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Taking the train from Rotterdam to Utrecht in 37 minutes
Thinking about taking the train from Rotterdam to Utrecht? We’ve got you covered.
It usually takes around 42 minutes to travel the 30 miles (48 km) from Rotterdam to Utrecht by train, although you can get there in as little as 37 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 80 trains per day running on this route. You won’t need to worry about making any changes along the way either as direct trains are available. You'll be hopping on a Nederlanse Spoorwegen (NS) service on your way to Utrecht. As the main rail operator in the Netherlands, all trains are modern with comfortable seating.
Train tickets from Rotterdam to Utrecht start from £12.40 when you book in advance, which can be cheaper than buying them on the day. Start a search in our Journey Planner to check out the latest prices.
Keen to book your train tickets to Utrecht? No need to wait, start a search with us today! If you want to find out a bit more about the journey first, you can find our train timetable below, tips on booking cheap tickets and our FAQs, including first and last train times.
Rotterdam to Utrecht by train
It takes an average of 42m to travel from Rotterdam to Utrecht by train, over a distance of around 30 miles (48 km). There are normally 80 trains per day travelling from Rotterdam to Utrecht and tickets for this journey start from £12.40 when you book in advance.
FAQs about the train journey from Rotterdam to Utrecht
Want to know more about your journey from Rotterdam to Utrecht? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Are there direct trains from Rotterdam to Utrecht?
What's the distance between Rotterdam and Utrecht by train?
Who runs the trains from Rotterdam to Utrecht?
Can you travel from Rotterdam to Utrecht without taking a flight?
What is the best way to get to Utrecht from Rotterdam?
What time is the first train from Rotterdam to Utrecht?
What time is the last train from Rotterdam to Utrecht?
How often do trains go from Rotterdam to Utrecht?
Do you need to prebook train tickets from Rotterdam to Utrecht?
Is there a return trip from Rotterdam to Utrecht?
NS trains from Rotterdam to Utrecht
NS is the main railway operator in the Netherlands. It connects the four corners of the country with regional, medium-distance and high-speed trains. It's also possible for you to travel at night thanks to multi-line night trains, including Schiphol and Eindhoven airports. All trains are equipped with two comfort classes – First Class and Second Class.
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NS classes from Rotterdam to Utrecht
Compare the different travel classes offered by NS when travelling from Rotterdam to Utrecht.
Second Class
NS Second Class is perfect for you if you're looking for free WiFi and generous luggage allowance at an affordable price.
- Free WiFi
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- Power sockets
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
- Quiet area
First Class
Upgrade to NS First Class and enjoy more onboard amenities, including adjustable seats and more legroom.
- Free WiFi
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- Power sockets
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
- Quiet area
Onboard services on NS
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Rotterdam to Utrecht.
There are no luggage weight limits on NS trains, so long as you can carry your bags by yourself.
There is no onboard catering on NS trains.
The majority of NS Intercity trains have free WiFi on board. If your train has WiFi available, connect to the network 'Wifi in the train' to get online.
Children under 4 travel free on NS trains. Children between 4 and 11 years old can get a 'Railrunner' ticket, which costs €2.50 a day, for unlimited travel.
Outside peak hours (from 9am to 4:30pm, and after 6pm), at the weekend, on bank holidays and during the summer months, you can take your bike on board NS trains. Bikes must be placed in the designated storage spaces, which you can find by looking for a bike symbol on the side of the carriage. Foldable bikes can be transported like normal luggage.
Small pets are allowed on board, provided that they travel on your lap or in a suitable travel carrier. Guide dogs are also allowed on board but must be recognisable as guide dogs for the blind or another type of assistance dog. Larger dogs can travel on NS trains, so long as they wear a muzzle and are kept on a lead - you must also buy a dog train ticket.
If you need help getting on or off the train, you can reserve NS Travel Assistance. This service is available 7 days a week. You need to specify the help you need on your online NS account and reserve assistance on the NS website, on the NS app or by phoning (+31) 30 235 78 22.
Cheap train tickets from Rotterdam to Utrecht
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 Rotterdam to Utrecht 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.