km distance in 2h 9m.
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 £14
Distance 188 km |
Average train duration 2h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price £39 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 9m |
First train 3:31 |
Last train 21:45 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £14
Frequently asked questions about your Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen.
The cost of a train ticket from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £39, while the average price tends to be around £58.
The train journey from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen covers a distance of 188 km and takes approximately 2h 9m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen is 188 km.
The first train from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen leaves at 3:31.
The last train from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen departs at 21:45.
Trains from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen run approximately 5 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen.
Live departures
Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen train times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen trains for today, Monday 2 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:20 Rotterdam | 2h38 | 10:58 Gelsenkirchen | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:20 Rotterdam | 2h38 | 11:58 Gelsenkirchen | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:15 Rotterdam | 3h09 | 13:24 Gelsenkirchen | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen.
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 Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen.
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 Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen.
- 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 Gelsenkirchen.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Rotterdam and Gelsenkirchen from £14. 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 9m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£39
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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.
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.
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.
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 44m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
£51
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Rotterdam and Gelsenkirchen
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a night train from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen.
Complete guide to Gelsenkirchen
Things to do in Gelsenkirchen
Discover the best of Gelsenkirchen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Gelsenkirchen trip today.
- Recommended
Schalke Museum
Museum dedicated to FC Schalke 04 with trophies, memorabilia and club history. A popular visit for football supporters and visitors curious about local culture.
Schlossmuseum Horst
Museum in Schloss Horst covering local history and archaeology. Visit for the Renaissance setting, historical collections and insight into the region’s past.
- Must visit
Nordsternpark
Extensive park on a former industrial site with canals, paths, public art and event spaces. It is ideal for a relaxed walk and seeing Ruhr regeneration.
- Recommended
Schlosspark Horst
Large landscaped grounds around Schloss Horst with water features and walking paths. A pleasant place for a quiet stroll beside a historic setting.
- Recommended
Revierpark Nienhausen
Popular local park with woodland, lawns and play areas. It offers an easy outdoor break and shows a greener side of Gelsenkirchen beyond industry.
Ruhrpott Kartoffelsuppe
A hearty potato soup from the Ruhr area, often with vegetables and sausages. It is a classic comfort dish long linked with mining families.
Himmel und Ääd
Mashed potatoes mixed with applesauce and traditionally served with black pudding or fried sausage. A well-known homestyle dish in western Germany.
- Gluten-free
Rollmops
Pickled herring fillets in a tart marinade, often served with potatoes. It reflects the strong northern and western German taste for preserved fish.
Heiner's
Refined restaurant in an elegant setting, known for modern German and international cooking with a more formal dining feel.
Schloss Berge
Traditional brewery-style restaurant serving hearty German and Ruhr classics in a lively, rustic setting near the city centre.
Haus Lüttinghof
Well-known local venue for classic German dishes and seasonal plates, with a relaxed atmosphere suited to a traditional meal.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt, while local transport and everyday costs stay manageable for most 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
- €2.50-4 for a cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés for good service.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.80
- Day pass
- €8.10
To the city centre
Gelsenkirchen Hbf -> Bahnhofstraße, Gelsenkirchen
- Distance
- 350 m
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Use VRR fares for Gelsenkirchen local travel; a Preisstufe A ticket covers trips within the city.
- At larger stations and customer centres, digital ticket purchase is available via the VRR App. Card or contactless acceptance on board is not confirmed from the official sources reviewed.
Plan your visit to Gelsenkirchen
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Gelsenkirchen.
The train journey from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Dutch countryside, rivers, and industrial areas along the route, though it is not typically considered a notably scenic journey.
FAQs: Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Rotterdam and Gelsenkirchen
Most Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Gelsenkirchen Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Gelsenkirchen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Rotterdam
Arrival train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Which Rotterdam station do trains to Gelsenkirchen leave from?
Trains from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen leave from Rotterdam Centraal. The station is 1 km from Rotterdam city centre at Stationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Rotterdam CentraalStationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 302357822
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre
BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m
4 · 10m · £2
Rotterdam Centraal train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Smullers, Albert Heijn to go, Starbucks, La Place, Julia's, Ekmekci, LEON, The Doner Company, StationsHuiskamer, De Broodzaak, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are aTM machines are located outside the north side entrance and south side entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00. Information desks are located inside the central hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located at the north side of the station, next to the escalator to Platform 15. A small safe costs €6.00 and a large safe costs €9.00 for 24 hours.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Centraal: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, Layin’ Rotterdam Central, Hostel Ani & Haakien.
Rotterdam ZuidAnnie M.G. Schmidtplein 20, 3083 NZ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam Zuid from Rotterdam city centre
Rotterdam Zuid is 2 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSprinter · 3m · £1 · every ~9 min
Bus32 · 12m · £2 · every ~8 min
Stopbus ipv trein, Taxibus ipv trein · 13m · every ~1 min
Tram3 · 18m · £2 · every ~23 min
Rotterdam Zuid train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Zuid has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant De Hef, Restaurant Fenix Food Factory
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam Zuid. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rotterdam Zuid. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Zuid: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Zuid: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Zuid.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Zuid, Art Hotel Rotterdam, Hotel New York.
Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains from Rotterdam arrive at?
Trains from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen arrive at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre.
Gelsenkirchen HbfGelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen
City-centre transport
Getting to Gelsenkirchen Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre
Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:
BusE51, 382, 348 · 12m · every ~10 min
Gelsenkirchen Hbf train station facilities and services
Gelsenkirchen 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: Subway, Café Madrid, Shere Punjab, Café del Sol
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. ATMs are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Information desks are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel St. Petrus.
Train stations for Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen
Check train stations information for Rotterdam and Gelsenkirchen, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Rotterdam that goes to Gelsenkirchen is Rotterdam Centraal, and it arrives at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.
Most popular train connections from Rotterdam
More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Gelsenkirchen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Gelsenkirchen and Rotterdam
Most popular train connections to Gelsenkirchen
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