Train service
SNCF
SNCF is France’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, regional, and international TGV services across Europe.
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s national railway company, operating long-distance, regional, and international train services across Europe.
Leo Express
Leo Express is a Czech private transport company offering train and bus services in Central Europe, partly owned by Spain’s Renfe.
OBB
ÖBB is Austria’s national rail operator, known for its Railjet trains and Europe’s largest night train network, Nightjet.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
When traveling by train from Berlin to Amsterdam, the Interrail Global Pass is valid for residents of the EU, allowing them to travel through multiple countries, including Germany and the Netherlands. However, the Interrail One Country Pass would not be valid for this journey, as it covers travel within only one country, and the trip involves crossing a national border from Germany to the Netherlands. Non-EU residents can use the Eurail Pass, which permits travel across multiple countries in Europe, including the route from Berlin to Amsterdam.
Getting around
Arriving at Amsterdam's Centraal Station places you right at the heart of the city with various local transportation options to explore. The city boasts an extensive tram network, which is one of the most convenient ways to navigate central Amsterdam. Trams are frequent, with many lines passing through the busy locations, stopping right in front of or near the station, allowing for easy transfers to other parts of the city. The GVB operates both trams and the metro system. The metro is ideal for reaching the suburbs and areas further out, with four lines extending across and beyond the Amsterdam city limits. The main metro hub is also at Centraal Station, providing seamless continued travel once you arrive by train. Taxis in Amsterdam are readily available and easily recognizable; they can be hailed on the street or found at taxi stands. Using a taxi app is recommended to ensure you're getting an official taxi as Amsterdam's streets can be tricky to navigate, and prices can vary. Ridesharing services like Uber are also popular in Amsterdam, offering an alternative to traditional taxis with the convenience of app-based booking and payment. To make your journey stress-free, consider purchasing an OV-chipkaart, a rechargeable card that works across all public transportation modes in the Netherlands, allowing you to switch seamlessly between trams, metro, and buses. For shorter distances, Amsterdam is also renowned for being a bike-friendly city, with numerous rental options available at or around the station. This can be a fantastic way to explore the city's picturesque paths and canals at your own pace.
Onward connections
Amsterdam serves as a major hub for both domestic and international train travel. Domestically, trains connect Amsterdam to major Dutch cities like Rotterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, and Eindhoven. The frequent Intercity services operated by NS (Dutch Railways) ensure convenient and efficient travel across the Netherlands. For international connections, Amsterdam is linked with several destinations. The Thalys high-speed train provides direct routes to Paris and Brussels. The Eurostar connects Amsterdam to London, offering a seamless journey through the Channel Tunnel. For travel to Germany, the Intercity Express (ICE) service reaches cities like Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Frankfurt. The Nightjet service offers overnight travel between Amsterdam and Vienna, with stops in Munich and Innsbruck. Each of these connections provides comfort and efficiency, underscoring train travel as a popular choice for both domestic and international trips from Amsterdam.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Amsterdam is typically during the shoulder seasons of late spring (April to early June) and early fall (September to early October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds than the summer peak season. In spring, you can enjoy the beautiful tulip blooms, especially in nearby areas like Keukenhof Gardens, and celebrate King’s Day at the end of April, a major national holiday filled with festivities and street markets. Early fall offers another pleasant weather window and fewer tourists, which can often mean slightly lower prices on accommodations and attractions. Summer brings warmer weather ideal for outdoor activities like canal tours, but it's also the busiest season, which can lead to higher prices and crowded attractions. Winter, while less crowded and offering lower prices, tends to be cold and damp, but it’s a great time if you enjoy festive holiday markets and ice skating. Arriving by train allows easy access to Amsterdam year-round, so consider which factors like weather, events, and budget align best with your travel preferences.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Berlin to Amsterdam?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices from Berlin to Amsterdam are dynamic. Demand influences prices significantly. Peak travel times result in higher fares. Booking in advance generally offers lower prices. Ticket class affects the cost. Prices vary by train operator. Duration of the journey can influence cost. Special discounts may alter prices. Flexible tickets are often more expensive.
What trains run from Berlin to Amsterdam?
Deutsche Bahn operates trains from Berlin to Amsterdam. Flixbus operates buses from Berlin to Amsterdam. Leo Express does not operate on this route. OBB does not operate on this route. SNCF does not operate on this route.
How long does the train from Berlin to Amsterdam take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Berlin to Amsterdam takes 6–7.5 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Berlin to Amsterdam?
Travel midweek for fewer crowds. Tickets are usually cheaper then. Avoid holidays and weekends if possible. Early morning trains offer more availability. Off-peak times tend to be less crowded. Check for any local events affecting demand. Consider flexibility in your schedule.
What’s the best route or train to take from Berlin to Amsterdam?
Flixbus operates direct bus services from Berlin to Amsterdam. Deutsche Bahn does not operate direct train services on this route. Leo Express does not operate direct train services on this route. OBB does not operate direct train services on this route. SNCF does not operate services arriving from Berlin on this route.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Berlin to Amsterdam?
According to EveryRail, an Interrail Global Pass covers this route if you are a resident of the EU or an eligible European country. If you are not a resident of these areas, the Eurail Global Pass applies.