Amsterdam to Rotterdam by Train
Direct high-speed service · from €20.2
Route Overview: Amsterdam to Rotterdam
Amsterdam and Rotterdam are connected by one of the busiest rail corridors in the Netherlands. The Intercity Direct takes just 40 minutes using the high-speed line, while regular Intercity services take about 1 hour 10 minutes via Leiden and The Hague.
With 4-6 departures per hour throughout the day, you never wait long. NS (Dutch Railways) operates all services using modern Intercity and ICNG rolling stock with WiFi, power outlets, and comfortable seating.
The standard single fare is €19 in 2nd class. An additional ICD supplement of €3.20 (€1.92 off-peak) applies when using the Intercity Direct high-speed service. No reservation is required — simply buy and board.
How Long Is the Amsterdam to Rotterdam Train?
The direct NS (Dutch Railways) from Amsterdam to Rotterdam takes approximately 40m, with multiple daily departures.
How Much Does a Amsterdam to Rotterdam Train Ticket Cost?
Tickets start from €20.2 when booked in advance. Prices vary by date, time, and availability.
How Many Trains Run Daily from Amsterdam to Rotterdam?
Up to 4/day trains operate daily on the Amsterdam to Rotterdam route.
Train Operator
NS (Dutch Railways)
Direct high-speed service · 40m (ICD) / 1h 10m (IC) max
Which Stations Serve the Amsterdam to Rotterdam Route?
Amsterdam Centraal
- Location: Amsterdam city centre, waterfront
- Metro, tram, bus, ferry hub
- RER NS domestic trains to all Dutch cities
Rotterdam Centraal
- Location: Rotterdam city centre
- Award-winning modern station architecture (reopened 2014)
- RER Metro, tram, bus connections. Walking distance to Markthal and Cube Houses.
What Classes Are Available on Amsterdam to Rotterdam Trains?
2nd Class
- Comfortable 2+2 seating
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets at all seats
- Fold-down tables
- Quiet compartment available
1st Class
- Wider seats with extra legroom
- Quieter carriages
- Free WiFi
- Power outlets
- Less crowded during peak hours
How to Book the Amsterdam to Rotterdam Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in 2nd Class class. Price shown is the NS standard single fare in 2nd class. ICD supplement of €3.20 applies for Intercity Direct via the high-speed line. Timetables subject to change.
Book Early
Tickets are available up to 6 months in advance. Advance bookings offer the best prices.
Children & Youth
Children 4-11 may qualify for reduced fares. Youth discounts may be available. Infants under 4 travel free
Luggage
Standard luggage allowance applies
What Should You Know About Amsterdam to Rotterdam Trains?
Intercity Direct vs Regular Intercity
The Intercity Direct (ICD) uses the high-speed line between Schiphol and Rotterdam, taking just 40 minutes. Regular Intercity trains take the classic route via Leiden and The Hague in about 1 hour 10 minutes. The ICD requires a supplement of €3.20 (€1.92 off-peak).
ICD Supplement Required
If you travel on the Intercity Direct between Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam Centraal, you need an additional Intercity direct supplement of €3.20 (full price) or €1.92 (off-peak). This is on top of your regular NS ticket.
Rotterdam Centraal — Architectural Gem
Rotterdam Centraal station was completely rebuilt and reopened in 2014. Its dramatic angular roof and glass facade have won multiple architecture awards. The station handles over 110,000 passengers daily.
No Reservation Needed
Dutch domestic trains do not require seat reservations. Buy a ticket and board any train. In 1st class, you get more space and quieter carriages.
OV-chipkaart or E-ticket
You can travel with a personal OV-chipkaart, a disposable OV-chipkaart, or an NS e-ticket. For international visitors, an e-ticket purchased online at ns.nl is the easiest option.
Frequently Asked Questions: Amsterdam to Rotterdam
The Intercity Direct takes approximately 40 minutes. Regular Intercity trains via Leiden and The Hague take about 1 hour 10 minutes.
A standard NS single ticket costs €19 in 2nd class. Add €3.20 for the Intercity Direct supplement (€1.92 off-peak). 1st class is approximately 60% more.
Very frequently — 4 to 6 trains per hour combining Intercity Direct and regular Intercity services. You rarely wait more than 15 minutes.
The Intercity Direct (ICD) uses the high-speed line between Schiphol and Rotterdam, requiring a supplement of €3.20 (€1.92 off-peak) on top of your regular ticket.
No. Dutch domestic trains have fixed prices and no reservations. Buy at the station or via the NS app and board any train.
Yes. Both Intercity Direct and regular Intercity trains stop at Schiphol Airport, roughly 15 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal.