european train tours from amsterdam

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Train & Rail Tours & Trips in Europe

Explore Europe with a train adventure that will take through world-renowned locations such as France (Paris), Italy (Rome, Venice and Florence) or the beautiful city of Prague. If you feel like going even further, Spain (Barcelona and Madrid) are a great choice. While you're in Europe, don't miss out on London and discover everything it can offer.

113 Train & Rail tour packages in Europe with 983 reviews

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Eco-Comfort - Tour Of Italy By Train

When we landed in Venice, we had to find our own transportation to the hotel in Venice. We chose the Agunalinia public airport waterbus service. Our hotel was the last stop. The waterbus is only permitted to travel at 11 knots per hour. The speed is policed as waves are know to cause structural damage. We did see private boats and water taxi services speeding merily along. Our transfer took 55 minutes, which could have been accomplished in 15. The end of our tour out of Sorrento, we had excellent service with a train station pick up, and hotel to airport drop off. We were perplexed as to why such a transfer service could not have been included and arranged for the Venice section of the tour. We were quoted 60 Euros for a private Venice airport to hotel transfer. Having never visited Venice before, we opted for the local public airport bus, at our loss. Belle Arti Venice hotel did not have any irons and did not permit the use of one. The pillows were like brocks. The young breakfast staff were courteous and polite, yet the female front desk person, and older breakfast lady were curt and dismissive. The Executive Hotel in Florence was splendid in its unabashed luxury. We were placed in a lovely room which had a balustrade of curtains across the top of the window and a draped wall to ceiling gathered sheet hanging from a gold bar at the back top of the bed. Adrian, the front desk clerk spoke exceptional English and was well versed in Montelcino and Montelpuliciano wines. His colleague, the bar hostess, was also very accommodating with evening tapas sellections and Prosecco tastings. One note to make about the added-on tour to Montelcino and Montelpuliciano, would be to not have the Montelcino wine tastings take place at 11:00 a.m., then the long stair climbing experience in Montelpuliciano. Have these two town experiences reversed, saving the Montelcino tastings for the end of the tour, leaving energy to climb for the morning part of the tour. There were no tastings in Montelpuliciano, other than privately sourced. Service and the room at the Hotel Astoria in Sorrento were fabulous. Franco picked us up at the train station, and allowed for a quick photo taking option on the way into Sorrento. Alfonzo, both bell hops were congenial, friendly and very helpful. Roberta, the front desk clerk was always ready to assist in locating information from her computer. Raquela was a treat to speak with, who told me about the hotel's arrangement with a private beach club, allowing hotel guests a discounted rate, and the loan of a beach towel. Luigi was our boat captain for the add-on Capris tour. Unfortunately, while this tour does state snorkeling would be included, there were only a small supply of snorkel masks on board, and no snorkels or flippers. Luigi was a very skilled driver taking us well into the grottos. The tour did not have any limoncello tasting as stated in the description, nor was there a stop at or a viewing of the Amalfi coast. Four hours on Capris was lengthy given that we were expecting free time on the Amalfi beach.

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Berlin to Venice (15 Days) (including Salzburg)

Glacier Express & Porsche 911 Rail & Drive Experience

• In-depth Cultural

Berlin to Rome

Overal a great experience, the guides ensure you have an authentic experience and take care of the difficult parts of traveling. It's a long trip and designed for those wanting to see much of central Europe in a short amount of time. I have taken away many good memories with the people I travelled with, and have formed a deeper understanding of western art, history and culture. Highly recommend.

Mediterranean Express: Rivieras & Railroads

Hey is anyone going on the Mediterranean Express trip on 8th September, looking to get to know my fellow travellers a little before I arrive! :)

Central Europe Group Rail Tour (18-35)

I am so happy I took this trip! I love that there is a planned activity in each city but you also get free days to explore on your own or with new friends. Every city was stunning and I met some great people as well. The thing that made me want to leave a review the most was honesty our tour leader , Cristina was a delight and a perfect balance for our group. She made this trip more memorable then I could have imagined and had great tips for each city too!!!!! Truly an unforgettable experience I would highly recommend. I wish I did the whole Europe tour instead of just central Europe.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Paris to Barcelona: Tapas & Train Rides

European Romance

Whole of Europe Group Rail Tour (18-35)

Amazing!! Had the best time travelling around Europe with new people. Well worth the investment!!

Highlights of Europe (Classic, Summer, Start Amsterdam, End London, 13 Days)

Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre & Venice in 7 Days

It's been an experience of a lifetime for me! Met so many beautiful people and made many great memories! Our tour leaders/guides were beyond amazing! Big thanks to all of you - Emma and Dimitri (Amalfi Coast), Elisabetta (Buongiorno Italia) and Francesca (Cinque Terre & Pisa)! Everyone was super friendly, caring, fun, and helpful!

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Contrasts of Switzerland (8 Days)

Tour Director Colette was enthusiastic, knowledgeable and extremely helpful. Wellness Director Eric was also great keeping us 'blessed' with hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. We all returned home with negative Covid test results thanks to him. The weather was great and the scenery was spectacular!

London to Istanbul Rail Adventure

London to Istanbul Rail Adventure + Cappadocia Extension

Italy By Train

Our tour included a 2 day rail pass for Cinque Terre for a party of four, but it turns out what we received was only good for one day. We found this out when our tickets were checked by an official from TrenItalia. As a result we were each fined 55 Euros, plus we were required to purchase a ticket back to La Spezia. I have contacted Wingbuddy, but their after sales service is abysmal. They appear to be seriously understaffed. They no longer answer the phone for existing reservations, and they don't accept voicemail messages. As a result you need to send them an email, and it typically takes several days to get a response. This incident happened on Sept. 19, and as of Oct. 1 it has not been resolved. To date, I have received one email that says this will require investigation. While the rest of the experience was good, the poor customer service makes me very hesitant to recommend them.

What people love about Train & Rail Tours in Europe

Overall experience was excellent. The support staff was always available to answer any questions, as well as to provide vouchers for ad hoc optional tours that were selected during the excursion. Tour guides were knowledgeable. Hotels were very nice.

Overal a great experience, the guides ensure you have an authentic experience and take care of the difficult parts of traveling. It's a long trip and designed for those wanting to see much of central Europe in a short amount of time. I have taken away many good memories with the people I travelled with, and have formed a deeper understanding of western art, history and culture. Highly recommend.

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10 of the best train journeys in Europe, chosen by Lonely Planet

A new book on rail travel across the continent showcases gorgeous scenery, historic routes and adventures at a slower pace

R ailways in Europe are many things. With their grand stations, history and evocative destinations, they evoke a timelessness that is absent from the uniform experience of flying. In recent decades, high-speed services have complemented classic routes, while the demand for more climate-friendly travel has grown and new options have sprung up, including a recent wave of night trains.

Lonely Planet, which for nearly 50 years has championed a down-to-earth, connected style of travel, has produced a new Guide to Train Travel in Europe aimed at unlocking adventures by rail from any starting point on the continent. Here the authors pick fantastic journeys from the book.

Paris to Berlin – fast or slow

A well-established network of high-speed trains and a huge choice of slower options connects two of Europe’s great cities. A glorious three-country tour would allow you to head from Paris to Brussels, travelling on to Cologne via the space-age architecture of Liège-Guillemins station. Cologne’s cathedral is so close to the station you can hardly miss popping in before boarding an onward ICE German fast service to the capital, which takes less than five hours. To see more than the immediate surroundings of the station buildings in each city, book separate tickets for each leg at trainline.com , or add in a stop of a few hours or an overnight booking via Deutsche Bahn ( bahn.de ). A high-speed connection from Paris via Frankfurt is also possible.

Amsterdam to Vienna on the Nightjet

One of several recent additions to Europe’s sleeper train scene, the Nightjet service operated by Austrian Railways ( oebb.at ) departs every evening at 7pm or 7.30pm from Amsterdam. As you doze off, the train will trundle alongside the Rhine, passing Cologne and Koblenz, then continuing south-east through Germany and entering Austria at Passau. A 9.19am arrival in Vienna ensures time for a lie-in and breakfast. This train can easily be combined with the Eurostar service from London or a ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam , or from Harwich to Hoek van Holland .

Loop the loop in North Wales

Some of the world’s most beautiful narrow-gauge railways can be found in Wales and two of the best can be combined in a loop that takes in the mountains and coastal scenery of Snowdonia. Catch a service from Llandudno Junction – which has main line connections – down the Conwy valley to Blaenau Ffestiniog . Change for the celebrated Ffestiniog Railway , a distinctive steam-hauled service that winds 13 miles down to the coast at Porthmadog. Return via the sublime steam service of the Welsh Highland Railway under the summit of Snowdon to Caernarfon, where you can catch a bus to Bangor and main line services.

From Bastia to Ajaccio through the Corsican interior

The Chemins de Fer de la Corse ( Corsican Railways ) is a narrow-gauge railway centred on Ponte Leccia – from where three main lines head to Ajaccio, Bastia and Calvi, all providing incredible views of beautiful and rugged terrain. The route linking Ajaccio and Bastia is the longest and most celebrated, taking three and a half hours, so is best done with an overnight stop, rather than attempted as a day trip. Corsica is well served by ferries from mainland France such as Toulon, Marseille and Nice, opening up a tempting train-and-ferry route from the UK.

Dublin to Madrid by train and ferry

It is possible to head from Dublin direct to mainland Europe. A largely single-track line skirts the Irish Sea heading south as far as Wicklow before veering inland and stopping in the appealing county town of Wexford, set on the estuary of the River Slaney. It’s a short hop along the tracks from there to the port of Rosslare for the twice-weekly ferries to Bilbao , which take about 30 hours. Then it’s a five-hour rail journey on to Madrid. Recommended stops take in Burgos’s treasured cathedral, the former Spanish capital of Valladolid and Segovia’s Roman aqueduct and Alcázar fortress.

Venice to Palermo – across the water in Italy

Heading from top to toe in Italy, this dramatic journey’s potential stopping points need no introduction. Fast Frecciarossa trains connect Venice to the gastronomic centre of Bologna in 90 minutes, with Florence 40 minutes down the line. An hour and a half further on you’re in Rome. From here the south of Italy opens up. For one of Europe’s most unusual rail experiences take a train service all the way to Sicily. At Villa San Giovanni in Calabria, you and your carriage board a dedicated ferry to Messina, in Sicily, from where the hectic fun of Palermo is a slow-rolling four and a half hours’ ride away along the coast. There are several daily intercity and night services that run from the mainland, via the ferry, through to the Sicilian capital including sleepers direct from Milan, Genoa and Pisa.

From coast to coast, via a mountain high – Oslo to Bergen

A contender for Europe’s best train trip, the Bergen Line ( Bergensbanen ) thunders past southern Norway’s mountains and lakes between Oslo and Bergen, reaching 1,222m at Finse station, where a snowball fight is generally on offer. The trip takes nearly seven hours, which passes quickly in a blur of incredible scenery on a comfortable intercity service. There’s scope to do a longer version of this route taking the Norway in a Nutshell tour, which includes the Flåm Railway – possibly the world’s most scenic branch line – and a boat journey through Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord.

Paris to Barcelona on the slow train

These cities are linked by a fast train , but there’s a leisurely route south through France to the Pyrenees via Limoges, Toulouse and through magnificent rural and mountain scenery to Latour-de-Carol. While it’s possible to reach Latour-de-Carol by direct night train from Paris, you would miss the slowly unfolding views you can enjoy when doing this journey in daylight. From Latour-de-Carol a commuter line runs all the way to Barcelona and takes just over three hours. Possible stops along the way include fortified Ribes de Freser and Ripoll, home to an ancient monastery and a good starting point for hiking trails.

Budapest to Split on a sleeper

During the summer there’s a tempting night service between Hungary’s capital and the Adriatic. In recent years the train has left Budapest at midnight, getting into Split after lunch. En route it passes the Hungarian holiday playground of Lake Balaton and Zagreb, Croatia’s capital. Once on the Adriatic coast, buses head south to Dubrovnik, while ferries and catamarans radiate out to nearby islands.

Locarno to Domodossola through the Swiss Alps

Pretty much any journey in Switzerland promises jaw-dropping scenery, and on several routes trains run slowly specifically to show off the mountains, rivers and lakes that can be seen from the window. Travelling between Locarno in Switzerland to Domodossola in the Piedmont region of Italy, the Centovalli (Hundred Valleys) Railway is a short but scenic service past 52km of waterfalls, chestnut groves, church-topped villages, deep ravines and vineyards. Highlights include the Isorno Bridge near the village of Intragna and Intragna’s gorge.

These routes, plus tips on rail travel, are featured in Lonely Planet’s Guide to Train Travel in Europe by Tom Hall, Imogen Hall and Oliver Smith (£19.99), available at shop.lonelyplanet.com

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     Select your destination... Elsewhere in the Netherlands... A Coruna Aix en Provence Algeciras Alicante Andorra Angers Antwerp Athens Avignon Barcelona Basel (Basle) Belgrade Berlin Bern (Berne) Biarritz Bled (Slovenia) Bordeaux Brasov Bratislava Brno Bruges (Brugge) Brussels Bucharest Budapest Cannes Cesky Krumlov Cologne Copenhagen Cordoba Corfu Dresden Dortmund Dublin & Ireland Dusseldorf Essen Florence Frankfurt Geneva Gibraltar Ghent Gothenburg Granada Hamburg Hanover Heidelberg Helsinki & Finland Ibiza Innsbruck Interlaken Istanbul Karlovy Vary Katowice Koblenz Kosice Krakow Kyiv & Ukraine Lausanne Le Mans Legoland (Denmark) Leipzig Linz Lisbon Ljubljana London & UK Lourdes Luxembourg Luzern (Lucerne) Madrid Malaga Mallorca Malmo Marseille Milan Monaco - Monte Carlo Montenegro - Podgorica, Bar Montreux Moscow Munich Naples Nantes Nice Nuremberg Odense Oslo & Norway Osnabruck Palma de Mallorca Paris Plzen Poprad Tatry Prague Rennes Riga Rijeka Rome St Moritz St Petersburg Salzburg San Sebastian Santiago de Compostela Seville Sighisoara Sofia Stockholm Strasbourg Stuttgart Tallinn Toulon Toulouse Valencia Venice Verona Vienna Vigo Vilnius Warsaw Wroclaw Zurich Zagreb & Croatia Zermatt

       I want to start from another Dutch town or city

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       Amsterdam Centraal station guide

      Recommended hotels in Amsterdam

Where to wait for your train at Amsterdam Centraal:   With a 1st class international ticket including an Interrail or Eurail pass, you can use the NS Lounge at Amsterdam Centraal .  With any class of ticket, I recommend the beautifully retro Grand Cafe 1e Klas on platform 2B for a beer, coffee or meal before your train.  Give my regards to the cockatoo on the bar!

Before you buy your tickets

Take a moment to read these tips for buying European train tickets .  They answer the usual questions, "Do I need to book in advance or can I just buy at the station?", "Can I stop off?", "Are there Senior fares?" and that old favourite, "Should I buy an $800 railpass or just buy a €39 point-to-point ticket online?".   How far ahead can you buy train tickets?

European train travel FAQ

Starting from other dutch cities.

On this page I explain journeys assuming you are starting from Amsterdam, but you can start from anywhere in the Netherlands.

You can join the train at other stations

(1)  Eurostar (formerly Thalys) trains from Amsterdam to Brussels & Paris also pick up at Rotterdam Centraal .

(2)  Intercity trains from Amsterdam to Osnabrück & Berlin also pick up at Hilversum, Amersfoort, Apeldoorn, Deventer, Almelo, Hengelo.

(3)  ICE trains from Amsterdam to Düsseldorf, Cologne & Frankfurt also pick up at Utrecht & Arnhem.

(4)  Nightjet sleepers from Amsterdam to Zurich, Munich, Innsbruck & Vienna also pick up at Utrecht & Arnhem.

(5)  The European Sleeper to Berlin & Prague also picks up at Roosendaal, Rotterdam Centraal , Den Haag HS, Schiphol, Amersfoort, Deventer.

You can book from almost any station in the Netherlands

On this page I explain how to book from Amsterdam.  Here's how to book if you are starting at another Dutch city:

(1)  Journeys heading to or through Germany, where I say book at int.bahn.de :

The German Railways website int.bahn.de can book from almost any Dutch station at an inclusive price.  So if I say 'Book from Amsterdam to Munich' and you were travelling from Groningen, book from Groningen to Munich and it'll work out connecting trains & issue a Groningen to Munich through ticket for one inclusive price.

Tickets are normally good for any train on the Dutch domestic section, I'd take an earlier train than the one the system suggests in case of delay.  Better a 35-minute connection & a coffee than a missed 5-minute connection.

(2)  Journeys to or via Brussels or Paris:

www.raileurope.com , www.thetrainline.com , www.nsinternational.nl can book you from anywhere in the Netherlands just as easily as Amsterdam.  In this case they add a separate ticket for the Dutch domestic train.

www.sncf-connect.com can book the Eurostar trains from Amsterdam & Rotterdam to Brussels, Paris & beyond, but can't book from other Dutch stations.

(3)  Journeys using Nightjet sleeper trains:

www.thetrainline.com , www.raileurope.com & www.oebb.at at can book Nightjet sleeper journeys to Switzerland, Munich & Austria from any Dutch station, not just from Amsterdam.  They add a separate ticket for the Dutch domestic connection.

However, when catching a sleeper I'd want at least 45 minutes between trains rather than the bare minimum the system allows, so take an earlier connecting train than the one the system shows.  The Dutch ticket will be good for any train that day.

Amsterdam to anywhere in the Netherlands

Intercity Direct supplement:  If you're travelling between Amsterdam (or Schiphol) and Rotterdam or Breda using a fast Intercity Direct (ICD) train, these use the high-speed line and you need to pay a small Intercity Direct supplement.  You can pay this at a ticket machine or by touching your contactless bank card against one of the special Intercity Direct supplement validator posts on the platform.

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Amsterdam to London & UK

Option 1, Amsterdam to London by Eurostar from £40 - just 4 hours centre to centre at up to 300 km/h

www.nsinternational.nl can book from any Dutch station, not just Amsterdam.  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead for Eurostar, up to 4 months ahead for an journey involving Thalys.  You print out your own ticket or can show a mobile ticket on your phone.  You can also book at www.thetrainline.com .

Buy onward tickets from London to other British towns & cities at www.thetrainline.com .

