Discovering Europe By Train — Amsterdam

The Northern Gateway: Your Ultimate Base for European Adventures

The Compact Hub That Revolutionized European Train Travel

Amsterdam has transformed European transportation. Once overshadowed by larger hubs, it is now Northern Europe's most accessible rail gateway. It connects seamlessly to Scandinavia, Germany, Poland, Belgium, France, and the UK. For those exploring Northern, Central, and Western Europe, Amsterdam combines practicality with charm.

The city's compact, bicycle-friendly, and culturally rich character makes it an ideal base for rail exploration. Unlike larger hubs that can overwhelm visitors, Amsterdam rewards repeat visits to favorite neighborhoods, museums, and canal-side cafés. It also facilitates regional adventures through its efficient railway connections.

Why Base Yourself in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam stands out for its geography and role in Europe’s rail network. Positioned at the intersection of Northern Europe’s transport corridors, it is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of Western European refinement and Central European culture.

A City Worth Exploring

Amsterdam deserves 2-3 days of your time. With 50 kilometers of canals, 1,500 bridges, and a wealth of museums, cycling culture, and architectural heritage, slow exploration is truly worthwhile. You’ll find something new around every corner.

The Routes from Amsterdam

To Paris (2h 59m via Thalys/Eurostar)

Frequent high-speed trains connect Amsterdam to Paris with stops in Brussels. Eurostar and Thalys services offer direct and seasonal options.

To Brussels (1 hour 32 minutes)

This short journey is perfect for day trips or as a connector to other routes. Multiple departures hourly ensure flexibility. Brussels is an ideal second city; you can explore the Grand Place, Belgian beer culture, Art Nouveau architecture, and chocolate shops all in a day.

To Bruges (3h via Brussels)

Reach Bruges's medieval architecture and canals through a simple transfer in Brussels. This preserves the destination’s charm.

To Berlin (5h 53m by ICE)

Direct trains link Amsterdam and Berlin, providing easy access to the city’s cultural and historical sites. Plan for 2–3 days in Berlin to fully appreciate its offerings.

To Cologne (about 2h)

Fast trains connect directly to Cologne, a city known for its cathedrals and riverside walks. Use this route for a day trip or as a connection into Germany.

To London (3h 52m via Eurostar)

Direct trains from Amsterdam now connect to London without requiring transfers in Paris.

To Frankfurt (3h 57m)

ICE trains offer a direct route to Frankfurt, a major hub with nationwide connections.

Exciting New Routes (2026 onwards)

As of December 2025, GoVolta is expanding affordable rail service on multiple routes. From March 2026, new daily services will launch between Amsterdam and Berlin, and between Amsterdam and Hamburg. A daily, budget-friendly service will also operate between Amsterdam and Paris. These developments make Northern European exploration more accessible to budget-conscious travelers.

Sample Itinerary 1: Benelux Explorer (4 Days)

Amsterdam → Brussels → Bruges → Amsterdam

Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam. Spend the afternoon exploring the Canal Ring. Rent a bicycle and settle into a neighborhood.

Day 2: Enjoy a full day in Amsterdam—visit museums like the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, and Rijksmuseum. Take canal tours, explore markets, and wander through neighborhoods.

Day 3: Take a train to Brussels (1h 30m). Spend the afternoon exploring the Grand Place, chocolate shops, and beer cafés. You can choose to spend the evening in Brussels or return to Amsterdam.

Alternative Day 3: Train to Bruges (3 hours via Brussels). Explore the medieval architecture, canals, local breweries, and chocolate makers.

Day 4: Return to Amsterdam or continue toward other destinations.

Why this works: Minimal travel time maximizes exploration. Bruges and Brussels offer distinct Belgian experiences within easy reach of each other. The train journey through flat Dutch countryside transitions beautifully into Belgian architecture and culture.

Sample Itinerary 2: Northern Europe Deep Dive (6 Days)

Amsterdam → Berlin → Amsterdam

Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam. Spend the evening settling in.

Day 2: Enjoy a full day in Amsterdam—visit museums, canals, and neighborhoods.

Day 3: Take a train to Berlin (5h 53m). Arrive in the afternoon, allowing time to settle into a neighborhood and explore in the evening.

Day 4: Spend a full day in Berlin—visit the Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, East Side Gallery, and explore historic neighborhoods and the contemporary art scene.

Day 5: Another full day in Berlin—consider a day trip to nearby Potsdam (40 minutes by regional train) or focus on neighborhoods you haven't yet discovered.

Day 6: Return to Amsterdam by train (5h 53m), arriving early evening.

