What customers say about Trainline
Read real reviews from real users
Taking the train from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal in 1 hour 8 minutes
Thinking about taking the train from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal? We’ve got you covered.
It usually takes around 1 hour 21 minutes to travel the 63 miles (101 km) from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal by train, although you can get there in as little as 1 hour 8 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 38 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 Rotterdam Centraal. As the main rail operator in the Netherlands, all trains are modern with comfortable seating.
Train tickets from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal 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 Centraal? 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.
Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal by train
| First train | 05:19 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 19:24 | |
| Departure station | Mechelen | |
| Arrival station | Rotterdam Centraal | |
| Journey time | From 1h 8m | |
| Distance | 63 miles (101 km) | |
| Frequency | 38 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Train and bus operators |
FAQs about the train journey from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal
Want to know more about your journey from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How far is the train ride from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal?
Who operates the trains from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal?
Can I take a flight-free trip from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal?
What is the best way to travel to Rotterdam Centraal from Mechelen?
What time does the first train run from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal?
How late does the train from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal run?
How many trains go from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal per day?
When do tickets from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal go on sale?
Planning a round trip from Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal?
NS trains from Mechelen to Rotterdam 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 Mechelen to Rotterdam Centraal
Compare the different travel classes offered by NS when travelling from Mechelen to Rotterdam 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 Mechelen to Rotterdam 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 Mechelen to Rotterdam 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 Mechelen to Rotterdam 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.