- Must visit
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
Rotterdam’s leading art museum with Dutch masters, design, and decorative arts. A must for major exhibitions and its landmark depot nearby.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Essen to Rotterdam
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- $22
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- $33
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 3 h 10 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 3 h 59 m
- Buses on Nov 02
- 7
- Distance
- 182 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Essen to Rotterdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Rotterdam will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.
Fast buses
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 7 buses from Essen to Rotterdam, including 5 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct buses cover the 182 km distance in an average of 3 h 59 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 10 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest buses will take 4 h 55 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.
FlixBus11:55 AM 3h10 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 3:05 PM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) $22 1 One-way 0 transfers- FlixBus
3:00 AM 3h45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 6:45 AM Rotterdam, Zuidplein $27 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
3:00 AM 4h10 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 7:10 AM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) $27 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
6:55 AM 4h55 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 11:50 AM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) $29 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
5:00 PM 3h55 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 8:55 PM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) $31 1 One-way 0 transfers
- FlixBus
11:55 AM 3h10 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 3:05 PM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) $22 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
3:00 AM 3h45 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 6:45 AM Rotterdam, Zuidplein $27 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
5:00 PM 3h55 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 8:55 PM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) $31 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
3:00 AM 4h10 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 7:10 AM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) $27 1 One-way 0 transfers - FlixBus
6:55 AM 4h55 Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) 11:50 AM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) $29 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Essen to Rotterdam
Germany
Netherlands
Buses from Essen to Rotterdam run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $14 (€12) if you book in advance.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 113 miles (182 km) distance in 3h 10m.
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 113 miles (182 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $14 (€12) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 3h 10m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Essen to Rotterdam trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Essen to Rotterdam.
Cheap bus tickets from Essen to Rotterdam can start from as little as $14 (€12) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Essen to Rotterdam is $34 (€29) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Essen to Rotterdam leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Essen to Rotterdam leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 4 direct buses a day from Essen to Rotterdam with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Essen to Rotterdam Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:55AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator BlaBlaCar Bus | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 12h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 03:05PM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 07:55PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 08:55PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Live departures
Essen to Rotterdam bus times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Rotterdam buses for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 3:00 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 4h10 | 7:10 AM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 3:00 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 3h45 | 6:45 AM Rotterdam, Zuidplein | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 6:55 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 4h55 | 11:50 AM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 51122 · 1663 | 7:50 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 11h05 | 6:55 PM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 1 transfer | |
| 50429 · 83134 | 9:55 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 12h25 | 10:20 PM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 11:55 AM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 3h10 | 3:05 PM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 5:00 PM Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) | 3h55 | 8:55 PM Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Essen to Rotterdam buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as BlaBlaCar Bus offer buses 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 FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus 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 FlixBus 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 Wanderu, Trainline or Checkmybus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of BlaBlaCar Bus 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.
Bus providers: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus from Essen to RotterdamYou can travel by bus between Essen to Rotterdam with FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for as low as $14 (€12). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$14 (€12)
FlixBus frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
BlaBlaCar Bus
About
BlaBlaCar Bus (formerly known as Ouibus or iDBUS) is a long-distance coach company operating in 10 European countries and connecting over 300 destinations. A subsidiary of the French carpooling company BlaBlaCar, it offers comfortable travel with standard amenities such as air conditioning, toilets, USB and power outlets for charging devices, extra legroom, and adjustable seats. Free Wi-Fi is available on select routes. BlaBlaCar Bus offers only a Standard ticket type, which allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and up to two checked bags per person.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average BlaBlaCar Bus Duration
7h 45m
Cheapest BlaBlaCar Bus Price
$29 (€24)
BlaBlaCar Bus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Accessible seating options.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; additional fees may apply.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Essen and Rotterdam
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Essen to Rotterdam, you can count on FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus for the best way to get you to Rotterdam. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Essen and Rotterdam and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Essen to Rotterdam:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Accessible seating options.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Essen to Rotterdam for bus company FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Essen to Rotterdam depends on the bus companies:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 30 minutes before departure for a refund in the form of a voucher.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Essen to Rotterdam.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Essen to Rotterdam:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg and one checked bag up to 20kg.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Essen to Rotterdam:
- BlaBlaCar Bus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Essen to Rotterdam. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Essen to Rotterdam with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Essen to Rotterdam with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Essen to Rotterdam with the following bus company: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus.
