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About the train journey from Essen to Rotterdam

Want to travel from Essen to Rotterdam by train? Start your journey with us.

The train from Essen to Rotterdam usually takes 3 hours 34 minutes on average to travel 184 km, although the quickest services can take as little as 2 hours 37 minutes. You can expect to find 36 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren't any direct services running between Essen and Rotterdam, you'll need to make 2 changes on your way to Rotterdam.

To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Essen to Rotterdam in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save!

Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Rotterdam, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you're ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.

Essen to Rotterdam by train

First train

3:21 am

Last train

10:21 pm

Departure station

Essen

Arrival station

Rotterdam

Journey time

From 2h 37m

Distance

114 miles (184 km)

Frequency

36 trains per day

Changes

2 changes

Train and bus operators

Flixbus

FAQs about the train journey from Essen to Rotterdam

Want to know more about your journey from Essen to Rotterdam? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do I travel from Essen to Rotterdam?

You can get from Essen to Rotterdam in 3 hours and 34 minutes on average, with the fastest trains taking just 2 hours and 37 minutes. Check out our Journey Planner for more details on times, tickets and prices.

How long does the train from Essen to Rotterdam take?

The average journey time by train between Essen and Rotterdam is 3 hours and 34 minutes, with around 36 trains per day running on this route. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Essen and Rotterdam by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Essen to Rotterdam is 2 hours and 37 minutes.

Can you take a train directly from Essen to Rotterdam?

No, there are no direct train services from Essen to Rotterdam. Travelling from Essen to Rotterdam by train will require a minimum of 2 changes.

Essen to Rotterdam train times

Check out the next trains departing from Essen to Rotterdam for Tuesday Jun 24th 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
10:21 am1:40 pm3h 19m, 3 changes
10:45 am1:45 pm3h 0m, 3 changes
12:00 pm2:40 pm2h 40m, 2 changes
12:21 pm3:40 pm3h 19m, 3 changes
12:21 pm4:27 pm4h 6m, 2 changes
12:45 pm3:45 pm3h 0m, 3 changes
2:00 pm4:40 pm2h 40m, 2 changes
2:21 pm5:40 pm3h 19m, 3 changes
2:21 pm6:27 pm4h 6m, 2 changes
2:44 pm5:45 pm3h 1m, 3 changes

Cheap train tickets from Essen to Rotterdam

Book in advance

Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Essen to Rotterdam by booking early.§

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting train

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

Look out for special deals

Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.


* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.

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