Essen to Rotterdam train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE)

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Rotterdam

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$32

Average price

$54

Fastest journey

2 h 37 m

Average duration

3 h 20 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

182 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 $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Essen for Rotterdam on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 182 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 37 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 3 h 54 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:16 AM3h54
    Essen
    11:10 AMRotterdam
    $321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:03 AM2h37
    Essen
    10:40 AMRotterdam
    $551One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    8:16 AM3h28
    Essen
    11:44 AMRotterdam
    $761One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Rotterdam

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Essen to Rotterdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $15, and a flight costs an average of $433.

Distance: 113 miles (182 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$69

Average price

$23

Average price

Cheapest

$723

Average price

$50

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 45m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 16m

Average total duration

3h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 8m

Average total duration

7h 8m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

2h 41m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Essen to Rotterdam is a bus with an average price of $23 (€19).

This is compared to other travel options from Essen to Rotterdam:

A bus is $46 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Essen to Rotterdam costing on average $69 (€56).

A bus is $700 (€573) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Essen to Rotterdam costing on average $723 (€592).

The fastest way to travel from Essen to Rotterdam is by train with an average journey time of 2h 45m.

Other travel options to Rotterdam take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 46m.

Flight takes on average 7h 8m.

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.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Essen to Rotterdam among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $69 (€56) compared to roughly $50 (€41) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-19.15 (€-15.67). The journey takes 2h 45m versus 2h 41m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Essen to Rotterdam train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Rotterdam trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn7:16 AM Essen
3h28
10:44 AM Rotterdam0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:21 AM Essen
3h49
11:10 AM Rotterdam0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:46 AM Essen
3h05
10:51 AM Rotterdam0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:16 AM Essen
3h51
12:07 PM Rotterdam0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn8:21 AM Essen
3h49
12:10 PM Rotterdam0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to Rotterdam by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Essen to Rotterdam trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) 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 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 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 Deutsche Bahn 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 Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to Rotterdam

GermanyGermany
NetherlandsNetherlands
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to Rotterdam run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) but you can travel from only $15 (€13) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 113 miles (182 km) distance in 2h 37m.

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
Bus from $15 (€13)
Distance
113 miles (182 km)
Average train duration
2h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$27 (€22)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 37m
First train
12:07 AM
Last train
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
5 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
Bus from $15 (€13)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Essen to Rotterdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Essen and Rotterdam from $15 (€13). 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 Duration
2h 37m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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.
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.
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.
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
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 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

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 44m
Cheapest Price
$127 (€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

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen Depot

The world’s first publicly accessible art-storage depot, letting visitors see thousands of works behind the scenes in a striking mirrored building.

  • Must visit

Kunsthal Rotterdam

Major exhibition hall known for changing shows on art, design, photography, and culture, making it one of Rotterdam’s most consistently rewarding museum visits.

  • Recommended

Maritime Museum Rotterdam

A leading museum on Dutch maritime history with interactive exhibits, historic vessels, and strong links to Rotterdam’s port identity.

Euro

Prices are high by Dutch standards for hotels and dining, though transit and casual food stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
EUR 10-18 for street food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
EUR 25-40 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
EUR 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Round up taxis; small tips are optional in cafes and bars.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Essen to Rotterdam can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $27 (€22), while the average price is around $69 (€56).
The train from Essen to Rotterdam takes 2h 37m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Essen to Rotterdam is 113 miles (182 km).
The first train from Essen to Rotterdam leaves at 12:07 AM.
The last train from Essen to Rotterdam leaves at 11:50 PM.
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 Hbf, which connects to Rotterdam Centraal.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Rotterdam is by bus, with a cost of around $15 (€13).
The train journey from Essen to Rotterdam offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, including views of the Ruhr industrial region, the lush countryside of North Rhine-Westphalia, and the picturesque Dutch canals and windmills as you approach Rotterdam, providing a moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Essen to Rotterdam is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 37m. However, there are 10 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 113 miles (182 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 bus 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 Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Rotterdam.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Kiepenkerl
  • Cafe Extrablatt
  • Tacos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ambassador
  • Gästearpartment Dahl
  • WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
  • Motel One
Essen-SteeleWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Dining
Dining
  • Bootshaus Ruhreck
  • Da Vinici
  • Asia-Nudeln
  • Bacchos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Zur Guten Quelle
  • Hotel Töff-Töff
  • Budike
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • Werner
  • Bückmannsmühle
  • Muckel-Eis

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