You collect tickets from the self-service ticket machines or in many cases you can print them out or show it on your phone.

If you're booking a train-specific Advance fare and your onward train leaves from St Pancras, Kings Cross or Euston, I'd allow at least 1 hour between Eurostar arrival and any onward train to allow for delay, even though it only takes 3 minutes to walk across the road to Kings Cross or 10 minutes to walk to Euston.  I'd allow 90 minutes if booking a train-specific Advance fare and your onward train goes from Paddington, Waterloo or Liverpool Street as then you'll need to change stations by Underground or taxi.

Option 2, Amsterdam to London & Cambridge by train+ferry - the ferry alternative, with overnight 'sleeper' option

The ferry is a floating hotel with private cabins, restaurant, bar, lounges, shop & kennels.

Above left, a standard outside cabin.  Larger photo .   360º photo .  Above right, the Stena Plus lounge with complimentary red & white wine, tea, coffee & snacks.

Above left, the bar on 9 deck. Above right, a Captain's Class cabin with complimentary minibar, toilet & shower.

Amsterdam to Hull or Newcastle

Amsterdam to dublin & ireland.

Option 1, Amsterdam to Dublin via London & Holyhead - daily departures

Fares from Amsterdam to London start at £51 one-way or £98 return.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book from Amsterdam to London at www.eurostar.com .

Option 2, Amsterdam to Dublin via Paris & Cherbourg - several departures a week

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Paris by Eurostar (formerly Thalys) , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 06:15 Mondays-Fridays arriving Paris Gare du Nord  09:35.

Eurostar trains have 3 classes, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, see more about Eurostar (formerly Thalys) .  You need to allow at least 1 hour between trains in Paris, ideally a bit more.  There's no train early enough at weekends, so travel to Paris the previous evening and stay overnight.  Indeed, you may choose to do this anyway, to make absolutely sure of catching the train to Cherbourg that connects with the ferry.

Step 2, travel from Paris to Dublin, taking a late morning train from Paris St Lazare to Cherbourg and the overnight ferry to Dublin.

Irish Ferries ( www.irishferries.com ) from Cherbourg to Dublin several times each week, usually leaving Cherbourg in late afternoon and arriving Dublin late morning next day (Day 2).

Amsterdam to Paris in 3h20 from €35, www.eurostar.com

Eurostars run at up to 300 km/h (186 mph) on the high-speed line.  They're carpeted & air-conditioned, with power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  They have 3 classes: Standard (2nd class), Comfort (1st class) & Premium (1st class with at-seat food & wine included in the fare and access to lounges in Paris & Brussels).  More about Eurostar (formerly Thalys) .

You can also buy tickets at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .  There's a small booking fee, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, and as they sell tickets for multiple operators including trains in France, Spain & Italy you can keep all (or most) of your European train bookings together in one place.  About Raileurope .  About Thetrainline .

Amsterdam to Strasbourg

Eurostar trains have 3 classes, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  More about Eurostar (formerly Thalys) .

Tip:   Use www.raileurope.com , and click More options and enter Paris (any station) as a via station.  This ensures you are routed via Paris.  If you'd like a stopover in Paris, enter a suitable stopover duration.

Amsterdam to Bordeaux, Toulouse, Biarritz, Lourdes, Nantes, Brittany

Option 1, via Paris - involves changing trains & stations in Paris, but the fastest, most frequent & usually cheapest option

Amsterdam to Paris starts at €35 in 2nd class (standard) or €79 in 1st class (comfort).

Paris to French cities starts at €25 in 2nd class or €45 in 1st class.

Option 2, avoiding Paris - less frequent, takes longer, usually costs more, but avoids crossing Paris if that's important to you

Step 2, take one of the direct TGVs from Brussels Midi to Marne la Vallée-Chessy in around 2 hours.

Amsterdam to Lyon, Avignon, Marseille, Cannes, Nice & other French cities

Option 1, via Paris - involves changing trains & stations in Paris, but fastest, most frequent & usually cheapest

Paris to French cities starts at around €25 in 2nd class or €45 in 1st class.

You can buy tickets from Amsterdam to Nice, Lyon, Marseille, Montpellier & most other French destinations at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com , both easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee.

Booking opens up to 4 months ahead .  You print your own tickets or can select a mobile ticket to show on your phone.

Tip:   Before running the enquiry on www.raileurope.com , click More options and enter Paris (any station) as a via station to create a longer stopover in Paris.  You should allow at least 60 minutes between trains across Paris, ideally more.  If heading to Avignon, Marseille, Montpellier, Cannes or Nice, I recommend building in time for lunch at the amazing Train Bleu restaurant inside the Gare de Lyon .

Other ways to buy tickets

Alternatively, you can book from Amsterdam to major French cities as one transaction at the Dutch Railways international site www.nsinternational.nl .  You print your own tickets or can usually show it on your phone.

Option 2, avoiding Paris - avoids crossing Paris, but less frequent and usually costs more

Option 3, Amsterdam to Toulon, Cannes, Antibes, Nice using the Paris-Nice overnight train

The Intercité de Nuit overnight train has 1st class 4-berth couchettes, 2nd class 6-berth couchettes & reclining seats.  You can book a 1st class 4-berth compartment for sole occupancy by 1, 2 or 3 people if you like.  See more about Intercités de Nuit overnight trains .

Tip:   Book an earlier Eurostar and have dinner at the celebrated Train Bleu restaurant at the Gare de Lyon before strolling across the bridge over the Seine to the Gare d'Austerlitz in good time for your sleeper south.  Or see restaurant suggestions at the Gare d'Austerlitz .

How much does it cost?

Paris to the South of France starts at €19 in a reclining seat, €29 in a 2nd class couchette or €59 in a 1st class couchette.

How to buy tickets

Book at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com , both easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee.

Booking opens up to 4 months ahead , but often less than this for French overnight trains.  You print your own ticket or can show a mobile ticket on your phone.

Tip:   To make sure you have at least 90 minutes between trains in Paris, I'd book Brussels to Paris, add to basket, then Paris to Nice, add to basket & check out.  Otherwise by default the system allows as little as 40 minutes between trains in Paris which I consider too tight, especially when catching a sleeper you don't want to miss.

Tip:   To book a whole 4-berth couchette compartment for 1, 2 or 3 people, see the instructions on the Intercités de Nuit page .

Amsterdam to Brussels from €25, see the Amsterdam to Brussels page

You can easily travel from Amsterdam Centraal to Brussels by train in as little as 1 hours 53 minutes with departures every hour or two and fares from €30.  Train is the safe & comfortable way to go!  You'll find full details on the Amsterdam to Brussels page .

Amsterdam to Bruges from €29, see the Amsterdam to Bruges page

You can travel from Amsterdam Centraal to Ghent or Bruges by train in as little as 2h43 with departures every hour or so and fares from €30.  Train is the safe & comfortable way to go!  You'll find details on the Amsterdam to Bruges page .

Amsterdam to Antwerp

Option 1, Amsterdam to Antwerp by Eurostar (formerly Thalys) high-speed train - fastest, but less flexible

The fastest & most comfortable option is to take a Eurostar (formerly Thalys) from Amsterdam Centraal to Antwerp Centraal in 1h15, leaving every hour or two.

Eurostars run at up to 300 km/h with 3 classes, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, see more about Eurostar (formerly Thalys) .

You can also buy tickets at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .  There's a small booking fee, you can book in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, and as they sell tickets for multiple operators you can keep all (or most) of your European train bookings together in one place.  About Raileurope .  About Thetrainline .

Option 2, Amsterdam to Antwerp by Intercity train - a bit slower, more flexible

Amsterdam to Luxembourg from €35.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Luxembourg by Eurostar (formerly Thalys) to Brussels & InterCity to Luxembourg - fastest, most comfortable, expensive at short notice.

Eurostars run at up to 300 km/h with 3 classes, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, see more about Eurostar (formerly Thalys) .  There's no catering on the IC train from Brussels to Luxembourg so bring your own food & drink, but it's a nice run with some pretty scenery.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Luxembourg by Intercity (IC) trains - cheaper, more flexible

1.  Amsterdam Centraal to Brussels Midi by IC train then Brussels Midi to Luxembourg by IC train.  Takes 6h25 with just 1 change.

2.  Amsterdam Centraal to Maastricht by IC train, another IC train to Liege then local train to Luxembourg.  Takes 6h36 with 2 changes.

Amsterdam to Basel, Zurich, Geneva & Switzerland from €37.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Switzerland by Nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective option

This comfortable Nightjet train has two air-conditioned AB33 sleeping-cars , one running Amsterdam-Basel-Zurich and one Amsterdam-Basel.  Each sleeping-car has 11 compartments, each compartment can be sold as 1, 2 or 3 berth (single, double or triple) with washbasin.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has an Amsterdam-Basel-Zurich couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments and one or two Amsterdam-Basel couchette cars , plus ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  Watch the Amsterdam-Switzerland sleeper video .

Fares start at €49.90 in 6-berth couchettes, €59.90 in 4-berth couchettes, €89.90 in a 3-bed sleeper, €109.90 in a 2-bed sleeper or €159.90 in a single-bed sleeper, all per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this train at www.oebb.at .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead , sometimes less.  Child under 6?  See here .

Tip:   This train may be listed in the search results twice, once as an IC with seats, once as an NJ with couchettes/sleepers.  Choose the latter!

Option 2, Amsterdam to Switzerland by high-speed train from €37.90 upwards - the fast daytime option

Option 3, Amsterdam to Switzerland by classic train via the scenic Rhine Valley - the slower, scenic daytime option

Step 2, travel from Dusseldorf to Switzerland by Swiss EuroCity train, leaving Düsseldorf at 10:27 arriving Basel SBB 15:36 & Zurich HB 17:00.

This  EuroCity train (EC9) has spacious & comfortable Swiss Federal Railways cars and an elegant Swiss restaurant car, and a superb Swiss 1st class panorama car, see the photos below.

Tip:   By default, the ticketing system suggests the 08:08 from Amsterdam as connecting with EuroCity train EC9 which gives a tight 7-minute connection.  That connection works most of the time, but a 10-minute delay and you're toast.  If you're serious about using this route, and especially if you're booked into the lovely 1st class panorama car, I'd play safe and take the earlier train.  Have a nice breakfast in Düsseldorf!

Option 4, Amsterdam to Switzerland with overnight stop in Cologne - comfortable & time-effective

Amsterdam to Switzerland starts at €37.90 in 2nd class or €59.90 in 1st class.

Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Option 5, Amsterdam to Switzerland by high-speed trains via Paris - a useful option, especially to Geneva or Lausanne, involves crossing Paris.

Option 6, Amsterdam to Switzerland by Eurostar to Brussels, direct TGV to Lyon, and local train to Geneva.  Saves crossing Paris, good for Geneva.

Amsterdam to Venice, Florence, Rome, Milan & Italy from €69

Option 1, Amsterdam to Italy using the daily Amsterdam-Zurich sleeper train - a time-effective sleeper then a scenic daytime ride

Book this train at www.oebb.at .  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead , sometimes less.  Child under 6?  See here .

Step 2, travel from Zurich to Milan by EuroCity train , leaving Zurich HB at 09:33 arriving Milan Centrale at 12:50.

The EuroCity train has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & fee WiFi.  It's a lovely ride across Switzerland through the Alps past various lakes.  The magnificent Milan Centrale is a landmark in its own right.

Update: A freight train derailed in the Gotthard Base Tunnel in August 2023, in 2024 trains are still being diverted over the original (very scenic) Gotthard line taking an extra hour and with fewer departures.  Whilst this continues, you'll need to leave Zurich HB at 10:33 arriving Milan Centrale at 14:50.  Check times online.  Do not risk a connection with the 08:33 in case the sleeper is late.

Milan to Venice or Florence starts at €19.90 in 2nd class or €39.90 in 1st class.  Milan to Rome or Naples starts at €19.90 in 2nd class or €39.90 in 1st class.  Book from Zurich to anywhere in Italy as shown above.

Step 1, Amsterdam to Zurich by Nightjet sleeper train .  This is the sleeping-car boarding at Amsterdam Centraal.  More about Nightjets .  Watch the video .

Step 2, Zurich to Milan by EuroCity train, through the Alps.  Operated by a modern Giruno train, seen here boarding at Zurich HB.  The train passes through the Gotthard Base Tunnel , the world's longest rail tunnel, the transit takes just 20 minutes.

Step 3, Milan to Venice, Florence, Rome or Naples by high-speed Frecciarossa .  This is a Frecciarossa 1000 at Rome Termini .  More about Frecciarossas & explanation of the 4 classes .

Option 2, Amsterdam to Milan in a single day.  Overnight stop, then Milan to Verona, Venice, Florence, Rome or Naples next morning

Stay overnight in Milan :  Affordable hotels with good or great reviews just outside Milan Centrale include the Hotel Bristol , Hotel Bernina , 43 Station Hotel , B&B Hotel Milano Central Station , Guesthouse Teodora .  Pricier more upmarket hotels include HD8 Hotel , Glam Hotel , Made to Measure Business , Starhotel Echo or Starhotel Anderson .

Amsterdam to Basel starts at €37.90 in 2nd class or €69.90 in 1st class.

Step 2, book from Basel SBB to Milan looking for the early evening Basel-Milan EuroCity (EC) train, and add to basket.

For the Amsterdam-Basel train you simply print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.  Basel to Milan is ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone.  Quicker journeys with more or tighter connections are possible, but this is the option I'd recommend.  It'll let you book Amsterdam to Milan in one go, but it may then suggest some tighter-than-desirable connections in Basel.

Step 3, if going beyond Milan, now book from Milan to your final destination for the following day.  Add to basket and check out.

Option 3, Amsterdam to Italy using the Stuttgart-Venice sleeper train - Time-effective, with dinner in Stuttgart

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Stuttgart by comfortable ICE train .

Until 15 July 2024, leave Amsterdam Centraal at 12:38, change at Düsseldorf, arriving Stuttgart Hbf 19:22.

From 16 July 2024, leave Amsterdam Centraal at 12:38, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf , arriving Stuttgart Hbf 18:38.

The ICE trains have a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  I recommend the Erdinger Weissbier!  By all means book the earlier 10:38 departure to have more time in Stuttgart.

Fares start at €37.90 in 2nd class or €69.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, will allow you to buy all your tickets in one place, small booking fee) or the German Railways int.bahn.de .  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or show it on your laptop or phone. 

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Fares start at €59.90 in 6-berth couchettes, €69.90 in 4-berth couchettes, €89.90 in a 3-bed sleeper, €109.90 in a 2-bed sleeper or €159.90 in a single-bed sleeper, all per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at (in €, same prices).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket.  Child under 6?  See here .

Option 4, Amsterdam to Italy using the sleeper train from Munich to Milan, Verona, Bologna, Florence, Rome - time-effective, with dinner in Munich

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Munich, leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 10:38, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf , arriving Munich Hbf at 18:07.

By all means book an earlier train and have more time in Munich.  You travel on luxurious German ICE trains with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Book this at www.thetrainline.com (this allows you to book all your tickets in one place, in €, £ or $, small booking fee) or at the German Railways website int.bahn.de (in €, no fee).

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

Each portion of this comfortable Austrian Nightjet train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet.  There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at (in €, same fares).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket.  Child under 6?  See here .

Step 3, onward trains from Rome to Naples, Rome to Sicily or La Spezia to Cinque Terre (for example) can be booked separately at either www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, recognisees English place-names) or www.italiarail.com (easy to use, recognises English place names, the small booking fee will be refunded if you email them at [email protected] afterwards) or Italian Railways' own website www.trenitalia.com (more fiddly, requires Italian language place names, read this advice on using it first ).  Booking for Italian trains normally opens 4 months ahead.

Option 5, Amsterdam to Italy using the Amsterdam-Innsbruck sleeper train and the scenic Brenner route - scenic & time-effective

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Innsbruck by Nightjet sleeper train , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 19:00 arriving Innsbruck Hbf at 09:14.

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Departure from Amsterdam Centraal is at 19:00 on some dates, check when booking.

Tip:   If you have a sleeper ticket or a 1st class ticket for the onward train, you can use the ÖBB Lounge at Innsbruck Hbf between trains, with free WiFi and complimentary tea, coffee, soft drinks & snacks.

Step 2, travel from Innsbruck to Italy by EuroCity train , leaving Innsbruck Hbf 11:24, arriving Verona P. Nuova 14:58 & Bologna Centrale 16:19.

This comfortable Austrian EuroCity train has a restaurant car for lunch, treat yourself!  It travels through the scenic Brenner Pass, a treat, see the Brenner Pass photos & video .

Tip:   Don't risk a tight connection with the earlier 09:24 EuroCity to Verona, I'd play safe and stick with the 11:24.

Change at Verona Porta Nuova for Venice.  Change at Bologna Centrale for Florence, Rome & Naples. 

Fares from Innsbruck Verona or Bologna (or, on the direct train, Venice) start at €29.90 in 2nd class or €59.90 in 1st class.

Fares from Bologna to Florence or Rome start at €19.90 in 2nd class or €39.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Step 1, book the nightjet sleeper from Amsterdam to Innsbruck at www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or at the Dutch Railways international website www.nsinternational.nl (in €).  Look for the train marked NJ (Nightjet) with 0 changes. Booking opens up to 6 months ahead and you print your own ticket.  Child under 6?  See here .

Step 2, now use www.thetrainline.com again to book from Innsbruck to Florence, Rome, Naples or anywhere in Italy.  This connects to both the German, Austrian and Italian ticketing systems so you can book this as one transaction all in one place.  You print your own ticket for the Austrian train and the Italian high-speed trains are ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone.  There's a small booking fee.  The Austrian trains open for booking up to 6 months ahead, Italian trains may only open for booking up to 4 months ahead.

Option 6, Amsterdam to Italy via the Gotthard route - with overnight stop in Heidelberg.

The easiest way to book from Heidelberg to anywhere in Italy is at www.raileurope.com , click More options and enter Basel SBB as a via point.  You can pay in €, £ or $, there's a small booking fee.

Alternatively, first book from Heidelberg to Basel SBB at German Railways int.bahn.de (in €, no booking fee) then book from Basel to anywhere in Italy at either www.italiarail.com (easy to use, recognises English place names, payment in €, $, £, the small booking fee will be refunded if you email them at [email protected] ) or www.trenitalia.com (in €, requires Italian-language place names, see advice on using it ).

