- Must visit
Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot
The world’s first publicly accessible art storage facility, showcasing thousands of works in a striking mirrored building. Highly photogenic and especially popular with architecture and art lovers.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Rotterdam
Showing times and prices for Jun 03
Cheapest price
$17
Average price
$22
Fastest journey
1 h 8 m
Average duration
1 h 8 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
51 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train 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 $22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $17.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Essen for Rotterdam on Wed, Jun 03, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 03 the direct trains cover the 51 km distance in an average of 1 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 8 m .
On Wed, Jun 03 the slowest trains will take 1 h 8 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.
2:30 PM1h08Essen3:38 PMRotterdam$171One-way0 transfers- 7:30 AM1h08Essen8:38 AMRotterdam$261One-way0 transfers
- 7:30 AM1h08Essen8:38 AMRotterdam$261One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 PM1h08Essen3:38 PMRotterdam$171One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Essen to Rotterdam
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Rotterdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $17, and a bus costs an average of $27.
Distance: 31 miles (51 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$25 Average price Cheapest | $31 Average price | $51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 15m Average total duration Fastest 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 7m Average total duration 4h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Rotterdam is a train with an average price of $25 (€20).
This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Rotterdam:
A train is $6 (€5) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Essen to Rotterdam costing on average $31 (€25).
The fastest way to travel from Essen to Rotterdam is by train with an average journey time of 45m.
Other travel options to Rotterdam take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Rotterdam including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Rotterdam among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 16m faster (45m by train vs 1h 1m by car) and roughly $26 (€21) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($25 (€20) vs $51 (€41)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Essen to Rotterdam train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Rotterdam trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, June 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:30 AM Essen | 1h08 | 8:38 AM Rotterdam | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Rotterdam by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Wed
Jun 03
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Thu
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Jun 09
Why should you book Essen to Rotterdam trains with Omio?
Regional as well as NS International | IC Brussel, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) and more offer trains 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 Regional?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Regional, but also compare tickets for the likes of NS International | IC Brussel, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) 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 Regional with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Rotterdam.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Rotterdam.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Rotterdam
Belgium
Netherlands
Trains from Essen to Rotterdam run on average 10 times per day, taking around 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 31 miles (51 km) distance in 1h 8m.
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 31 miles (51 km) |
Average train duration 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 1h 8m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 11:54 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 4 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
Train companies: Regional, NS International | IC Brussel, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Essen to Rotterdam trainsRegional, NS International | IC Brussel, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Essen and Rotterdam from $17 (€14). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
NS International | IC Brussel
About
NS International, a subsidiary of the Dutch state-owned railway Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), operates international intercity and high-speed connections to various European cities, including Brussels. The "IC Brussel" refers to their Intercity service connecting the Netherlands and Belgium. These trains offer a direct and comfortable way to travel between major cities like Amsterdam and Brussels. As of late 2024, NS International, in collaboration with the Belgian railway company SNCB, is introducing new Intercity New Generation (ICNG) trains on the Brussels-Amsterdam route. These new trains are faster, reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h, and offer amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and power sockets. They aim to significantly reduce travel times and increase the frequency of services between the two countries.
Luggage & cancellation policy
NS International | IC Brussel frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car available with hot and cold meals, drinks. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in first class, optional for second class at additional cost
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, assistance for boarding/alighting available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Regional
About
The term "Regional" can refer to different train companies and services depending on the country. In Germany, "Regionalbahn" (RB) is a type of local passenger train that typically stops at all stations on a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas. Many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a division of Deutsche Bahn, but other companies also run these services.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 8m
Cheapest Price
$17 (€14)
Regional frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type and conditions
Refund
Full refund if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
$153 (€123)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
6 a day
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 44m
Cheapest Price
$129 (€104)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
6 a day
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
Kunsthal Rotterdam
A major exhibition hall known for varied temporary shows covering art, design, photography, and culture. One of the city’s best-known contemporary art venues.
- Recommended
Maritime Museum Rotterdam
A leading museum on Dutch maritime history with indoor galleries and historic vessels in the harbor. Strong choice for families and visitors interested in Rotterdam’s port identity.
- Must visit
Witte de Withstraat
Rotterdam’s best-known cultural street, lined with galleries, design spaces, and lively urban energy. A favorite area for walking and contemporary city atmosphere.
- Must visit
Kop van Zuid
A redeveloped waterfront district known for bold modern architecture, skyline views, and river promenades. One of the city’s most visually striking areas.
- Recommended
Oude Haven
A historic harbor area with old ships, waterside views, and easy access to the Cube Houses. Popular for photos and a relaxed stroll.
Kapsalon
A Rotterdam classic of fries topped with döner or shawarma, melted cheese, salad, and garlic sauce. It was created in the city and became popular across the Netherlands.
