Berlin to Amsterdam by train

Traveling from Berlin to Amsterdam by train is now faster and more convenient than ever. Covering 399 miles, the journey takes just 5 hours and 51 minutes on direct daytime InterCity (IC) trains. Tickets start at €37.99 for second class and €56.99 for first class when booked in advance. For a more luxurious experience, first-class passengers enjoy larger seats, quieter compartments, and access to exclusive lounges.

Key Highlights:

• Fast Travel: Direct trains every two hours, with daytime and overnight options.
• Affordable Tickets: Advance fares as low as €37.99 for second class.
• Comfortable Trains: WiFi, power outlets, and air-conditioning onboard.
• Family-Friendly: Kids under 15 travel free with adults on Sparpreis tickets.
• Night Train Option: European Sleeper offers overnight service three times a week.

For those prioritizing flexibility, fully flexible tickets cost €170 (second class) and €298 (first class). Seat reservations are optional but recommended during busy travel times. Starting December 2025, modern ICE-L and ICE3neo trains with upgraded amenities will enhance this route even further.

Whether you’re looking for a scenic daytime ride or a relaxing overnight journey, the Berlin-Amsterdam train route offers a seamless and stress-free travel experience.

Train Tickets and Classes

Travel Classes

InterCity trains on the Berlin–Amsterdam route offer two travel classes: first and second. Starting December 2025, ICE-L trains with upgraded features will also operate on this route.

Second Class includes:

• Comfortable standard seating
• Power outlets at every seat
• WiFi access
• Onboard restrooms
• Access to the restaurant car

First Class offers extra benefits:

• Larger seats with more legroom
• A quieter atmosphere
• Free seat reservations with Full-Flex tickets
• Access to NS International Lounges in Amsterdam, Schiphol, and Rotterdam with complimentary drinks, as well as DB Lounges in Berlin (Flexpreis tickets only)

Ticket Types

Here’s a breakdown of the ticket options for this route:

Family-Friendly Perks:

• Kids under 6 travel free without needing a ticket.
• Kids under 15 travel free with adults holding Sparpreis tickets.

Rail Passes

Eurail Pass holders can use their passes on this route. While seat reservations aren’t required, they’re a smart choice during busy times like weekends, holidays, or when traveling in groups.

Seat reservation costs:

• Second class: €5.20
• First class: €6.50

Next, we’ll cover the train operators running these services.

Berlin to Amsterdam With DB Intercity

Train Companies

Three major railway operators connect Berlin and Amsterdam, each offering unique services and features.

Deutsche Bahn Services

Deutsche Bahn (DB) runs the main daytime service with InterCity (IC) trains departing every two hours between Berlin Hauptbahnhof and Amsterdam Centraal. These trains include:

• Air-conditioned carriages with comfortable seating
• Power outlets available at seats
• Refreshment trolley service (replacing the bistro car as of December 2023)
• WiFi (currently being installed)
• Bicycle spaces (advance booking required)

Starting in December 2025, DB will introduce modern ICE3neo trains on this route. These trains will feature upgraded amenities, such as a full restaurant car and free WiFi throughout the journey. For those preferring overnight travel, European Sleeper offers an alternative option.

European Sleeper Night Trains

European Sleeper operates overnight services three times a week between Berlin and Amsterdam, providing a relaxed way to travel while you sleep. Their trains offer the following options:

Nederlandse Spoorwegen Trains

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) works alongside Deutsche Bahn to run this international route. This partnership ensures seamless ticketing, coordinated schedules, integrated customer service, and access to NS International lounges for first-class passengers.

Routes and Times

The Berlin–Amsterdam rail corridor offers several daily connections, including both daytime and overnight services.

Day Trains

Direct InterCity (IC) trains complete the trip in 5 hours and 51 minutes for most departures, with one slightly longer service. Departures from Amsterdam are as follows:

If you’re interested in traveling overnight, check out the Night Trains schedule below.

Night Trains

European Sleeper operates overnight services three times a week in both directions:

• Amsterdam to Berlin: Departs at 10:34 PM on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, arriving at 6:18 AM the next day (7h 44m).
• Berlin to Amsterdam: Departs at 10:56 PM on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, arriving at 6:26 AM the next day (7h 30m).

Other Routes

Direct trains stop at key cities along the way, including:

• Amersfoort
• Deventer
• Hengelo
• Osnabrück
• Hannover

Note: Track work between June 7 and August 8, 2025, may cause longer travel times ^[1].

