travel time antwerp rotterdam

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rotterdam vs. Antwerp for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Food

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Rotterdam or Antwerp?
• Which is Cheaper, Rotterdam or Antwerp? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Rotterdam or Antwerp?

• When to Visit Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Should you visit Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Rotterdam and Antwerp. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Rotterdam is a trendy, high energy, and modern port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp is a genuine, cultural, and historical port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Rotterdam and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Active nightlife
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Big city activities
• Scenic old town

Is there more to do in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Antwerp than Rotterdam. While Rotterdam is larger than Antwerp, Antwerp has more sights and attractions for tourists. Antwerp is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping, while Rotterdam is known for its big city activities. Rotterdam is popular for its modern architecture, the cube houses, and the market hall. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Rotterdam different from Antwerp?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Antwerp and Rotterdam. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Antwerp is great for its historical sights. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Antwerp. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Rotterdam is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although many of the historic buildings around town were destroyed during World War II, there are still a number of sights worth checking out. Head to the Old Harbor and Marine Museums, the Museum Boijmans-van Beuningen, or the Wereldmuseum to see some interesting places.

Is the Food Better in Rotterdam or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Rotterdam and Antwerp can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Rotterdam is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city's restaurant scene is diverse. There are ethnic restaurants, vegan restaurants, local restaurants, and some popular chains.

Antwerp offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Rotterdam and Antwerp.

Many people head to Rotterdam for the nightlife scene. It is a trendy city with an active nightlife. You can relax with a beer or hit up one of the clubs around town. Popular options are Club Vibes, Toffler, and Club Vie.

Antwerp has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is great for its historic old town charm. However, Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Rotterdam does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Antwerp is an amazing port city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotterdam is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Antwerp specifically to go shopping. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Rotterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find fashion and clothing shops in the area around Lijnbaan and Beurstraverse. This is also where you'll find the shopping mall of Bijenkorf.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Families?

Rotterdam is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Rotterdam is a very kid-friendly port city. Fun activities for kids include Miniworld Rotterdam, the Kids Marina, and Fun Forest, which has ziplines and a ropes course.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Rotterdam and Antwerp both good destinations for a couple.

Rotterdam is a good port city for couples to visit. It is a modern city with good restaurants and some fun activities.

Antwerp is a nice destination for couples. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Rotterdam and Antwerp are good places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Rotterdam. There are a number of hostels around town as well as a good nightlife that appeals to backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Students?

For students, both Rotterdam and Antwerp are high quality places to visit.

Many students visit Rotterdam. The city has a great job market and a lot of activities that appeal to international students.

Antwerp is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Rotterdam is well known for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Rotterdam has some very good public transit options. There are trams, buses, metros, and even a ferry.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Rotterdam or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Rotterdam and Antwerp are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Rotterdam is a very walkable destination. There are broad streets with wide sidewalks that are pedestrian friendly.

Antwerp is very walkable. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

For even more information, also check out Is Rotterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Rotterdam?

How long in rotterdam or antwerp.

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Rotterdam and Antwerp. In our opinion, Antwerp has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Antwerp than Rotterdam . However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Rotterdam than Antwerp. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Rotterdam, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Antwerp than Rotterdam. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Antwerp that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp than Rotterdam if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Antwerp.

• How many days in Rotterdam or Antwerp? Ideal Length of Stay Rotterdam 1-3   Antwerp   1-3

One day in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Because Rotterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Antwerp. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Because Rotterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rotterdam has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Rotterdam is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural port city of Antwerp. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rotterdam or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotterdam. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rotterdam. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antwerp is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best River Cruises from Amsterdam , The Best Bicycle Tours in Netherlands , The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium , and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels .

Which place is cheaper, Antwerp or Rotterdam?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Rotterdam Prices Netherlands Prices Antwerp Prices Belgium Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Rotterdam € 152 Antwerp € 123

The average daily cost (per person) in Rotterdam is €152, while the average daily cost in Antwerp is €123. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Rotterdam and Antwerp in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Rotterdam € 77 Antwerp € 71
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Rotterdam € 154 Antwerp € 142

Compare Hotels in Rotterdam and Antwerp

Looking for a hotel in Rotterdam or Antwerp? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Rotterdam

Hotels in Antwerp

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Rotterdam € 26 Antwerp € 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotterdam

Also for Rotterdam, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Private Direct Transfer from Rotterdam to Amsterdam: $168
• Private Minivan Transfer from Rotterdam: $293
• Private Minivan Transfer from Rotterdam : $271
• Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to AMS Schiphol Airport : $163
• Private Rotterdam Cruise Port Departure Transfer to Amsterdam: $168
• Private Transfer From Rotterdam to Amsterdam, With a 2 Hour Stop: $239
• Private Transfer from Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to IJmuiden Port: $61
• Private Transfer from Rotterdam Airport (RTM) to Rotterdam Port: $38
• Private Transfer from Rotterdam City to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $206
• Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Amsterdam hotels: $98
• Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $38
• Private Transfer from Rotterdam Cruise Port to Rotterdam hotels: $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

