Planning a European adventure and wondering about the best way to travel between Paris and Amsterdam? We discovered that taking the train is not only surprisingly easy but also incredibly fast. High-speed Train Travel From Paris To Amsterdam with Eurostar (formerly Thalys) whisks you from the heart of Paris at Gare du Nord station to Amsterdam Centraal in just around 3 hours and 20 minutes. For our family trip, choosing the train was a no-brainer, and it turned out to be a fantastic experience from start to finish.
Why Choose Train Travel from Paris to Amsterdam?
When considering travel between these iconic European cities, the train offers numerous advantages. Forget about airport hassles, long security lines, and baggage restrictions. With train travel from Paris to Amsterdam, you step aboard in the city center and arrive directly in the heart of Amsterdam. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, offering scenic views and onboard comfort that you simply can’t get with flying or driving.
Experiencing Eurostar (formerly Thalys)
Eurostar, renowned for its high-speed services, provides a comfortable and efficient journey. There are different classes of service to suit various budgets and preferences. While all classes offer amenities like WiFi, for a slightly longer journey, upgrading to “Premium” class (First Class) can enhance your experience. Our Premium tickets included at-seat meal service and drinks, making the 3-hour trip even more enjoyable. Opting for an early morning train allowed us to maximize our time in Amsterdam, starting our day with breakfast onboard as the French countryside whizzed by. Reservations are mandatory on Eurostar, ensuring you have a guaranteed seat and a smooth travel experience.
Departing from Paris Gare du Nord
Paris Gare du Nord is more than just a train station; it’s a vibrant hub with plenty to see and do while you wait to board. From cafes and shops to the simple pleasure of people-watching, there’s always something happening. Finding our platform was straightforward thanks to the clear information screens throughout the station. Eurostar trains are easily recognizable with their distinctive red color and modern design, standing out amongst the other trains.
Before boarding, there is a quick and efficient security check at Gare du Nord. To ensure a relaxed start to your journey, arriving at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time is recommended. This allows ample time to clear security and settle into your seat comfortably.
The Scenic Train Journey to Amsterdam
Once aboard the Eurostar, the journey is remarkably smooth and quick. Leaving Paris behind, the urban landscape soon transitions into picturesque countryside, painting the window with shades of green. The direct train from Paris to Amsterdam makes only a few stops along the way, ensuring a swift journey.
Our first stop was Lille, a brief pause before continuing into Belgium. Next, we arrived in Brussels, the Belgian capital, before quickly heading onwards to the Netherlands. The route passes through Antwerp and Rotterdam, each offering glimpses of unique cityscapes. Rotterdam, in particular, provides a quirky sight – just outside the station, Rotterdam Zoo stretches across both sides of the railway tracks! We were lucky enough to spot some animals and numerous storks nesting on telegraph poles, a truly unique sight from a train window.
Arriving at Amsterdam Centraal Station
Stepping off the train at Amsterdam Centraal is an experience in itself. The station’s stunning architecture, inspired by Gothic and Dutch Renaissance styles, is immediately captivating. Take a moment to look up in the ticket hall and admire the impressive ceilings.
Before diving into the canals and the city center, consider a short ferry trip across the IJ lake. These free ferries offer a fantastic panoramic view of Amsterdam, especially from the A’DAM Lookout observation deck, easily accessible from the ferry terminal.
Amsterdam is a truly wonderful city, and train travel from Paris to Amsterdam made it incredibly accessible and enjoyable. We are already looking forward to our next visit, and we’ll definitely be choosing the train again!
