ROTTERDAM to KIEL train from $42 (€34) with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE)

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Kiel

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05

Cheapest price on Sep 05

$133

Average ticket price on Sep 05

$159

Fastest journey on Sep 05

7 h 2 m

Average journey duration on Sep 05

7 h 27 m

Trains on Sep 05

Distance

462 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Rotterdam to Kiel will cost around $159 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $133.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Rotterdam to Kiel without transferring at least 3 times.

IC 2823 · ICE 143 · ICE 204 · 11268
7:19 AM7h33
Rotterdam Centraal
2:52 PMKiel Hbf
$1331One-way
3 transfers
IC 2821 · 20363 · ICE 1036 · 11218
6:49 AM7h32
Rotterdam Centraal
2:21 PMKiel Hbf
$1371One-way
3 transfers
IC 2831 · ICE 145 · ICE 202 · 11272
9:19 AM7h33
Rotterdam Centraal
4:52 PMKiel Hbf
$1571One-way
3 transfers
IC 2831 · ICE 145 · ICE 770
9:19 AM8h24
Rotterdam Centraal
5:43 PMKiel Hbf
$1731One-way
2 transfers
IC 2827 · ICE 225 · ICE 1022 · 11220
8:19 AM7h02
Rotterdam Centraal
3:21 PMKiel Hbf
$1771One-way
3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Rotterdam to Kiel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rotterdam to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $102 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 23m. 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 $102, while a flight costs an average of $596.

Distance: 287 miles (462 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$150 Average price	$102 Average price Cheapest	$596 Average price	$132 Average price (fuel + tolls)
7h 25m Average total duration 6h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	11h 40m Average total duration 11h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 23m Average total duration Fastest 2h 23m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*	5h 57m 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 Rotterdam to Kiel is a bus with an average price of $102 (€83).

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

A bus is $48 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rotterdam to Kiel costing on average $150 (€121).

A bus is $494 (€399) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rotterdam to Kiel costing on average $596 (€481).

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

Other travel options to Kiel take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 55m.

Bus takes on average 11h 10m.

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

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rotterdam to Kiel 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 $150 (€121) compared to roughly $132 (€107) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-18.06 (€-14.58). The journey takes 6h 55m versus 5h 57m 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 Kiel train times

The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Kiel trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
IC 2819 · ICE 121 · IC 2206 · ICE 616	6:19 AM Rotterdam Centraal	7h33	1:52 PM Kiel Hbf	4 transfers
IC 2821 · 20363 · ICE 1036 · 11218	6:49 AM Rotterdam Centraal	7h32	2:21 PM Kiel Hbf	3 transfers
IC 2823 · ICE 143 · ICE 204 · 11268	7:19 AM Rotterdam Centraal	7h33	2:52 PM Kiel Hbf	3 transfers
IC 2827 · ICE 225 · ICE 1022 · 11220	8:19 AM Rotterdam Centraal	7h02	3:21 PM Kiel Hbf	3 transfers
IC 2831 · ICE 145 · ICE 770	On time 9:19 AM Rotterdam Centraal	8h24	5:43 PM Kiel Hbf	2 transfers
IC 2831 · ICE 145 · ICE 202 · 11272	9:19 AM Rotterdam Centraal	7h33	4:52 PM Kiel Hbf	3 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Compare bus, train, 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.

Sat
Sep 05

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Sep 06

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Sep 07

Tue
Sep 08

Wed
Sep 09

Thu
Sep 10

Fri
Sep 11

Why should you book Rotterdam to Kiel trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Rotterdam to Kiel.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam to Kiel.

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 Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam to Kiel.
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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam to Kiel.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Kiel

Netherlands

Germany

Trains from Rotterdam to Kiel run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $41 (€33) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 287 miles (462 km) distance in 6h 5m.

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

Distance

287 miles (462 km)

Average train duration

6h 55m

Cheapest ticket price

$41 (€33)

Trains per day

Fastest train

6h 5m

First train

12:05 AM

Last train

11:54 PM

Cheapest Month

Jan

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Apr - Jun

Busiest Day

Sun

Least Busy Day

Sun

Price information

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Rotterdam to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Rotterdam and Kiel from $41 (€33). 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 5m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

$41 (€33)

Deutsche Bahn frequency

4 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

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

Complete guide to Kiel

Things to do in Kiel

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

Must visit

Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel

Maritime museum in a former fish auction hall. Highlights Kiel's naval, shipping, and harbor history in an atmospheric waterfront setting.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Open Air Museum Molfsee

Open-air museum site near Kiel with historic rural buildings and cultural exhibitions. Worth visiting for regional architecture and traditions.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Kunsthalle zu Kiel

Art museum of Kiel University with European paintings, prints, and sculptures. A strong stop for classical and modern art near the fjord.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels can rise in summer, but dining and local transit are usually reasonable for a port city.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range: €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: €60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: €3-4.50 for cappuccino or similar coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is common. Tip taxi drivers by rounding up, and leave small change at cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Rotterdam to Kiel

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

Train ticket prices from Rotterdam to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $41 (€33), while the average price is around $150 (€121).

The train from Rotterdam to Kiel takes 6h 5m and runs 5 per day.

The distance by train from Rotterdam to Kiel is 287 miles (462 km).

The first train from Rotterdam to Kiel leaves at 12:05 AM.

The last train from Rotterdam to Kiel leaves at 11:54 PM.

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

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

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

The cheapest way to get from Rotterdam to Kiel is by bus, with a cost of around $41 (€33).

The train journey from Rotterdam to Kiel offers a scenic experience, with views of the Dutch countryside, the North Sea coastline, and picturesque German landscapes, including charming towns and lush greenery along the way.

A day trip from Rotterdam to Kiel is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 5m one way, covering 287 miles (462 km). Trains run 6 times per day.

To fully explore Kiel's maritime history, museums, and nearby attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.

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

Since both Rotterdam and Kiel 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 Kiel include Hamburg, Rødekro, Neumünster, Padborg, Flensburg.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rotterdam to Kiel 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.

Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.

In Kiel, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and public transport. Common scams include overcharging in taxis and unofficial currency exchange offers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and official exchange offices, and to keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Overall, Kiel is considered a safe city with typical urban precautions.

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 Kiel

Most Rotterdam to Kiel trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Kiel Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Kiel 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 Kiel

Which Rotterdam station do trains to Kiel leave from?

Trains from Rotterdam to Kiel 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.