Option 7, Amsterdam to Italy via Munich & the scenic Brenner route - with overnight stop in Munich.

Amsterdam to Verona, Bologna or Venice when using a direct train from Munich starts at €46.90 in 2nd class, €99.90 in 1st class.

Verona to Venice or Florence starts at €19.90 in 2nd class or €29.90 in 1st class.

Option 8, Amsterdam to Italy via Paris from €64.  Fast & comfortable, but involves crossing Paris by metro or taxi

This route is slightly faster than the route via Germany, if you don't mind changing trains & stations in Paris by taxi or RER express metro.

Stay overnight in Turin or Milan.  Both cities make a great stopover, but Turin is lovely. 

In Turin I suggest the Hotel Torino Porta Susa or Hotel Diplomatic or small Al Porta Susa B&B , all right next to Turin Porta Susa station where the Frecciarossa arrives and where your onward train leaves next morning, with good or great reviews.  Alternatively, the excellent Turin Palace Hotel is in the centre right next to Porta Nuova station.  It's a 7 minute taxi ride, 3-stop €1.50 metro ride or 20 minute walk from Porta Susa, but next morning you can board your train to Venice, Florence, Rome or Naples at Porta Nuova station where these trains start their journey. 

In Milan, affordable hotels & guesthouses with good or great reviews just outside Milan Centrale include the Hotel Bristol , Hotel Bernina , 43 Station Hotel , B&B Hotel Milano Central Station , Guesthouse Teodora .

Amsterdam to Paris start at €35 in 2nd class (standard) or €79 in 1st class (comfort).

Paris to Turin or Milan start at €29 in 2nd class (standard), €36 in 1st class (business) or €165 in executive class with food included.

Turin or Milan to Venice or Florence starts at €19.90 in 2nd class or €29.90 in 1st class.

First book Amsterdam to Turin or Milan and add to basket.  You can book this as one journey, but I recommend clicking More options and entering Paris as a via station with a stopover duration of at least 1 hour.  You should always allow at least 60 minutes between trains in Paris, ideally more.  Then book from Turin or Milan to your Italian destination for the following day, add to basket and check out.

Alternatively, travel Amsterdam-Paris on day 1, stay overnight, then travel Paris-Italy on day 2

Take an early evening Eurostar (formerly Thalys) from Amsterdam Centraal to Paris Gare du Nord , stay overnight in Paris ( see suggested hotels near the Gare du Nord & Gare de Lyon ), then take the early morning Frecciarossa leaving Paris Gare de Lyon at 07:25 for Turin & Milan ( see the timetable here ).  Change in Milan Centrale for Venice, Florence, Rome or Naples.

Amsterdam to Barcelona , Madrid & Spain from €74

Option 1, Amsterdam to Barcelona in a single day.  Onwards to Madrid, Alicante, Malaga, Granada or Seville next day

Step 2, travel from Paris to Barcelona by TGV Duplex , leaving Paris Gare de Lyon at 14:42 arriving Barcelona Sants at 21:27.

This impressive 320 km/h (199 mph) double-deck TGV Duplex has a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  I recommend an upper deck seat for the best views, any seat number >60 is upper deck.

It's a scenic ride, the train passes Beziers cathedral, flamingos on the lakes between Montpelier & Narbonne, the historic Fort de Salses right by the tracks before Perpignan, with great views of the imposing 2,784m Mt Canigou as the train rounds the southern end of the Pyrenees, see more photos & information about the journey .

Fares start at €39 in 2nd class or €59 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Stay overnight in Barcelona.  The Hotel Barcelo Sants is the top choice here, it's part of Barcelona Sants station so easy to use when arriving & departing by train, with great reviews & good feedback from Seat61 users.  See other suggested hotels near the station .

Step 3, travel from Barcelona to other Spanish destinations next morning.

For Madrid:   AVE-S103 high-speed trains link Barcelona Sants with Madrid Atocha every hour or two in as little as 2h30 from €35.

For Granada:   Leave Barcelona Sants at 06:45 by AVE S112 high-speed train arriving Granada at 13:10.

For Malaga:   Leave Barcelona Sants at 08:35 by AVE-S112 high-speed train arriving Malaga Maria Zambrano at 14:51.

For Cordoba & Seville:   Leave Barcelona Sants at 08:35 by AVE-S112 high-speed train arriving Cordoba 13:42 & Seville Santa Justa 14:32.

For Valencia & Alicante:   EuroMed trains link Barcelona Sants with Valencia & Alicante regularly through the day, for example one leaves Barcelona Sants at 07:15 Mondays-Saturdays arriving Valencia Joaquin Sorolla 10:10 & Alicante 12:38 or at 10:15 every day arriving Valencia Joaquin Sorolla 13:13 & Alicante 15:32.

For Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna & Vigo , there's a morning Alvia train to Galicia, see details here .

Book at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .  These sites can book from Amsterdam to Barcelona in one go as one easy transaction with print-your-own tickets for both trains, and they connect to the Spanish Railways (Renfe) system to sell onward tickets in Spain.

You can use www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com wherever you live, overseas credit cards no problem.  There's a small booking fee.

Booking for Eurostar & the TGV usually opens 4 months ahead .  Spanish domestic trains open for booking 60 days ahead , but this varies greatly and it can be less or more than this.

First book from Amsterdam to Barcelona.  In the search results, look for an option with just 1 change.

Tip:   If you want to stopover a few hours for lunch in Paris when using www.raileurope.com , just click More options and enter Paris , with a duration of however many hours you want.  In fact, I'd click More options and enter Paris anyway, as it'll then show separate prices either side of Paris and you can upgrade to 1st class if it's cheap to do so on one leg or the other, without having to upgrade throughout.  I'd allow at least 60 minutes between trains in Paris, ideally more - by default, the system allows as little as 40 minutes.

If you are heading for Madrid, Malaga, Seville, Cordoba, Valencia or Alicante, first add the Amsterdam-Barcelona journey to your basket, then book Barcelona to your chosen Spanish destination for the following day, add this to your basket and check out, paying for both tickets as one transaction.

Alternatively, you can book each train separately direct with the relevant operator, avoiding any booking fee, although this takes more effort and is unlikely to make it any cheaper.  It's easier to book everything together in plain English at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com !

Book the Amsterdam-Paris Eurostar at www.sncf-connect.com with print-at-home tickets;

Then book the Paris-Barcelona TGV at www.sncf-connect.com with print-your-own or show-on phone tickets,

Then book onward trains within Spain at www.renfe.com (no booking fee, but very fiddly and may reject some overseas payment cards, see advice on using it here ) - easier to use www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, small booking fee) or www.petrabax.com (in $, small mark-up).

Option 2, Amsterdam to Paris, stay overnight in Paris, Paris to Barcelona & Spain next day

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Paris by Eurostar (formerly Thalys) , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 18:15, arriving Paris Gare du Nord 21:35.

By all means take an earlier train and spend some time in Paris, there's a train every hour or two.  Eurostars run at up to 300 km/h with 3 classes, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, see more about Eurostar (formerly Thalys) .

Stay overnight in Paris .  The Mercure Paris Gare De Lyon is part of the Gare de Lyon station complex, ideal for an early train next morning.  See other suggested hotels near the Gare du Nord & Gare de Lyon .

Step 2, travel from Paris to Barcelona by TGV Duplex , leaving Paris Gare de Lyon at 09:42 and arriving Barcelona Sants at 16:31.

This impressive 320 km/h (199 mph) double-deck TGV Duplex has a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  It's a comfortable & scenic journey - I recommend an upper deck seat for the best views, click here for the sights to see from the train on the way .

Step 3, travel from Barcelona to Madrid, Valencia, Alicante and so on by high-speed train.

A high-speed AVE leaves Barcelona Sants at 18:25, arriving Madrid Atocha 20:55, with cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

A fast EuroMed train leaves Barcelona Sants at 18:15 arriving Valencia Joaquin Sorolla 21:07 & Alicante 23:40.

For Granada, Seville, Cordoba & Malaga, stay in Barcelona overnight, I recommend the Hotel Barcelo Sants inside the station.  Next morning direct high-speed AVE trains leave Barcelona Sants at 06:45 for Granada and 08:35 for Cordoba, Seville Santa Justa & Malaga Maria Zambrano.

The easiest way to book from Amsterdam to Spain is at www.raileurope.com .

This connects to both French Railways for Eurostar & TGV and to Spanish Railways (Renfe) for onward tickets within Spain.  You can use it wherever you live as all overseas credit cards are accepted, fares in €, £ or $, small booking fee.

Booking for Eurostar & TGV usually opens 4 months ahead , booking for Spanish trains opens 60 days ahead , but it varies and it can be fewer. 

First book from Amsterdam to Paris, picking any direct Eurostar train you like.  Add this to your basket.

Now book from Paris to Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Seville, Valencia or Alicante as one journey.  In the search results, look for Paris-Barcelona options with 0 changes, or Paris to Madrid/Malaga/Seville/Valencia/Alicante options with 1 change in Barcelona.  Add this to your basket and check out, paying for both journeys as one transaction.

Alternatively , you can book each train separately, although this takes more effort and is unlikely to make it materially cheaper: 

Book the Amsterdam-Paris Eurostar & Paris-Barcelona TGV at www.sncf-connect.com with print-at-home or show-on-phone tickets.

Book onward trains within Spain at www.renfe.com (in €, more fiddly, may reject some overseas payment cards, see advice on using it here ) or much easier to use alternative sites www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, small booking fee) or www.petrabax.com (in US$, small mark-up).

Option 3, Amsterdam to Paris by Eurostar, a French sleeper train to the Spanish border, then onward Spanish trains

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Paris by Eurostar (formerly Thalys) , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 16:15 daily except Saturdays arriving Paris Nord at 19:35.

Or any day of the week, leave Amsterdam Centraal at 15:15 arriving Paris Gare du Nord at 18:35 with time for dinner in Paris.

Step 2, travel overnight from Paris to Latour de Carol in the heart of the Pyrenees or from Paris to Cerbère on the Spanish border by French sleeper train, leaving Paris Gare d'Austerlitz around 21:00.  Then take a local train from Latour or Cerbère to Barcelona Sants arriving at lunchtime.  See the Paris to Barcelona by sleeper train page for details, prices, tips & how to buy tickets .

Step 3, travel from Barcelona to other Spanish destinations in the afternoon.

For Madrid:   AVE-S103 high-speed trains link Barcelona Sants with Madrid Atocha every hour or two in as little as 2h30 from €35, check times at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

For Cordoba, Seville & Malaga:   Take the direct AVE-S112 high-speed train leaving Barcelona Sants at 15:15 arriving Cordoba, Seville Santa Justa & Malaga Maria Zambrano in the evening.  Fares start at around €45.

For Valencia & Alicante:   A EuroMed train leaves Barcelona Sants at 16:10 arriving Valencia Joaquin Sorolla at 19:02 and Alicante at 21:34.  Fares start from €23, check times at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .

Book Spanish trains at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com (both easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or www.renfe.com (much more fiddly, in €, see my advice before using it ).  I'd allow at least 1 hour between trains in Barcelona.  Spanish trains should open for booking 60 days ahead , but it varies and can be less than this.

Amsterdam to San Sebastian from €63

Fares start at €35 in 2nd class or €79 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

The TGV has a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Leave Amsterdam Central at 06:15 Mondays-Fridays, change in Paris, arriving Hendaye at 16:47.

Step 3, transfer from Hendaye to San Sebastian by Euskotren metro, every 30 minutes, journey time 37 minutes.

Simply walk out of Hendaye station and turn right, the little Euskotren station is in a corner of the main station forecourt.  Buy a ticket for €2.75 at the Euskotren station from the machines or staffed counter and hop on the next half-hourly Euskotren metro from Hendaye to San Sebastian Amara station, journey time 37 minutes.  More about the Paris to San Sebastian journey .

Amsterdam to Ibiza & Mallorca

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Barcelona as shown in the Amsterdam to Barcelona section above .

If you use option 2 above , you can leave Amsterdam early evening on Day 1, stay overnight in Paris , reaching Barcelona at 16:31 on Day 2.

Step 2, sail overnight from Barcelona to Ibiza or Palma de Mallorca by ferry.

Ibiza:   Trasmed operate an overnight ferry from Barcelona to Ibiza on most nights of the week sailing at or around 22:00, arriving 07:00.  Times and dates vary, check times and buy tickets at the Direct Ferries website or www.trasmed.com .  Check-in for the ferry closes 30 minutes before sailing time.  You can pre-print your boarding pass to save time at the terminal.  Balearia also operate an overnight ferry to Ibiza on most nights of the week, sailing times vary but it typically sails at 22:00, arriving in Ibiza town (Ibiza Ciudad) at 06:00.  Check times and buy tickets at the Direct Ferries website or www.balearia.com .

Mallorca:   There are two overnight ferries from Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca, both with restaurants, bars & cosy en suite cabins, both usually sailing from Barcelona around around 22:00 and arriving in Palma around 07:00.  One ferry is run by Trasmed ( www.trasmed.com ), the other run by Balearia ( www.balearia.com ).  You can check times & buy tickets at the Direct Ferries website .

Amsterdam to Algeciras & Gibraltar

Stay overnight in Barcelona  The Hotel Barcelo Sants is the top choice here, it's part of Barcelona Sants station so easy to use when arriving & departing by train, with great reviews & good feedback from Seat61 users.  See other suggested hotels near the station .

Day 2, travel from Madrid to Algeciras by Intercity train, leaving Madrid Atocha at 15:16 arriving San Roque-La Linea 20:59 & Algeciras 21:13.

Amsterdam to Paris starts at €35 in 2nd class or €79 in 1st class.

Paris to Barcelona starts at €39 in 2nd class or €59 in 1st class.

Barcelona to Madrid starts at €38 in standard class or €45 in comfort class.

How to buy the train tickets

You can buy all your tickets together at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com , both easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee.

First book from Amsterdam to Barcelona, add this to your basket, then book Barcelona to Madrid and Madrid to Algeciras for the following day, add each of these to your basket & check out.

Booking for Eurostar & TGV opens up to 4 months ahead , for the AVE & Intercity train 60 days ahead , but it varies.  You print your own tickets. 

Amsterdam to Lisbon, Porto & Portugal from €122

Option 1, Amsterdam to Lisbon via Barcelona & Madrid .

Book this at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com (in €, no booking fee).  You print your own ticket or can choose a mobile ticket. 

Using Raileurope or Thetrainline allows you to book your tickets in one place as they connect to both the SNCF & Renfe ticketing systems.

Day 2, travel from Paris to Barcelona by 320 km/h TGV Duplex leaving Paris Gare de Lyon at 09:42 and arriving Barcelona Sants at 16:31.

This double-deck TGV has a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  It's a comfortable & scenic journey, see an account of the sights to see from the train on the way .

Fares start at €39 in 2nd class or €59 in 1st class.  Fares work like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .  Booking for the TGV opens up to 4 months ahead .

Day 2, travel from Barcelona to Madrid by AVE high-speed train , leaving Barcelona Sants at 18:25 and arriving Madrid Atocha at 20:55.

The AVE has a cafe-bar, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  More about trains from Barcelona to Madrid .

Fares start at €38 in Standard class or €45 in Comfort class.  Fares work like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .  Booking for Spanish trains normally opens 60 days ahead , but it varies & can be less than this.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Porto & Lisbon via San Sebastian & Vigo - slightly slower, can be cheaper

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to San Sebastian as shown above .   For example:

Leave Amsterdam Central at 06:15 Mondays-Fridays by Eurostar , change in Paris , then take a TGV Duplex Océane to Hendaye arriving 16:47.

San Sebastian to Vigo starts at €23 each way.  The price varies, book ahead for the cheaper prices.

Book this at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com .  Booking for Spanish trains should open 60 days ahead , but it varies & can be less.

Tip:   If using the daily departure with a change in Madrid, you might need to treat San Sebastian-Madrid & Madrid-Vigo as separate bookings.

This can also be booked at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com ,  Booking opens 60 days ahead , but it varies and can be less.

Amsterdam to Andorra

Option 1, Amsterdam to Andorra in a day

Fares start from €35 in 2nd class (standard) or €72 in 1st class (comfort).  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com (in €, no booking fee).  

Booking opens up to 4 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can choose a mobile ticket.

Fares start at €25 in 2nd class or €45 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Andorra using the Paris-Toulouse-l'Hospitalet overnight train

Eurostars run at up to 300 km/h with 3 classes, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  More about Eurostar (formerly Thalys) .

Fares start at €35 in 2nd class (standard) or €72 in 1st class (comfort).  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this at www.raileurope.com or www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com (in €, no booking fee).  You print your own ticket or can choose a mobile ticket.

Amsterdam to Cologne, Frankfurt or anywhere in Germany from €18.90

1st class fares start at €49.90 to Cologne, €59.90 to Frankfurt or €69.90 to anywhere else in Germany.

Amsterdam to Berlin from €37.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Berlin by Intercity train - the daytime option

Option 2, Amsterdam to Berlin by European Sleeper - the overnight option, 3 times a week

A sleeper train links Amsterdam & Berlin on Monday, Wednesday & Friday nights, see the European Sleeper page .

The European Sleeper .  This is a 5-berth couchette car, beyond is a stainless-steel sleeping-car. Click the interior photos for larger images.

Amsterdam to Hamburg from €32.90

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 05:59, easy change at Osnabruck , arrive Hamburg Hbf 11:14.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 07:59, easy change at Osnabruck , arrive Hamburg Hbf 13:14.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 09:59, easy change at Osnabruck , arrive Hamburg Hbf 15:14.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 11:59, easy change at Osnabruck , arrive Hamburg Hbf 17:14.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 13:59, easy change at Osnabruck , arrive Hamburg Hbf 19:14.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 15:59, easy change at Osnabruck , arrive Hamburg Hbf 21:14.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 17:59, easy change at Osnabruck , arrive Hamburg Hbf 23:15.

Step 1, Amsterdam to Osnabruck by Intercity train, seen here at Amsterdam Centraal .  Power sockets at all seats and a refreshment trolley.  More about these Intercity trains .

Step 2, Osnabruck to Hamburg by ICE4 .  These come with a waiter-service restaurant car, cafe counter, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  More about ICEs .

Amsterdam to Munich from €37.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Munich by sleeper train - the most time-effective option :..

The sleeper leaves Amsterdam at 19:00 on certain dates.

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or at the Dutch Railways international website www.nsinternational.nl (in €).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket.  Child under 6?  See here .

