Traveling from Rotterdam to Amsterdam is one of the most common journeys in the Netherlands. Both cities are just 80 km apart, making it very easy to combine them in the same trip. Whether you are planning a day trip, a business visit, or staying longer, here’s everything you need to know about transport options, prices, and travel tips.
🚄 Train from Rotterdam to Amsterdam
The train is by far the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Rotterdam and Amsterdam.
Intercity Direct (ICD): around 40 minutes, €17-€20 per ticket.
Regular Intercity trains: about 1h 10min, slightly cheaper than the direct train.
NS International trains (Thalys/Eurostar): faster but more expensive, only recommended if you already have a ticket included in your pass.
👉 Trains run very frequently. On average, there is a departure every 10–15 minutes, so you don’t really need to worry about timetables.
💡 How much is a train ride from Rotterdam to Amsterdam?
A one-way train ticket costs around €17–€20 depending on the type of train and whether you travel during peak hours.
🚌 Bus from Rotterdam to Amsterdam
Buses are usually the cheapest option, but also the slowest.
Travel time: around 1h 30min – 2h depending on traffic.
Prices: start from €7–€12, especially if you book FlixBus in advance.
Best option if you want to save money and don’t mind a longer journey.
🚗 Driving from Rotterdam to Amsterdam
If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is also possible.
Distance: about 80 km.
Driving time: 1h – 1h 15min depending on traffic.
Downsides: parking in Amsterdam is expensive and traffic can be heavy.
Tip: If you plan to explore the countryside or smaller towns along the way, driving gives you total freedom.
✈️ Rotterdam to Amsterdam by plane?
Even though both cities have airports, flying is not practical. The distance is too short and the train is always faster.
🏨 Is it better to stay in Amsterdam or Rotterdam?
This depends on what type of trip you are planning.
Amsterdam: more tourist attractions, museums, canals, and nightlife. Accommodation is more expensive.
Rotterdam: modern architecture, vibrant food scene, and a less touristy vibe. Hotels are usually cheaper and the city feels more local.
If you plan to explore the Netherlands, you can easily stay in Rotterdam (cheaper) and take the train to Amsterdam for day trips.
💰 Is it cheaper to buy Dutch train tickets in advance?
Unlike in some European countries, Dutch train tickets do not get cheaper when booked in advance. Prices are fixed, so you can buy your ticket on the day of travel without paying extra.
📅 How often are trains from Rotterdam to Amsterdam?
Trains run every 10–15 minutes throughout the day, so you’ll never wait too long. Services start early in the morning and continue until late at night.
🔄 Amsterdam to Rotterdam
The journey works exactly the same in the opposite direction. Traveling from Amsterdam to Rotterdam takes the same time and costs the same price.
If you’re staying in Amsterdam and want to explore Rotterdam for a day, the train is again the fastest and most convenient option.
✅ Conclusion: best way to travel
The train is the most recommended way to travel between Rotterdam and Amsterdam. It’s fast, frequent, and comfortable. For budget travelers, buses are cheaper but slower, while driving is only worth it if you plan to explore outside the cities.
📌 Quick summary: Rotterdam to Amsterdam transport options
| Transport | Duration | Price (one-way) | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🚄 Train (Intercity Direct) | 40 min | €17–€20 | Every 10–15 min | Fastest and most convenient |
| 🚆 Train (Regular Intercity) | 1h 10min | €16–€18 | Every 10–15 min | Slightly cheaper, longer travel time |
| 🚌 Bus | 1h 30min – 2h | €7–€12 | Several per day | Cheapest but slower |
| 🚗 Car | 1h – 1h 15min | Depends on rental & fuel | Flexible | Parking in Amsterdam is expensive |
| ✈️ Plane | Not recommended | – | – | Distance too short, train is faster |
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