- Must visit
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
Major art museum of Kiel University with works from the 19th century to contemporary art, plus changing exhibitions and a notable sculpture garden.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Kiel
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$137
Average price
$152
Fastest journey
8 h 1 m
Average duration
8 h 27 m
Trains per day
5
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 $152 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $137.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Rotterdam to Kiel without transferring at least 2 times.
IC 2027 · ICE 225 · ICE 614 · 112228:05 AM8h16Rotterdam Centraal4:21 PMKiel Hbf$1371One-way3 transfers- IC 2831 · IC 1733 · ICE 145 · ICE 2029:20 AM8h01Rotterdam Centraal5:21 PMKiel Hbf$1501One-way4 transfers
- ICD 1833 · ICE 145 · ICE 202 · 112249:11 AM8h10Rotterdam Centraal5:21 PMKiel Hbf$1501One-way3 transfers
- ICD 1833 · ICE 145 · ICE 7709:11 AM9h33Rotterdam Centraal6:44 PMKiel Hbf$1611One-way2 transfers
- IC 2035 · ICE 123 · ICE 612 · 1122610:05 AM8h16Rotterdam Centraal6:21 PMKiel Hbf$1621One-way3 transfers
- IC 2831 · IC 1733 · ICE 145 · ICE 2029:20 AM8h01Rotterdam Centraal5:21 PMKiel Hbf$1501One-way4 transfers
- ICD 1833 · ICE 145 · ICE 202 · 112249:11 AM8h10Rotterdam Centraal5:21 PMKiel Hbf$1501One-way3 transfers
- IC 2035 · ICE 123 · ICE 612 · 1122610:05 AM8h16Rotterdam Centraal6:21 PMKiel Hbf$1621One-way3 transfers
- IC 2027 · ICE 225 · ICE 614 · 112228:05 AM8h16Rotterdam Centraal4:21 PMKiel Hbf$1371One-way3 transfers
- ICD 1833 · ICE 145 · ICE 7709:11 AM9h33Rotterdam Centraal6:44 PMKiel Hbf$1611One-way2 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 prices starting from $45. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 45m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $45, and a flight costs an average of $671.
Distance: 287 miles (462 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$136 Average price | $86 Average price Cheapest | $908 Average price | $130 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 15m Average total duration Fastest 6h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 8m Average total duration 9h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 7m Average total duration 9h 7m Onboard + 3h 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 |
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 $86 (€70).
This is compared to other travel options from Rotterdam to Kiel:
A bus is $50 (€40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rotterdam to Kiel costing on average $136 (€110).
A bus is $821 (€664) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rotterdam to Kiel costing on average $908 (€734).
The fastest way to travel from Rotterdam to Kiel is by train with an average journey time of 6h 45m.
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Flight takes on average 9h 7m.
Bus takes on average 9h 38m.
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 $136 (€110) compared to roughly $130 (€105) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-6.13 (€-4.96). The journey takes 6h 45m 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 today, Thursday, June 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:50 PM Rotterdam | 9h18 | 2:08 AM Kiel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, June 5 | |||||
| IC 2027 · ICE 225 · ICE 614 · 11222 | 8:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 8h16 | 4:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICD 1833 · ICE 145 · ICE 202 · 11224 | 9:11 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 8h10 | 5:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| ICD 1833 · ICE 145 · ICE 770 | On time 9:11 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 9h33 | 6:44 PM Kiel Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2831 · IC 1733 · ICE 145 · ICE 202 | 9:20 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 8h01 | 5:21 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2035 · ICE 123 · ICE 612 · 11226 | 10:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 8h16 | 6:21 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.
Fri
Jun 05
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Jun 06
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Jun 07
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Jun 08
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Thu
Jun 11
Jun 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 6 times per day, taking around 6h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $47 (€38) but you can travel from only $45 (€37) 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 7h 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 $45 (€37)
Distance 287 miles (462 km) |
Average train duration 6h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€38) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 7h 17m |
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 Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $45 (€37)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Rotterdam to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Rotterdam and Kiel from $45 (€37). 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
7h 17m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
6 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
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 20m
Cheapest Price
$218 (€176)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
16 a day
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.
- Recommended
Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel
Kiel’s maritime museum in a former fish auction hall, covering the city’s naval and shipping history with models, objects, and harbor context.