Option 2, Amsterdam to Munich by daytime trains

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 06:38, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf , arrive Munich Hbf 14:06.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 08:08, change at Mannheim Hbf, arrive Munich Hbf 15:27.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 10:38, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf , arrive Munich Hbf 18:07.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 12:38, change at Düsseldorf or Frankfurt (Main) Hbf (it varies), arrive Munich Hbf 20:06.

Option 3, Amsterdam to Munich with overnight stop in Cologne

Why not allow time for a wander round Cologne, visiting the cathedral right next to the station?  You can add a stopover of up to 48h duration.  Adjust the departure time and length of stay to get earlier or later trains for each part of the journey with a longer or shorter overnight stop in Cologne.

Amsterdam to Vienna from €49.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Linz & Vienna by sleeper train - the most time-effective option

Option 2, Amsterdam to Vienna in a single day

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 08:08, change Frankfurt Flughafen (an easy same-platform change), arrive Vienna Hbf 18:47.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 10:38, change Frankfurt (Main) Hbf , arrive Vienna Hbf 23:05.

Option 3, Amsterdam to Vienna with overnight stop in Cologne or Nuremberg

You can programme in up to 2 stopovers over two days and still get end to end Sparpreis tickets.  Adjust the departure time and length of stay through trial & error until you see the trains that suit you either side of Cologne or Nuremberg.

Amsterdam to Salzburg, Innsbruck & Austria from €37.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Austria by Nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective option

This excellent Austrian Nightjet train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (easy to use, in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or Dutch Railways international website www.nsinternational.nl (in €, no fee).

Option 2, Amsterdam to Salzburg or Innsbruck by daytime trains

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 06:38, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & Munich Hbf , arrive Salzburg Hbf 15:59.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 08:08, change at Mannheim & Munich Hbf , arrive Salzburg Hbf 16:58.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 10:38, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf & Munich Hbf , arrive Salzburg Hbf 19:59.

Buy tickets at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

You can book from Amsterdam or anywhere in the Netherlands to Salzburg, Innsbruck or anywhere in Austria.  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

Tip:   int.bahn.de won't suggest impossible connections, with a through ticket you can take later onward trains if there's a delay and missed connection.  However, it will suggest 10-minute connections with a high likelihood of being missed due to delay, so feel free to change Transfer time from normal to 30 minutes if you'd prefer a more robust journey.

Option 3, Amsterdam to Salzburg with overnight stop in Cologne.  Comfortable & time-effective

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to Cologne by ICE , for example leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 18:38 arriving Cologne Hbf at 21:15.

ICE trains have a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Stay overnight in Cologne.  The good & inexpensive Ibis Hotel Köln-am-Dom is ideal as it's part of Cologne Hbf itself, with an entrance to the left of the main station entrance - many of its rooms have a cathedral view.  Also near the station with good reviews are the Breslauer Hof Am Dom , Hotel Domspitzen , CityClass Hotel Europa am Dom , Hilton Cologne , Excelsior Hotel Ernst am Dom .

Day 2, take any morning train you like from Cologne to Salzburg: A direct ICE4 train leaves Cologne Hbf at 08:17 daily running via the scenic Rhine Valley and arriving Salzburg Hbf at 15:59, or there are earlier or later departures with changes of train.

Fares from Amsterdam to Salzburg start at €37.90 in 2nd class or €69.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, book ahead for cheapest prices.

Buy tickets from Amsterdam to anywhere in Austria at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  To get the overnight stop in Cologne, click Stopovers and enter Cologne Hbf with a suitable length of stay, say 11 hours.  Why not allow time for a wander round Cologne, visiting the cathedral right next to the station?  Adjust the departure time and length of stay to get earlier or later trains for each part of the journey with a longer or shorter overnight stop in Cologne.

I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

Amsterdam to Legoland, Odense & Copenhagen from €49.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Copenhagen in a single day

You can travel from Amsterdam Centraal to Copenhagen in a single chill-out day, with three possible departures.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 05:59, an easy change of train at Osnabruck & Hamburg Hbf , arriving Copenhagen at 17:34.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 07:59, an easy change of train at Osnabruck & Hamburg Hbf , arriving Copenhagen at 19:34.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 09:59, an easy change of train at Osnabruck & Hamburg Hbf , arriving Copenhagen at 21:34.

Take a good book, sit back and enjoy the ride.  You travel from Amsterdam to Osnabruck by comfortable Intercity train , then Osnabruck to Hamburg by ICE4 with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi, then Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train .

The Hamburg to Copenhagen EuroCity trains also call at Kolding ( for Legoland ) & Odense.

Amsterdam to Copenhagen starts at €49.90 in 2nd class or €79.90 in 1st class.

Book from Amsterdam or any station in the Netherlands to Copenhagen or any station in Denmark at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

If you're going to Malmö

Catch the next Öresund train from Copenhagen to Malmö Central , these run every 20 minutes taking 34 minutes, crossing the water to Sweden on the impressive Öresund fixed link .  You can buy a Copenhagen-Malmo ticket at the station, no pre-booking required, but you can save money by booking Amsterdam to Malmo rather then Copenhagen when using Bahn.de as German Railways offer through tickets.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Copenhagen with an overnight stop in Hamburg

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to Hamburg leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 17:59, changing at Osnabruck & arriving Hamburg Hbf at 23:15.

By all means leave Amsterdam on the earlier 13:59 or 15:59 departures for more of an evening in Hamburg.  You travel from Amsterdam to Osnabruck by comfortable Intercity train , then from Osnabruck to Hamburg by ICE with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Day 2, travel from Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train , leaving Hamburg Hbf at 08:50 arriving Copenhagen at 13:34.

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  To get the overnight stop in Hamburg, click Stopovers , enter Hamburg Hbf with a length of stay of (say) 10 hours.  Adjust departure time and length of stay to get the trains you want.  If you have any problems you can book Amsterdam-Hamburg for day 1 and again Hamburg to Copenhagen for day 2, although this may work out slightly more expensive.

If you're going to Malmö , travel from Copenhagen to Malmö by Öresund train , these run every 20-30 minutes to Malmö, journey time 39 minutes.  Book from Hamburg to Malmö as one transaction at int.bahn.de .

Step 3, Hamburg to Copenhagen by EuroCity train .  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey .

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo .  Larger photo .

Amsterdam to Stockholm & Gothenburg from €56.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Stockholm using the new Hamburg-Stockholm sleeper train - the time-effective option

You travel from Amsterdam to Osnabruck by comfortable Intercity train , then from Osnabruck to Hamburg by ICE with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  A later departure at 15:59 is possible, but with little room for manoeuvre in case of delay, so I'd stick with the 13:59.  Have dinner in Hamburg, see suggested restaurants near the station .

Fares start at €37.90 in 2nd class or €59.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this train at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Fares start at €44.90 with a couchette in 6-berth, €69.90 with a couchette in 4-berth, €79.90 with a bed in a 2-bed sleeper or €164.90 with a single-bed sleeper all to yourself.  All prices per person per bed, fares vary like air fares so book ahead.

Book tickets at SJ's website www.sj.se .

Option 2, Amsterdam to Stockholm with an overnight stop in Hamburg, from €56.90

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to Hamburg leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 17:59, change at Osnabruck , arriving Hamburg Hbf at 23:15.

By all means take the earlier 15:59 or 13:59 departure from Amsterdam for more of an evening in Hamburg.  You travel from Amsterdam to Osnabruck by comfortable Intercity train , then from Osnabruck to Hamburg by ICE with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.

Day 2, catch a connecting train from Copenhagen to Sweden:

If you're going to Stockholm , travel from Copenhagen to Stockholm by X2000 train leaving Copenhagen at 14:19 and arriving Stockholm Central at 19:37.  The 200 km/h X2000 train crosses the water from Denmark to Sweden over the impressive Öresund fixed link . 

If you're going to Gothenburg , travel from Copenhagen to Goteborg Central by Öresund train , these leave every hour taking 3h53, also using the impressive Öresund fixed link .

If you're going to Malmö , travel from Copenhagen to Malmö Central by Öresund train , these leave at least twice an hour taking 39 minutes, also using the impressive Öresund fixed link .

To buy tickets

The cheapest way is to book from Amsterdam to Stockholm or Gothenburg as one transaction at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

To get the overnight stop in Hamburg, click Stopovers and enter Hamburg Hbf with a length of stay of (say) 10 hours.  Adjust departure time & length of stay to get the trains you want either side of Hamburg.  This way you'll get a Sparpreis Sweden fare from Amsterdam to Stockholm or Gothenburg with an overnight stop in Hamburg.  I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.  You print your own ticket.

If you have any problems you can break the journey down:  Book from Amsterdam to Hamburg & Hamburg to Copenhagen at int.bahn.de , then book Copenhagen to Stockholm at either www.sj.se (in Krona, can struggle with some overseas credit cards, no booking fee) or Omio.com (formerly GoEuro.com, in Krona, €, £ or $, small booking fee, quick & easy to use and readily accepts overseas credit cards).

Option 3, Amsterdam to Stockholm with an overnight stop in Copenhagen, from €56.90

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam Centraal to Copenhagen in a single chill-out day, with three departures to choose from.

Take a good book, sit back and enjoy the ride.  See photos, tips & information for the Hamburg to Copenhagen intercity train .

Stay overnight in Copenhagen .  The friendly Astoria Hotel is a 1930s design classic right outside Copenhagen station main entrance, see photos & information here .  Other hotels near the station with good reviews include the Nimb Hotel (5-star luxe), Radisson Blu Royal Hotel (5-star), Axel Guldsmeden (4-star), Andersen Boutique Hotel , First Hotel Mayfair (3-star), Hotel Ansgar (3-star), City Hotel Nebo (2-star).

Day 2, take a train from Copenhagen to Sweden, these cross the water using the impressive Öresund fixed link .

For Stockholm take an X2000 train , one usually leaves Copenhagen at 08:19 arriving Stockholm Central at 13:35, or there are later trains.

For Gothenburg take an hourly Öresund train from Copenhagen to Gothenburg Central, journey time 3h53.

For Malmö , take an hourly Öresund train from Copenhagen to Malmö Central , journey time 39 minutes.  A same-day connection on Day 1 is also usually possible.

The cheapest way is to book Amsterdam to Stockholm, Gothenburg or Malmö as one transaction at German Railways int.bahn.de .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  To get the overnight stop in Copenhagen, click Stopovers and enter Copenhagen with a length of stay of (say) 11 hours.  Adjust departure time & length of stay to get the trains you want either side of Copenhagen.  You print your own ticket.  This way you'll get a Sparpreis Sweden fare from Amsterdam to Stockholm, Gothenburg or Malmö with an overnight stop in Copenhagen built in.

If you have any problems, you can book from Amsterdam to Copenhagen at int.bahn.de then Copenhagen to Stockholm at either www.sj.se (in Krona, can struggle with some overseas credit cards, no booking fee) or Omio.com (formerly GoEuro.com, in Krona, €, £ or $, small booking fee, quick & easy to use and readily accepts overseas credit cards).  You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.

Step 1, Amsterdam to Osnabruck by Intercity train , seen here at Amsterdam Centraal .  Power sockets at all seats and a refreshment trolley.  More about these Intercity trains .

Step 2, Osnabruck to Hamburg by ICE4 , with restaurant car, cafe counter, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  More about ICEs .

Step 4, Copenhagen to Stockholm by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm Central .  More about X2000 trains .

Option 4, Amsterdam to Gothenburg using Stena Line's Kiel-Gothenburg overnight ferry

Book the train at the German Railways site int.bahn.de . 

You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.  I recommend registering when prompted, so you can log on at any time and check or reprint tickets.

Tip:   Book the ferry first and confirm ferry times before booking the train, making sure you arrive in Kiel at least 2 hours before the ferry sails. 

The ferry normally sails at 18:45 and arrives around 09:15, but times may vary so check online.

The ferry is a floating hotel with restaurants & bars, all passengers travel in a cosy private cabin with en suite toilet & shower.  You can add dinner & breakfast to your ticket when you book.

Fares vary, you might pay €39 per passenger as basic fare plus €75-€89 per cabin for a private 1 or 2 bed room.

Amsterdam to Oslo & Norway

Option 1, Amsterdam to Oslo with overnight stop in Hamburg - by train all the way

Fares start at €32.90 in 2nd class or €43.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Buy a ticket at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.  I recommend registering when prompted, so you can log on at any time and check or reprint tickets.

Day 2, travel from Hamburg to Gothenburg by EuroCity train & Öresund train :

Leave Hamburg Hbf 08:50, arriving Copenhagen 13:34.  Leave Copenhagen at 14:30, arriving Göteborg Central at 18:20.

The EuroCity train from Hamburg to Copenhagen has power sockets at all seats & a refreshment trolley.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey .  The Öresund train from Copenhagen to Gothenburg has power sockets & free WiFi, but bring your own food & drink.

Have an early dinner in Gothenburg.

Fares from Hamburg to Gothenburg start at €56.90.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Buy a ticket from Hamburg to Gothenburg at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Tip:   If you're clever, you may be able to book a through ticket all the way from Amsterdam to Gothenburg using int.bahn.de .  To get the overnight stop in Hamburg, click Stopovers and enter Hamburg Hbf with a suitable length of stay, say 10 hours.  Adjust departure time and length of stay to get the departure from Brussels you want and the 08:50 departure from Hamburg next morning.

Tip:   If you don't see any affordable fares (which may be the case if you want 1st class), split the booking:  First book Hamburg to Copenhagen at int.bahn.de .  Then buy a ticket from Copenhagen to Goteborg Central at www.oresundstag.se .

Day 2, travel from Gothenburg to Oslo by Norwegian train, leaving Göteborg Central at 20:10 and arriving Oslo Sentral at 23:47.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Oslo via Hamburg & Copenhagen - by train all the way

Day 2, travel from Copenhagen to Oslo by train, leaving Copenhagen at 07:30, change at Gothenburg Central, arriving Oslo Sentral 15:47.

Earlier & later departures are available, see the Copenhagen-Oslo timetable & how to buy tickets .

Option 3, Amsterdam to Oslo using the DFDS Copenhagen-Oslo ferry

Day 2, spend the day in Copenhagen, then sail from Copenhagen to Oslo overnight with a cosy private cabin with shower & toilet.  The ferry sails at 16:30 (15:00 some days) and arriving Oslo at 10:00 on day 3, as shown here .  This is remarkably affordable, and saves a hotel bill.  Book the ferry at www.dfds.com .

Option 4, Amsterdam to Oslo via the Kiel-Oslo cruise ferry - the most luxurious way to Oslo

Money-saving tip:   It's considerably cheaper to book on Color Line's Norwegian website www.colorline.no in Norwegian Krone, for example a €274 fare becomes the equivalent of €164.  You'll need to use Google Chrome translation to translate the Norwegian.  You are still able to enter a UK or other European address and contact details.  Feedback appreciated .

Amsterdam to Helsinki & Finland

Option 1, Amsterdam to Helsinki using the Finnlines ferry from Germany to Helsinki - the easiest option

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to Hamburg, leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 11:59, change Osnabruck , arriving Hamburg Hbf 17:14.

Book this at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .

Tip:   You should book from Amsterdam to Skandinavienkai Terminal, Lübeck as one transaction as this gets you a through ticket to the ferry terminal covering the train from Amsterdam to Hamburg, the regional train to Lübeck and the bus to the Skandinavienkai Terminal.  If you'd like time for dinner in Lübeck, click Stopovers and enter Lübeck Hbf with a length of stay of (say) 2 hours.

Day 1, travel from Hamburg Hbf to Lübeck by regional train, you've time for dinner in Lübeck's old town, see suggested restaurant here .  Then take a bus to the Skandinavienkai ferry terminal in Travemünde.

Sail from Travemünde to Helsinki by Finnlines ferry.  Finnlines sail from Travemünde to Helsinki every day, boarding at 23:30, sailing at 02:45 (the exact time varies) and arriving at Helsinki's Hansa Terminal in Vuosaari at 09:15 2 nights later (Day 3 from Amsterdam).

For full details of the transfer, check-in arrangements & ferry crossing, see here .

Book the ferry using the Direct Ferries website or at www.finnlines.com .

Book onward trains within Finland at the Finnish Railways website www.vr.fi .

Option 2, Amsterdam to Helsinki by train to Stockholm & ferry to Helsinki

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Stockholm as shown above .

Amsterdam to Prague from €46.90

Option 1 , Amsterdam to Prague by European Sleeper - the most direct & time-effective option, 3 times a week

The European Sleeper leaves Amsterdam Centraal at 22:34 on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, arriving Prague Hlavni at 10:56 next morning.

The European Sleeper has a comfortable sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 bed rooms with washbasin, economical couchette cars with 5 & 6 berth compartments and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in the sleepers.  More about the European Sleeper .

Buy tickets at www.europeansleeper.eu .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead although this varies.  You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.  Easy!

On the glorious morning of 26 March 2024, the very first European Sleeper to Prague runs along the Elbe river valley between Dresden & Prague.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Prague by train in a single day - why not spend a few hours in Berlin?

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 05:59, change at Berlin Hbf , arrive Prague Hlavni 17:24.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 07:59, change at Berlin Hbf , arrive Prague Hlavni 19:24.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 09:59, change at Berlin Hbf , arrive Prague Hlavni 21:24.

You travel from Amsterdam to Berlin by InterCity train , power sockets at all seats, refreshments available.  What's the Amsterdam to Berlin journey & scenery like?

You then travel from Berlin Hbf to Prague Hlavni by EuroCity train with restaurant car with draught beer on tap, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  It's a lovely scenic run down the Elbe river valley south of Dresden, sit on the left-hand side of the train for the best views.  What's the Berlin to Prague journey & scenery like?   Suggested hotels in Prague .

Fares start at €46.90 in 2nd class or €59.90 in 1st class.

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.  You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone or laptop.

It's also worth checking Amsterdam-Prague prices at the Czech Railways website www.cd.cz as they sometimes have cheaper prices than the Germans for exactly the same trains, although booking only opens 90 days ahead on cd.cz.  See my tips for using cd.cz .

Option 3, Amsterdam to Prague with an overnight stop in Berlin - breaks up the journey nicely, with a chance to see Berlin.

By all means leave Amsterdam on the earlier 13:59 or 11:59 departures for more of an evening in Berlin, and perhaps an evening stroll past the Reichstag building to the Brandenburg Gate , just 17 minutes walk from Berlin Hbf .

