ROTTERDAM to GRONINGEN train from $16 with NS International

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Groningen

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

$41

Average ticket price on Sep 08

$41

Fastest journey on Sep 08

2 h 37 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

2 h 42 m

Trains on Sep 08

Distance

202 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Rotterdam to Groningen will cost around $41 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 Groningen without transferring at least once.

SPR 5110 · IC 621 · SPR 6121
6:01 AM3h24
Rotterdam Blaak
9:25 AMGroningen Europapark
$411One-way
2 transfers
ICD 9719+IC 725
7:21 AM2h51
Rotterdam Centraal
10:12 AMGroningen station
$411One-way
1 transfer
IC 2021 · IC 621 · IC 721
6:35 AM2h37
Rotterdam Centraal
9:12 AMGroningen station
$411One-way
2 transfers
IC 2023 · IC 523
7:05 AM2h37
Rotterdam Centraal
9:42 AMGroningen station
$411One-way
1 transfer
SPR 5012 · IC 2021 · IC 621 · SPR 6121
6:21 AM3h04
Rotterdam Blaak
9:25 AMGroningen Europapark
$411One-way
3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Rotterdam to Groningen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Rotterdam to Groningen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $33 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 11m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $33, while a train costs an average of $41.

Distance: 125 miles (202 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Driving
$41 Average price	$33 Average price Cheapest	$58 Average price (fuel + tolls)
3h 11m Average total duration Fastest 2h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 28m Average total duration 3h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	2h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Your own car or car rental
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 Groningen is a bus with an average price of $33.

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

A bus is $8 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rotterdam to Groningen costing on average $41.

The fastest way to travel from Rotterdam to Groningen is by train with an average journey time of 2h 41m.

Other travel options to Groningen take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 58m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rotterdam and Groningen including taking a train and bus.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Rotterdam to Groningen among Omio's users.

Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 1m faster (2h 41m by train vs 2h 42m by car) and roughly $17 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($41 vs $58). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Intercity, Intercity.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Rotterdam to Groningen train times

The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Groningen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
SPR 4014 · IC 519	5:54 AM Rotterdam Centraal	2h48	8:42 AM Groningen station	1 transfer
SPR 5110 · IC 621 · SPR 6121	6:01 AM Rotterdam Blaak	3h24	9:25 AM Groningen Europapark	2 transfers
SPR 5110 · IC 621 · IC 721	6:01 AM Rotterdam Blaak	3h11	9:12 AM Groningen station	2 transfers
SPR 5110 · IC 621 · IC 721+ST 37628	6:01 AM Rotterdam Blaak	3h18	9:19 AM Groningen Europapark	3 transfers
IC 2310 · ICD 1821 · IC 721	6:05 AM Rotterdam Blaak	3h07	9:12 AM Groningen station	2 transfers
IC 2310 · ICD 1821 · IC 721+ST 37628	6:05 AM Rotterdam Blaak	3h14	9:19 AM Groningen Europapark	3 transfers
SPR 5012 · IC 2021 · IC 621 · SPR 6121	6:21 AM Rotterdam Blaak	3h04	9:25 AM Groningen Europapark	3 transfers
ICD 9715+IC 721	6:21 AM Rotterdam Centraal	2h51	9:12 AM Groningen station	1 transfer
SPR 5012 · IC 2021 · IC 621 · IC 721	6:21 AM Rotterdam Blaak	2h51	9:12 AM Groningen station	3 transfers
SPR 5012 · IC 2021 · IC 621 · IC 721	6:21 AM Rotterdam Blaak	2h58	9:19 AM Groningen Europapark	4 transfers
SPR 5112 · IC 523	6:31 AM Rotterdam Blaak	3h11	9:42 AM Groningen station	1 transfer
IC 2021 · IC 621 · IC 721	6:35 AM Rotterdam Centraal	2h37	9:12 AM Groningen station	2 transfers
IC 3525 · IC 725	6:45 AM Rotterdam Blaak	3h27	10:12 AM Groningen station	1 transfer
SPR 5014 · IC 2023 · IC 523	6:51 AM Rotterdam Blaak	2h51	9:42 AM Groningen station	2 transfers
IC 2023 · IC 523	7:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal	2h37	9:42 AM Groningen station	1 transfer
ICD 9719+IC 725	7:21 AM Rotterdam Centraal	2h51	10:12 AM Groningen station	1 transfer
IC 2025 · IC 625 · IC 725	7:35 AM Rotterdam Centraal	2h37	10:12 AM Groningen station	2 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Rotterdam to Groningen by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Tue
Sep 08

Wed
Sep 09

Thu
Sep 10

Fri
Sep 11

Sat
Sep 12

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Sep 13

Mon
Sep 14

Why should you book Rotterdam to Groningen trains with Omio?

NS International | IC Brussel as well as Intercity, NS Domestic, Intercity, Eurocity Direct and more offer trains services from Rotterdam to Groningen.

