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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Essen
Showing times and prices for Dec 04
Cheapest price
€56
Average price
€60
Fastest journey
2 h 53 m
Average duration
2 h 58 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
182 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rotterdam to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rotterdam to Essen will cost around €60 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €56.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Rotterdam to Essen without transferring at least 2 times.
IC 2027 · ICE 225 · ICE 102208:05AM2h53
Rotterdam Centraal10:58AMEssen Hbf
€561One-way
2 transfers
IC 1127 · IC 3525 · RE 20075 · RE 1012708:14AM3h02
Rotterdam Centraal11:16AMEssen Hbf
€591One-way
3 transfers
IC 1135 · IC 3533 · RE 20079 · RE 1013510:14AM3h02
Rotterdam Centraal01:16PMEssen Hbf
€591One-way
3 transfers
IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 22613 · RE 1013109:14AM3h02
Rotterdam Centraal12:16PMEssen Hbf
€591One-way
3 transfers
IC 2035 · ICE 123 · ICE 102010:05AM2h53
Rotterdam Centraal12:58PMEssen Hbf
€671One-way
2 transfers
IC 2027 · ICE 225 · ICE 102208:05AM2h53
Rotterdam Centraal10:58AMEssen Hbf
€561One-way
2 transfers
IC 2035 · ICE 123 · ICE 102010:05AM2h53
Rotterdam Centraal12:58PMEssen Hbf
€671One-way
2 transfers
IC 1127 · IC 3525 · RE 20075 · RE 1012708:14AM3h02
Rotterdam Centraal11:16AMEssen Hbf
€591One-way
3 transfers
IC 1135 · IC 3533 · RE 20079 · RE 1013510:14AM3h02
Rotterdam Centraal01:16PMEssen Hbf
€591One-way
3 transfers
IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 22613 · RE 1013109:14AM3h02
Rotterdam Centraal12:16PMEssen Hbf
€591One-way
3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Rotterdam to Essen
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Rotterdam to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 44m. 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 €12, and a train costs an average of €20.
Distance: 182 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€54 Average price | €18 Average price Cheapest |
3h 14m Average total duration Fastest 2h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration 3h 48m 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
Rotterdam to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Essen trains for today, Wednesday, December 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 1:19 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 2027 · ICE 225 · ICE 1022 | On time 7:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 2h53 | 9:58 AM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 1127 · IC 3525 · RE 20075 · RE 10127 | On time 7:14 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h02 | 10:16 AM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 22613 · RE 10131 | On time 8:14 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h02 | 11:16 AM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2035 · ICE 123 · ICE 1020 | On time 9:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 2h53 | 11:58 AM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 1135 · IC 3533 · RE 20079 · RE 10135 | On time 9:14 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h02 | 12:16 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Rotterdam to Essen by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Thu
Dec 04
Dec 04
Fri
Dec 05
Dec 05
Sat
Dec 06
Dec 06
Sun
Dec 07
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Dec 10
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Essen
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Rotterdam to Essen run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €20 but you can travel from only €12 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 182 km distance in 2h 53m.
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 €12
Distance 182 km |
Average train duration 2h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price €20 |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 2h 53m |
First train 00:01 |
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 €12
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH from Rotterdam to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Rotterdam and Essen from €12. 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 53m
Cheapest Price
€20
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
4 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
FAQs: Trains from Rotterdam to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam to Essen 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 Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Rotterdam to Essen can start from as little as €20 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Rotterdam to Essen is €48; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Rotterdam to Essen train time is 2 h 30 min covering the 182 km long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Rotterdam to Essen leaves at 06: 20. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last train from Rotterdam to Essen leaves at 20: 44.
There are 15 trains a day from Rotterdam to Essen which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn or VIAS Rail GmbH. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
When taking a train from Rotterdam to Essen, you can count on Deutsche Bahn or VIAS Rail GmbH for the best way to get you to Essen. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service to Essen from Rotterdam and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 20: 44.
A trip to Essen from Rotterdam is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2 h 30 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Rotterdam to Essen by train is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Rotterdam and Essen including taking a coach or train.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Rotterdam to Essen
Rotterdam
Essen
The major train station for departures in Rotterdam is Rotterdam Alexander. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rotterdam Alexander for your trip from Rotterdam to Essen.
Rotterdam Alexander
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Saturday - Sunday
Distance to city center
6 km
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- Parking is available with free parking options nearby.
Dining
- Restaurant Alexander
- Brasserie Waalhaven
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Alexander
- NH Capelle
- Campanile Rotterdam Oost
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 300 places, covered
Car Rental
- SIXT
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for trains to Utrecht and Rotterdam Central
- Hall 2: metro connections
Public transit options for Rotterdam Alexander
- Metro: Line A, Line B
- Bus: Several lines available
Rotterdam Blaak
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
4Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Departures can be made outside of opening hours. You can access the car park at Blaak 1.
Dining
- Restaurant Fitzgerald
- Markthal Rotterdam
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Motto by Hilton Rotterdam Blaak
- citizenM Rotterdam
- Ibis Rotterdam City Centre
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 120 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for trains and metro services
- Hall 2: access to tram and bus connections
Public transit options for Rotterdam Blaak
- Metro: Line A, Line B, Line C
- Tram: Line 21, Line 24
- Bus: Several lines available
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
The major train station for arrivals in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your journey to Essen from 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 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
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
Most popular train connections from Rotterdam
More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and Rotterdam
Most popular train connections to Essen
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