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

Tue, Aug 04
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam

Showing times and prices for Aug 04

Cheapest price

€57

Average price

€57

Fastest journey

3 h 39 m

Average duration

3 h 39 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

188 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam will cost around €57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €57.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Gelsenkirchen for Rotterdam on Tue, Aug 04, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Aug 04 the direct trains cover the 188 km distance in an average of 3 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 39 m .

On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest trains will take 3 h 39 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
    8:31 AM3h39
    Gelsenkirchen
    12:10 PMRotterdam
    571One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 17m. 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 €16, and a flight costs an average of €473.

Distance: 116 miles (188 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

€59

Average price

€23

Average price

Cheapest

€729

Average price

€42

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 55m

Average total duration

5h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 23m

Average total duration

7h 23m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

2h 43m

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 Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam is a bus with an average price of €23.

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

A bus is €37 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam costing on average €59.

A bus is €706 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam costing on average €729.

The fastest way to travel from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam is by train with an average journey time of 3h 17m.

Other travel options to Rotterdam take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 25m.

Flight takes on average 7h 23m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Gelsenkirchen and Rotterdam including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gelsenkirchen 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 €59 compared to roughly €42 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-17.72. The journey takes 3h 17m versus 2h 43m 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

Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam train times

The table below shows live departures for Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn8:31 AM Gelsenkirchen
3h39
12:10 PM Rotterdam0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Gelsenkirchen 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.

Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10

Why should you book Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) offer trains services from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Gelsenkirchen 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) to find the best option for your trip from Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam

GermanyGermany
NetherlandsNetherlands
Icon of train

Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €53 but you can travel from only €16 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:05, the last at 21:45. The fastest train covers the 116 miles (188 km) distance in 2h 39m.

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 €16
Distance
116 miles (188 km)
Average train duration
3h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
€53
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 39m
First train
1:05 AM
Last train
9:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
3 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 €16

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) trains will get you between Gelsenkirchen and Rotterdam from €16. 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 39m
Cheapest Price
€53
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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 26m
Cheapest Price
€117
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
3 a day

Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 39m
Cheapest Price
€105
Deutsche Bahn Regio (DB Regional) frequency
1 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

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.

FAQs: Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €53, while the average price is around €59.
The train from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam takes 2h 39m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam leaves at 1:05 AM.
The distance by train from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam is 116 miles (188 km).
The last train from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam leaves at 9:45 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam.
The train station in Gelsenkirchen that goes to Rotterdam is Gelsenkirchen Hbf, which connects to Rotterdam Centraal.
The cheapest way to get from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam is by bus, with a cost of around €16.
The train journey from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam offers varied scenery, including urban landscapes, industrial areas around the Ruhr region, and picturesque views along the Rhine River, providing a mix of both city and natural vistas.
A day trip from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 39m. However, there are 6 train journeys available per day.
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 Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam.
Since both Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen 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 Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam

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

Departure train stations in Gelsenkirchen
Arrival train stations in Rotterdam

Which Gelsenkirchen station do trains to Rotterdam leave from?

Trains from Gelsenkirchen to Rotterdam leave from Gelsenkirchen Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Gelsenkirchen city centre at Gelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 Gelsenkirchen.
Gelsenkirchen HbfGelsenkirchen Hbf, Bahnhofsvorplatz 10, 45879 GelsenkirchenWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Gelsenkirchen Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre

Gelsenkirchen Hbf is 1 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:

BusE51, 382, 348 · 12m · every ~10 min

Gelsenkirchen Hbf train station facilities and services

Gelsenkirchen 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: Subway, Café Madrid, Shere Punjab, Café del Sol

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

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

Luggage and lost property

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

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Gelsenkirchen Hbf.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel St. Petrus.

Wanne-Eickel HbfWanne-Eickel Hbf, Heinz-Rühmann-Platz 1, 44649 HerneWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Wanne-Eickel Hbf from Gelsenkirchen city centre

Wanne-Eickel Hbf is 3 km from Gelsenkirchen city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb, Re · 4m · €2 · every ~4 min
BusRe42x, Re42, S2, Rb32 · 18m · €4
E40, 340 · 21m · every ~5 min

Wanne-Eickel Hbf train station facilities and services

Wanne-Eickel Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Dschingis Khan, Kolpinghaus Wanne-Eickel, Nikolaus Grill, McDonald's

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. ATMs are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Information desks are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Wanne-Eickel Hbf.

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