For those looking to save time, an alternative route via Hannover can shave off 12 minutes, though it requires a connection. This option offers more flexibility depending on your travel needs.

How to Book and Prices

Train Company Websites

For the best experience, book directly through official railway websites. Deutsche Bahn’s international portal (int.bahn.de) provides an easy-to-use platform with features like interactive seat maps for choosing your seat, digital tickets you can display on your phone or print, and simple ticket management via your account. Alternatively, you can use NS International (nsinternational.nl), though it doesn’t offer seat selection.

Ticket Prices

Once you’ve picked your booking site, here’s a breakdown of ticket options and costs:

Other Booking Options

You can also buy tickets in person at stations in Berlin and Amsterdam. These ticket counters accept cash and major credit cards. If you’d rather go digital, you can print your ticket at home, display it on your mobile device, or use the DB Navigator app for added convenience.

Ways to Save Money

Early Booking

Plan ahead and book your tickets up to 12 months in advance to snag Sparpreis fares. These start at around $41 for second class and $62 for first class, but they’re only available in limited numbers for specific departures. Besides booking early, choosing off-peak travel times and taking advantage of discounts can help you save even more.

Off-Peak Travel

Can’t book in advance? Adjusting your travel schedule can still cut costs. Tickets during off-peak hours are generally cheaper than those during high-demand times. Traveling mid-week or opting for very early morning or late-night departures often results in lower fares. On the other hand, fully flexible tickets (Flexpreis) tend to cost about $170 in second class and $298 in first class.

Discounts and Deals

Here are some ways to save even more on your trip:

• BahnCard Discounts: If you’re planning multiple trips, getting a BahnCard can be worth it. BahnCard holders enjoy a 25% discount on the German portion of international routes, which can be especially helpful for flexible tickets.
• Family Travel Perks: Kids under 6 ride free on all trains. Plus, children under 15 can travel for free when accompanied by an adult who has purchased a Sparpreis ticket.
• Split Ticketing: Breaking your journey into segments can lead to cheaper fares. For instance, booking separate tickets for Amsterdam–Bad Bentheim and Bad Bentheim–Berlin might save you money. It takes a bit more effort but can pay off.

"Sparpreis fares have limited availability and are only valid for the specific departure booked" ^[1]

To get the best deal, combine early booking with off-peak travel and any discounts you’re eligible for.

Extra Costs and Rules

Seat Reservations

While seat reservations on Deutsche Bahn are optional, they’re often a smart choice, especially during busy travel times. The fees are as follows:

• Second Class:
  • Individual seat: $5.30
  • Family reservation: $10.60
• First Class:
  • Individual seat: $6.40
  • Family reservation: $12.80

Family reservations come at a discounted rate, making them a budget-friendly option for group travel.

Changes and Refunds

The cancellation process and fees vary based on the type of ticket you purchase. Here’s a breakdown:

• Super Saver Tickets: Non-refundable.
• Saver Tickets: A $10.80 fee applies, and refunds are issued as e-vouchers.
• Flexible Tickets:
  • More than 8 days before travel: Free cancellation.
  • 7 to 1 day before travel: $10.80 fee per ticket.
  • Day of travel: $32.40 fee per ticket.
• Group Tickets: A $20.50 fee applies per group if canceled up to 7 days before departure.

For added convenience, cancellations can be processed instantly via the DB Navigator app or on the website (int.bahn.de) within 3 hours of purchase, as long as the ticket was bought at least one day before travel.

If your train is expected to arrive 20 minutes or more behind schedule, you have the option to either reschedule or continue your journey on another train without additional charges.

Family Tickets

Children can travel for free when accompanied by an adult, making it an economical choice for families. Seat reservation fees for children are:

• Second Class: $5.30
• First Class: $6.40

During busy travel periods, reserving seats ensures that families can sit together comfortably.

Quick Tips

Here’s how to make your trip smoother and more efficient:

• Book early to lock in the best rates. Check the pricing and booking sections for all the details you need.
• Travel during off-peak hours. Trains depart roughly every two hours, with travel times averaging 5 hours and 51 minutes. Off-peak times often mean cheaper tickets and fewer passengers.
• Reserve a seat during busier times, and use Deutsche Bahn’s journey planner to stay updated on any track maintenance or schedule changes.
• Download the DB Navigator app to monitor your train’s real-time status and stay informed throughout your trip.
• Keep in mind key stops like Hannover, Wolfsburg, and Bad Bentheim, which make great points for breaks or adjustments to your travel plans.

These tips can help you travel smarter and more comfortably!

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