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

Tue, Nov 03
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
VIAS Rail GmbH
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Rotterdam

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03
Cheapest price on Nov 03
$33
Average ticket price on Nov 03
$58
Fastest journey on Nov 03
2 h 51 m
Average journey duration on Nov 03
3 h 18 m
Trains on Nov 03
6
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 $58 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Essen to Rotterdam without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 621 · ICE 220 · IC 2832
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 625 · ICE 128 · IC 2840
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn10208 · IC 3236+VIAS Rail GmbH20014
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn10212 · IC 3244+VIAS Rail GmbH20018
    2 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn10212 · IC 3244 · IC 2844+VIAS Rail GmbH20018
    3 transfers

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 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 but you can travel from only $14 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 17m.

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 $14
Distance
113 miles (182 km)
Average train duration
2h 57m
Cheapest ticket price
$24
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 17m
First train
12:07 AM
Last train
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $14

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.

Train ticket prices from Essen to Rotterdam can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24, while the average price is around $79.
The train from Essen to Rotterdam takes 2h 17m 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.

Live departures

Essen to Rotterdam train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to Rotterdam trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 621 · ICE 220 · IC 2832
On time
8:49 AM Essen Hbf
2h51
11:40 AM Rotterdam Centraal
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10208+VIAS Rail GmbH20014+Deutsche BahnIC 32369:20 AM Essen Hbf
4h07
1:27 PM Rotterdam Centraal2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10208+VIAS Rail GmbH20014+Deutsche BahnIC 3236 · IC 28369:20 AM Essen Hbf
3h20
12:40 PM Rotterdam Centraal3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 625 · ICE 128 · IC 2840
On time
10:49 AM Essen Hbf
2h51
1:40 PM Rotterdam Centraal
2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10212+VIAS Rail GmbH20018+Deutsche BahnIC 324411:20 AM Essen Hbf
4h07
3:27 PM Rotterdam Centraal2 transfers
Deutsche Bahn10212+VIAS Rail GmbH20018+Deutsche BahnIC 3244 · IC 284411:20 AM Essen Hbf
3h20
2:40 PM Rotterdam Centraal3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Essen to Rotterdam trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH 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 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 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.

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Essen to Rotterdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Essen and Rotterdam from $14. 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
2h 17m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$24
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.
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
Average VIAS Rail GmbH Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest VIAS Rail GmbH Price
$29
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

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.

Yes, there is a night train from Essen to Rotterdam.
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.

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

Rotterdam’s leading art museum with Dutch masters, design, and decorative arts. A must for major exhibitions and its landmark depot nearby.

  • 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.

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.

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 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.
Popular day trips by train from Rotterdam include Brussels, Amsterdam, Antwerp, The Hague, Eindhoven.
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: 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
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Rotterdam.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Essen to Rotterdam

Most Essen to Rotterdam trains use the Essen Hbf to Rotterdam Centraal station pair, with some services arriving at Rotterdam Alexander. Use this guide to compare Essen and Rotterdam train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Essen
Arrival train stations in Rotterdam

Which Essen station do trains to Rotterdam leave from?

Trains from Essen to Rotterdam leave from Essen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Essen city centre at Essen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 Essen.
Essen HbfEssen Hbf, Am Hauptbahnhof 5, 45127 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre

BusNe12, Ne11, Ne2, Ne1, 196, 166, 155, 154, 146, 145 · 5m · every ~50 min
Tram109, 108, 107, 105, 103, 101 · 2m · every ~46 min

Essen Hbf train station facilities and services

Essen 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: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am ThyssenhausAm Thyssenhaus & Kruppstraße, 45128 Essen-Stadtbezirk I, GermanyWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre

TRUE

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus train station facilities and services

Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.

Essen-WerdenEssen-Werden, Im Löwental 11, 45239 EssenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Essen-Werden from Essen city centre

Essen-Werden is 7 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS6 · 11m · $3 · every ~6 min
BusS6 · 14m · $5
Ne8 · 22m · $5

Essen-Werden train station facilities and services

Essen-Werden 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: Kettner's Kamota, Abraham Konditorei & Cafe Werntges seit 1962, La Piazzetta, Pia

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Werden. ATMs are available at Essen-Werden.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Essen-Werden. Information desks are available at Essen-Werden.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Essen-Werden. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Essen-Werden: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Essen-Werden: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Werden.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Hohenstein, Domstuben.

Train stations for Essen to Rotterdam

Check train stations information for Essen and Rotterdam, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Essen that goes to Rotterdam is Essen Hbf, which connects to Rotterdam Centraal.

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