- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Kiel
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 20
Cheapest price on Oct 20
$41
Average ticket price on Oct 20
$59
Fastest journey on Oct 20
7 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Oct 20
7 h 29 m
Trains on Oct 20
24
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 $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $41.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Rotterdam to Kiel without transferring at least 3 times.
IC 2857 · IC 1759 · 20381 · ICE 5163:50 PM8h08Rotterdam Centraal11:58 PMKiel Hbf$411One-way5 transfers- IC 2857 · IC 1759 · 20381 · ICE 5163:50 PM8h45Rotterdam Centraal12:35 AMKiel Hbf$411One-way4 transfers
- IC 2865 · IC 1767 · 20385 · ICE 5145:50 PM8h16Rotterdam Centraal2:06 AMKiel Hbf$411One-way4 transfers
- IC 2841 · IC 1743 · 20373 · ICE 61011:50 AM7h50Rotterdam Centraal7:40 PMKiel Hbf$461One-way4 transfers
- IC 2849 · IC 1751 · 20377 · ICE 5181:50 PM7h50Rotterdam Centraal9:40 PMKiel Hbf$461One-way4 transfers
- IC 2847 · IC 1749 · ICE 149 · ICE 1081:20 PM7h20Rotterdam Centraal8:40 PMKiel Hbf$671One-way4 transfers
- ICD 1849 · ICE 149 · ICE 108 · ICE 5061:11 PM7h29Rotterdam Centraal8:40 PMKiel Hbf$671One-way3 transfers
- IC 2863 · IC 1765 · ICE 243 · ICE 1045:20 PM7h32Rotterdam Centraal12:52 AMKiel Hbf$561One-way4 transfers
- IC 2839 · IC 1741 · ICE 147 · 1127611:20 AM7h32Rotterdam Centraal6:52 PMKiel Hbf$761One-way4 transfers
- IC 2831 · IC 1733 · ICE 145 · 112729:20 AM7h32Rotterdam Centraal4:52 PMKiel Hbf$761One-way4 transfers
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 $40 (€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 $40 (€33) |
Trains per day 5 |
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 |
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
Live departures
Rotterdam to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Kiel trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ICD 1833 · ICE 145+ 81624+11272 | 9:11 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h41 | 4:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2831 · IC 1733 · ICE 145+81624 | 9:20 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h32 | 4:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2833 · IC 1735 · 20369 · ICE 612 | 9:50 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h50 | 5:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| ICD 1841 · ICE 147+81628+11276 | 11:11 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h41 | 6:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2839 · IC 1741 · ICE 147+81628 | 11:20 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h32 | 6:52 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2841 · IC 1743 · 20373 · ICE 610 | 11:50 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h50 | 7:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| ICD 1849 · ICE 149 · ICE 108 · ICE 506 | On time 1:11 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h29 | 8:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2847 · IC 1749 · ICE 149 · ICE 108 | On time 1:20 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h20 | 8:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2849 · IC 1751 · 20377 · ICE 518 | 1:50 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h50 | 9:40 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| ICD 1857 · ICE 241+81936+11236 | 3:11 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 8h23 | 11:34 PM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2855 · IC 1757 · ICE 241+81936 | 3:20 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 8h14 | 11:34 PM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2857 · IC 1759 · 20381 · ICE 516 | 3:50 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 8h08 | 11:58 PM Kiel Hbf | 5 transfers | |
| IC 2857 · IC 1759 · 20381 · ICE 516 | 3:50 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 8h45 | 12:35 AM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| ICD 1865 · ICE 243 · ICE 104 · 11288 | 5:11 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h41 | 12:52 AM Kiel Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2863 · IC 1765 · ICE 243 · ICE 104 | 5:20 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h32 | 12:52 AM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2865 · IC 1767 · 20385 · ICE 514 | 5:50 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 8h16 | 2:06 AM Kiel Hbf | 4 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Rotterdam to Kiel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn operates all 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?
- 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.
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Rotterdam to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Rotterdam and Kiel from $40 (€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
$40 (€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.
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
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
Open Air Museum Molfsee
Open-air museum site near Kiel with historic rural buildings and cultural exhibitions. Worth visiting for regional architecture and traditions.
- 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.
- Must visit
Kiellinie
Kiel's central waterfront promenade. Ideal for harbor walks, ferry watching, events, and easy access to shops and maritime sights.
- Must visit
Holtenau Lock Viewing Platform
Canal-side viewing area in Holtenau for watching ships enter and leave the Kiel Canal. One of the city's best free maritime viewpoints.
- Recommended
Holstenstraße
Main pedestrian shopping street linking central Kiel highlights. A practical and lively place to explore the rebuilt city center.
- Gluten-free
Kieler Räucheraal
Smoked eel from the Baltic region, traditionally served simply to highlight local fishing heritage and the salty coastal flavor of Schleswig-Holstein.
- Gluten-free
Birnen, Bohnen und Speck
A hearty northern German stew of pears, beans, and bacon, loved in Schleswig-Holstein for its sweet-salty mix and late-summer harvest tradition.
- Gluten-free
Grünkohl mit Kohlwurst
Kale slow-cooked with sausage or pork, a classic winter dish across northern Germany and a staple of cold-season gatherings in Kiel.
Ahlmanns
Elegant Michelin-starred dining with modern regional cuisine, refined tasting menus, and polished service in a special-occasion setting.
Louf
Historic waterside restaurant known for northern German seafood and local classics in a traditional harbor atmosphere.
Restaurant Pier 16
Established harbor restaurant focused on fish and maritime specialties, with panoramic fjord views and a polished but relaxed feel.
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.
NAH.SH-App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.10
- Day pass
- €7.80
To the city center
Kiel Hbf -> Kiel City Center
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use The NAH.SH-App for journey planning and mobile tickets across Kiel buses and regional transport.
- Buses in Kiel generally accept cash; contactless card payment availability can vary, so buying tickets in the app is the safest option.
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 $40 (€33), while the average price is around $146 (€122).
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 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Rotterdam to Kiel.
Popular day trips by train from Kiel include Hamburg, Rødekro, Neumünster, Padborg, Flensburg.
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
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre
BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m
4 · 10m · $3
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.
Which Kiel station do trains from Rotterdam arrive at?
Trains from Rotterdam to Kiel arrive at Kiel Hbf. Kiel Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Kiel city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Rotterdam
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
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