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How to travel from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal by train
Want to find out more about taking the train from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal? Look no further.
There are around 31 trains per day running between Groningen and Utrecht Centraal, which usually take 3 hours 11 minutes to complete the 99 miles (159 km) journey. It can take as little as 1 hour 51 minutes on the fastest services though, if you want to get there as quickly as possible. As soon as you board the train, you'll be able to make yourself comfortable and enjoy the journey as there are direct services available. Sit back, relax and let a Nederlanse Spoorwegen (NS) train take you to Utrecht Centraal – as the main train operator in the Netherlands, all trains are modern and comfortable and most have free WiFi.
You can save money on train tickets from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal if you book in advance, as tickets usually start from £27.54. Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to compare ticket prices and get the cheapest fares.
Want to book your train tickets now? Just start a search with us today. If you want to find out more about the journey, read on for timetables (including first and last train times), FAQs and tips on how to book cheap train tickets.
Groningen to Utrecht Centraal by train
It takes an average of 3h 11m to travel from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal by train, over a distance of around 99 miles (159 km). There are normally 31 trains per day travelling from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal and tickets for this journey start from £27.54 when you book in advance.
| First train | 05:17 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 20:10 | |
| Departure station | Groningen | |
| Arrival station | Utrecht Centraal | |
| Journey time | From 1h 51m | |
| Distance | 99 miles (159 km) | |
| Frequency | 31 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From £27.54 | |
| Train and bus operators |
FAQs about the train journey from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal
Want to know more about your journey from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Are there direct trains from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal?
What's the distance between Groningen and Utrecht Centraal by train?
Who runs the trains from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal?
Can you travel from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal without taking a flight?
What is the best way to get to Utrecht Centraal from Groningen?
What time is the first train from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal?
What time is the last train from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal?
How often do trains go from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal?
Do you need to prebook train tickets from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal?
Is there a return trip from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal?
NS trains from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal
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.
More information
NS classes from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal
Compare the different travel classes offered by NS when travelling from Groningen to Utrecht Centraal.
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 Groningen to Utrecht Centraal.
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 Groningen to Utrecht Centraal
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 Groningen to Utrecht Centraal 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.