Table des matières:
Introduction
Amsterdam is one of Europe’s best-connected travel hubs, making it easy to explore neighboring countries and beyond. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a multi-city trip, knowing how to get from Amsterdam to other European cities can save you time, money, and stress. In this guide, we cover the fastest, cheapest, and most scenic travel options—by train, plane, bus, and car—along with insider tips for a smooth journey.
Why Amsterdam Is a Perfect Starting Point
Amsterdam Centraal Station is a major rail hub with direct high-speed trains to Paris, Brussels, Berlin, and more. Schiphol Airport offers flights to nearly every European capital, often at budget prices. And with excellent highways and bus networks, you have plenty of choices. Let’s dive into the best ways to get from Amsterdam to other European cities.
Traveling by Train from Amsterdam
Trains are often the most comfortable and scenic option, especially for short to medium distances. Here are the top routes:
Amsterdam to Paris
The Thalys high-speed train connects Amsterdam Centraal to Paris Gare du Nord in just 3 hours 20 minutes. Prices start around €35 if booked early. Trains run multiple times daily, and you can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and dining. For a cheaper alternative, consider the slower Intercity train via Brussels, but it takes about 6 hours.
Amsterdam to Brussels
The Eurostar (formerly Thalys) takes you from Amsterdam to Brussels in under 2 hours. Direct trains run hourly, with fares from €25. Alternatively, the regular Intercity train takes about 2.5 hours but costs less. Brussels is a great stopover for onward travel to London, Paris, or Cologne.
Amsterdam to Berlin
The Intercity Berlin direct train takes around 6 hours, with comfortable seats and a dining car. Prices start at €30. For a faster option, fly (1 hour 20 minutes), but factor in airport transfers. The train offers a scenic route through the Dutch and German countryside.
Amsterdam to Cologne
The ICE high-speed train reaches Cologne in just 2.5 hours. Fares from €20. Cologne is a gateway to the Rhine Valley and southern Germany. The train station is conveniently located near the famous cathedral.
Flying from Amsterdam to European Cities
For longer distances or when time is tight, flying is hard to beat. Schiphol Airport is a major hub with flights to over 300 European destinations.
Amsterdam to London
While the Eurostar train (via Brussels) takes about 4 hours, flying from Schiphol to London Heathrow or Gatwick takes just 1 hour. Budget airlines like easyJet and British Airways offer frequent flights. However, consider door-to-door time: train travel is often faster if you include airport security and transfers.
Amsterdam to Barcelona
Flight time is 2 hours 20 minutes, with airlines like Vueling, Ryanair, and Transavia offering low fares from €30. Trains take over 10 hours, so flying is the practical choice. Schiphol has direct flights daily.
Amsterdam to Rome
Fly from Schiphol to Rome Fiumicino in 2 hours 15 minutes. Airlines include KLM, Alitalia, and budget carriers. Prices from €40. Train travel would take over 12 hours with multiple changes.
Amsterdam to Copenhagen
Flight time is 1 hour 30 minutes. Airlines like KLM, SAS, and easyJet offer direct flights. Trains take about 8 hours, but the scenic route through Germany and Denmark is an option for train enthusiasts.
Taking the Bus from Amsterdam
Buses are the cheapest way to travel, though they take longer. Major operators include FlixBus and Eurolines.
Amsterdam to Paris by Bus
FlixBus runs multiple daily services from Amsterdam Sloterdijk to Paris Bercy, taking about 7 hours. Fares start at €15. It’s a good budget option, but be prepared for a long ride.
Amsterdam to Brussels by Bus
Bus travel to Brussels takes around 3 hours, with prices from €5. It’s slower than the train but significantly cheaper. Buses depart from Amsterdam Centraal or Sloterdijk.
Amsterdam to Berlin by Bus
FlixBus connects Amsterdam to Berlin in about 8 hours, with fares from €20. Night buses are available, saving on accommodation.
Driving from Amsterdam to Other European Cities
Renting a car gives you flexibility, but consider tolls, parking, and fuel costs. Here are some popular drives:
Amsterdam to Paris by Car
The drive is about 500 km via the A4/E19, taking 5-6 hours. Tolls cost around €30, and parking in Paris is expensive. Consider park-and-ride options.
Amsterdam to Brussels by Car
Only 200 km, about 2.5 hours. Tolls are minimal, and parking is easier than in Paris. A good option for families or groups.
Amsterdam to Berlin by Car
The 650 km drive takes about 6.5 hours. The route is mostly highway, but expect fuel costs around €70-80. Parking in Berlin is manageable.
Tips for Choosing the Best Option
When deciding how to get from Amsterdam to other European cities, consider these factors:
- Budget: Buses are cheapest, followed by budget airlines and trains (if booked early).
- Time: Flights are fastest for long distances; trains are competitive for under 4 hours.
- Comfort: Trains offer more legroom and no baggage restrictions; buses can be cramped.
- Eco-friendliness: Trains have lower carbon emissions than planes or cars.
- Convenience: Train stations are in city centers; airports often require extra transfers.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get from Amsterdam to other European cities opens up a world of travel possibilities. Whether you choose the speed of a flight, the comfort of a train, the affordability of a bus, or the flexibility of a car, Amsterdam’s excellent connections make every journey easy. For short hops like Brussels or Paris, trains are ideal; for longer trips like Barcelona or Rome, flying wins. Plan ahead, book early, and enjoy exploring Europe from Amsterdam.
Photo by Daria Nepriakhina 🇺🇦 on Unsplash
I’m planning a trip from Amsterdam to Berlin. Would you recommend the train or a budget flight?
For Amsterdam to Berlin, the train takes about 6 hours with scenic views and no airport hassles, while a flight is only 1 hour 20 minutes but requires airport transfers. If you value comfort and convenience, go for the train; if time is tight, flying might be better.
Is there a direct train from Amsterdam to London?
There is no direct train from Amsterdam to London. You can take the Eurostar via Brussels, which takes about 4 hours total. Alternatively, flying from Schiphol to London takes just 1 hour, but consider door-to-door travel time.
What’s the cheapest way to get from Amsterdam to Brussels?
The cheapest option is by bus, with FlixBus offering fares from €5 and a travel time of about 3 hours. Trains are faster (under 2 hours) but start around €25. Book early for the best deals.
I’m thinking of driving from Amsterdam to Paris. Are there any tolls I should know about?
Yes, driving from Amsterdam to Paris (about 500 km) involves tolls costing around €30. Also, parking in Paris is expensive, so consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts and taking public transport into the city.
How long does the bus take from Amsterdam to Berlin?
The bus from Amsterdam to Berlin takes about 8 hours with FlixBus. Night buses are available, which can save you accommodation costs. Fares start from €20, making it a budget-friendly option.