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The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jun 03
Cheapest price
€55
Average price
€56
Fastest journey
2 h 57 m
Average duration
3 h 24 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 €56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €55.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Rotterdam to Essen without transferring at least 2 times.
IC 1129 · IC 28429 · IC 2729 · 200778:45 AM3h29Rotterdam Centraal12:14 PMEssen Hbf€551One-way4 transfers- IC 2027 · ICE 225 · ICE 10228:05 AM2h57Rotterdam Centraal11:02 AMEssen Hbf€561One-way2 transfers
- IC 3231+
20019+S38:33 AM4h02Rotterdam Centraal12:35 PMEssen Hbf€571One-way2 transfers - IC 2831 · IC 3231+20019+S39:20 AM3h15Rotterdam Centraal12:35 PMEssen Hbf€571One-way3 transfers
- IC 2827 · IC 3227+20017+S38:20 AM3h15Rotterdam Centraal11:35 AMEssen Hbf€571One-way3 transfers
- IC 2027 · ICE 225 · ICE 10228:05 AM2h57Rotterdam Centraal11:02 AMEssen Hbf€561One-way2 transfers
- IC 2831 · IC 3231+20019+S39:20 AM3h15Rotterdam Centraal12:35 PMEssen Hbf€571One-way3 transfers
- IC 2827 · IC 3227+20017+S38:20 AM3h15Rotterdam Centraal11:35 AMEssen Hbf€571One-way3 transfers
- IC 1129 · IC 28429 · IC 2729 · 200778:45 AM3h29Rotterdam Centraal12:14 PMEssen Hbf€551One-way4 transfers
- IC 3231+20019+S38:33 AM4h02Rotterdam Centraal12:35 PMEssen Hbf€571One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight 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 €13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 40m. 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 flight costs an average of €324.
Distance: 182 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€57 Average price | €19 Average price Cheapest | €555 Average price |
3h 10m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 23m Average total duration 3h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 44m Average total duration 6h 44m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | 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, Tuesday, June 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 2819 · IC 2921 · 20073 · 10123 | 6:20 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h54 | 10:14 AM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 1121 · IC 28421 · IC 2921 · 20073 | 6:45 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h29 | 10:14 AM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2821 · IC 3123+21231 · 20015 | 6:50 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h45 | 10:35 AM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2027 · ICE 225 · ICE 1022 | On time 8:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 2h57 | 11:02 AM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2827 · IC 3227+20017+S3 | 8:20 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h15 | 11:35 AM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 3231+20019+S3 | 8:33 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 4h02 | 12:35 PM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 1129 · IC 28429 · IC 2729 · 20077 | 8:45 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h29 | 12:14 PM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2831 · IC 3231+20019+S3 | 9:20 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h15 | 12:35 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Rotterdam to Essen by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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Jun 03
Jun 03
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Why should you book Rotterdam to Essen trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as VIAS Rail GmbH offer trains services from Rotterdam to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Rotterdam to Essen.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam to Essen.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam to Essen.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Rotterdam to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Essen
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Rotterdam to Essen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €31 but you can travel from only €13 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:08. The fastest train covers the 182 km distance in 2h 38m.
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 40m |
Cheapest ticket price €31 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 38m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:08 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 63 days |
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 from Rotterdam to Essen trainsDeutsche Bahn, VIAS Rail GmbH trains will get you between Rotterdam and Essen 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 38m
Cheapest Price
€31
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
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 €31 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Rotterdam to Essen 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 Rotterdam to Essen is 2h 38m 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 Rotterdam to Essen leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest train from Rotterdam to Essen leaves at 11:08 PM.
There are 6 trains a day from Rotterdam to Essen which require at least one change with Deutsche Bahn, 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, VIAS Rail GmbH for the best way to get you to Essen. You can also check all possible train companies who offer a service between Rotterdam and Essen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
A trip to Essen from Rotterdam is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 38m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Rotterdam to Essen is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Rotterdam and Essen including taking a bus, train, and flight.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Rotterdam to Essen
Rotterdam
Essen
The major train station for departures in Rotterdam is Rotterdam Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Rotterdam Centraal for your trip from Rotterdam to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information 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
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-Altenessen
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmDining
- Burger King
- Werner
- Bückmannsmühle
- Muckel-Eis
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
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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