See the Amsterdam to Berlin by InterCity train page for tips, photos of the train and things to see along the way.

Stay overnight in Berlin.   Top choice here is the InterCity Hotel Berlin Hbf (my favourite), only 200m from Berlin Hbf 's main entrance, relatively inexpensive with great reviews, or if you're in the money, the excellent 5-star Steigenberger Hotel just outside the station.  If you're on a budget, the cheaper 3-star Motel One Berlin-Hbf is behind the station or use www.hostelworld.com .  Of course, if you really want to push the boat out, the famous Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is next to the Brandenburg Gate just 17 minutes walk away.

Day 2, travel from Berlin to Prague EuroCity train on any departure you like, see the timetable here .

For example, the 07:16 from Berlin Hbf will get you to Prague Hlavni at 11:24,  with breakfast in the restaurant car as you glide along the scenic Elbe river valley.  Or have a breakfast at your hotel and take a later train, they leave every two hours.  Bag a seat on the left-hand side of the train for the best views along the scenic Elbe river valley south of Dresden.  What's the Berlin to Prague journey & scenery like?   Suggested hotels in Prague .

Fares from Amsterdam to Prague start at €37.90 in 2nd class or €79.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  To get the overnight stop in Berlin, click Stopovers and enter Berlin Hbf with a suitable length of stay, say 12 hours.  Adjust the departure time and length of stay to get the trains you want either side of Berlin.

Amsterdam to Cesky Krumlov & other Czech destinations

Book from Amsterdam (or most other stations in the Netherlands) to most stations in the Czech Republic using the German Railways website int.bahn.de .  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .

Fares start at €37.90 in 2nd class or €56.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Tip:   It's an all-day ride from the Netherlands to the Czech Republic, so select an early morning departure time to do it all in one day.

Tip:   You might prefer breaking up a long journey with an overnight stop, perhaps Nuremberg, if your route goes that way.  To get an overnight stop, click Stopovers and enter Nuremberg , with a suitable length of stay, say 11 hours.

For Cesky Krumlov (a lovely town that's the second most-visited place in the Czech Republic, see the Cesky Krumlov page ) you need to book to Ceske Budejovice, not Cesky Krumlov, because the branch line between Ceske Budejovice and Cesky Krumlov is run by private operator GWTR and German Railways cannot ticket that part.

So simply book Amsterdam to Ceske Budejovice at int.bahn.de from €39.90, then buy the local ticket from Ceske Budejovice to Cesky Krumlov either at the station in Ceske Budejovice from the distinctive green and orange ticket kiosk in the main hall, or on board the train using the self-service ticket machines, contactless cards accepted.  You can check train times from Ceske Budejovice to Cesky Krumlov at www.gwtr.cz .

For Karlovy Vary or Plzen , book at int.bahn.de , looking for 3-change options via Frankfurt, Nuremberg & Cheb from €37.90.

For Brno , book Amsterdam to Brno at int.bahn.de .  It tends to route you via Vienna, as this is slightly quicker.  By all means click Stopovers and enter PRAGUE , this can be cheaper.  By adding a suitable length of stay you can build in an overnight stop if you like.

The most time-effective option from the Netherlands to Brno is to take the Nightjet sleeper train from Amsterdam to Vienna overnight as shown above , allow at least an hour between trains in Vienna, then take a Vienna-Brno train booked at either www.thetrainline.com (sells both Regiojet & ÖBB/CD trains), www.oebb.at (ÖBB/CD trains only) or www.regiojet.com (Regiojet trains only).

Amsterdam to Bratislava & Slovakia from €46.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Bratislava using the Amsterdam-Vienna Nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective option, recommended

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Vienna by Nightjet sleeper train , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 19:00 and arriving Vienna Hbf 09:17.

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or Dutch Railways international website www.nsinternational.nl (in €).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket.

Tip:   If you have a sleeper ticket and/or 1st class ticket for the onward train to Budapest, you can use the ÖBB lounge at Vienna Hbf between trains, with complimentary refreshments & free WiFi.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Bratislava in a single day from €46.90

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 08:08, change Frankfurt Flughafen & Vienna Hbf , arriving Bratislava Hlavna 20:23.

Tip:   In the search results, look for journeys with just 2 changes.

Option 3, Amsterdam to Bratislava using the Berlin-Bratislava sleeper - A comfy & time-effective option

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Berlin by InterCity train , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 11:59 and arriving Berlin Hbf at 17:51.

By all means leave Amsterdam on the earlier 09:59 or 07:59 departures to have more time in Berlin, there are left luggage lockers available and a stroll past the Reichstag building to the Brandenburg Gate takes just 17 minutes, so even a few hours stopover is a worthwhile experience.

Step 2, travel from Berlin to Bratislava on the sleeper train Metropol, leaving Berlin Hbf at 19:21 and arriving Bratislava Hlavna at 06:02.

Fares start at €49 with a couchette in a 6-berth compartment, €59 with a couchette in a 4-berth compartment, €79 with a bed in a 3-bed sleeper with washbasin, €99 in a 2-bed sleeper with washbasin or €129 in a single-bed sleeper with washbasin. 

Amsterdam to Budapest from €56.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Budapest using the Amsterdam-Vienna Nightjet sleeper train - the time-effective option, recommended

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Vienna by Nightjet sleeper train , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 19:00 arriving Vienna Hbf 09:17.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Budapest in a single day from €56.90

Option 3, Amsterdam to Budapest using the Berlin-Budapest sleeper - Another comfy & time-effective option

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Berlin by InterCity train , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 11:59 & arriving Berlin Hbf at 17:51.

By all means leave Amsterdam on the earlier 09:59 or 07:59 departures for more time in Berlin, there are left luggage lockers available and a stroll past the Reichstag building to the Brandenburg Gate takes just 17 minutes, so even a few hours stopover is a worthwhile experience.

Book this at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, using this will allow you to book all your tickets together in one place, small booking fee) or the German Railways website int.bahn.de (in €, no fee).  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

Step 2, travel from Berlin to Budapest on the sleeper train Metropol, leaving Berlin Hbf at 19:21 & arriving Budapest Nyugati at 08:29.

Fares start at €49 with a couchette in a 6-berth compartment, €59 with a couchette in a 4-berth compartment, €79 with a bed in a 3-bed sleeper with washbasin, €99 in a 2-bed sleeper with washbasin or €129 in a single-bed sleeper with washbasin.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Option 4, Amsterdam to Budapest using the Stuttgart-Budapest sleeper - Another time-effective option with dinner in Stuttgart

Book this at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, will allow you to buy all your tickets in one place, small booking fee) or the German Railways int.bahn.de .  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or show it on your laptop or phone.

Have dinner in Stuttgart.

Step 2, travel from Stuttgart to Budapest by EuroNight sleeper train Kalman Imre leaving Stuttgart Hbf at 20:29 & arriving Budapest Keleti 09:19.

Fares start at €49.90 with a couchette in a 6-berth, €59.90 with a couchette in a 4-berth, €69.90 with a bed in a 3-bed sleeper, €88.90 with a bed in a 2-bed sleeper or €129.90 in a single-bed sleeper, all per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Option 5, Amsterdam to Budapest with overnight stop in Munich - if you prefer daytime trains & hotel to sleepers

Stay overnight in Munich.   The affordable Eden Hotel Wolff & NH Collection München are across the road from the station's north side exit with great reviews.  Or consider the more upmarket 25 Hours Hotel The Royal Bavarian , Excelsior by Giesel & Mercure City Center .  For a splurge, the luxurious Sofitel Munich Beyerpost occupies the former Royal Bavarian Post Office building of 1896-1900, at the station's south side exit.

Day 2, travel from Munich to Budapest on any railjet train you like.

The 07:23 from Munich Hbf will get you to Budapest Keleti at 14:19, but by all means have a leisurely breakfast and take the 09:29 from Munich arriving Budapest at 16:19, they leave roughly every two hours.

These swish Austrian railjet trains have a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  Look out for views of Salzburg citadel as you cross the river Salzach approaching Salzburg Hbf .  If you like, you can incorporate a stopover in Salzburg of a few hours or a day or two at no extra charge using the Stopover feature at int.bahn.de .  Left luggage lockers are available .

Fares start at €39.90 in 2nd class, €69.90 in 1st class or 84.90 in business class (= premium 1st class).

Amsterdam to Sighisoara, Brasov & Bucharest from €109

Option 1, Amsterdam to Romania using a sleeper from Budapest

For example, you can leave Amsterdam Centraal at 19:00 every evening by Nightjet sleeper train to Vienna Hbf and an onward railjet train to Budapest Keleti arriving 13:19 next day.  Buy tickets as shown above .

This sleeper train Ister has an air-conditioned Romanian sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin and a Romanian couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  There's wonderful almost Alpine scenery through the Carpathian mountains between Brasov and Bucharest, a real treat.  Ister is the ancient name for the Danube.

Fares start at €39 with a couchette in 6-berth, €46 with a couchette in 4-berth, €69 with a bed in a 3-bed sleeper, €84 with a bed in a 2-bed sleeper or €162 with a single-bed sleeper all to yourself.  All prices per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

You can also book at the Hungarian Railways website www.mav-start.hu , see my advice on using it .  For Bucharest type Bucuresti .  You show your ticket in the MAV app on your phone.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Romania using a sleeper from Vienna

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Vienna by Nightjet sleeper train as shown in the Amsterdam to Vienna section above .  Book this as shown.

Spend a day in Vienna , left luggage lockers are available .

Step 2, travel from Vienna to Romania on the sleeper train Dacia Express, leaving Vienna Hbf at 19:42 every evening and arriving next day in Simeria 07:10, Sighisoara 09:13, Braşov 12:36, Ploeşti Vest 14:28 & Bucharest Nord at 15:06.

The Dacia Express has a modern & comfortable Romanian sleeping-car (1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin, plus two deluxe compartments with shower & toilet) and a Romanian couchette car with 4-berth & 6-berth compartments.  There's wonderful almost Alpine scenery through the Carpathian mountains between Brasov and Bucharest, a real treat.

A Hungarian restaurant car is attached between Vienna and Budapest, treat yourself to dinner with wine.  A bar car is attached in the morning between Arad & Bucharest, serving drinks & snacks.  There's wonderful almost Alpine scenery through the Carpathian mountains between Brasov and Bucharest, a real treat.

The Dacia Express also conveys a portion from Vienna to Cluj Napoca, also leaving Vienna Hbf at 19:42 and arriving Cluj Napoca at 10:47. This portion has a Romanian couchette car with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.

Fares start at €59 with a couchette in a 6-berth compartment, €69 with a couchette in a 4-berth compartment, €79 with a bed in a 3-berth sleeper, €99 with a bed in a 3-berth sleeper or €159 with a bed in a single-berth sleeper all to yourself.  All per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this train at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at .

Booking opens up to 90 days ahead .  In the search results, look for the direct train marked D with no changes.  If it says not available you can't book it, but if a sparschiene fare is shown you can.  You collect tickets from an ÖBB ticket machine in Vienna.

You can also book this train at the Romanian Railways website bileteinternationale.cfrcalatori.ro .

Click EN top right for English.  Booking opens up to 90 days ahead .  For Vienna type Wien , for Bucharest type Bucuresti.   It can book seats, couchettes or sleepers.  For Austria to Romania journeys you can now print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

Tip:   Prices might be cheaper on one website than the other, so check both sites!

Option 3, Amsterdam to Romania with overnight stop in Budapest - if you prefer day trains & a hotel to sleepers

Stay overnight in Budapest .  Top choice for an inexpensive stay next to Budapest Keleti is the Intercity Hotel just across the square in front of the station.  Also try the Royal Park Boutique Hotel , the inexpensive Baross City Hotel across the road or the Elit Hotel two minutes walk away.  Of course, if you want to push the boat out, the luxurious Corinthia Hotel opened in 1896 was almost certainly the inspiration for the 2014 film The Grand Budapest Hotel , 20 minutes walk or 9 minutes by taxi from Keleti station .  More hotels in Budapest .

Day 2, travel on one of the daytime air-conditioned Intercity trains from Budapest Keleti to Cluj, Arad, Timisoara, Simeria, Sibiu, Brasov & Bucharest.  See details of these trains here .

You can also book at the Romanian Railways website bileteinternationale.cfrcalatori.ro .  Click EN top right for English.  Booking opens up to 90 days ahead .  For Bucharest type Bucuresti.   You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

Amsterdam to Ljubljana & Slovenia or Zagreb & Croatia from €72

Option 1, using the Amsterdam-Munich Nightjet sleeper train then scenic EuroCity train to Ljubljana & Zagreb

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or Austrian Railways own site www.oebb.at (in €, same prices, more fiddly).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead.  You print your own ticket.

Booking tip :  If you don't see any cheap fares from Munich to Ljubljana or Zagreb using bahn.de (for example, if it says No special fares available ), try going to the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at and booking from Salzburg to Ljubljana or Zagreb on exactly the same train (the train leaves Salzburg about 1h55 after leaving Munich), then using www.oebb.at again to add a ticket from Munich to Salzburg on the same train.

Option 2, by daytime trains to Stuttgart and Croatian sleeper train to Ljubljana & Zagreb - time-effective with dinner in Stuttgart

Book this at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, using Trainline will allow you to buy all your tickets in one place, small booking fee) or the German Railways int.bahn.de .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket or show it on your laptop or phone.

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or Austrian Railways own site www.oebb.at (same prices, in €).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket.

Option 3, by daytime ICE train to Munich, overnight stop, then scenic EuroCity train to Ljubljana & Zagreb

Tip:   For dinner, I recommend the Bavarian food & beer at the Augustiner Keller ( www.augustinerkeller.de ) at Arnulfstrasse 52, to the north side of Munich Hbf , see walking map .

Fares start at €39.90 in 2nd class or €69.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Tip :  If you don't see any cheap fares from Munich to Ljubljana or Zagreb using bahn.de (for example, if it says No special fares available ), try going to the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at and booking from Salzburg to Ljubljana or Zagreb on exactly the same train (these trains leave Salzburg about 1h55 after leaving Munich), then using www.oebb.at again to add a ticket from Munich to Salzburg on the same train.

Option 4, using the Amsterdam-Vienna nightjet sleeper train, morning in Vienna, EuroCity train to Zagreb. 

This is a slower option, if only because of the morning at leisure in Vienna, but it's straightforward & comfortable.

This comfortable Austrian Nightjet sleeper train has an air-conditioned Comfortline sleeping-car with nine 1, 2 & 3-berth standard compartments with washbasin and three 1, 2 or 3-berth deluxe compartments with shower & toilet. There are toilets & a shower at the end of the corridor for passengers in the regular sleepers.  The sleeping-car attendant can serve drinks, snacks & light meals from a room service menu.  The train has couchette cars with 4 & 6 berth compartments, and ordinary seats.  A light breakfast is included in sleepers & couchettes, served in your compartment.  See the Nightjet page for a guide to on-board accommodation, travel tips, photos & video .

The train travels along the famous Rhine Valley between Koblenz (23:46) and Mainz (00:39), so if you're still awake and your compartment happens to be on the left-hand side of the train, switch off the lights and watch the Rhine pass by, mountains, vineyards, castles & the legendary Lorelei Rock lit by moonlight.  Wonderful!

In Vienna, you've the best part of a day to enjoy the city.  Left luggage lockers are available .

Fares start at €29.90 in 2nd class or €49.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Amsterdam to Belgrade & Montenegro

Option 1, Amsterdam to Belgrade & beyond using the Stuttgart-Zagreb sleeper. 

The line between Budapest and Belgrade is currently blocked by long-term track upgrading work, so the way to go is via Zagreb.  The most direct and fastest way is usually to take the Munich-Zagreb sleeper as shown below.

Book this at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, will allow you to buy all your tickets in one place, small booking fee) or the German Railways int.bahn.de .

Step 3, travel from Zagreb to Belgrade by train, leaving Zagreb at 11:04 and arriving Novi Beograd at 18:04 & Belgrade Centar at 18:12.

This train was suspended due to Covid-19 and remains suspended.

This train has air-conditioned Serbian carriages with comfortable 2nd class seats, but no 1st class.  There's no catering, so bring a picnic and some beer or wine.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Belgrade & beyond using the Zurich-Zagreb sleeper

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Zurich, leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 08:08, change at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf arriving Zurich HB at 16:00.

You travel on comfortable ICE trains with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  Do not risk any tight connections when catching a sleeper, I'd want at least an hour between trains in Zurich.  Have dinner in Zurich before boarding the sleeper, I recommend the steak-frites at the Brasserie Federal inside Zurich HB .

Book this at either www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, small booking fee, using Thetrainline allows you to buy both tickets together in one place) or the German Railways website int.bahn.de (in €, no fee).  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

Step 2, travel from Zurich to Ljubljana or Zagreb by sleeper train, leaving Zurich HB at 19:40 and arriving in Zagreb at 10:39 next morning.

The train has an excellent air-conditioned Croatian sleeping-car (1, 2 & 3 bed compartments with washbasin), a modern air-conditioned Croatian couchette car (4 & 6 berth compartments) and ordinary seats (not recommended).  Watch the Croatian sleeper video .

This train will revert to its traditional departure time, 20:40, from 25 October 2024.

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, overseas credit cards no problem, small booking fee) or Austrian Railways own site www.oebb.at (same prices, in €, a bit more fiddly).  Booking opens up to 6 months ahead .  You print your own ticket.

Step 3, travel from Zagreb to Belgrade by train, leaving Zagreb at 11:04 and arriving Novi Beograd 18:04 & Belgrade Centar at 18:12.

This train is still currently suspended due to Covid-19.

This train has two air-conditioned Serbian carriages with comfortable 2nd class seats, but no 1st class.  There's no catering, so bring a picnic and some beer or wine.

Amsterdam to Sofia

Option 1, Amsterdam to Sofia via Bucharest

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to Vienna using the Amsterdam-Vienna Nightjet sleeper train , as shown above .

Day 2, travel from Vienna to Budapest by railjet train , leaving Vienna Hbf at 11:40 and arriving Budapest Keleti at 14:19.

The swish Austrian railjet train has a restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  By all means take an earlier train if you'd like more time in Budapest, perhaps for lunch.

Fares start at €19.90 in 2nd class or €29.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

The Muntenia has 4 & 6-berth couchettes and ordinary seats.  A Romanian sleeping-car with 1, 2 & 3 bed compartments is attached from Arad (depart 21:04) to Bucharest.  There's no catering car, so bring your own food & drink.