- Vegetarian
Poffertjes
Small fluffy Dutch mini pancakes served warm with butter and powdered sugar. They are a beloved sweet snack found at markets and traditional eateries.
Bitterballen
Crispy deep-fried balls filled with a rich ragout, usually beef. They are a classic Dutch bar snack often eaten with mustard.
FG Restaurant
A well-known fine dining restaurant in Rotterdam, celebrated for creative modern cuisine, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
Hotel New York
An iconic Rotterdam venue in the former Holland America Line headquarters, known for seafood, Dutch classics, and grand historic atmosphere by the water.
Fenix Food Factory
A popular food hall on Katendrecht with local producers, craft drinks, and casual Dutch bites in an industrial waterfront setting.
Euro
Moderate by Dutch standards. Supermarkets and casual eats are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for takeaway or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated but not required. Round up taxis; no tip expected for counter service.
RET
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 4.50
- Day pass
- EUR 9.50
To the city center
Rotterdam Centraal, Rotterdam -> Rotterdam Centrum, Rotterdam
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Check in and out with your OV-chipkaart or contactless bank card on metro, tram, and bus.
- If you buy a ticket in the RET app, activate it before boarding and keep it available for inspection.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Rotterdam
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Rotterdam can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $17 (€14), while the average price is around $25 (€20).
The train from Essen to Rotterdam takes 1h 8m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Essen to Rotterdam leaves at 12:03 AM.
The distance by train from Essen to Rotterdam is 31 miles (51 km).
The last train from Essen to Rotterdam leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Essen to Rotterdam.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Rotterdam.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Rotterdam.
The train station in Essen that goes to Rotterdam is Essen station, which connects to Rotterdam Centraal.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Rotterdam is by train, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Essen to Rotterdam offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Rhine River, quaint German towns, and Dutch countryside, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Essen to Rotterdam is feasible, as the journey takes 1h 8m each way, with 6 trains operating per day over a distance of 31 miles (51 km).
In Rotterdam, visitors can explore the renowned Rotterdam Zoo, enjoy the Spido Harbor Tour for unique views of the port and skyline, and wander through the historic Delfshaven neighborhood. For a vibrant city experience, head to Witte de Withstraat for art galleries, trendy bars, and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Kralingse Bos for walking and cycling. Notable sights include the iconic Erasmus Bridge, the modern Markthal food market, the innovative Cube Houses, the art-rich Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, and the Euromast observation tower for panoramic city views.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Rotterdam allows visitors to explore its modern architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and key attractions such as the Markthal, Cube Houses, and the port area comfortably.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Rotterdam.
Since both Essen and Rotterdam are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Rotterdam include Brussels, Amsterdam, Antwerp, The Hague, Eindhoven.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Rotterdam among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Essen to Rotterdam
Essen
Rotterdam
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen for your trip from Essen to Rotterdam.
Essen
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parkinginformation
Wildert
Amenities at train station
DiningATMAccessibilityBike ParkingThe major train station for arrivals in Rotterdam is Rotterdam Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rotterdam Centraal for your journey to Rotterdam from Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- 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.
Dining
- Smullers
- Albert Heijn to go
- Starbucks
- La Place
- Julia's
- Ekmekci
- LEON
- The Doner Company
- StationsHuiskamer
- De Broodzaak
- & more
Accessibility
- Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.
Hotel
- Rotterdam Marriott Hotel
- Layin’ Rotterdam Central
- Hostel Ani & Haakien
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00
Information Desk
- Located inside the central hall.
Public transit options for Rotterdam Centraal
- Subway lines: D, E
- Bus lines: 33, 34, 38, 39, 40, 44, 48
- Tram lines: 4, 7, 8, 12, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25
- Train lines: NS Intercity, NS Intercity Direct, NS Sprinter, NS Nachtnet, Thalys, Eurostar
Rotterdam Alexander
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
Distance to city center
6 km
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available with free parking options nearby.
Dining
- Restaurant Alexander
- Brasserie Waalhaven
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Alexander
- NH Capelle
- Campanile Rotterdam Oost
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 300 places, covered
Car Rental
- SIXT
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for trains to Utrecht and Rotterdam Central
- Hall 2: metro connections
Public transit options for Rotterdam Alexander
- Metro: Line A, Line B
- Bus: Several lines available
Rotterdam Blaak
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. You can access the car park at Blaak 1.
Dining
- Restaurant Fitzgerald
- Markthal Rotterdam
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Motto by Hilton Rotterdam Blaak
- citizenM Rotterdam
- Ibis Rotterdam City Centre
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 120 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains and metro services
- Hall 2: access to tram and bus connections
Public transit options for Rotterdam Blaak
- Metro: Line A, Line B, Line C
- Tram: Line 21, Line 24
- Bus: Several lines available
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Rotterdam
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rotterdam and Essen
Most popular train connections to Rotterdam
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