- Recommended
Kunsthalle Heidelberg
Major art museum with collections spanning the nineteenth century to today, plus changing exhibitions in a striking riverside building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Heidelberg
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 16 Oct
Cheapest price on 16 Oct
£69
Average ticket price on 16 Oct
£122
Fastest journey on 16 Oct
5 h 30 m
Average journey duration on 16 Oct
6 h 29 m
Trains on 16 Oct
4
Distance
408 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rotterdam to Heidelberg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rotterdam to Heidelberg will cost around £122 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £69.
Fast trains
On Fri 16 Oct, we found 4 trains from Rotterdam to Heidelberg, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 408 km distance in an average of 6 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 30 m .
The slowest trains will take 8 h 7 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.
8:156h19Rotterdam14:34Heidelberg£691One-way0 changes- 6:155h30Rotterdam11:45Heidelberg£1331One-way0 changes
- 18:208h07Rotterdam2:27Heidelberg£1341One-way0 changes
- 7:156h01Rotterdam13:16Heidelberg£1501One-way0 changes
- 6:155h30Rotterdam11:45Heidelberg£1331One-way0 changes
- 7:156h01Rotterdam13:16Heidelberg£1501One-way0 changes
- 8:156h19Rotterdam14:34Heidelberg£691One-way0 changes
- 18:208h07Rotterdam2:27Heidelberg£1341One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Heidelberg
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Rotterdam to Heidelberg run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £30 but you can travel from only £24 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 408 km distance in 4h 22m.
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 £24
Distance 408 km |
Average train duration 5h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price £30 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 22m |
First train 0:20 |
Last train 23:50 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 91 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 £24
Live departures
Rotterdam to Heidelberg train times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Heidelberg trains for today, Thursday 15 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085 · 10629 | 13:15 Rotterdam Centraal | 5h33 | 18:48 Heidelberg Hbf | 5 changes | |
| IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085 · 10629 | On time 13:15 Rotterdam Centraal | 6h19 | 19:34 Heidelberg Hbf | 4 changes | |
| IC 1147 · IC 3545 · 20085 · ICE 725 | On time 13:15 Rotterdam Centraal | 5h56 | 19:11 Heidelberg Hbf | 4 changes | |
| Friday 16 October | |||||
| 6:15 Rotterdam | 5h30 | 11:45 Heidelberg | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:15 Rotterdam | 6h01 | 13:16 Heidelberg | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:15 Rotterdam | 6h19 | 14:34 Heidelberg | 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 Heidelberg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Rotterdam to Heidelberg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam to Heidelberg.
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 Heidelberg.
- 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 Heidelberg.
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 Heidelberg.
- 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 Heidelberg.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Rotterdam to Heidelberg trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Rotterdam and Heidelberg from £24. 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
4h 22m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£30
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
6h 21m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
£41
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 Heidelberg
Things to do in Heidelberg
Discover the best of Heidelberg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Heidelberg trip today.
- Recommended
Kurpfälzisches Museum Heidelberg
Museum on the Electoral Palatinate inside Morass Palace, with art, history and changing displays that illuminate regional life and culture.
- Recommended
Studentenkarzer
Compact student prison museum where university offenders were once confined. Preserved graffiti and cells offer an unusual academic history.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Heidelberg’s atmospheric Old Town with lanes, squares and baroque facades. Ideal for walking between the river, churches and castle paths.
- Must visit
Philosophenweg
Riverside philosophers’ path above the Neckar, famous for broad views across Heidelberg, the castle and the Old Town rooftops.
- Recommended
Hauptstraße
Long pedestrian high street lined with shops, historic buildings and side alleys. A practical route through the heart of the Old Town.
- Gluten-free
Pfälzer Saumagen
A hearty pork stomach stuffed with minced pork, potatoes and spices. It is a classic Palatinate speciality long associated with Heidelberg taverns.
- Gluten-free
Pfälzer Leberknödel mit Sauerkraut
A rich stew of beef, pork, bacon and sausage with potatoes. It is a filling regional dish from the Palatinate and Odenwald area around Heidelberg.
Leberknödel
Liver dumplings, usually served in broth or with sauerkraut and bread. They are a traditional everyday dish in the Heidelberg and Palatinate region.
Scharff's Schlossweinstube
Refined restaurant and wine tavern in the Altstadt with seasonal German cooking, a strong wine list and an intimate atmosphere.
Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus
Historic brewery tavern in the Altstadt known for house beers and classic regional dishes in a lively, traditional setting.
Zum Roten Ochsen
Long-running student tavern and restaurant with a rustic feel, pouring local beers and serving straightforward regional dishes.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local buses and regional rail are reasonable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants. Round up for taxis and leave small change in cafés.
