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The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to Rotterdam
Showing times and prices for Mar 21
Cheapest price
€69
Average price
€97
Fastest journey
3 h 21 m
Average duration
3 h 50 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
182 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Essen to Rotterdam is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Essen to Rotterdam will cost around €97 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €69.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Essen to Rotterdam without transferring at least 2 times.
10114 · 20068 · IC 3536 · IC 113608:46AM3h28
Essen Hbf12:14PMRotterdam Centraal
€691One-way
3 transfers
10114 · 20068 · IC 3536 · IC 362908:46AM3h21
Essen Hbf12:07PMRotterdam Centraal
€691One-way
4 transfers
10319 · ICE 1250 · IC 3629 · ICD 184508:16AM3h51
Essen Hbf12:07PMRotterdam Centraal
€791One-way
3 transfers
10319 · ICE 1250 · IC 283408:16AM3h54
Essen Hbf12:10PMRotterdam Centraal
€791One-way
2 transfers
ICE 646 · ICE 316 · ECD 954308:40AM4h37
Essen Hbf01:17PMRotterdam Centraal
€1891One-way
2 transfers
10114 · 20068 · IC 3536 · IC 362908:46AM3h21
Essen Hbf12:07PMRotterdam Centraal
€691One-way
4 transfers
10114 · 20068 · IC 3536 · IC 113608:46AM3h28
Essen Hbf12:14PMRotterdam Centraal
€691One-way
3 transfers
10319 · ICE 1250 · IC 3629 · ICD 184508:16AM3h51
Essen Hbf12:07PMRotterdam Centraal
€791One-way
3 transfers
10319 · ICE 1250 · IC 283408:16AM3h54
Essen Hbf12:10PMRotterdam Centraal
€791One-way
2 transfers
ICE 646 · ICE 316 · ECD 954308:40AM4h37
Essen Hbf01:17PMRotterdam Centraal
€1891One-way
2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Essen to Rotterdam
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Essen to Rotterdam among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 50m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €13, and a train costs an average of €40.
Distance: 182 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€57 Average price | €19 Average price Cheapest |
3h 20m Average total duration Fastest 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 6m Average total duration 3h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Essen to Rotterdam train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Rotterdam trains for tomorrow, Friday, March 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 5:23 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10319 · ICE 1250 · IC 3629 · ICD 1845 | 7:16 AM Essen Hbf | 3h51 | 11:07 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3 transfers | |
| 10319 · ICE 1250 · IC 2834 | 7:16 AM Essen Hbf | 3h54 | 11:10 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 646 · ICE 316 · ECD 9543 | On time 7:40 AM Essen Hbf | 4h37 | 12:17 PM Rotterdam Centraal | 2 transfers | |
| 10114 · 20068 · IC 3536 · IC 1136 | 7:46 AM Essen Hbf | 3h28 | 11:14 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3 transfers | |
| 10114 · 20068 · IC 3536 · IC 3629 | 7:46 AM Essen Hbf | 3h21 | 11:07 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 4 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen to Rotterdam 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.
Sat
Mar 21
Mar 21
Sun
Mar 22
Mar 22
Mon
Mar 23
Mar 23
Tue
Mar 24
Mar 24
Wed
Mar 25
Mar 25
Thu
Mar 26
Mar 26
Fri
Mar 27
Mar 27
Why should you book Essen to Rotterdam trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH or Österreichische Bundesbahnen offer trains services from Essen to Rotterdam.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Rotterdam.
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 VIAS Rail GmbH or Österreichische Bundesbahnen to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Rotterdam.
- 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Rotterdam.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of VIAS Rail GmbH or Österreichische Bundesbahnen to find the best option for your trip from Essen to Rotterdam.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Essen to Rotterdam.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Rotterdam
Germany
Netherlands
Trains from Essen to Rotterdam run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €40 but you can travel from only €13 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 182 km distance in 2h 37m.
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 €13
Distance 182 km |
Average train duration 2h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price €40 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 37m |
First train 00:07 |
Last train 23:08 |
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 €13
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Österreichische Bundesbahnen from Essen to Rotterdam trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Österreichische Bundesbahnen trains will get you between Essen and Rotterdam from €13. 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
2h 37m
Cheapest Price
€40
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
VIAS Rail GmbH
About
VIAS Rail GmbH is a German rail service company based in Frankfurt, operating passenger rail services in the states of Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia. The name \VIAS\" is derived from the Latin word \"via\" (way) and \"S\" for service. VIAS Rail GmbH operates numerous regional train lines, including services on the Odenwald Railway network and lines in the Rhein-Main Gebiet. They utilize various train types, such as Bombardier Itino and Stadler FLIRT vehicles. The company is a subsidiary of the RATH Group."
Luggage & cancellation policy
VIAS Rail GmbH frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack and beverage service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Österreichische Bundesbahnen
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 58m
Österreichische Bundesbahnen frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Rotterdam
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Essen to Rotterdam can start from as little as €40 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Essen to Rotterdam is €57; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Essen to Rotterdam is 2h 37m to travel the 182 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest train from Essen to Rotterdam leaves at 12:07 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest train from Essen to Rotterdam leaves at 11:08 PM.
There are 7 trains a day from Essen to Rotterdam which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Österreichische Bundesbahnen. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
When taking a train from Essen to Rotterdam, you can count on Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH, Österreichische Bundesbahnen for the best way to get you to Rotterdam. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Essen and Rotterdam and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Rotterdam from Essen is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 37m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Essen to Rotterdam is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Essen and Rotterdam including taking a train and bus.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Essen to Rotterdam
Essen
Rotterdam
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Rotterdam.
Essen Hbf
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Essen West
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Lindos
- Zur Platte
- Arman Döner
Hotel
- McDreams
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
The major train station for arrivals in Rotterdam is Rotterdam Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rotterdam Centraal for your journey to Rotterdam from Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation 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 Zuid
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
2 kmNumber of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available 24/7 with access from Annie M.G. Schmidtplein.
Dining
- Restaurant De Hef
- Restaurant Fenix Food Factory
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Zuid
- Art Hotel Rotterdam
- Hotel New York
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 604 places, covered
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-2 for local and regional trains
- Hall 2: metro connections
Public transit options for Rotterdam Zuid
- Metro: Line D
- Bus: Lines 66, 77
Most popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Rotterdam
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Rotterdam and Essen
Most popular train connections to Rotterdam
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