- Recommended
Zoologisches Museum Kiel
University museum with zoological specimens, whale skeletons, and scientific displays that appeal to families and natural history fans.
- Must visit
Kiellinie
Kiel’s best-known waterfront promenade, ideal for walking along the fjord, watching ships, and enjoying one of the city’s classic views.
- Must visit
Nord-Ostsee-Kanal Schleusenplattform
Popular viewing area at the Kiel Canal locks in Holtenau, excellent for watching large ships pass at close range.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic old market square with Nikolaikirche and surrounding city-center atmosphere, a natural starting point for exploring Kiel.
- Gluten-free
Kieler Sprotten
Lightly smoked sprats traditionally linked to Kiel. They are eaten whole on bread or with potatoes and are one of the city’s best-known regional specialties.
Labskaus
A classic North German sailor’s dish of corned beef, mashed potatoes and beetroot, often served with herring and a fried egg. It reflects Kiel’s maritime heritage.
- Gluten-free
Matjes Mit Hausfrauensoße
Young pickled herring served with a creamy apple-onion sauce, often with potatoes. A staple of northern coastal cuisine and especially popular in Schleswig-Holstein.
Banmaai
Highly regarded restaurant in Kiel for refined Thai cuisine in a stylish setting, offering a contrast to traditional fare while remaining a local favorite.
Pier 16
Established restaurant at the Atlantic Hotel Kiel, known for modern regional cuisine, seafood and an upscale atmosphere near the fjord.
Längengrad
Well-known waterfront restaurant in Kiel focusing on fish, northern German dishes and harbor views in a polished but relaxed setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual eats are affordable, while hotels and waterfront dining cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or fast food.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 50-90 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service. Round up taxi fares and small cafe bills; tipping is not expected for counter service.
NAH.SH
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 2.90
- Day pass
- EUR 7.40
To the city center
Kiel Hbf -> Kiel Rathausplatz
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tickets can be bought in the NAH.SH app and at ticket machines; validate paper tickets if required before travel.
- Card payment is generally available in the app and at many ticket machines, but not always onboard buses, so buy before boarding when possible.
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 $47 (€38), while the average price is around $136 (€110).
The train from Rotterdam to Kiel takes 7h 17m and runs 6 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 $45 (€37).
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 7h 17m 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
Rotterdam
Kiel
The major train station for departures in Rotterdam is Rotterdam Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rotterdam Centraal for your trip from Rotterdam to Kiel.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- 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.
Dining
- Smullers
- Albert Heijn to go
- Starbucks
- La Place
- Julia's
- Ekmekci
- LEON
- The Doner Company
- StationsHuiskamer
- De Broodzaak
- & more
Accessibility
- Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.
Hotel
- Rotterdam Marriott Hotel
- Layin’ Rotterdam Central
- Hostel Ani & Haakien
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00
Information Desk
- Located inside the central hall.
Public transit options for Rotterdam Centraal
- Subway lines: D, E
- Bus lines: 33, 34, 38, 39, 40, 44, 48
- Tram lines: 4, 7, 8, 12, 20, 21, 23, 24, 25
- Train lines: NS Intercity, NS Intercity Direct, NS Sprinter, NS Nachtnet, Thalys, Eurostar
Rotterdam Noord
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
- Closed Sunday
Distance to city center
2 km
Number of platforms
2Parking
- Parking is available near the station with limited spaces.
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Bike Parking
- 100 places, covered
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a simple layout with two platforms and a small waiting area.
Public transit options for Rotterdam Noord
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line 4
Rotterdam Blaak
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. You can access the car park at Blaak 1.
Dining
- Restaurant Fitzgerald
- Markthal Rotterdam
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Motto by Hilton Rotterdam Blaak
- citizenM Rotterdam
- Ibis Rotterdam City Centre
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 120 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains and metro services
- Hall 2: access to tram and bus connections
Public transit options for Rotterdam Blaak
- Metro: Line A, Line B, Line C
- Tram: Line 21, Line 24
- Bus: Several lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Kiel is Kiel Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kiel Hbf for your journey to Kiel from Rotterdam.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Tuesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Wednesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Thursday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Friday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Saturday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Sunday: 06:45 - 20:00
Dining
- MUM&DAD
- Lunatique
- McDonald's
- Campus Suite
Hotel
- Hotel Wiking
- Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel
- Astor
- InterCityHotel Kiel
More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Rotterdam
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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