What is the cheapest way to get from Rotterdam to Leiden?

The cheapest way to get from Rotterdam to Leiden is by train, with a cost of around $12.

ROTTERDAM to LEIDEN train from $12 with NS International

2,000+ travel companies

Scan to get our free app

Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.

App Store

4.9

42K ratings

Google Play

4.6

136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Leiden

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$12

Average price

$12

Fastest journey

33 m

Average duration

33 m

Trains per day

Distance

26 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Rotterdam to Leiden will cost around $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $12.

Fast trains

Of the 41 trains that leave Rotterdam for Leiden on Wed, Aug 05, 24 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 26 km distance in an average of 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 33 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 33 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.

IC 2382
12:11 AM0h34
Rotterdam Centraal
12:45 AMLeiden Centraal
$121One-way
0 transfers
IC 1406
1:04 AM0h40
Rotterdam Centraal
1:44 AMLeiden Centraal
$121One-way
0 transfers
IC 1410
2:02 AM0h34
Rotterdam Centraal
2:36 AMLeiden Centraal
$121One-way
0 transfers
IC 1414
3:02 AM0h34
Rotterdam Centraal
3:36 AMLeiden Centraal
$121One-way
0 transfers
IC 3521
5:52 AM0h33
Rotterdam Centraal
6:25 AMLeiden Centraal
$121One-way
0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Leiden

Netherlands

Trains from Rotterdam to Leiden run on average 93 times per day, taking around 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 if you book in advance.

There are 25 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 16 miles (26 km) distance in 29m.

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

16 miles (26 km)

Average train duration

38m

Cheapest ticket price

$12

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

29m

First train

12:01 AM

Last train

11:58 PM

Cheapest Month

Jun

Cheapest Day

Sun

High Season

Apr - Jun

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Thu

Least Busy Day

Wed

Best time to book

14 days

Price information

Live departures

Rotterdam to Leiden train times

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

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
IC 2382	12:05 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h40	12:45 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 2382	12:11 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h34	12:45 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 2284 · IC 1406	12:35 AM Rotterdam Blaak	1h09	1:44 AM Leiden Centraal	1 transfer
SPR 5186 · IC 1410	1:01 AM Rotterdam Blaak	1h35	2:36 AM Leiden Centraal	1 transfer
IC 1406	1:04 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h40	1:44 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 1410	2:02 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h34	2:36 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 1414	3:02 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h34	3:36 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 1418	4:02 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h34	4:36 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
SPR 5106 · IC 2306 · SPR 8819	5:01 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h57	5:58 AM Leiden Lammenschans	2 transfers
SPR 5106 · IC 2306	5:01 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h44	5:45 AM Leiden Centraal	1 transfer
IC 2306	5:11 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h34	5:45 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
SPR 5108 · IC 2208 · SPR 8821	5:31 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h57	6:28 AM Leiden Lammenschans	2 transfers
SPR 5108 · IC 2208	5:31 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h44	6:15 AM Leiden Centraal	1 transfer
IC 2208	5:41 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h34	6:15 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 3521	5:52 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h33	6:25 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 2310	6:05 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h40	6:45 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 2310 · SPR 8823	6:05 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h53	6:58 AM Leiden Lammenschans	1 transfer
IC 2310	6:11 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h34	6:45 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
SPR 5012 · IC 3125	6:21 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h51	7:12 AM Leiden Centraal	1 transfer
IC 3523	6:22 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h33	6:55 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
SPR 5012 · IC 3125	6:25 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h47	7:12 AM Leiden Centraal	1 transfer
IC 2212	6:35 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h40	7:15 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 2212 · SPR 8825	6:35 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h53	7:28 AM Leiden Lammenschans	1 transfer
IC 2212	6:41 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h34	7:15 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 3525	6:45 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h40	7:25 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
SPR 5014 · IC 3225	6:51 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h45	7:36 AM Leiden Centraal	1 transfer
IC 2314	7:05 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h40	7:45 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 2314 · SPR 8827	7:05 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h53	7:58 AM Leiden Lammenschans	1 transfer
IC 2216 · SPR 8829	7:35 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h53	8:28 AM Leiden Lammenschans	1 transfer
SPR 5018 · IC 3229	7:51 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h45	8:36 AM Leiden Centraal	1 transfer
IC 3529	7:52 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h33	8:25 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 3229	8:03 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h33	8:36 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 2318 · SPR 8831	8:05 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h53	8:58 AM Leiden Lammenschans	1 transfer
IC 2318	8:05 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h40	8:45 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 2318	8:11 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h34	8:45 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 3531	8:15 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h40	8:55 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
SPR 5020 · IC 3231	8:21 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h45	9:06 AM Leiden Centraal	1 transfer
IC 3531	8:22 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h33	8:55 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 3231	8:33 AM Rotterdam Centraal	0h33	9:06 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
IC 2220 · SPR 8833	8:35 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h53	9:28 AM Leiden Lammenschans	1 transfer
IC 2220	8:35 AM Rotterdam Blaak	0h40	9:15 AM Leiden Centraal	0 transfersDirect
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Rotterdam to Leiden trains with Omio?

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

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

Train companies: NS International | IC Brussel, Intercity, Deutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Rotterdam to Leiden trainsNS International | IC Brussel, Intercity, Deutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Rotterdam and Leiden from $12. 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 Duration

29m

Cheapest Price

$12

NS International | IC Brussel frequency

3 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

Intercity frequency

9 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

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

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

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

33m

Cheapest Price

$17

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency

50 a day

Complete guide to Leiden

Things to do in Leiden

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

Must visit

Rijksmuseum van Oudheden

National museum of antiquities with acclaimed collections from Ancient Egypt, Rome, and the Netherlands' archaeological past.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Naturalis Biodiversity Center

Major natural history museum famous for dinosaurs, biodiversity displays, and interactive galleries suitable for all ages.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Rijksmuseum Boerhaave

Museum about human body science in Leiden's academic tradition, featuring anatomy, medicine, and curious medical objects.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for the Netherlands. Hotels and restaurants are not cheap, but transit is manageable and budget eats are easy to find.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-15 for fast food or lunch specials.
Mid-range: €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: €60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: €3-4.50 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

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

FAQs: Trains from Rotterdam to Leiden

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

Train ticket prices from Rotterdam to Leiden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12, while the average price is around $13.

The train from Rotterdam to Leiden takes 29m and runs 93 per day.

The first train from Rotterdam to Leiden leaves at 12:01 AM.

The distance by train from Rotterdam to Leiden is 16 miles (26 km).

The last train from Rotterdam to Leiden leaves at 11:58 PM.

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

Yes, there is a direct train from Rotterdam to Leiden. This service operates 25 times per day, provided by NS International | IC Brussel, Intercity, Intercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).

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

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

The train journey from Rotterdam to Leiden offers a scenic experience, with views of the Dutch countryside, canals, and traditional windmills along the way.

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

Popular day trips by train from Leiden include Amsterdam, Antwerp, The Hague, Eindhoven, Utrecht.

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 Leiden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, train stations, and popular tourist spots. Bicycle theft is also common, so securing bikes properly is important. Scams involving overpriced taxis or unofficial transport services can occur; travelers are advised to use licensed providers. Overall, staying alert and safeguarding belongings helps ensure a safe visit.

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 Leiden

Most Rotterdam to Leiden trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Leiden Centraal station pair, with some services arriving at Leiden Lammenschans. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Leiden 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 Leiden

Which Rotterdam station do trains to Leiden leave from?

Trains from Rotterdam to Leiden 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.