• Round Trip Private Transfer Brussels Airport BRU to Antwerp City by Luxury Car: $272
• Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $174
• Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $162
• Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $140
• Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $86
• Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Prices for flights to both Antwerp and Rotterdam change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Rotterdam € 54 Antwerp € 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rotterdam

For Rotterdam, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Self-Guided Rotterdam BiteMe Food Tour: $42
• 4-Hour Food Tour - Self-guided: $48
• Guided Food Tour: $79
• Guided Walking Food Tour: $84
• Biking Rotterdam Food Tour with Local Guide: $86
• Walking Rotterdam Food Tour: $86
• WALKING DINNER ROTTERDAM | 3 courses + 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87
• Food Tour by Bike: $91
• Private Walking Food Tour of Rotterdam: $119
• Rotterdam Walking Dutch Food Tour: $152
• Rotterdam Private 2-Hour Food Tour with Tastings: $160
• Private Multicultural Bike Food Tour: $271

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Antwerp

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Antwerp.

• 2-Hour Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $71

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Rotterdam € 32 Antwerp € 8.21

Tours and Activities in Rotterdam

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Rotterdam.

• Hightlights City Centre Walking Tour: $1.07
• Rotterdam Spanish Tour 2 Hours: $2.59
• First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
• Rotterdam Walking Tour in 2 Hours : $3.24
• Escape Game and Tour: $4.26
• Rotterdam Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.50
• Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.93
• Rotterdam Walking Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG): $7.65
• Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.32
• Waterbus Ticket to Dordrecht and/or Kinderdijk: $10
• Walking Tour Markthal, White House & more!: $10
• Breda: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

Here are a few actual costs in Antwerp for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

• 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Antwerp : $228
• 3-Hour Antwerp Bike Tour: $31
• 3-Hour Private Tour in Antwerp: $49
• Antwerp : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour: $80
• Antwerp : Private Custom Walking Tour with Local Guide: $56
• Antwerp Bike Tours: $35
• Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
• Antwerp Private Tour From Brussels: $423
• Antwerp Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $244
• Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.05
• Antwerp Shore Excursion and Bruges Private City Tour including Chocolate Tasting: $183
• Antwerp by Night Private Walking Tour: $89
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Rotterdam € 19 Antwerp € 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Rotterdam

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rotterdam:

• Beer Brewery Noordt Tastings with Optional Tour: $7.99
• Heineken Building former brewery | Guided Tour: $7.99
• Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings: $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

Also in Antwerp, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
• City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
• Tour and Tasting if alcoholic Ginger-beer in a gluten-free nano-brewery: $61
• Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $65
• Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $96

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rotterdam and Antwerp, we can see that Rotterdam is more expensive. And not only is Antwerp much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Antwerp would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Antwerp and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Rotterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rotterdam than you might in Antwerp.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Rotterdam Expensive? and Is Antwerp Expensive? .

Rotterdam has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Rotterdam and Antwerp, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Rotterdam or Antwerp?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Rotterdam or Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Rotterdam as well as Antwerp. Many travelers come to Rotterdam for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Rotterdam is generally around the same temperature as Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antwerp. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rotterdam this time of the year. In the summer, Rotterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in July than Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Rotterdam 17°C (62°F)   Antwerp   17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Antwerp in the Autumn?

Both Antwerp and Rotterdam are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Rotterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Rotterdam is cooler than Antwerp in the autumn. The daily temperature in Rotterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during autumn. Rotterdam gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rotterdam usually receives less rain than Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Rotterdam 11°C (51°F)   Antwerp   12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Rotterdam during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Rotterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. Rotterdam can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Rotterdam is much colder than Antwerp. Typically, the winter temperatures in Rotterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Antwerp averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Rotterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun.

Rotterdam usually gets more rain in January than Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Rotterdam 2°C (36°F)   Antwerp   3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Rotterdam or Antwerp in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rotterdam and Antwerp. The spring months attract visitors to Rotterdam because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

In April, Rotterdam is generally cooler than Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Rotterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Rotterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during spring. Rotterdam gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rotterdam usually receives more rain than Antwerp. Rotterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Rotterdam 8°C (46°F)   Antwerp   8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Rotterdam

Related articles for rotterdam, related articles for antwerp.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

To Antwerp by train

With eurostar and intercity brussels.

