- 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 trains from Kiel to Rotterdam
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$147
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$147
Fastest journey on Sep 20
7 h 24 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
7 h 24 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
462 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Kiel to Rotterdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Kiel to Rotterdam will cost around $147 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $147.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Kiel to Rotterdam without transferring at least 4 times.
ICE 577 · ICE 519 · IC 2201 · ICE 1268:16 AM7h24Kiel Hbf3:40 PMRotterdam Centraal$1471One-way4 transfers
- ICE 577 · ICE 519 · IC 2201 · ICE 1268:16 AM7h24Kiel Hbf3:40 PMRotterdam Centraal$1471One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Kiel to Rotterdam
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Kiel to Rotterdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $78 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 19m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $78, while a flight costs an average of $556.
Distance: 287 miles (462 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$138 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $556 Average price | $128 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 18m Average total duration 6h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 40m Average total duration 10h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration Fastest 2h 19m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
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 Kiel to Rotterdam is a bus with an average price of $78.
This is compared to other travel options from Kiel to Rotterdam:
A bus is $60 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Kiel to Rotterdam costing on average $138.
A bus is $478 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Kiel to Rotterdam costing on average $556.
The fastest way to travel from Kiel to Rotterdam is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 19m.
Other travel options to Rotterdam take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 48m.
Bus takes on average 10h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Kiel and Rotterdam including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel to Rotterdam among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 8m sooner (6h 48m by train vs 6h 56m by car). Tickets start at around $138 compared to roughly $128 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Kiel to Rotterdam train times
The table below shows live departures for Kiel to Rotterdam trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 577 · ICE 519 · IC 2201 · ICE 126 | On time 8:16 AM Kiel Hbf | 7h24 | 3:40 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Kiel 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.
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Why should you book Kiel to Rotterdam trains with Omio?
metronom as well as Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Kiel to Rotterdam.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Kiel to Rotterdam.
Why book with Omio vs metronom?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for metronom, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Kiel 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 metronom with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Kiel to Rotterdam.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Kiel 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 Kiel to Rotterdam.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Kiel to Rotterdam
Germany
Netherlands
Trains from Kiel to Rotterdam run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $53 but you can travel from only $42 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 287 miles (462 km) distance in 6h 14m.
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 $42
Distance 287 miles (462 km) |
Average train duration 6h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $53 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 6h 14m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:54 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $42
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, metronom from Kiel to Rotterdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, metronom trains will get you between Kiel and Rotterdam from $42. 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
6h 14m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn 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.
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.
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.
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
metronom
About
Metronom Eisenbahngesellschaft mbH is a German railway company that has been connecting Northern Germany since 2003. Based in Uelzen, it focuses exclusively on passenger transport, operating services from Hamburg to Bremen, Lüneburg, Uelzen, Hanover, and Göttingen. The company also runs services under the brand Enno from Wolfsburg to Hanover and Hildesheim. Metronom is partly state-owned, with its trains, which can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h, being rented from the state transport company Landesnahverkehrsgesellschaft Niedersachsen mbH (LNVG). They are known for their yellow and blue double-decker trains, offering amenities like extra legroom and refreshments.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average metronom Duration
7h 25m
Cheapest metronom Price
$146
metronom frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one large piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated storage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations not included, can be purchased separately
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
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
- €4.50
- Day pass
- €9.50
To the city center
Rotterdam Centraal -> Markthal, Rotterdam
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can check in and out on RET trams, buses, and metro with a contactless bank card, phone, or OVpay-enabled wearable.
- At Rotterdam Centraal, follow Metro signs for RET services; NS trains use separate fares and tickets.
FAQs: Trains from Kiel to Rotterdam
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kiel 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 Kiel to Rotterdam can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $53, while the average price is around $138.
The train from Kiel to Rotterdam takes 6h 14m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Kiel to Rotterdam is 287 miles (462 km).
The first train from Kiel to Rotterdam leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Kiel to Rotterdam leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Kiel to Rotterdam.
There is no direct train service currently available from Kiel to Rotterdam.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Kiel to Rotterdam.
The train station in Kiel that goes to Rotterdam is Kiel Hbf, which connects to Rotterdam Centraal.
The cheapest way to get from Kiel to Rotterdam is by bus, with a cost of around $42.
The train journey from Kiel to Rotterdam offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of northern Germany and the Netherlands, including stretches of countryside and charming towns.
A day trip from Kiel to Rotterdam is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 14m. The distance is 287 miles (462 km), and there are 8 train trips 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 Kiel to Rotterdam.
Since both Kiel 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Kiel 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 Kiel to Rotterdam
Most Kiel to Rotterdam trains use the Kiel Hbf to Rotterdam Centraal station pair. Use this guide to compare Kiel and Rotterdam train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Kiel
Arrival train stations in Rotterdam
Which Kiel station do trains to Rotterdam leave from?
Trains from Kiel to Rotterdam leave from Kiel Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Kiel city centre at Kiel Hbf, Sophienblatt 25-27, 24114 Kiel.
Kiel HbfKiel Hbf, Sophienblatt 25-27, 24114 Kiel
City-centre transport
Getting to Kiel Hbf from Kiel city centre
BusN22, N14, N12, N11, 91, 81, 71, X60, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11 · 4m · every ~47 min
765, 744 · 6m · every ~2 min
Kiel Hbf train station facilities and services
Kiel 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: MUM&DAD, Lunatique, McDonald's, Campus Suite
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kiel Hbf. ATMs are available at Kiel Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kiel Hbf. Information desks are available at Kiel Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Kiel Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kiel Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kiel Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kiel Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Wiking, Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel, Astor, InterCityHotel Kiel.
Which Rotterdam station do trains from Kiel arrive at?
Trains from Kiel to Rotterdam most often arrive at Rotterdam Centraal. Some services arrive at Schiedam Centrum, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Rotterdam arrival station.
Rotterdam CentraalStationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 302357822
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre
BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m
4 · 10m · $2
Rotterdam Centraal train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Smullers, Albert Heijn to go, Starbucks, La Place, Julia's, Ekmekci, LEON, The Doner Company, StationsHuiskamer, De Broodzaak, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are aTM machines are located outside the north side entrance and south side entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00. Information desks are located inside the central hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is 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.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Centraal: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, Layin’ Rotterdam Central, Hostel Ani & Haakien.
Most popular train connections from Kiel
More options for your journey from Kiel to Rotterdam
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rotterdam and Kiel
Most popular train connections to Rotterdam
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