Fares start at €40 with a couchette in 6-berth or €47 with a couchette in 4-berth.  These are limited-availability advance-purchase fares

Book this at the Romanian Railways international website bileteinternationale.cfrcalatori.ro/en .  You print your own ticket.

The fare is around €34.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Sofia via Belgrade

Not currently viable while Zagreb-Belgrade, Budapest-Belgrade and Belgrade-Sofia trains remain suspended.

Amsterdam to Warsaw & Poland from €49.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Warsaw in a single day - why not spend a few hours in Berlin on the way?

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 05:59 daily, change at Berlin Hbf , arrive Warsaw Centralna 19:14.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 07:59 daily, change at Berlin Hbf , arrive Warsaw Centralna 21:14.

Leave Amsterdam Centraal at 09:59 daily except Saturdays, change at Berlin Hbf , arrive Warsaw Centralna 23:18.

You've time between trains in Berlin for a meal or for a stroll past the Reichstag to the Brandenburg Gate , just 17 minutes walk from the station.

Fares start at €37.90 in 2nd class or €56.90 in 1st class.

Booking to Poland normally only opens 60 days ahead .  I recommend registering when prompted so you can log in and check your bookings or re-print tickets at any time.  You print your own ticket or can show it on your laptop or phone.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Warsaw using the Amsterdam-Berlin European Sleeper - the most time-effective way, runs 3 times a week

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Berlin by European Sleeper , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 22:34 on Monday, Wednesday & Friday arriving Berlin Hbf 06:18.  In winter from 7 November 2023 to 24 March 2024 it won't usually run on Wednesdays, see the European Sleeper page .

Fares start at €49 in a seat, €79 with a couchette in 6-berth, €99 with a couchette in 5-berth, €109 with a bed in 3-bed sleeper, €129 with a bed in 2-bed sleeper, €159 with a bed in single-bed sleeper.  All per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book the sleeper at www.europeansleeper.eu .

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead although this can vary.  You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone

Step 2, travel from Berlin to Warsaw by EuroCity train , leaving Berlin Hbf at 09:52, arriving Poznan at 12:36 and Warsaw Centralna at 15:14.

This EuroCity train is a comfortable air-conditioned Polish train with restaurant car serving drinks, snacks and full meals.  Treat yourself to an inexpensive lunch and a beer or two, I recommend the excellent Zurek soup and Kotlet Schabowy.  More about this EuroCity train .

Buy a ticket for the Amsterdam to Warsaw train at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Booking opens 60 days months ahead , you can book the sleeper and leave this until later if necessary.  You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.  I recommend registering when prompted, so you can log on at any time and check or reprint tickets.

Step 1, Amsterdam to Berlin by European Sleeper .  This is a 5-berth couchette car at Amsterdam Centraal, beyond is a stainless-steel sleeping-car.

Option 3, Amsterdam to Warsaw with overnight stop in Berlin - breaks up the trip nicely, with a chance to see Berlin.

Day 2, travel from Berlin Hbf to Warsaw Centralna in around 5h30 on any EuroCity train you like, see the timetable here .

Daily except Sundays the 05:51 from Berlin Hbf will get you to Warsaw Centralna at 11:14 with breakfast in the restaurant car.

Or have a leisurely breakfast and take the daily 09:52 arriving 15:14.  By all means take a later train to have a morning in Berlin.

Amsterdam to Krakow from €49.90

Option 1, Amsterdam to Krakow in a day - possible from 10 December 2023

By all means take the earlier 07:59 departure for a more robust connection and time for lunch in Berlin.

Step 2, travel from Berlin to Krakow by EuroCity train , leaving Berlin Hbf 16:52, arriving Wroclaw 20:56, Katowice 23:05 & Krakow Glowny 23:54.

The EuroCity train Oder is a comfortable air-conditioned Polish train with a restaurant car serving drinks, snacks & meals.  Treat yourself to an inexpensive dinner with a beer or two, I recommend the excellent Zurek soup & Kotlet Schabowy.  More about this EuroCity train .

Option 2, Amsterdam to Krakow using the Amsterdam-Berlin European Sleeper - runs 3 times a week

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to Berlin by European Sleeper , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 22:34 on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays arriving Berlin Hbf at 06:18.  In winter from 7 November 2023 to 24 March 2024 it won't usually run on Wednesdays, see the European Sleeper page .

Day 2, travel from Berlin to Krakow by EuroCity train , leaving Berlin Hbf 10:52, arriving Wroclaw 15:05, Katowice 17:15 & Krakow Glowny 18:07.

This EuroCity train is a comfortable air-conditioned Polish train called the Wawel , with restaurant car serving drinks, snacks and full meals.  Treat yourself to an inexpensive lunch and a beer or two, I recommend the excellent Zurek soup & Kotlet Schabowy.  More about this EuroCity train .

Buy a ticket for the Amsterdam to Krakow train at the German Railways website int.bahn.de .

Option 3, Amsterdam to Krakow with overnight stop in Berlin - if you prefer day trains & hotel to sleepers, departures every day

Day 2, travel from Berlin to Krakow by EuroCity train Wawel , leaving Berlin Hbf at 10:52 every day, arriving Wroclaw 15:05, Katowice 17:15 & Krakow Glowny 18:07.  The Wawel is comfortable & air-conditioned with restaurant car, treat yourself to lunch and a beer or two.

Amsterdam to Vilnius . Riga, Tallinn

Amsterdam to Lithuania with overnight stop in Warsaw

Amsterdam to Kyiv & Ukraine

Option 1, Amsterdam to Lviv & Kyiv via Prague - easiest to book and usually has plenty of availability.  Includes a free day in Prague!

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to Prague by European Sleeper , leaving Amsterdam Centraal at 22:34 on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays arriving Prague Hlavni 10:56 next morning (day 2).

The European sleeper has 1, 2 & 3 bed sleepers, 5 & 6 berth couchettes and 2nd class seats.  Enjoy the scenic ride along the Elbe river valley over breakfast.  For details see the European Sleeper page .

Fares start at €49 in a seat, €79 with a couchette in 6-berth, €99 with a couchette in 5-berth, €109 with a bed in 3-bed sleeper, €129 with a bed in 2-bed sleeper, €159 with a bed in single-bed sleeper, all per person per berth.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.  Children under 4 travel free, without their own berth.  Children under 12 travel at a child rate.

Booking opens up to 6 months ahead although this can vary.  You print your own ticket or can show it on your phone.

You now have a day free to explore Prague.  Left luggage lockers are available .  Suggested restaurants for dinner in Prague .

Day 2, travel from Prague to Przemysl by Regiojet sleeper train, leaving Prague Hlavni at 21:56 every day, arriving Przemysl 08:08 (day 3).

A connecting Ukrainian Intercity train leaves Przemysl at 09:35, arriving Lviv 12:27 & Kyiv Pass at 19:57 (day 3).

The Regiojet sleeper train has 3 & 4 berth couchettes set up with full bedding like a sleeping-car.  You can book an inexpensive berth in a shared compartment or you can book a whole compartment for sole occupancy if you like.  Refreshments are available from the train staff.

The Ukrainian intercity train is comfortable and air-conditioned with cafe-bar.  Regiojet have an allocation of seats and a Regiojet ticket from Prague to Lviv or Kyiv includes a 2nd class seat on this train, booked as one combined ticket from Prague to Lviv/Kyiv.

Prague to Lviv or Kyiv starts at €58 with a berth in a shared compartment, or €119.90 for sole occupancy of a 4-berth couchette compartment for 1 to 4 people.  Fares vary slightly according to demand.  The fare includes the sleeper and a 2nd class seat on the connecting Ukrainian train.

Book from Prague to Lviv or Kyiv at www.regiojet.com .

1. Amsterdam to Prague by European Sleeper , seen here at Amsterdam Centraal.  This is a 5-berth couchette car, beyond it is the stainless steel sleeping-car.

In the morning, the European Sleeper runs along the Elbe river valley between Dresden & Prague.  See more photos .

2. Prague to Przemysl by Regiojet sleeper train

Option 2, Amsterdam to Kyiv via the Warsaw-Kyiv sleeper - runs daily, but can be tricky to book & sells out fast

By all means take the earlier 13:59 or 11:59 departure for more of an evening in Berlin and perhaps a stroll past the Reichstag building to the Brandenburg Gate takes just 17 minutes from the station.

The Kyiv Express has modernised Ukrainian sleeping-cars with 2-berth & 3-berth compartments.  All bedding is supplied, and washrooms and toilets are at the end of the corridor.  Berths convert to seats for daytime use.  A smartly-uniformed Ukrainian railways sleeper attendant travels with each car.

Option 3, Amsterdam to Lviv & Kyiv via Vienna - comfortable, but sells out fast

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to Vienna by Nightjet sleeper train as shown in the Amsterdam-Vienna section above .  Enjoy the best part of a day in Vienna, left luggage lockers are available .

Day 2, travel from Vienna to Lviv or Kyiv by direct Ukrainian sleeping-car. leaving Vienna Hbf at 16:42 every day and arriving Lviv at 09:20 & Kyiv at 16:03 next day (Day 3).

Introduced in 2017, this train consists of 2 or sometimes 3 direct Ukrainian sleeping-cars attached to a Vienna-Zahony EuroCity train.  The sleeping-cars have comfortable 1, 2 & 3 berth compartments with washbasin, see the photos below.  At Chop on the other side of the border the through sleeping-cars are jacked up to have their wheelsets changed from European standard gauge (4'8½") to Russian gauge used in Ukraine (5').

Vienna to Kyiv costs €89.60 in a 3-berth sleeper, €99.60 in a 2-berth sleeper or around €170 in a single sleeper.

Booking for these direct sleeping-cars opens 20 days ahead, but tickets sell out a day or two after booking opens, so book as soon as the booking period opens.  If the ÖBB website says Ticket not available within 20 days it means fully-booked , if it says that more than 20 days ahead it means booking isn't open yet.

Tickets can now be printed out so you can book in either direction.  However, you must print the ticket, it cannot be shown on a mobile device.

Amsterdam to Moscow , St Petersburg & Russia

Option 1, Amsterdam to Moscow using the daily Warsaw-Moscow sleeper train - suspended due to sanctions

By all means take an earlier train for a leisurely afternoon or evening in Berlin.

This train uses impressive Austrian-built sleeping-cars with 4-berth compartments built in 2014, see photos of this type of sleeper here & see panorama photo inside one of these modern sleepers .  Each compartment can be sold as 1st class 1-berth, 1st class 2-berth or 2nd class 4-berth.  The train consist of two or three sleeping-car which start their journey in Prague.  There's a bistro car in Poland and a Russian restaurant car is attached between Brest (on the Polish/Belarus border) & Moscow.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Moscow using the Berlin-Moscow Strizh (Swift) sleeper train, twice a week - suspended due to sanctions

Russian track gauge is 5', but most of Europe (including the UK) is 4' 8½", so at Brest on the Belarus frontier the Talgo train runs through a special gauge-changing shed and the axles automatically adjust to the new gauge.  Once in Russia, the scenery is rolling hills, birch tree forests, and villages of small wooden houses.  Approaching Moscow, you may glimpse the plaques on the station building marked '1812' and '1942' as the train passes through the small station of historic Borodino.

You can book the Berlin-Moscow train at the Russian Railways website www.rzd.ru and print your own ticket, it's a little fiddly but usually works, or you can easily buy it online with English language after-sales service if you need it, using the Real Russia online system here .

Option 3, Amsterdam to Moscow via Kyiv - avoiding the need for Belarus visa

Amsterdam to Athens , Corfu & Greece

Option 1, Amsterdam to Athens by train & ferry via Italy - the leisurely option with an Adriatic cruise thrown in

The best and most comfortable option is to pick up a ferry in Bari.  The whole scenic and relaxing journey from Amsterdam to Athens will take around 3 nights, depending how the connections work out on your particular date.

Day 1, travel from Amsterdam to Milan in Italy as shown above , using whichever option you like best.

Stay overnight in Milan:   Affordable hotels with good or great reviews just outside Milan Centrale include the Hotel Bristol , Hotel Bernina , 43 Station Hotel , B&B Hotel Milano Central Station , Guesthouse Teodora .  Pricier more upmarket hotels include HD8 Hotel , Glam Hotel , Made to Measure Business , Starhotel Echo or Starhotel Anderson .

Day 2, travel from Milan to Bari, leaving Milan Centrale at 08:05 on a pleasant journey along the Adriatic coast arriving Bari Centrale 15:27.

Fares start at €29.90 in 2nd class or €39.90 in 1st class.  Fares vary like air fares, so book ahead.

Book this train at www.thetrainline.com (in €, £ or $, easy to use, small booking fee) or www.italiarail.com (easy to use, in €, £, $ or Au$) or www.trenitalia.com (in €, more fiddly).  Italiarail will refund their small booking fee if you email them at [email protected] with your booking reference.  Booking opens up to 4 months ahead .  It's ticketless, you simply print out your booking reference or show it on your phone.

In Bari, transfer from station to port, see map of Bari showing station, port entrance, check-in building & Superfast Ferries berth .

You can walk the 1.9 km from the station to the port entrance in 25 minutes, a stroll through Bari's pleasant old town, see correct walking map from the station to the port entrance gate - if Google tells you any different, trust me, not Google!

Alternatively, bus 50 runs from Bari Centrale station to the road outside the port gate roughly every 40 minutes.  A taxi will take 10 minutes.

Day 2, sail overnight from Bari to Patras in Greece with Superfast Ferries.

The ferry sails from Bari at 19:30 on Mondays-Saturdays, arriving Patras at 13:00 next day (Day 3).

On Sundays the ship sails at 13:30, too early to make connections from Milan.

You can check sailing times & dates at using the Direct Ferries website or at www.superfast.com or www.ferriesingreece.com .

You should check in at the Superfast desk on the ground floor of the cruise terminal (Terminal Crociere) at Bari port with passport & booking number to get your boarding pass, ideally 3 hours before departure in summer, although in practice 2 hours or even 1½ hours is normally fine.

You then walk 500m from check-in to the ferry, board the ferry via the foot passenger gangway at the stern and head up the escalator to the main lounge and reception desk to get your cabin key.

The ship is comfortable, with self-service restaurant, lounge, bar and sun deck.  You can book a deck place (a good & cheap option in summer if you have your own sleeping bag), a reclining seat or various types of cabin, all with private shower & toilet.  Strolling the decks in the morning sun as the ship cruises past the islands of Cephalonia and Ithaca is the nicest part of the trip, and it's a wonderful way to arrive in Greece.

Day 3, travel from Patras to Athens by Greek Railways bus/train combo.

Hellenic Train (Greek Railways) operate an integrated bus/train service from Patras to Athens every hour or two, total journey time 3h02, fare around €18.  No prior reservation is necessary, just buy a ticket to Athens at Patras railway station ticket office.

Corfu:  The Bari-Patras ferry calls at Corfu on certain dates in summer.  It calls at Igoumenitsa on the Greek mainland on all departures year-round.  If you can't find a direct ferry to Corfu, book the ferry from Bari to Igoumenitsa, then take the local ferry from Igoumenitsa to Corfu with Kerkyra Lines ( kerkyralines.com ).  These sail half a dozen times a day, crossing time 60-90 minutes, fare around €5-€10.  Buy a ticket at kerkyralines.com or when you get to Igoumenitsa.

Option 2, Amsterdam to Athens overland by train via Munich & Belgrade - a rail adventure across the Balkans, currently suspended

Amsterdam to Istanbul & Turkey

This is an overland adventure, taking 3 nights

Step 1, travel from Amsterdam to Bucharest using any option shown above .

Do not risk any tight connections in Bucharest, I'd allow a minimum of 2 hours, or plan an overnight stop.

Book online as shown on those pages, but you should consider using an Interrail pass for the flexibility it gives.  You'll find more info about using a pass for a journey like this on the London to Istanbul page .

Railbookers custom-made tours

If you just want to buy train tickets at the cheapest price, book online as shown on this page.  However, if you want someone to sort out your whole trip for you as a package, arranging trains, hotels & transfers, and to look after you if anything affects your arrangements, talk to Railbookers.  Railbookers can tailor-make a train trip around Europe to your own specification.  Just tell them what you want and they'll advise you on the best trains, routes & hotels.  They now have offices in the UK, North America and Australia.

Hotels in Amsterdam

Book your accommodation in Amsterdam early, it can be difficult to find rooms at peak periods at short notice, the better & cheaper rooms quickly sell out.  You'll also find prices vary significantly even at the same hotel, depending on the season and what's going on in the city.

The ultimate Amsterdam hotel:   The Grand

The ultimate place to stay is The Grand, now the Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam .  From around €300 per night upwards for a double room, this is one of the most famous hotel in Amsterdam, 5 minutes walk from Dam Square and 10 minutes walk from Centraal Station.  For something smaller, slightly cheaper but equally special, try the Canal House boutique hotel , 15 minutes walk from the station, €205 upwards.

Mid-range to top end

The Park Plaza Victoria Hotel gets great reviews and is very convenient as it's on the corner just across the road from Amsterdam Centraal station, doubles from around €135 upwards per night.  In a similar price bracket, try the Kimpton de Witt Amsterdam Centre , 6 minutes walk from Amsterdam Centraal and also with excellent reviews. 

The Hotel Luxer is cheaper, from around €109 upwards per night, and also just 7 minutes walk from Centraal station with great reviews.  Also try The Times Hotel , Hotel Tourist Inn or Daily Rooms Hotel .  Or the Hotel Sebastians , around €115 per night, equally well located 10 minutes walk from Centraal station, another hotel which gets great reviews.

Cheap but good

There are many cheap hotels, including many near the station, but very few get outstanding reviews.  For ones that do, try the floating boat hotel AmiciA (formerly Friesland), around €45 per night 15 minutes walk from the station or the Rembrandt Hotel from €80, 10 min walk from Dam Square though 20 minutes walk from the station.

Backpacker hostels

www.hostelworld.com :  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in most cities at rock-bottom prices.

Travel insurance & VPN

Always take out travel insurance.

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover.  It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit.  An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Here are some suggested insurers.  Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility list .  Maya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data .

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works:   1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android .  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card , they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  W hy you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explained .  ExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I get a small commission to help support this site.

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from Buy from Amazon.com .