Quickly to the city center

• From € 21 one-way trip with Intercity Brussels
• Travel time Amsterdam – Antwerp 1.48 hours with Intercity Brussels
• From € 29 with Eurostar
• Board directly, no check-ins

The earlier you book, the lower the price. The lowest fare from Amsterdam to Antwerp is € 21 with Intercity Brussels. These cheap tickets are for sale up to 3 days before departure, limited availability. If you book just before departure you will pay € 42 from Amsterdam; if you travel from a station closer to the border, you will pay less.

Travel information Antwerp

From the Randstad area you can travel quickly by train to Antwerp. During your trip, you’ll have all you need to able to relax in our comfortable seats. You can choose to make the journey with Intercity Brussels or Eurostar. Choose which train to Antwerp meets your needs the best.

*You can book an Early Bird ticket up until 3 days before departure, limited availability.

© foto's antwerpen toerisme & congres | foto sigridspinnox.com.

For a complete travel itinerary, consult our itinerary planner

Tickets issued from or to Antwerp are also valid in the regular trains from or to the stations in the Antwerp zone. Which stations belong to Antwerp zone?

Frequently asked questions about taking the train to Antwerp

What does a return ticket to antwerp cost, how often does intercity brussels travel to belgium, how long does it take to travel to antwerp by train, from which platform does the train to antwerp depart, until what time does the train to antwerp leave, prices train tickets antwerp.

For Intercity Brussels you can buy tickets from 180 days before departure. Up until 7 days before departure, you are able to buy our Early Bird tickets: tickets with a significant discount, especially when you travel on week days (Monday-Tuesday).

Prices Intercity Brussel route Amsterdam - Antwerp

*Early Bird can be booked up to 3 days before departure, limited availability. Listed from-prices are based on tickets from Amsterdam Central Station. The price of Intercity Brussels is based on kilometres – if you depart form a station that is closer to Brussels, then the trip is cheaper.

The price depends on

• The moment of booking - Early booking means lowest prices
• Travel class - 1st or 2nd class
• Flexibility - Regarding changing or cancelling bookings

Book in advance and save money

Do you want to and can you book far in advance? Then choose the ticket with the lowest fare. The best rate for the price-conscious travellers.

General tips for getting the cheapest tickets

• Book as early as possibly to have the most chance of getting the cheapest tickets.
• Travelling in the evening is often cheaper.
• For a weekend getaway, travel Sat-Sun-Mon instead of Fri-Sat-Sun.
• Book online to avoid booking fee.

Tips to get the best rates

Practical information

Tips antwerp.

Would you like tips for your visit to Antwerp? Check visitantwerp and you can read how you can discover the city. You will find information about all sights, events and you will receive great shopping tips. Read more great Antwerp tips

To make your trip that much easier, we have summed up certain practical issues for you.

Itinerary planner and app

Please keep in mind that there could be delays or engineering works and check your trip with the itinerary planner. That way, you will never get an unpleasant surprise! Download our app  so that you will be kept informed during your trip of the possible changes.

Free access to the lounges

If you have a 1st class ticket, you can enjoy a free drink at the NS International Lounge in Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam.

Facilities on board

We gladly inform you about all the facilities on board Intercity Brussels facilities Eurostar facilities Eurostar facilities

Hotels in Antwerp

Budget accommodation and unique places. We have the best tips for an overnight stay in Antwerp.

Museums in Antwerp

There are more than 40 museums in Antwerp. Read all about the 6 best ones.

Restaurants in Antwerp

Antwerp is bursting with delicious restaurants and there are so many places to choose from.

Walking tours Antwerp

Zigzag through streets like Hopland and Schuttershofstraat, the trendy Kammenstraat and stately squares.

Zoo Antwerp

Antwerp Zoo allows you to discover almost 5,000 animals from all continents in a romantic and majestic zoo.

Shopping in Antwerp

Antwerp has a lot of attractive and authentic shops. You can also find well-known brands in the Fashion District.

Cycling in Antwerp

The big sights are not all in the centre and this way you can see a lot in a short time. Hire a bicycle or bring your own on the train.

Antwerp with children

Make the most of your visit to this child-friendly city with interesting museums, a wonderful zoo and great children's theatres.

Weekend getaway Antwerp

Would you rather not travel very far for a great weekend getaway? Then Antwerp is for you. In the largest city in Flanders there is a broad range of things to do.

This city is full of culture and hospitality: fashion, museums and excellent food and drink.

Early Bird Belgium

Travel cheaply to Belgium with Early Bird! Book in time, tickets are limited in availability.

Train and hotel Antwerp

Antwerp is perfect for shopping, visiting museums and eating delicious cuisine. It's also easy and quick to reach by train! Book train and hotel now.

Book hotel Antwerp on Booking.com

Antwerp central station.

A beautiful station where your day in Antwerp starts. Or where you can change trains for Ghent or Bruges.

Other destinations in Belgium

It takes just three hours to get from the Randstad area to the medieval town centre.

The charming traffic-calmed town is easy to explore on foot.