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, NS Domestic, Intercity or Eurocity Direct to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam to Groningen.
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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam to Groningen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Groningen

Netherlands

Trains from Rotterdam to Groningen run on average 20 times per day, taking around 2h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 but you can travel from only $4 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 2h 23m.

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 $4

Distance

125 miles (202 km)

Average train duration

2h 41m

Cheapest ticket price

$39

Trains per day

Fastest train

2h 23m

First train

12:04 AM

Last train

11:58 PM

Cheapest Month

Aug

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Mon

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

14 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $4

Train companies: NS Domestic, NS International | IC Brussel, Arriva NS, Intercity, Eurocity Direct, NS International from Rotterdam to Groningen trainsNS Domestic, NS International | IC Brussel, Arriva NS, Intercity, Eurocity Direct, NS International trains will get you between Rotterdam and Groningen from $4. 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 NS International | IC Brussel Duration

2h 23m

Cheapest NS International | IC Brussel Price

$39

NS International | IC Brussel frequency

12 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

Average Intercity Duration

2h 23m

Cheapest Intercity Price

$39

Intercity frequency

4 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

NS International

About

NS International, formerly NS Hispeed, is a train service which is a subsidiary of Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from the Netherlands that operates intercity and high-speed connections internationally to many European cities. These Dutch trains have onboard facilities including free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a variety of food and drinks. NS International offers a variety of train types, including Intercity Direct, Intercity, Sprinter, and Stoptrein. Intercity Direct is the fastest train, reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h. Intercity is a bit slower, reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h. Sprinter is the slowest, reaching speeds of up to 120 km/h. Stoptrein is the local train, stopping at all stations.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average NS International Duration

3h 2m

Cheapest NS International Price

$41

NS International frequency

2 a day

Luggage included

1 piece of hand luggage and 1 piece of hold luggage

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the ends of carriages

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions

Refund

Full refund provided for canceled trains

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Bistro service available with snacks and drinks

Seat reservation

Seat reservation is optional and costs extra. First class includes seat reservation

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces available, assistance service must be booked 1 hour in advance

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require a pet ticket

Quiet zone

Learn more about NS International

NS Domestic

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average NS Domestic Duration

2h 23m

Cheapest NS Domestic Price

$41

NS Domestic frequency

18 a day

Arriva NS

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Arriva NS Duration

3h 19m

Cheapest Arriva NS Price

$41

Arriva NS frequency

3 a day

Eurocity Direct

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Eurocity Direct Duration

2h 35m

Cheapest Eurocity Direct Price

$42

Eurocity Direct frequency

2 a day

Complete guide to Groningen

Things to do in Groningen

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

Must visit

Groninger Museum

Leading museum in a bold postmodern building, known for modern art, design, and changing exhibitions beside the station.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Universiteitsmuseum Groningen

University museum with interactive science and medical exhibits, ideal for learning about research and discovery in Groningen.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Noorderlicht

Photography gallery presenting contemporary visual culture, documentary work, and thought-provoking exhibitions in the city center.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for the Netherlands: hotels and dining are mid-priced, public transport is manageable, and student-focused spots help keep daily costs reasonable.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range: €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: €60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: €2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up. Small tips in cafes are optional.

FAQs: Trains from Rotterdam to Groningen

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

Train ticket prices from Rotterdam to Groningen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39, while the average price is around $41.

The train from Rotterdam to Groningen takes 2h 23m and runs 20 per day.

The distance by train from Rotterdam to Groningen is 125 miles (202 km).

The first train from Rotterdam to Groningen leaves at 12:04 AM.

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

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

Yes, there is a direct train from Rotterdam to Groningen. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Intercity, Intercity.

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

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

The cheapest way to get from Rotterdam to Groningen is by bus, with a cost of around $4.

The train journey from Rotterdam to Groningen offers a mix of urban and rural views, with highlights including the flat landscapes, windmills, and waterways typical of the Dutch countryside.

A day trip from Rotterdam to Groningen is not feasible as the one-way travel duration is 2h 23m. However, the frequency is 139 trips per day for trains, covering a distance of 125 miles (202 km).

In Groningen, you can visit Vismarkt for fresh produce and local specialties, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, and learn about nautical history at the Northern Maritime Museum. Enjoy a bike tour through the scenic countryside, attend a performance at the historic Stadsschouwburg, or take in panoramic city views from Martinitoren. Discover modern art at the Groninger Museum, enjoy leisurely walks in Noorderplantsoen, relax in the Renaissance-style Prinsentuin, or visit Forum Groningen for cultural experiences including a library and cinema.

Two to three days in Groningen are typically sufficient to explore its main attractions, enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, and experience the local lifestyle.

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

Since both Rotterdam and Groningen 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 Groningen include Leer, Oldenburg, Zwolle, Emden, Arnhem.

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

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 Groningen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Bicycle theft is common, so securing bikes with strong locks is essential. Be aware of occasional scams involving fake charity collectors or overcharging in taxis. Always use official taxi services and avoid sharing personal information with strangers.

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 Groningen

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

Which Rotterdam station do trains to Groningen leave from?

Trains from Rotterdam to Groningen 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.