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9 Best Day Trips from Amsterdam by Train You Need to Know

• Updated on: April 13, 2022

This article may contain affiliate links.  For more information, please see our disclaimer  here.

Table of Contents

The city of Amsterdam can be completely captivating and keep you busy during your whole stay. However, there is just as much to see only a train ride away. Whether you are looking to visit another city capital like Brussels, or looking for something a bit more laid back like Zaanse Schans, the best day trips from Amsterdam are just a trains ride away.

As two native Dutchies we have explored quite a lot from the Netherlands and used the train on a daily basis to and from school and work. We can tell you it is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to get around the Netherlands . Another big advantage is that you won’t be bothered by traffic jams!

So, in this post we are going to reveal the best day trips from Amsterdam by train. Among them we will discuss cities like Rotterdam and Delft but also places of interest like Zaanse Schans and the Muiden Castle. For the real travelers among us, take a day trip to another country and explore Brussels or Bruges in Belgium! Keep on reading to get to know what to do in these places, the travel time, and the estimated costs.

Video: Day Trips from Amsterdam by train inspiration

Map days trips from amsterdam by train

9 Best day trips from Amsterdam by train

1. rotterdam.

• Travel Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
• Estimate Cost One Way: €17
• Route: Open in Google Maps

Of course we have to start with Rotterdam. This enchanting city is where we first met and then lived together for 3 years, giving us plenty of local tips and tricks. Although if you are just stopping by for a day there are a few must-see spots that are ideal for a quick itinerary. 

Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and quickly growing. This provides visitors with a little something for everyone. Whether you are interested in medieval architecture, art, modern breweries, or want to learn more about windmills, Rotterdam has it all.

After arriving at Rotterdam Central Station, head over to the old town center where you can see Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk, a medieval church with stunning architecture that was first constructed in 1449. If you like architecture, take the free architecture tour ! After the church, take in the view of the Erasmus Bridge or the Maritime Museum, both popular landmarks of the city.

For lunch you have a couple of options, you could visit the Fenix Food Factory. A fun open market that features workshops, tastings, bakeries, breweries, coffee shops, and so much more – or if you are a foodie and love picking up unique souvenirs, then Markthal Rotterdam is another fun spot! Or do the Rotterdam Tasty Tour and try different local snacks in the foodwalhallas of Rotterdam!

After, take a boat tour of the city, a popular option in the Netherlands due to our many canals and streams that wind through many towns. Or combine a tour on land and river with an amphibious bus that drives through the city and cruises on the Maas River! Another popular option is taking a tour through a windmill. Windmills are a staple in Dutch culture and contributed immensely to economic growth. While they are not as efficient today, you will find many still in operation. 

Must Read: The Ultimate Rotterdam Guide + Best Things To Do

2. Zaanse Schans

• Travel Time: 18 minutes
• Estimate Cost One Way: €4.50
• Route: Open in Google Maps.

If you are in Amsterdam for only a short time, then Zaanse Schans is the perfect stop to get some Dutch culture quickly. The town sits just outside Amsterdam, making the 35-minute train ride from Amsterdam Central Station a flexible option – or you can take a bike with the rest of the locals! 

A stress-free option is a half-day tour that will bus you from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans with a guide for only €34.40 per person! They will be sure to show you some of the most popular shops listed below. As you bounce from one to another, your guide even provides you with a bit of history of the town.

The fairytale-like town of Zaanse Schans will have you feeling like you stepped into a Disney movie. The charming homes, delicate streams, fresh air, and welcoming shops are truly unique. As you walk throughout the town you will find stores dedicated to sharing Dutch culture. 

Aside from the picturesque scenery, activities and shops include:

• Kooijman Souvenirs & Clogs : Watch clogs get made and buy your own from their massive selection.
• Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm : Enjoy a cheese tasting and buy a few savory and sweet flavors.
• Het Jonge Schaap : Ever wonder what goes on inside a windmill? This is your chance! Watch the inner workings and discover how useful they have been to the Dutch.
• Zaans Gedaan CacaoLab : Learn how the popular Dutch chocolate is made and buy a few bars for yourself.

Zaanse Schans is a beautiful town to visit, where you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to explore another era.

If you are wondering how to travel by train in the Netherlands, have a look at our post “ How to get around in the Netherlands “.

• Travel Time: 1 hour 5 min
• Estimate Cost One Way: €9 – €21

If you are looking to see castles on your travels, the Muiden castle will surely satisfy that itch. Its structure is everything one would hope for when picturing a castle. The large rounded corners of the structure are complemented by a moat, a hint that this place has seen some legendary battles.

To visit the Muiden castle you will need more than just a train. The train ride will take you most of the way but you will need to transfer to a bus for the rest of the journey. Some travelers may feel anxious about needing to catch another bus or train to make it to their location. Luckily, this short trip has multiple buses circulating, making it easy to catch a follow-up bus if your train arrives late. You can always decide to take a tour from Amsterdam to Muiden Castle , so you are sure everything is arranged for you.

Once you arrive there will be plenty of opportunities for great photos. The large castle towers over its visitors sitting alongside a welcoming garden holding a plumb orchard. The historical landmark offers multiple tour options of the well-preserved castle, making for an eventful day trip. 

• Travel Time: 55 minutes
• Estimate Cost One Way: €13

Just like the cheese, the town of Gouda is just an hour away and should be on top of the list for all cheese lovers. There are places to see like Sint-Janskerk, a beautiful cathedral, and Stadhuis Gouda, the city hall, but your focus of this day trip should be all about the cheese! 

Check out the Gouda Cheese Market where you will see giant wheels of cheese everywhere you turn. There are plenty of chances to taste and buy this town favourite, but I would avoid buying a wheel unless you are sure you can finish it before your flight home!

How else can the town of Gouda celebrate their favourite cheese? Well, with the Museum Gouda of course! Ok – so the museum is not entirely dedicated to Gouda cheese, but it can be a nice break from the savoury scents!

Must Read: 14 Day Road Trip To Visit The Best Cities in The Netherlands

• Travel Time: 1 hour
• Estimate Cost One Way: €15

The town of Delft has plenty to offer, but the most popular is the pottery. 

The town of Delft is famous for its delicate blue and white pottery, in Dutch called “Delftsblauw”. You can find everything from simple tea plates to elaborate vases that weigh just a bit more than your dog. Since the pottery is so popular in the town, you will also be able to take advantage of some excursions they have like pottery painting . Take a class to learn about their intricate designs and the true artistry that goes into the pottery. 

While the travel to Delft is a bit longer, it can be a nice day trip that rewards you with an authentic souvenir to take back.

6. Keukenhof

• Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Estimate Cost One Way: €20

If you travel to Keukenhof, you are likely to visit the fabulous garden . The Keukenhof garden is a theme park for all those that love flowers and gardening. Stroll the tulip fields and watch as their bright green stems spud the brightest flowers. Walk, take a boat, bike, or even take a tour through the fields to fully experience all the park has to offer.

Keukenhof is best enjoyed outdoors! But due to the seasonal bloom of the flowers, it is only open for a short time. From the end of March until half of May (including weekends and holidays) you can stop by. Don’t be too disappointed if you are visiting during the closed season, it is a beautiful spot all year long, but the flowers aren’t around most of the year.

When it is time for lunch, you shouldn’t have issues finding the perfect spot to eat. There is plenty of outside seating so you can eat in the sunshine. This certainly is not a place you would want to spend too much time indoors.

Try some poffertjes or Dutch pancakes. If you are looking for a bit of variety there is also an Italian and Asian restaurant serving some classic dishes. For those on the go, you can quickly grab some strawberries or a hotdog.

Also have a look at our post “ best time to visit the Netherlands ” for more information about the perfect time to visit the Netherlands to see all the flowers in full bloom.

Check out: 10 Most Beautiful National Parks in the Netherlands

7. The Hague

• Travel Time: 50 minutes

If you hop on a 1-hour train ride for about €15, you will arrive in the Hague with plenty to keep you entertained. The Hague boasts itself as the only big city with a beach directly on the North Sea coast. Here you can get an incredible Skyview from the pier . But that certainly is not all it has to offer.

Visit the Hague Market, the largest market in Europe containing 500 stalls selling everything from flowers and snacks, to souvenirs and more. Be sure to visit on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday from 09:00 – 17:00 – unfortunately, shops close their doors on the other days.

That is not the only record this town breaks. The town of Hague is also unique for its Omniversum, a theatre with the only IMAX dome theatre in Europe. An ideal stop if your feet are sore from walking all those stalls.

If you love touring by boat, the Ooievaart is the perfect opportunity to float the canals and see a different side to the city. But maybe you prefer a bird’s eye view of the city, a unique opportunity would be to visit Madurodam , a miniature replica of The Netherlands. This spot allows visitors the chance to quickly get a bird’s eye view of this diverse country.

8. Brussels (Belgium)

• Travel Time: 2 hours
• Estimate Cost One Way: €25

One of the best things about traveling in Europe is how easy it is to visit another city, or even country! From Amsterdam Central Station you can take a 2-hour train ride and find yourself in Brussels, Belgium. Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the European Union, making it not only a popular spot for Belgium culture, but European as well.

Throughout Brussels you will come across plenty of stunning architecture. For example, Grand Place, a 15th Century city hall or the Old England Building, a department store from the 19th century. If architecture is not your thing, a beer tour or a stop at a chocolatier may be more your pace. Amongst all the stops is the most famous, the Manneken Pis, a fountain of a little boy peeing. 

9. Bruges (Belgium)

• Travel Time: 2 hours and 42 minutes
• Estimate Cost One Way: €41

No doubt Brussels is a popular spot! However, taking a break from city life may be in the cards for you if a day trip is on your mind. Bruges can be a fun visit for something just outside the Netherlands. The town of Bruges is known for its architecture and rivers that run through the city. This makes for a relaxing tour for all of its visitors.

Canal tours are very popular in the city but only run from March to November. Such a tour will give you the best sense of the city. Throughout the tour you will pass by buildings with enchanting vines that climb the walls, followed by beautifully designed bridges to pass under. The tour is very popular for tourists, so we suggest trying to save a spot early!

Of course, a stop in Belgium would not be complete without trying some fries, waffles, and chocolate. Luckily, Bruges has plenty of spots for you to try just that. While you can easily spot these places on nearly every corner, we suggest trying some chocolate at Chocoladehuisje and waffles at Chez Albert. Gorge at the Market can also be sure to squash any other cravings you may have. 

Must Read: Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

Best time to visit the Netherlands

While each season in the Netherlands nature offers something unique, autumn (September-November) is our favorite time of year. The trees transform into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors, and it’s a spectacular sight to witness. Moorlands reach full bloom to create purple landscapes, and the leaves dazzle with shades of orange, red, and yellow. 

And the weather provides the perfect temperature to unwind without being drenched in sweat or clutching heavy winter gear. Autumn is a magical time to go hiking in Utrecht due to the breathtaking spectacle produced by Mother Nature. Check out my  Best Time To Visit The Netherlands Guide  for more detailed weather information.

How many days do i need in the Netherlands?

As a lot of tourists just stay in Amsterdam city, please make some more time to explore the real countryside of the Netherlands as it’s really worth it. I know this may sound weird from a local, but really the country has so much to offer. Not all of you would have 14 days to spend in the Netherlands, but try at least to spend between 5 and 7 days to explore nature, beaches, typical Dutch villages, windmills, cities and to learn more about the culture by taking a tour. 

Where to stay in amsterdam

• Moderate: NH Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
• Moderate: Budget Hotel Ben
• Budget: ClinkNoord Hostel
• Moderate: Durty Nell’s In
• Camping Zeeburg Amsterdam
• Budget: €0-€50 Moderate: €50-€100 per night

FAQ Day Trips from Amsterdam by Train

Is there a direct train from amsterdam to london.

Yes, there is a direct train connection between Amsterdam Central Station all the way to London Centre, the trip will take just around 4 hours.

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International Trains to/from Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a number of direct international rail services which can connect you to Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, UK and beyond. High speed rail travel in Europe is a good alternative to flying and gives a real feeling of travel.

In this article we overview all international trains running to/from Amsterdam.

International Rail Map Amsterdam

Firstly let’s start with our international rail network map for scheduled trains operating to/from Amsterdam Central. The map covers rail services from Amsterdam to Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland and the UK.

Amsterdam-Paris: Eurostar (formerly Thalys)

The Amsterdam-Paris rail route is served by the Eurostar (formerly Thalys), an international high speed train service. In late 2023, Thalys was rebranded as Eurostar following the merger of Eurostar and Thalys.

In the Netherlands the Eurostar travels on the HSL-Zuid high speed line from near Amsterdam to the Belgian border reaching speeds of up to 250km/h.

The red Eurostar trains runs between Amsterdam Central and Paris Nord and make stops at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Rotterdam, Antwerp and Brussels Zuid/Midi. The service normally runs up to 11x daily for Amsterdam-Paris.

From Amsterdam the journey times are 1 hour 15 mins to Antwerp, 1 hour 50 mins to Brussels and 3 hours 18 mins to Paris.

The Eurostar has a 3 class service: Standard, Comfort and Premium – these retain their orignal Thalys class names – note the blue London Eurostar trains have different class names. All seats on the Eurostar have individual electric power outlets.

Standard has 2nd class seating (2-2 configuration) with free WiFi. Food/drink can be purchased at the bar carriage. Standard tickets are refundable and exchangeable up to 7 days before travel; thereafter there are no refunds, but changes are possible for a €15 fee plus the price difference.

Comfort has 1st class seating (2-1 configuration), free WiFi and food/drink can be purchased at the bar. Comfort tickets are also refundable and exchangeable up to 7 days before travel; thereafter there are no refunds, but changes are possible for a €15 fee plus the price difference.

Premium is a proper first class product with 1st class seating (2-1 configuration), free WiFi (with more data), complimentary food/drink served at your seat and and free access to an international press app. Premium tickets are fully refundable up to 1 hour before travel; changes are possible right up to departure time with any price difference applying.

Premium ticket holders can access the Eurostar lounge in Paris or Brussels as well as the NS International lounges at Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport or Rotterdam.

Eurostar has introduced refurbished trainsets with new interiors, more space for luggage and screens with real-time info. The former ‘Welcome bar’ area has been renamed the Eurostar Café.

Eurostar permits 2 pieces of luggage (max 75 x 53 x 30cm, no weight limit) plus 1 item of hand luggage. There are overhead luggage racks and special racks at each end of the carriage for larger items.

Eurostar (formerly Thalys) tickets are on sale up to 4 months out and are booked like an airline seat – with a specific seat reservation. Your ticket will have a carriage and seat number.

To secure the cheapest fares you should book as early as possible.

Standard fares for Amsterdam-Paris cost €35-€149, Comfort fares cost €75-€169 and Premium fares range from €150-€220.

From Paris Nord you can connect onto the French TGV network to destinations throughout France – but you will have to transfer to one of the other Paris stations using the Metro/RER or taxi.

BOOKING: Book your Eurostar (formerly Thalys) tickets here

or Book Eurostar tickets at Trainline

Amsterdam-Brussels/Antwerp: Eurostar or Intercity Brussels

Amsterdam passengers travelling to Brussels or Antwerp have a choice of services on the route.

The high speed Eurostar (formerly Thalys) train runs from Amsterdam/Schiphol/Rotterdam to Antwerp and Brussels Zuid/Midi up to 15x daily, as described above.

Eurostar fares for Amsterdam-Brussels range as follows: €29-€89 (Standard), €52-€103 (Comfort) and €106-€129 (Premium).

For Amsterdam-Antwerp the fares are €29-€79 (Standard), €48-€88 (Comfort) and €90-€109 (Premium).

An alternative to Eurostar is the slower Intercity Brussels train which operates up to 16x daily between Amsterdam and Brussels Zuid/Midi . The Intercity Brussels service also runs on the high-speed track in the Netherlands although it is not a high speed train.

The Intercity Brussels train makes stops at Schiphol, Rotterdam, Breda, Noorderkempen (Belgium), Antwerp Central, Antwerp Berchem, Mechelen, Brussels Airport, Brussels North and Brussels Central.

The Intercity Brussels journey time from Amsterdam to Brussels is 2 hours 50 mins, around 30 minutes quicker than the previous Intercity service which used standard Dutch tracks. The Amsterdam-Brussels travel time on Eurostar is around 1 hour 50 mins.

Intercity Brussels has 1st class (2-1 seating configuration) and 2nd class (2-2) tickets for sale.

Standard fixed (distance based) prices are in effect with no seat reservations necessary for international intercity travel. The service also offers cheaper “early bird” tickets for those booking online in advance.

The standard full-flex (2024) fare for Amsterdam-Brussels one-way costs €56.50 (2nd class) or €91.50 (1st class). These are valid on any Intercity Brussels service on-the-day and are freely changeable up to the departure day.

Early bird one-way fares start at €25 (2nd class) and €41 (1st class) and are valid for a specific train only. Tickets can be changed for a €5 fee.

Holders of Dutch Railways NS discount cards and free NS travel cards receive a fare reduction off the full-flex fare for the Netherlands segment of travel.

Also of note to travellers: there is an hourly Belgian stopping train service between the border town of Roosendaal (NL) and Antwerp; those travelling Amsterdam-Bruges should travel to Antwerp and then change to a Belgian intercity. For Amsterdam-Antwerp info see here

BOOKING: Book your Eurostar/Intercity Brussels tickets at NS International

or Book with Trainline here

Amsterdam-London: Eurostar

There is a direct Eurostar service between Amsterdam and London which runs up to 4x daily using the blue coloured trains.

The journey time is just over 4 hours and the train stops only at Brussels Zuid/Midi and Rotterdam. The Eurostar high speed train service travels up to 300km/h and runs via the channel tunnel which takes about 20 minutes to cross.

This is the Eurostar timetable for direct trains between London and Amsterdam:

[Service frequency is reduced at weekends; Amsterdam is 1 hour ahead of London time]

Between July and December 2024 the Eurostar terminal in Amsterdam will undergo an expansion/renovation to allow more passengers to be processed. This means there will be no direct trains from Amsterdam to London during this time – passengers will need to make a stop in Brussels. The London-Amsterdam service will run as usual.

Passengers departing either Amsterdam and Rotterdam have to go through a security and immigration check before boarding. The current Eurostar facility is upstairs on platform 15b at Amsterdam Central station.

There are 3 classes of travel on the Eurostar:

Standard – effectively 2nd class with 2-2 configuration seating, food and drink can be bought at the bar coach.