Why this works: Berlin warrants 2-3 days of exploration. The train journey is direct and efficient. Unlike flying, you arrive in Berlin's city center and avoid airport transfers.

Sample Itinerary 3: Western Europe Loop (7 Days)

Amsterdam → Paris → Brussels → Amsterdam

Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam and explore in the evening.

Day 2: Enjoy a full day in Amsterdam.

Day 3: Take a morning train to Paris via Thalys (3 hours). Spend the afternoon in Paris and settle into a neighborhood in the evening.

Day 4: Enjoy a full day in Paris—visit the Louvre, Notre-Dame, Montmartre, Latin Quarter, and Marais.

Day 5: Train to Brussels (3 hours from Paris). Spend the afternoon exploring the Grand Place, Belgian culture, and indulge in beer and chocolate.

Day 6: Optional: Take a day trip to Bruges from Brussels (1 hour), or continue exploring Brussels. Return to Amsterdam in the evening.

Day 7: Either return to Amsterdam by morning train (1.5h from Brussels) or extend your journey toward other destinations.

Why this works: This itinerary connects three iconic Western European cities with efficient trains and minimal backtracking. Each city offers distinct cultural experiences while Amsterdam remains your home base.

Sample Itinerary 4: The German Cultural Journey (8 Days)

Amsterdam → Cologne → Frankfurt → Berlin → Amsterdam

Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam and explore in the evening.

Day 2: Enjoy a full day in Amsterdam.

Day 3: Take a train to Cologne (2 hours). Spend the afternoon exploring the iconic cathedral, riverside promenades, and old town.

Day 4: Train to Frankfurt (1.5 hours). Explore this sophisticated financial hub—visit museums along the Main River, Römerberg square, and contemporary architecture.

Day 5: Train to Berlin (5.5 hours from Frankfurt via various routes). Arrive in the afternoon and explore in the evening.

Day 6: Spend a full day in Berlin—visit Museum Island, historical sites, neighborhoods, and contemporary culture.

Day 7: Another full day in Berlin or a day trip to nearby Potsdam and its royal palaces.

Day 8: Return to Amsterdam by train (5h 53m), arriving early evening.

Why this works: This itinerary showcases Germany's diversity: medieval cathedral cities, financial sophistication, and contemporary urban culture. Direct train connections eliminate backtracking, maximizing your travel experience.

Practical Considerations for Amsterdam-Based Journeys

Bicycle Culture

Amsterdam's bicycle infrastructure is world-famous. Rent a bike (extremely affordable—€5-15/day) and explore the city and the surrounding Dutch countryside. Bikes can be taken on trains for minimal fees. Learn more about traveling by bike in Europe.

Train Station Location

Amsterdam Centraal is remarkably well-positioned, requiring only a few minutes' walk to reach the Canal Ring and most tourist accommodations. International trains depart from this main station, leaving no separate stations to navigate. Find out more about trains to Amsterdam.

Luggage Handling

Dutch trains are efficient with luggage. If making day trips, hotel luggage storage is typically offered, allowing you to travel light and explore without encumbrance. Read about luggage policies on European trains.

New Budget Options

Starting in 2026, budget-friendly rail operators will expand service from Amsterdam, making regional and international train travel more affordable. Consider planning trips to take advantage of these new offerings.

Neighborhoods for Exploration

Stay in De Pijp (home to Albert Cuyp Market and local restaurants), the Canal Ring (romantic and walkable), or Amsterdam Noord (trendy and less touristy). Each neighborhood offers a distinct character and access to different train stations.

Culinary and Cultural Experiences

Amsterdam's food scene blends traditional Dutch cuisine (like bitterballen, poffertjes, and stroopwafels) with contemporary international dining. Train journeys to Germany allow you to sample regional specialties like schnitzel, pretzel culture, and distinctive German beers. The Eurostar service to London offers connections to British cuisine, while the Paris route provides access to French gastronomy.

Consider timing your train journeys to include on-board dining or to arrive in new cities at meal times. This way, you can discover local food culture immediately.

Why Well-Tailored Travel Recommends Amsterdam as Your Base

Amsterdam offers a rare combination: a destination city so appealing that 2-3 days of exploration feel essential, combined with extraordinary transportation connectivity to nearly every major Northern and Western European destination. The city's compact size, bicycle-friendly infrastructure, and distinctive character make it ideal for travelers who want to explore Europe while maintaining a stable home base. Efficient trains, remarkable new budget-friendly options emerging in 2026, and the city's irresistible charm ensure your journey is as memorable as the destinations you reach.

With Amsterdam as your base, you can embark on unique, stress-free adventures, discovering hidden gems and creating unforgettable memories without the hassle of planning.