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Taking the train from Heidelberg to Rotterdam in 5 hours 15 minutes

Thinking about taking the train from Heidelberg to Rotterdam? We’ve got you covered.

It usually takes around 7 hours 5 minutes to travel the 253 miles (408 km) from Heidelberg to Rotterdam by train, although you can get there in as little as 5 hours 15 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 46 trains per day running on this route. You’ll need to make 2 changes along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line.

Train tickets from Heidelberg to Rotterdam are usually cheaper when you book in advance compared to 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 Rotterdam? 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.

Trains to Rotterdam from Heidelberg

First train

01:27

Last train

22:14

Departure stationHeidelberg
Arrival stationRotterdam
Journey time

From 5h 15m

Distance

253 miles (408 km)

Frequency

46 trains per day

Changes

2 changes

Train and bus operators

Flixbus

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Heidelberg to Rotterdam?

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

How do you get to Rotterdam from Heidelberg?

To travel to Rotterdam from Heidelberg, you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 7 hours and 5 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 5 hours and 15 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Heidelberg to Rotterdam?

Trains from Heidelberg to Rotterdam take an average of 7 hours and 5 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 5 hours and 15 minutes. You'll usually find 46 trains per day on this route, so use our Journey Planner to check specific dates as times may vary.

What is the quickest journey time between Heidelberg and Rotterdam by train?

The quickest journey time between Heidelberg and Rotterdam by train is 5 hours and 15 minutes.

Are there direct trains from Heidelberg to Rotterdam?

No, there are no direct trains running from Heidelberg to Rotterdam, you’ll usually need to make at least 2 changes during the journey.

What are the train times from Heidelberg to Rotterdam?

Check out the next trains departing from Heidelberg to Rotterdam for Tuesday 21st October 2025. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
10:4617:076h 21m, 3 changes
10:4617:106h 24m, 2 changes
11:1317:075h 54m, 4 changes
11:1317:105h 57m, 3 changes
11:4618:026h 16m, 2 changes
12:3418:025h 28m, 3 changes
12:4619:106h 24m, 2 changes
13:1319:025h 49m, 3 changes
13:4620:026h 16m, 2 changes
14:2021:026h 42m, 2 changes

How do I find cheap train tickets from Heidelberg to Rotterdam?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Heidelberg to Rotterdam starts at § one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider travelling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as many train companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Interrail Passes that are valid for travel within one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and discounts

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales on tickets throughout the year or offer discounts to senior/youth/group travellers, so keep an eye out!

6. Take a night train

Save on accommodation and use the night to travel by sleeper train to your next destination.

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

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

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