Wine and dine in the capital of Flemish Brabant.

Great shopping in this French speaking town, 30 km from Maastricht.

Perhaps less well-known, but not less fun!

How to travel from Rotterdam to Antwerp, Belgium

The distance between Rotterdam and Antwerp is around 92km (57 miles) and the quickest way to get there is to take the train which takes around 32min.

4 routes found

We've found 4 different ways to get from Rotterdam to Antwerp by train, bus and car. The recommended routes, which include information on duration, ticket price, and level of difficulty, can be found below.

👋 Also check out Antwerp → Rotterdam if you're planning a return trip.

Take the train to Anvers-Central.

• Duration 32min
• Departs every 2 hours
• Typical cost €60 ( $60 )

1 similiar route

We’ve grouped similar routes together, click the arrows to see the other options.

Take the bus to Antwerp.

• Duration 1h 45m
• Typical cost €9 ( $9 )

Drive to Antwerp.

• Duration 1h 5m
• Distance 98km (61 miles)

Frequently asked questions about travel between Rotterdam and Antwerp

Popular questions, how do i get from rotterdam to antwerp.

There are several options for getting from Rotterdam to Antwerp by train, bus and car. The cheapest option is to take the bus which costs around €9 ($9) and will take around 1h 45m. If you need to get there more quickly, you can take the train and arrive in approximately 32min, though it is a bit more costly at approximately €60 ($60).

What is the distance between Rotterdam and Antwerp?

The distance between Rotterdam and Antwerp is around 92km (57 miles). In a direct line (as the crow flies), the distance is 78km (49 miles)

How long does it take to travel from Rotterdam to Antwerp?

It takes around 32min to get from Rotterdam and Antwerp by train. If you are travelling by car it will take around 1h 5m to drive there.

What is the fastest way to travel from Rotterdam to Antwerp?

The quickest way to get from Rotterdam to Antwerp is to take the train which takes around 32min and will set you back approx €60 ($60).

What is the cheapest way to travel from Rotterdam to Antwerp?

The cheapest way to travel between Rotterdam and Antwerp, if you exclude driving, is to take the bus which will typically cost around €9 ($9) for a standard one-way ticket.

Train travel

Is there a train that runs from rotterdam to antwerp.

Yes there is a train service that runs between Rotterdam and Antwerp. It typically takes around 32min and departs every 2 hours.

Is there a direct train service from Rotterdam to Antwerp?

Yes there is a direct train service that runs between Rotterdam and Antwerp with no changeovers required. The train runs every 2 hours and takes 32min.

Who runs the train services between Rotterdam and Antwerp?

Thalys, Dutch Railways and Belgian Railways run train services between Rotterdam and Antwerp. Trains depart every 2 hours and will take around 32min, however, this may vary depending on the particular service and whether it runs express or stops all stations.

Is there a bus that runs from Rotterdam to Antwerp?

Yes there is a bus that runs regularly from Rotterdam and Antwerp. It typically takes around 1h 45m and departs twice daily.

Is there a direct bus service from Rotterdam to Antwerp?

Yes there is a direct bus service that runs between Rotterdam and Antwerp with no changeovers required. The bus runs twice daily and takes 1h 45m.

Who operates the bus services between Rotterdam and Antwerp?

FlixBus run regular bus services between Rotterdam and Antwerp. Buses run twice daily and take around 1h 45m on average but will vary depending on you book with.

Flights and Airlines

Can i fly from rotterdam to antwerp.

It doesn't look like you can fly directly from Rotterdam to Antwerp. We recommend that you take the train to Anvers-Central. instead which will take 32min.

What is the closest airport to Antwerp?

The closest major airport to Antwerp is Brussels Airport (BRU) (BRU) which is approximately 36km (23 miles) from Antwerp. Brussels S. Charleroi Airport (CRL) (CRL) and Liege Airport (LGG) (LGG) are also nearby and might be a better alternative airport depending on where you are flying from.

Drive yourself

Can i drive from rotterdam to antwerp and how long does it take.

Yes it is possible to drive from Rotterdam and Antwerp. The distance is around 98km (61 miles) by road and it will take around 1h 5m in normal traffic conditons.

How do I get from Rotterdam to Antwerp if I don't have a car?

If you don't have a car, the easiest way to get from Rotterdam to Antwerp is to take the train which takes, on average, 32min and will usually cost around €60 ($60).

Compare travel options between Rotterdam and Antwerp

Top carriers operating between rotterdam and antwerp, train operators.

Bus companies

Airports near Antwerp

The following major airports near Antwerp offer regular flights to various popular destinations within Belgium and internationally.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Brussels s. charleroi airport (crl), liege airport (lgg), where to next from antwerp, popular destinations from antwerp, arvó is currently in private beta testing.

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