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
Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen
World-first publicly accessible art storage depot. Visitors see collection care, restoration, and city views from the rooftop.
- Must visit
Kunsthal Rotterdam
Contemporary art center known for ambitious international exhibitions. Best for visitors wanting Rotterdam’s cutting-edge art scene.
- Must visit
Oude Haven
Lively old harbor district with historic ships, terraces, and waterside views. Great for walks and a classic Rotterdam atmosphere.
- Must visit
Kop van Zuid
Modern waterfront area of bold architecture, hotels, and river panoramas. Essential for seeing Rotterdam’s contemporary skyline.
- Recommended
Lijnbaan
Main shopping street rebuilt after the war. Visit for striking postwar urban planning and easy access to central sights.
- Vegetarian
Stroopwafels
Crisp, syrup-filled waffles from nearby Gouda. Popular across Rotterdam markets and cafés, they are a classic Dutch sweet snack best eaten fresh and warm.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Patat Met Mayonaise
Hand-cut fries with rich mayonnaise or other sauces. A beloved Dutch street food found at snack bars and markets throughout Rotterdam.
- Vegetarian
Poffertjes
Small fluffy pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar. Traditional at Dutch pancake houses and a nostalgic treat for many locals.
FG Restaurant
Refined two-Michelin-star dining by François Geurds, known for creative tasting menus and polished modern luxury.
Amarone
Stylish Michelin-star restaurant with seasonal tasting menus, elegant plating, and an intimate fine dining atmosphere.
De Ballentent
Popular casual spot famed for oversized Dutch meatballs, beer, and no-frills local character near the Maas.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually manageable for most city breaks.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% at restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small change is fine in cafes.
RET
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €4.00
- Day pass
- €9.50
To the city center
Rotterdam Westerstraat -> Rotterdam Centraal
- Distance
- 3.2 km
- Travel time
- 17 min
- You can tap in and out with a contactless bank card or mobile wallet on RET trams, buses, and metro.
- A 1-day RET ticket is valid on RET only, not on NS trains or most other regional operators.
Plan your visit to Rotterdam
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 Rotterdam.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Rotterdam, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and unofficial taxi services can also occur. It is advised to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid common safety issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Essen to Rotterdam
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Rotterdam by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Rotterdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Essen and Rotterdam including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Essen to Rotterdam
Most Essen to Rotterdam buses use the Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) to Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) station pair, with some services arriving at Rotterdam, Zuidplein. Use this guide to compare Essen and Rotterdam bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Essen
Arrival bus stations in Rotterdam
Which Essen station do buses to Rotterdam leave from?
Buses from Essen to Rotterdam leave from Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany.
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof)Essen Hbf, 45127 Essen, Germany
City-centre transport
Getting to Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) from Essen city centre
BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 7m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) bus station facilities and services
Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and snack bars nearby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi is available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof): Wheelchair accessible routes and facilities available.
Which Rotterdam station do buses from Essen arrive at?
Buses from Essen to Rotterdam most often arrive at Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station). Some services arrive at Rotterdam, Zuidplein, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Rotterdam arrival station.
Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station)Conradstraat, 3013 AP Rotterdam, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) from Rotterdam city centre
BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m
4 · 10m · $3
Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) bus station facilities and services
Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafeteria Centraal (in the station), Dutch Delights (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located inside the station near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station): Elevators, ramps.
Rotterdam, ZuidpleinBusstation Rotterdam Zuidplein, Gooilandsingel 21, 3083 Rotterdam, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam, Zuidplein from Rotterdam city centre
Rotterdam, Zuidplein is 3 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus44 · 18m · $4 · every ~10 min
813, 819, N116 · 25m · $2
SubwayD, E · 10m · $3 · every ~29 min
Rotterdam, Zuidplein bus station facilities and services
Rotterdam, Zuidplein has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food outlets available within walking distance.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Rotterdam, Zuidplein. ATMs are aTM available near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam, Zuidplein.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam, Zuidplein: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam, Zuidplein: The station is wheelchair accessible.
Bus stations for Essen to Rotterdam
Check bus stations information for Essen and Rotterdam, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Essen , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof) . When arriving in Rotterdam , you can end your journey in bus stations like Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station), Rotterdam, Zuidplein .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Essen, Freiheit (Hauptbahnhof), which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station), located 1 away from the city centre.
More options for your journey from Essen to Rotterdam
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Rotterdam and Essen
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