Start.Info-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.50
- Day pass
- €8.70
To the city centre
Heidelberg Hbf -> Bismarckplatz, Heidelberg
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use the Start.Info-App for live departures, route planning and disruption updates on Heidelberg trams and buses.
- Heidelberg Hbf has direct tram links to Bismarckplatz and the Altstadt. Check current works before travel, as rnv service changes can affect stops near the station.
Best day trips from Heidelberg by train
The most popular day trips by train from Heidelberg are Mannheim, Karlsruhe, Frankfurt am Main, Stuttgart and Worms. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Heidelberg on Omio.
Day trip from Heidelberg to Mannheim by train
Why visit Mannheim for the day?
Mannheim is known for its grid-plan centre, industrial heritage and confident cultural life. The Baroque palace, the Wasserturm and a strong music scene give the city a practical yet distinctive character.
How to get from Heidelberg to Mannheim by train?
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 18 km distance in 10m.
Day trip from Heidelberg to Karlsruhe by train
Why visit Karlsruhe for the day?
Karlsruhe is known for its fan-shaped plan centred on the palace and for its role in German law. Broad streets, green spaces and a strong student and tech scene give the city a calm, orderly character.
How to get from Heidelberg to Karlsruhe by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 50 km distance in 25m.
Day trip from Heidelberg to Frankfurt am Main by train
Why visit Frankfurt am Main for the day?
Frankfurt am Main pairs Germany’s best-known skyline with a rebuilt old town and a broad stretch of museums along the Main. Known as a financial hub and trade fair city, it also has apple wine taverns and a distinctly international feel.
How to get from Heidelberg to Frankfurt am Main by train?
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 79 km distance in 41m.
Day trip from Heidelberg to Stuttgart by train
Why visit Stuttgart for the day?
Stuttgart is known for its car-making heritage, vineyard-covered hills and spacious parks. It mixes major museums and elegant squares with a strong cultural life and a distinctly Swabian character.
How to get from Heidelberg to Stuttgart by train?
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 78 km distance in 38m.
Day trip from Heidelberg to Worms by train
Why visit Worms for the day?
Worms is one of Germany’s oldest Rhine cities, known for its Roman past, Jewish heritage and links to the Nibelungen legend. The Romanesque Cathedral of St Peter and the historic centre give it a serious, layered character.
How to get from Heidelberg to Worms by train?
The earliest train runs at 00:40, the last at 20:25. The fastest train covers the 35 km distance in 42m.
FAQs: Rotterdam to Heidelberg train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam to Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Rotterdam to Heidelberg can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £30, while the average price tends to be around £99.
The train journey from Rotterdam to Heidelberg covers a distance of 408 km and takes approximately 4h 22m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Rotterdam to Heidelberg is 408 km.
The first train from Rotterdam to Heidelberg leaves at 0:20.
The last train from Rotterdam to Heidelberg departs at 23:50.
Trains from Rotterdam to Heidelberg run approximately 6 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Rotterdam to Heidelberg.
There is no night train service from Rotterdam to Heidelberg.
The train station in Rotterdam that goes to Heidelberg is Rotterdam Centraal, and it arrives at Heidelberg Hbf.
Booking trains from Rotterdam to Heidelberg in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Rotterdam to Heidelberg offers a scenic experience, passing through the charming Dutch countryside, picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley, and views of historic towns along the way.
Yes, you can take the train from Rotterdam to Heidelberg.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Rotterdam and Heidelberg
Most Rotterdam to Heidelberg trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Heidelberg Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg
Which Rotterdam station do trains to Heidelberg leave from?
Trains from Rotterdam to Heidelberg 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.
Which Heidelberg station do trains from Rotterdam arrive at?
Trains from Rotterdam to Heidelberg arrive at Heidelberg Hbf. Heidelberg Hbf is 1 km from Heidelberg city centre.
Heidelberg HbfHeidelberg Hbf, Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 69115 Heidelberg
City-centre transport
Getting to Heidelberg Hbf from Heidelberg city centre
Heidelberg Hbf is 1 km from Heidelberg city centre. Public transport options include:
BusRnv 35, Rnv 33, Rnv 20, RNV Moonliner 3 · 4m · £3 · every ~13 min
TramRnv 5, Rnv 23, Rnv 22, Rnv 21 · 4m · £2 · every ~20 min
Heidelberg Hbf train station facilities and services
Heidelberg 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: Heid´s Grill, McDonald's, Uuuhmami, Taj Mahal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Heidelberg Hbf. ATMs are available at Heidelberg Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Heidelberg Hbf. Information desks are available at Heidelberg Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Heidelberg Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Heidelberg Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Heidelberg Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Heidelberg Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Leonardo Hotel, Qube Hotel, NH Heidelberg, Krokodil.
Most popular train connections from Rotterdam
More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Heidelberg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Heidelberg and Rotterdam
Most popular train connections to Heidelberg
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