- Must visit
Holstentor Museum
Museum inside Lübeck's famous gate, presenting the city's Hanseatic history and fortifications. Essential for context before exploring the old town.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Lübeck
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€111
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€111
Fastest journey on Sep 20
7 h 4 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
7 h 4 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
469 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rotterdam to Lübeck is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rotterdam to Lübeck will cost around €111 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €111.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Rotterdam to Lübeck, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 469 km distance in an average of 7 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 4 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 7 h 4 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.
8:20 AM7h04Rotterdam3:24 PMLübeck€1111One-way0 transfers
- 8:20 AM7h04Rotterdam3:24 PMLübeck€1111One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Rotterdam to Lübeck
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Rotterdam to Lübeck among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €74 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 29m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €74, while a flight costs an average of €530.
Distance: 291 miles (469 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€118 Average price | €74 Average price Cheapest | €530 Average price | €101 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 47m Average total duration 6h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 7m Average total duration 9h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 29m Average total duration Fastest 2h 29m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 5h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Rotterdam to Lübeck is a bus with an average price of €74.
This is compared to other travel options from Rotterdam to Lübeck:
A bus is €44 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rotterdam to Lübeck costing on average €118.
A bus is €456 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rotterdam to Lübeck costing on average €530.
The fastest way to travel from Rotterdam to Lübeck is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 29m.
Other travel options to Lübeck take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 17m.
Bus takes on average 9h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Rotterdam and Lübeck including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Rotterdam to Lübeck 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 €118 compared to roughly €101 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-16.94. The journey takes 6h 17m versus 5h 44m 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 Lübeck train times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Lübeck trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICD 1821 · IC 1723 · 20363 · ICE 1036 | 6:11 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h41 | 1:52 PM Lübeck Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2819 · IC 621 · IC 1723 · 20363 | 6:20 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h32 | 1:52 PM Lübeck Hbf | 5 transfers | |
| RE 4016 · IC 621 · IC 3021 · IC 3614 | 6:24 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h28 | 1:52 PM Lübeck Hbf | 7 transfers | |
| ICD 1823 · ICE 143 · ICE 204 · 11468 | 6:41 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h43 | 2:24 PM Lübeck Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2821 · IC 523 · ICE 143 · ICE 204 | 6:50 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h34 | 2:24 PM Lübeck Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| RE 4018 · IC 523 · RE 4922 · ICE 143 | 6:54 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 7h30 | 2:24 PM Lübeck Hbf | 5 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Rotterdam to Lübeck 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.
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Sep 20
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Why should you book Rotterdam to Lübeck trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Rotterdam to Lübeck.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam to Lübeck.
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 Lübeck.
- 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam to Lübeck.
Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Rotterdam to Lübeck.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Lübeck
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Rotterdam to Lübeck run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €85 but you can travel from only €45 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:09, the last at 22:37. The fastest train covers the 291 miles (469 km) distance in 5h 42m.
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
Distance 291 miles (469 km) |
Average train duration 6h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price €85 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 5h 42m |
First train 12:09 AM |
Last train 10:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Rotterdam to Lübeck trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Rotterdam and Lübeck from €45. 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
5h 42m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
€85
Deutsche Bahn frequency
5 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 Lübeck
Things to do in Lübeck
Discover the best of Lübeck — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Lübeck trip today.
- Must visit
European Hansemuseum
Outstanding museum on Hanseatic trade and Lübeck's global medieval role, housed in a former monastery. Rich exhibits make it a top cultural stop.
- Recommended
Buddenbrookhaus
Celebrates Nobel Prize winner Thomas Mann and his literary family in a historic townhouse. Excellent for literature, politics, and local culture.
- Must visit
Lübeck Old Town
UNESCO-listed island old town with lanes, courtyards, churches, and merchant houses. The essential area for walking and experiencing Lübeck's character.
- Recommended
Königstraße
Historic main street lined with gabled houses, shops, and key sights. Ideal for an introductory stroll through the heart of the city.
- Recommended
Markt
Elegant square in front of the town hall and St. Mary's Church. A central meeting point with impressive Gothic architecture all around.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Lübecker Marzipan
Sweet almond marzipan from Lübeck, protected by PGI status and famed for its high almond content. The city's best-known traditional specialty.
