4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest trains from Rotterdam to Essen
Cheapest price on Oct 16
€44
Average ticket price on Oct 16
€58
Fastest journey on Oct 16
3 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Oct 16
3 h 36 m
Trains on Oct 16
14
Distance
182 km
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 €58 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €44.
It's difficult to get from Rotterdam to Essen without transferring at least 4 times.
IC 2817 · ICE 121 · S65:50 AM4h02Rotterdam Centraal9:52 AMEssen Hbf€441One-way2 transfers- RE 4014 · IC 519 · ICE 121 · S65:54 AM3h58Rotterdam Centraal9:52 AMEssen Hbf€441One-way3 transfers
- IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 528718:15 AM3h35Rotterdam Centraal11:50 AMEssen Hbf€551One-way5 transfers
- IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 528718:15 AM3h37Rotterdam Centraal11:52 AMEssen€551One-way4 transfers
- IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 528739:15 AM3h35Rotterdam Centraal12:50 PMEssen Hbf€551One-way5 transfers
- IC 2819 · IC 3121 · Bus RE19 · 220316:20 AM3h30Rotterdam Centraal9:50 AMEssen Hbf€571One-way4 transfers
- IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 528718:15 AM3h35Rotterdam Centraal11:50 AMEssen Hbf€551One-way5 transfers
- IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 528739:15 AM3h35Rotterdam Centraal12:50 PMEssen Hbf€551One-way5 transfers
- IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 528718:15 AM3h37Rotterdam Centraal11:52 AMEssen€551One-way4 transfers
- IC 2027 · ICE 225 · Bus RE19 · 220358:05 AM3h45Rotterdam Centraal11:50 AMEssen Hbf€571One-way4 transfers
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 48m. 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 16m.
Distance 182 km |
Average train duration 2h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price €20 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 16m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 2 days |
Live departures
Rotterdam to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Essen trains for tomorrow, Friday, October 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IC 1414 · IC 3015 · Bus RE19 · 22029 | 3:02 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 5h48 | 8:50 AM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
IC 1414 · IC 3015 · 30296+ 20011 | 3:02 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 6h08 | 9:10 AM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2817 · ICE 121 · S6 | 5:50 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 4h02 | 9:52 AM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| RE 4014 · IC 519 · ICE 121 · S6 | 5:54 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h58 | 9:52 AM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2819 · IC 3121 · Bus RE19 · 22031 | 6:20 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h30 | 9:50 AM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2819 · IC 3121 · 30298+20013 | 6:20 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h50 | 10:10 AM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 2027 · ICE 225 · S6 | 8:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h47 | 11:52 AM Essen Hbf | 2 transfers | |
| IC 2027 · ICE 225 · Bus RE19 · 22035 | 8:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h45 | 11:50 AM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · S9 | 8:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h55 | 12:10 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 52871 | 8:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h35 | 11:50 AM Essen Hbf | 5 transfers | |
| IC 1127 · IC 3525 · 20075 · 52871 | 8:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h37 | 11:52 AM Essen | 4 transfers | |
| IC 2031 · IC 3031 · Bus RE19 · 22037 | 9:05 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h45 | 12:50 PM Essen Hbf | 4 transfers | |
| IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · S9 | 9:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h55 | 1:10 PM Essen Hbf | 3 transfers | |
| IC 1131 · IC 3529 · 20077 · 52873 | 9:15 AM Rotterdam Centraal | 3h35 | 12:50 PM Essen Hbf | 5 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Rotterdam to Essen trains with Omio?
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
VIAS Rail GmbH
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Rotterdam to Essen
Most Rotterdam to Essen trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Essen Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Essen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Which Rotterdam station do trains to Essen leave from?
Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre
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.
Getting to Rotterdam Noord from Rotterdam city centre
Rotterdam Noord is 2 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Rotterdam Noord train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Noord has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Rotterdam Noord.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam Noord.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Noord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Noord: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Noord: Ramps.
Getting to Rotterdam Alexander from Rotterdam city centre
Rotterdam Alexander is 6 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
Rotterdam Alexander train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Alexander 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.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Alexander, Brasserie Waalhaven
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam Alexander. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Rotterdam Alexander. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Alexander: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Alexander: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Alexander: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Bastion Hotel Rotterdam Alexander, NH Capelle, Campanile Rotterdam Oost.
Which Essen station do trains from Rotterdam arrive at?
Getting to Essen Hbf from Essen city centre
Essen Hbf train station facilities and services
Essen 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: Bollywood Express - Pizza & More, Kiepenkerl, Cafe Extrablatt, Tacos
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen Hbf. ATMs are available at Essen Hbf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen Hbf. Information desks are available at Essen Hbf.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen Hbf. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen Hbf.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ambassador, Gästearpartment Dahl, WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus, Motel One.
Getting to Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus from Essen city centre
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus train station facilities and services
Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus. ATMs are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen, Kruppstraße / Am Thyssenhaus: The station has basic accessibility features.
Getting to Essen-Werden from Essen city centre
Essen-Werden is 7 km from Essen city centre. Public transport options include:
Essen-Werden train station facilities and services
Essen-Werden 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: Kettner's Kamota, Abraham Konditorei & Cafe Werntges seit 1962, La Piazzetta, Pia
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Essen-Werden. ATMs are available at Essen-Werden.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Essen-Werden. Information desks are available at Essen-Werden.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Essen-Werden. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Essen-Werden: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Essen-Werden: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Essen-Werden.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Hohenstein, Domstuben.
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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