Standard Premier – a 1st class “lite” offering with 2-1 seating, a light meal and drinks served at your seat and magazines available.

Business Premier – a full fare business product with 2-1 seating, lounge access, 3 course meal and drinks (including champagne) served plus newspapers and magazines.

Eurostar uses its E320 series trains for the London-Amsterdam route which are made up of 16 coaches. Business Premier and Standard Premier are normally located in coaches 1-3 and 14-16. There is a Eurostar Café bar facility in coaches 8 and 9.

For more info see our detailed review (Standard Premier class) of travel on the Eurostar between London and Amsterdam .

The cheapest fares need to be booked well in advance and are usually the direct train service; the Eurostar fares with a change in Brussels are normally more expensive.

One-way fares in Standard class between London and Amsterdam start from £51/€58 one-way or £78/€88 return.

Standard Premier fares start from £97/€111 one-way or £168/€192 return. Business Premier ticket prices are not cheap, priced from £335/€385 one-way or £580/€667 return.

BOOKING: Book your Eurostar tickets at NS International

Of interest to some could be the rail and ferry option which includes the Stena Line ferry between Harwich and Hoek van Holland. Both ferry ports are accessible by rail or metro.

Amsterdam-Frankfurt, Basel via Düsseldorf, Cologne: ICE International

The modern ICE International trains (ICE3M BR 406 variants) run from Amsterdam Central to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf up to 6x daily.

Jointly operated by DB Bahn (German Railways) and NS (Dutch Railways) the ICE train makes stops at Utrecht, Arnhem, Oberhausen, Duisburg, Düsseldorf, Cologne and Frankfurt airport. One train a day also continues on to Basel in Switzerland.

Journey times from Amsterdam are 2 hours 11 mins to Düsseldorf, 2 hours 38 mins to Cologne (Keulen / Köln), 3 hours 42 mins to Frankfurt airport and 3 hours 55 mins to Frankfurt Hbf. There is a high speed track between Cologne and Frankfurt where speeds can approach 300 km/h.

ICE one-way ticket prices between Amsterdam and Düsseldorf or Cologne start from €20 (2nd class) and €32 (1st class).

Amsterdam to Frankfurt costs from €38 (2nd class) and €50 (1st class). Book in advance to secure the lowest fares.

Seat reservations are included with 1st class tickets and cost €4.90 extra (recommended) for 2nd class.

BOOKING:    Book your ICE trip at NS International

or Book ICE tickets at Trainline

The Basel bound ICE train departs Amsterdam Central at 0746 – from Frankfurt airport it heads to Mannheim, Karlsruhe, Offenberg and Freiberg before arriving at Basel SBB at 1447. For the return leg, it departs Basel at 1513 arriving back in Amsterdam at 2159. Journey time both ways is around 6 hours 45 mins.

Standard Amsterdam-Basel tickets are priced from around €38 (2nd class) and €60 (1st class) one-way.

In our opinion, both the 1st and 2nd class seats on the ICE International are extremely comfortable.

A nice feature of the ICE3M trains are the “Panorama lounge” cabins at the very front and rear of the trains where you can sometimes view the driver’s seat and window – although the driver can elect to frost the glass. One cabin is 1st class, the other is 2nd class.

The ICE train also has a bistro bar carriage in the middle of the train.

Free WiFi is available to all passengers and there are power outlets accessible from each seat.

Amsterdam-Berlin: Intercity Berlin

DB Bahn (German railways) and NS International operate an IC (Intercity) train service 6x daily between Amsterdam Central and Berlin Ostbahnhof . The journey makes a good number of stops: in Netherlands at Hilversum, Amersfoort, Apeldoorn, Deventer, Almelo and Hengelo.

German stopping stations include Bad Bentheim, Rheine, Osnabrück, Hannover, Wolfsburg, Stendal, Berlin Spandau and Berlin Hauptbanhof , the main station of the city.

The journey takes around 5 hours 52 mins with the lowest one-way prices from €38 (2nd class) and €50 (1st class).

The Intercity Berlin carriages are from DB and are normally pulled by a Dutch locomotive.

The IC Berlin train has an on board bistro bar carriage for drinks and snacks. 1st class passengers can order from their seat.

The 1st class seats (mainly 6 seat mini-compartments) are very comfortable; the 2nd class seats (open 2-2 configuration) are a little firmer. The windows on this train are large and offer good views.

Free WiFi is available to all passengers and there are some power outlets located under the seats.

BOOKING: Book your Intercity Berlin trip at NS International

or Book Intercity Berlin tickets with Trainline here

Amsterdam to other destinations in Germany and beyond

Passengers heading to other destinations can use the ICE or IC trains from the Netherlands and then connect onto other German rail services. Connections are normally made at Hanover, Düsseldorf, Osnabrück or Frankfurt Main – from here you could travel to the likes of Hamburg , Stuttgart and Munich.

BOOKING: Book your trip to Germany at NS International

or Book tickets at Trainline

Amsterdam-Vienna/Munich, Amsterdam-Zurich: NightJet

Austrian Railways ÖBB operates a couple of NightJet night train services to/from Amsterdam.

There is an Amsterdam-Vienna service which departs nightly from Amsterdam at 1900 and arrives in Vienna at 0917 the next morning – giving a journey time of just over 14 hours.

The train runs via Utrecht, Arnhem, Düsseldorf, Cologne and Frankfurt. It continues to Nuremberg where the train splits into a Munich bound section (via Augsburg) and a Vienna-bound section via Linz.

The arrival time in Munich is 0706 meaning a journey time of around 12 hours.

From Vienna and Munich the NightJet trains depart at 2010 and 2252, respectively. They arrive together the following morning at Amsterdam Central at 0959.

NightJet operates a second night train service from Amsterdam to Zurich via Utrecht, Arnhem, Düsseldorf, Cologne, Frankfurt, Mannheim and Basel.

The train departs Amsterdam at 2030, arriving in Zurich at 0805. From Zurich the train leaves at 2159, arriving in Amsterdam at 0905. The journey time is just under the 12 hour mark.

One-way tickets prices for NightJet range as follows: €35-€165 for a 2nd class seat ; €50-€195 for a couchette bunk (4-6 people); €80-€320 for a sleeper cabin for 1, 2 or 3 people.

BOOKING:   Book your NightJet tickets at NS International

or Book NightJet tickets at Trainline

Amsterdam-Marseille: Eurostar Sun

Eurostar Sun is a special seasonal service which runs weekly (on Saturdays) during July and August only. The train operates as a normal Eurostar from Amsterdam to Brussels – but then continues on to Valence, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and Marseille St Charles . Note, this service will not run in summer 2024.

Alternatively there are TGV services originating from Brussels running year round which bypass Paris and serve many major destinations in the south of France – including Lyon, Marseilles, Nice and the French Riviera, Montpelier and Perpignan. The Amsterdam-Marseilles journey takes about 8 hours.

Prices from Amsterdam via Brussels start at €84 one-way. Book at NS International

Amsterdam-Bourg St Maurice: Eurostar Snow

The Eurostar Snow service runs every Saturday between mid-December and the end of March.

From Amsterdam it makes stops in Rotterdam, Antwerp and Brussels before heading to Chambery, Albertville, Moutiers Salins, Aime La Plagne, Landry and finally Bourg St Maurice .

Travel time between Amsterdam and Bourg St Maurice is around 9 hours. Bus connections from these stations run to all the main French ski resorts.

BOOKING: One-way prices start from €99 in Standard class. Tickets on sale from October, book at NS International

European Sleeper: Amsterdam-Berlin-Prague

This is a start-up cooperative company established in 2021 which runs a 2x weekly night train service between Brussels and Berlin via Amsterdam.

The train departs Brussels Zuid/Midi at 1922 and travels to Amsterdam via Antwerp, Roosendaal, Rotterdam (2122), Den Haag HS and Schiphol Airport. It leaves Amsterdam Central at 2234 with further Dutch stops at Amersfoort and Deventer before crossing into Germany at Bad Bentheim. It arrives in Berlin Hbf at 0620.

From 25 March 2024 it will continue on to Dresden (0829) and Prague (1056).

From the other way it is timetabled to depart Prague at 1804 and travels the same route back with main stops Dresden (2030), Berlin Hbf (2256), Amsterdam Central (0626), Rotterdam (0727), Antwerp (0843) and arriving at Brussel Zuid/Midi at 0927.

Accommodation on board comprises of sleepers (1/2/3 bed) with a wash basin, couchettes (4-person or 6-person compartments) and standard seats (in a 6-seat compartment).

Amsterdam-Berlin tickets are priced from €19 (seats), €49 (couchettes) and €139 (sleepers).

Brussels-Amsterdam-Berlin-(Prague) runs on Mondays and Fridays. The (Prague)-Berlin-Amsterdam-Brussels leg runs on Sundays and Thursdays.

It is possible to book European Sleeper tickets at Omio . You need to specify the correct date and adjust the departure time to evenings to see the European Sleeper in the results. For single occupancy you need to click ‘Change seating preferences’ on ‘seat reservation’ on the booking page.

Amsterdam-Luxembourg

There are no direct services from Amsterdam to Luxembourg. You have the option of various routes via either Belgium or Germany.

The easiest way to travel (just one connection) is to take a train from Amsterdam to Brussels and then take an intercity service from Brussels to Luxembourg. This costs from €32 one-way if taking the Intercity Brussels or from €70 one-way if taking the faster Eurostar. Journey times are from 5 hours 35 mins to 6 hours 25 mins.

2nd class rail travel in Luxembourg is free.

BOOKING: Book Amsterdam-Luxembourg trips at NS International

Buying International Train Tickets

International train tickets can be easily bought at NS International counters at main stations including Amsterdam Central and Rotterdam Central. However, they will charge you a €7.50 per person service fee (max €22.50 per booking).

You can buy some limited tickets at the NS automatic ticket machines at stations – generally to Belgium, western Germany, Lille and Luxembourg.

To save the desk booking fee, it is best to book online in advance at the NS International site

Related articles: How to Buy a Dutch Train ticket and International Rail Borders in Netherlands

This article was originally published in 2010 and has continuously been updated. Last update 31 January 2023 .

Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.

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6 of the best European train routes for summer 2024

May 3, 2024 • 5 min read

From scenic trains through Germany's Rhine Valley to sleeper services from Brussels to Prague, here are the best train routes for summer 2024 © Boarding1Now / Getty Images

Are you planning some European travel this summer? Me too. Getting from A to B by train has never felt so exciting, with a thrilling mix of new routes, classic journeys, and under-the-radar options to choose from.

Here are some of the most enticing European train journeys available for summer 2024. Some services kick in when summer timetables begin in June, while many are in operation now. Either way, it’s time to start planning!

1. There's a new service linking the Baltic capitals

Lithuania has been quietly building up international rail connections in recent years. A cross-border service to Warsaw and Kraków in Poland began in late 2022, and since December last 2023, it has been possible to travel between two of the Baltic capitals by direct train. The journey north from Vilnius to the capital of Latvia , Riga , takes 4 hours and 15 minutes and runs daily, making it a competitive alternative to the bus. Booking in advance is recommended, though. This new route through the Baltics is a precursor to a hoped-for extension towards Tallinn which would link the three capitals. Back in Vilnius, connecting with an onward train to Kaunas is possible. 

How to book: Book online through LTG Link. Ticket prices start at €24.

2. Travel at high speed from Barcelona to Seville

Iryo, a recent entrant into Spain’s seemingly ever-expanding range of high-speed services, has established a foothold on the high-traffic Madrid to Zaragoza and Barcelona route. Its new offering extends from Barcelona and Madrid to the Andalucían cities of Córdoba and Seville , making the journey between the Catalan capital and Seville in 5 hours and 50 minutes. Using the same rolling stock as Trenitalia’s slick Frecciarossa trains, Iryo is also notable for an onboard food service that includes cheese and ham tapas and sustainably sourced Spanish wines to help the high-speed scenery flash past.

How to book: Tickets from €40 one way can be bought online through Iryo .

3. Take the night train from Brussels to Prague

Europe’s night train revolution continues to reshape the experience of traveling across the continent. Only last year, there was no option to reach Prague from the west by sleeper. Now, there are options to lull you to sleep from Paris or Brussels to Berlin , then onto Prague by lunchtime. One approach is the thrice weekly Austrian Nightjet service from Paris and Brussels to Berlin, where you change trains for Prague. More conveniently, there is the privately run European Sleeper train on alternate nights, which takes you all the way. Don’t expect too many frills, though: this train consists of older carriages leased from various train companies around Europe. You will, however, travel directly to Prague with a friendly train crew and enjoy a time-efficient, continent-spanning journey. 

How to book: One-way tickets from Brussels to Prague on the European Sleeper start at €79 for seats, €109 for couchette space, €179 sleeper berth.

See more of Europe on the sleeper train.  Here's our guide to the best routes

4. Scoot along İstanbul's Sirkeci seafront line

If ever a station was a shadow of its former self, it’s Sirkeci, sitting on the shores of the Bosphorus in İstanbul ’s Sultanahmet district . Best known as the one-time terminus for the fabled Orient Express trains, Sirkeci lost its long-distance services in 2013. While the city bustles around Sirkeci, the ground-level platforms have sat unused since, while the underground Marmaray railway flashes underneath the old city bearing travelers from Europe to Asia. There’s life in old Sirkeci yet though. The opening of the new 5.2-mile light rail service to Kazlıçeşme restores trains to the original trainshed. In time, these renewed tracks may even see a return of Sofia - and Bucharest -bound services to the banks of the Bosphorus rather than their less convenient departure point at Halkalı, the western end of the Marmaray line. For now, this is an excuse for nostalgically-minded travelers to hop on a train from one of Europe’s most storied stations, perhaps for a seafood meal in lively Kumkapi, one of the stops on the new line.

How to book: A journey on İstanbul’s trains costs around €0.50. Find out more about transport within İstanbul with our guide to getting around .

5. Ride the summer-only route from Budapest to Koper on Slovenia's Adriatic

Some journeys are so perfectly made for hot weather that they only exist during Europe’s hottest months. Pulling out of Budapest ’s Deli station – not to be confused with the more famous Keleti – the Citadella train noses its way every morning to the Slovenian border and onto the compact capital, Ljubljana . While the views on the Hungarian journey are less remarkable, the stretch of track running alongside the Sava River between Celje and Ljubljana introduces Slovenia’s natural beauty. Between June 16 and August 24, taking this train past the capital to Koper on the Slovene riviera is possible. Koper is home to a historic center stuffed with Venetian architecture and, combined with an unusual journey to get here, more than justifies being added to any central European plans this summer.

How to book:  Tickets cost from €22 one way and can be bought on the MÁV website . 

6. Spend a month traveling Germany by train for just €49

One of the continent’s great travel deals can open up a host of slow journeys in Germany. For €49, travelers can purchase a Deutschlandticket for a month. The price includes regional and suburban (but not ICE or IC long-distance) services across Germany, plus buses, trams and subways. As well as covering urban exploration, this ticket is perfect for hopping around the Rhine and Moselle valleys , taking a tour of the Black Forest or exploring many of the Harz Mountain lines. It also opens up possibilities for some regional international services across borders. Even if you end up paying for the occasional inter-city service, you’ll still save money.

How to book: The Deutschlandtickets (€49 per month) are sold through the DB website , but they're not aimed at visitors, so buying one as a non-German resident can be fiddly. See Seat61's how-to  for the latest guidance.

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This New Budget Train Route Will Connect 4 Gorgeous European Destinations

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Dreaming of a scenic train ride through Europe?

I'm right there with you.

The thought of the picture-perfect views, comfy seats, and being able to get into my own little world while listening to my favorite music is enough to get me to pack my bags.

Unfortunately for my fellow impatient people, though, if you want to get all that plus great amenities plus low prices, you'll have to wait a bit longer to make that dream come true.

That's because GoVolta , one of the newest Dutch operators on the market, has scheduled the launch of its long-awaited services in spring of next year.

But why are these routes so highly anticipated, and what should you, as someone who can't wait to embark on the ultimate European train ride, know about them?

Where Can You Go?

One of the main reasons why people can't wait for these new GoVolta services to launch is that they'll make the lives of indecisive travelers 100 times easier.

GoVolta will run an Amsterdam-Berlin route 7 days a week, an Amsterdam-Copenhagen route also 7 days a week, and an Amsterdam-Basel route 3 days a week.

These will launch in May, June, and July of 2025, respectively.

So, starting next year, you can set base in the Dutch capital and get to some of Europe's dreamiest destinations in a matter of hours – that way, you won't have to pick and choose what you see now and what you leave up to a hypothetical vacation a couple of years down the road.

And I'm not done with the good news quite yet.

An Amsterdam-Paris route is on the books, too, giving you the opportunity to visit what's arguably the most coveted city on Earth without having to deal with all the overcrowded hotels and ridiculously high prices.

This one, however, has been postponed until at least 2026, so keep your eyes peeled for further updates.

What's So Exciting About This New Service?

You might be thinking – we're constantly hearing announcements of new train services launching throughout Europe ( 1 , 2 ), what's so special about this one?

First of all, considering that rail travel is supposed to be a more economical alternative to flying, we can't help but notice that tickets have gotten wildly expensive these past few years, and having a budget operator come into the scene is a breath of fresh air.

GoVolta's economy tickets will cost a little under $10, which is more than 60% cheaper than what other operators are charging for these same exact routes – and don't think that this just applies to a couple of seats here and there you'll never be able to get your hands on.

There are said to be more than a hundred economy seats available on every single train, and that $10 will get you a pretty amazing experience, too.

The cars themselves, as well as everything inside, will be brand-new, so neither cleanliness nor functionality should be a concern.

One downside I do want to note, though, is that these trains are predicted to be a bit slower than the high-speed ones you might've gotten used to – the Berlin trip, for example, will take 8 hours instead of the usual 6.

If you ask me, though, that extra couple of hours just gives you more time to take in the experience and the surrounding views, and it's well worth all the savings you'll make going back and forth between all these gorgeous cities.

When And Where Can You Get Tickets?

OK, so you know these trains will start operating next year, but how soon can you get your hands on some tickets?

After all, those $10 seats are guaranteed to sell like hotcakes.

GoVolta is planning to put up tickets for sale starting October 2024, but a specific date hasn't been announced yet, so make sure to refresh the company's website every once in a while to see when they come out with new updates.

Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world's most fascinating destinations.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post This New Budget Train Route Will Connect 4 Gorgeous European Destinations appeared first on Travel Off Path .