- Vegetarian
Marzipantorte
Marzipan-coated pastry or cake, common in Lübeck cafés and bakeries. It reflects the city's long confectionery tradition.
- Gluten-free
Brathering
Pan-fried Baltic herring, often served with potatoes or onion sauce. A classic North German fish dish tied to Lübeck's Hanseatic port history.
Wullenwever
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for modern tasting menus and polished service in Lübeck's old town.
Schiffergesellschaft
Historic tavern serving North German classics and local fish in a traditional Hanseatic setting near the old town center.
Café Niederegger
Historic café and confectionery famous for Lübeck marzipan, cakes, and coffee. A classic stop for the city's signature sweet.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, public transit is reasonable, and old-town tourist areas cost a bit more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €2.50-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or tip about 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change in cafes.
MOIA Lübeck mobil
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €3.40
- Day pass
- €7.90
To the city center
Lübeck Hbf -> Holstentorplatz, Lübeck
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Buy tickets in the NAH.SH or Stadtverkehr Lübeck app before boarding if possible. Bus drivers may have limited change.
- Contactless card payment is available on many buses, but carry a backup payment method in case a terminal is unavailable.
FAQs: Trains from Rotterdam to Lübeck
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam to Lübeck 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 Lübeck, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Rotterdam to Lübeck can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €85, while the average price is around €118.
The train from Rotterdam to Lübeck takes 5h 42m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Rotterdam to Lübeck is 291 miles (469 km).
The first train from Rotterdam to Lübeck leaves at 12:09 AM.
The last train from Rotterdam to Lübeck leaves at 10:37 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Rotterdam to Lübeck.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Rotterdam to Lübeck.
The train station in Rotterdam that goes to Lübeck is Rotterdam Centraal, which connects to Lübeck Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Rotterdam to Lübeck is by bus, with a cost of around €45.
The train journey from Rotterdam to Lübeck offers scenic views, including picturesque Dutch landscapes, the lush German countryside, and charming small towns, making it a pleasant and visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Rotterdam to Lübeck is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 42m and the distance is 291 miles (469 km). Trains operate 6 times per day.
In Lübeck, you can explore the iconic Holstentor Museum to learn about the city's medieval history, visit the stunning St. Mary's Church with its astronomical clock, and wander through the charming streets of Lübeck's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover the history of the Hanseatic League at the European Hansemuseum and indulge in the famous marzipan at the Niederegger Marzipan Museum. Don't miss the Lübeck Cathedral and the Buddenbrookhaus, a museum dedicated to Thomas Mann's novel "Buddenbrooks".
To fully enjoy Lübeck's medieval architecture, historical sites, and cultural experiences, 2 to 3 days are recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Rotterdam to Lübeck.
Since both Rotterdam and Lübeck 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 Lübeck include Hamburg, Wismar, Bremen, Schwerin, Lüneburg.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Rotterdam to Lübeck 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 Lübeck, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the old town and near train stations. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares can occur, so it is advisable to use official taxi services or ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of common safety practices such as securing personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
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 Lübeck
Most Rotterdam to Lübeck trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Lübeck Hbf station pair. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Lübeck 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 Lübeck
Which Rotterdam station do trains to Lübeck leave from?
Trains from Rotterdam to Lübeck 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 · €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.
Which Lübeck station do trains from Rotterdam arrive at?
Trains from Rotterdam to Lübeck arrive at Lübeck Hbf. Lübeck Hbf is 0 miles (1 km) from Lübeck city centre.
Lübeck HbfLübeck Hbf, Am Bahnhof 6, 23558 Lübeck
City-centre transport
Getting to Lübeck Hbf from Lübeck city centre
Lübeck Hbf is 1 km from Lübeck city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus50, 34, 26, 40, 31, 30, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 21, 2, 16, 12, 11, 10, 1 · 5m · €2 · every ~77 min
Lübeck Hbf train station facilities and services
Lübeck 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: MyWaffel, McDonald's, Cafe Maret, Café Brazil
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Lübeck Hbf. ATMs are available at Lübeck Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lübeck Hbf. Information desks are available at Lübeck Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Lübeck Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lübeck Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lübeck Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lübeck Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include LIHO, Mercure, Hotel Stadt Lübeck, Hotel an der Marienkirche.
Most popular train connections from Rotterdam
More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Lübeck
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Lübeck and Rotterdam
Most popular train connections to Lübeck
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