- Recommended
Schifffahrtsmuseum
An engaging maritime museum in a former fish auction hall, covering Kiel’s seafaring history, ship models and the city’s naval connections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Kiel
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 15 Oct
Cheapest price on 15 Oct
£45
Average ticket price on 15 Oct
£50
Fastest journey on 15 Oct
7 h 31 m
Average journey duration on 15 Oct
8 h 39 m
Trains on 15 Oct
4
Distance
462 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rotterdam to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rotterdam to Kiel will cost around £50 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £45.
Fast trains
To travel from Rotterdam to Kiel you need to make at least 2 changes.
RE 4016 · ICE 143 · ICE 7726:249h16Rotterdam Centraal15:40Kiel Hbf£451One-way2 changes- IC 2817 · IC 1719 · 20361 · ICE 23105:507h31Rotterdam Centraal13:21Kiel Hbf£481One-way4 changes
- RE 4016 · ICE 143 · ICE 204 · 112686:248h28Rotterdam Centraal14:52Kiel Hbf£541One-way3 changes
- IC 11418 · ICE 141 · 11264+
821163:329h20Rotterdam Centraal12:52Kiel Hbf£541One-way3 changes
- IC 2817 · IC 1719 · 20361 · ICE 23105:507h31Rotterdam Centraal13:21Kiel Hbf£481One-way4 changes
- RE 4016 · ICE 143 · ICE 204 · 112686:248h28Rotterdam Centraal14:52Kiel Hbf£541One-way3 changes
- RE 4016 · ICE 143 · ICE 7726:249h16Rotterdam Centraal15:40Kiel Hbf£451One-way2 changes
- IC 11418 · ICE 141 · 11264+821163:329h20Rotterdam Centraal12:52Kiel Hbf£541One-way3 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Kiel
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Rotterdam to Kiel run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £30 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 462 km distance in 6h 5m.
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
Distance 462 km |
Average train duration 6h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price £30 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 6h 5m |
First train 0:05 |
Last train 23:54 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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
Live departures
Rotterdam to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Kiel trains for tomorrow, 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 11418 · ICE 141 · 11264+82116 | 3:32 Rotterdam Centraal | 9h20 | 12:52 Kiel Hbf | 3 changes | |
| IC 2817 · IC 1719 · 20361 · ICE 2310 | 5:50 Rotterdam Centraal | 7h31 | 13:21 Kiel Hbf | 4 changes | |
| RE 4016 · ICE 143 · ICE 772 | On time 6:24 Rotterdam Centraal | 9h16 | 15:40 Kiel Hbf | 2 changes | |
| RE 4016 · ICE 143 · ICE 204 · 11268 | 6:24 Rotterdam Centraal | 8h28 | 14:52 Kiel Hbf | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Rotterdam to Kiel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all trains services from Rotterdam to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam to Kiel.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?
- 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 Kiel.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- 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 Kiel.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Rotterdam to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Rotterdam and Kiel from £30. 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
6h 5m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
£30
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.
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
Complete guide to Kiel
Things to do in Kiel
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
- Recommended
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
An art museum near the fjord with European paintings, prints and changing exhibitions. The quiet setting makes it ideal for a cultural stop.
- Recommended
Freilichtmuseum Molfsee
An open-air museum with historic farm buildings and rural heritage from Schleswig-Holstein. It rewards visitors seeking regional history beyond the centre.
- Must visit
Kiellinie
Kiel’s best-known waterfront promenade, lined with harbour views, boats and open space. It is ideal for a relaxed walk by the fjord.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
The old market square in the historic centre, framed by St. Nikolai and civic buildings. It is a practical starting point for exploring central Kiel.
- Recommended
Schleusenpark Wik
A green canal-side park with viewpoints over the locks and passing ships. It combines maritime activity with an easy stroll outdoors.
- Gluten-free
Birnen, Bohnen und Speck
Hearty northern stew of pears, beans and bacon, balancing sweet and savoury flavours. A classic late-summer dish in Schleswig-Holstein.
Gebratener Hering
Pan-fried Baltic or North Sea herring, often served with potatoes. It reflects Kiel’s long maritime and fishing traditions.
- Gluten-free
Matjes nach Hausfrauenart
Pickled herring in a creamy sauce with apple, onion and gherkin. A staple of northern German home cooking and tavern menus.
Restaurant Ahlmanns
Established city-centre restaurant serving refined regional and seasonal dishes in an elegant but approachable atmosphere.
Fischers Fritz
Popular harbour-side restaurant known for fresh fish, crab and maritime classics in a relaxed waterside setting.
Kieler Brauerei
Well-known traditional brewery venue pouring local beer with hearty German fare in a lively, rustic setting.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany. Hotels can rise in summer, but dining and local transport are usually reasonable compared with larger tourist cities like Hamburg or Munich.
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 at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding about 5-10% is normal in restaurants. Round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafés for good service.
NAH.SH-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.00
- Day pass
- €7.60
To the city centre
Kiel Hbf -> Rathausplatz, Kiel
- Distance
- 850 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Buy tickets in the NAH.SH-App, on buses, at machines or sales points; the app is the official smartphone ticket channel for SH-Tarif.
- Kiel buses accept card payment on board. Ferries can require an extra on-board surcharge even with a valid day ticket.
FAQs: Rotterdam to Kiel train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam to Kiel 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 Kiel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Rotterdam to Kiel can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £30, while the average price tends to be around £108.
The train journey from Rotterdam to Kiel covers a distance of 462 km and takes approximately 6h 5m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Rotterdam to Kiel is 462 km.
The first train from Rotterdam to Kiel leaves at 0:05.
The last train from Rotterdam to Kiel departs at 23:54.
Trains from Rotterdam to Kiel run approximately 5 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Rotterdam to Kiel.
There is no night train service from Rotterdam to Kiel.
The train station in Rotterdam that goes to Kiel is Rotterdam Centraal, and it arrives at Kiel Hbf.
Booking trains from Rotterdam to Kiel 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 Kiel offers a pleasant mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Dutch and German countryside, passing through charming towns and cities, but it is not typically considered among the most scenic routes in Europe.
Yes, you can take the train from Rotterdam to Kiel.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Rotterdam and Kiel
Most Rotterdam to Kiel trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Kiel Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Kiel 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 Kiel
Which Rotterdam station do trains to Kiel leave from?
Trains from Rotterdam to Kiel 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 Kiel station do trains from Rotterdam arrive at?
Trains from Rotterdam to Kiel arrive at Kiel Hbf. Kiel Hbf is 1 km from Kiel city centre.
Kiel HbfKiel Hbf, Sophienblatt 25-27, 24114 Kiel
City-centre transport
Getting to Kiel Hbf from Kiel city centre
BusN22, N14, N12, N11, 91, 81, 71, X60, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11 · 4m · every ~47 min
765, 744 · 6m · every ~2 min
Kiel Hbf train station facilities and services
Kiel 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: MUM&DAD, Lunatique, McDonald's, Campus Suite
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kiel Hbf. ATMs are available at Kiel Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kiel Hbf. Information desks are available at Kiel Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Kiel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kiel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kiel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Wiking, Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel, Astor, InterCityHotel Kiel.
Most popular train connections from Rotterdam
More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Rotterdam
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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