ROTTERDAM, 7 November 2025 — Over the coming weekend (Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 November 2025), the city’s primary rail hub, Rotterdam Centraal, will be a no-go for trains. Both Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and ProRail warn that no trains will run to, from or through Rotterdam Centraal in that time.
What exactly is happening?
According to NS, the disruption is the result of significant engineering works: the train-safety system in the technical area around Rotterdam Centraal is reaching the end of its lifespan and must be replaced. The replacement is scheduled for late 2026, but weekend closures such as this are already required to ensure safe progress.
On 8 and 9 November, all rail traffic through the station and on the HSL (high-speed link) will be suspended. NS advises passengers to use alternative routes and to plan well ahead.
What this means for Rotterdam’s travellers
If your journey begins or ends at Rotterdam Centraal over the weekend, you must assume no direct train service. This applies to intercity, sprinter, and even high-speed lines.
Alternative routes: Use metro, tram or bus services operated by RET, and/or travelling via other stations such as Schiedam Centrum or Delft Campus may be necessary. NS has made a list of such alternative paths in its travel planner.
Tickets: If you are booked with NS for travel involving Rotterdam Centraal during this period, monitor the NS app or website for updates. Use of metro or tram may be permitted under special arrangements depending on your ticket type — verify in advance.
Why this disruption is significant for Rotterdam
Rotterdam Centraal is not just a local station: it is a major interchange for the region, the country and international travel. The suspension of all train movement for two days will affect commuters, weekend travellers, international visitors and business traffic alike. Besides rail-users, other transport modes and the city centre itself may feel the effects when thousands of travellers adjust their plans.
For a city such as Rotterdam—where connectivity is vital—this kind of infrastructure intervention shows how critical the rail system is to daily life. At the same time, it underscores the need for advance planning when major upgrades occur.
What you can do to minimise disruption
- Check your journey: Use the NS “Travel Planner” (Reisplanner) or app before departure to verify whether your route is affected and whether alternative connections are offered.
- Consider alternatives: If you were planning to travel via Rotterdam Centraal, see whether you can depart or arrive via another station, or use bus/tram/metro for part of your journey.
- Allow extra time: Even when alternative routes are available, expect additional travel time and congestion on replacement services.
- Stay informed: NS and ProRail state that disruptions may evolve. Real-time notifications via the app or website are strongly advised.
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