ROTTERDAM to HEERLEN train from $18 with NS International

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Heerlen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01

Cheapest price on Sep 01

$46

Average ticket price on Sep 01

$46

Fastest journey on Sep 01

2 h 26 m

Average journey duration on Sep 01

2 h 26 m

Trains on Sep 01

Distance

156 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Rotterdam to Heerlen will cost around $46 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.

Fast trains

On Tue, Sep 01, we found 1 trains from Rotterdam to Heerlen, including 1 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 01 the direct trains cover the 156 km distance in an average of 2 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 26 m .

On Tue, Sep 01 the slowest trains will take 2 h 26 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.

7:15 AM2h26
Rotterdam
9:41 AMHeerlen
$461One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Rotterdam to Heerlen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rotterdam to Heerlen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $33 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 54m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $33, while a flight costs an average of $830.

Distance: 96 miles (156 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$41 Average price	$33 Average price Cheapest	$830 Average price	$45 Average price (fuel + tolls)
2h 54m Average total duration Fastest 2h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 17m Average total duration 3h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 23m Average total duration 2h 23m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*	2h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.2 - 0.4kg 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 Rotterdam to Heerlen is a bus with an average price of $33.

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

A bus is $8 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rotterdam to Heerlen costing on average $41.

A bus is $797 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rotterdam to Heerlen costing on average $830.

The fastest way to travel from Rotterdam to Heerlen is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 23m.

Other travel options to Heerlen take longer:

Train takes on average 2h 24m.

Bus takes on average 3h 47m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Rotterdam and Heerlen including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rotterdam to Heerlen 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 $41 compared to roughly $45 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $5. The journey takes 2h 24m versus 2h 19m 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

Rotterdam to Heerlen train times

The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Heerlen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers	Tickets
	7:15 AM Rotterdam	2h26	9:41 AM Heerlen	0 transfersDirect
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Rotterdam to Heerlen 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
Sep 01

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Sep 02

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Sep 03

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Sep 04

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Sep 05

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Sep 07

Why should you book Rotterdam to Heerlen trains with Omio?

NS International | IC Brussel as well as Intercity, Intercity, NS Domestic, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Rotterdam to Heerlen.

Omio is the only official third party seller for NS International | IC Brussel tickets.

Why book with Omio vs NS International | IC Brussel?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for NS International | IC Brussel, but also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity, Intercity, NS Domestic or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam to Heerlen.
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 NS International | IC Brussel with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam to Heerlen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Heerlen

Netherlands

Trains from Rotterdam to Heerlen run on average 25 times per day, taking around 2h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 but you can travel from only $18 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:17, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 96 miles (156 km) distance in 2h 0m.

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 $18

Distance

96 miles (156 km)

Average train duration

2h 24m

Cheapest ticket price

$39

Trains per day

Fastest train

2h 0m

First train

12:17 AM

Last train

11:52 PM

Cheapest Month

Oct

Cheapest Day

Thu

High Season

Apr - Jun

Low Season

Oct - Dec

Busiest Day

Tue

Least Busy Day

Fri

Best time to book

1 day

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $18

Train companies: NS Domestic, NS International | IC Brussel, Intercity, Arriva NS from Rotterdam to Heerlen trainsNS Domestic, NS International | IC Brussel, Intercity, Arriva NS trains will get you between Rotterdam and Heerlen from $18. 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

Average NS International | IC Brussel Duration

2h 5m

Cheapest NS International | IC Brussel Price

$39

NS International | IC Brussel frequency

16 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

Intercity

About

Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Intercity Duration

2h 5m

Cheapest Intercity Price

$39

Intercity frequency

6 a day

Luggage included

2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages

Cancellation Policy

According to ticket conditions

Refund

Full refund provided

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.

Seat reservation

Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket

Quiet zone

Learn more about Intercity

NS Domestic

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average NS Domestic Duration

2h 0m

Cheapest NS Domestic Price

$41

NS Domestic frequency

18 a day

Arriva NS

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Arriva NS Duration

3h 41m

Cheapest Arriva NS Price

$41

Arriva NS frequency

1 a day

Complete guide to Heerlen

Things to do in Heerlen

Discover the best of Heerlen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Heerlen trip today.

Must visit

Thermenmuseum

Main archaeological museum built around the Roman bath ruins. It is the essential place to understand ancient Coriovallum and Heerlen's Roman heritage.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Kasteel Hoensbroek

Medieval castle museum near Heerlen with furnished rooms and historic collections. It is one of the region's strongest heritage visits.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

SCHUNCK Museum

Museum in a former department store focused on modern culture, design, and social history. Its exhibitions are among the city's most talked-about.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for the Netherlands: hotels and dining are cheaper than Amsterdam, while local transit and groceries are fairly priced for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
Mid-range: €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: €60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up. In cafes, small change is enough.

FAQs: Trains from Rotterdam to Heerlen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam to Heerlen 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 Heerlen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Train ticket prices from Rotterdam to Heerlen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39, while the average price is around $41.

The train from Rotterdam to Heerlen takes 2h 0m and runs 25 per day.

The first train from Rotterdam to Heerlen leaves at 12:17 AM.

The distance by train from Rotterdam to Heerlen is 96 miles (156 km).

The last train from Rotterdam to Heerlen leaves at 11:52 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Rotterdam to Heerlen.

There is no direct train service currently available from Rotterdam to Heerlen.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rotterdam to Heerlen.

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

The cheapest way to get from Rotterdam to Heerlen is by bus, with a cost of around $18.

The train journey from Rotterdam to Heerlen offers varied scenery, including urban landscapes, green countryside, and views of the Maas River, providing a pleasant and scenic experience.

A day trip from Rotterdam to Heerlen is not feasible due to a travel time of 2h 0m. However, with 88 trains per day, you have flexibility in planning your journey.

For a well-rounded visit, spending two to three days in Heerlen is ideal to explore its cultural sites, enjoy local cuisine, and visit nearby attractions.

Yes, you can take the train from Rotterdam to Heerlen.

Since both Rotterdam and Heerlen 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 Heerlen include Eindhoven, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Utrecht, Liège.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rotterdam to Heerlen 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 Heerlen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the train station and city center. It's advisable to keep belongings secure and be wary of distraction tactics. Additionally, travelers should avoid unlicensed taxi services and always confirm prices beforehand to prevent overcharging. Overall, Heerlen is considered safe, but standard urban precautions apply.

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 Rotterdam to Heerlen

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

Departure train stations in Rotterdam

Arrival train stations in Heerlen

Which Rotterdam station do trains to Heerlen leave from?

Trains from Rotterdam to Heerlen leave from Rotterdam Centraal. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Rotterdam city centre at Stationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Rotterdam CentraalStationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 302357822 Wifi

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.

More about Rotterdam Centraal

Rotterdam BlaakBlaak 1, 3011 TA Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 30 235 7822 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Rotterdam Blaak from Rotterdam city centre

TrainSprinter, Intercity · 3m · $1 · every ~16 min

Tram1, 11 · 6m · $1 · every ~14 min

Rotterdam Blaak train station facilities and services

Rotterdam Blaak has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.