Planning a European adventure can be exciting, and when considering travel between iconic cities like Paris and Amsterdam, the train offers an unparalleled experience. Forget stressful airport transfers and embrace the ease and speed of rail travel. The high-speed train from Paris to Amsterdam, now operated under the Eurostar brand (formerly Thalys), whisks you from the heart of Paris to Amsterdam Centraal Station in just around 3 hours and 20 minutes. For our trip, choosing the train was a clear winner, promising both efficiency and comfort.
Opting for Eurostar (Formerly Thalys)
Eurostar (previously known as Thalys) offers a seamless and enjoyable travel experience. With mandatory seat reservations included in your ticket, you can relax knowing your spot is secured from the moment you book. While all classes provide amenities like WiFi, we decided to enhance our journey with a “Premium” ticket, often considered First Class. This upgrade was well worth it for the 3-hour journey, as it included a delightful at-seat hot meal service and a selection of drinks. To maximize our time in Amsterdam, we chose an early morning train, allowing us to savor breakfast onboard as the European countryside unfolded before us.
Departure from Paris Gare du Nord
Paris Gare du Nord is more than just a station; it’s a vibrant hub buzzing with energy. Arriving early is a pleasure, not a chore, as the station offers a variety of cafes, shops, and ample opportunities for people-watching. Navigating the station is straightforward, with platform information clearly displayed on large screens. Eurostar trains, easily recognizable by their distinctive deep red color and modern design, stand out amongst the other trains, making them simple to locate.
It’s important to note that a brief security check is in place before boarding at Gare du Nord. To ensure a relaxed start to your journey, arriving at least 20 minutes prior to your scheduled departure is recommended. This allows ample time to pass through security, board the train, and settle in comfortably before your departure to Amsterdam.
The Scenic Train Journey to Amsterdam
Once aboard, the journey itself becomes a highlight of the trip. As the train departs Gare du Nord, the Parisian cityscape quickly gives way to the lush green landscapes of the French and Belgian countryside. The direct train service to Amsterdam Centraal minimizes travel time and hassle, with only a few stops along the route. Leaving Paris behind, our first stop was Lille, followed by Brussels, the Belgian capital. The journey continued swiftly into the Netherlands, passing through Antwerp and Rotterdam.
Rotterdam offered a particularly unique sight from the train window. Just outside Rotterdam station, the Rotterdam Zoo uniquely straddles the railway tracks. We were lucky enough to catch glimpses of some of the zoo’s inhabitants and numerous storks nesting atop telegraph poles – an unexpected and charming element of the journey.
Arrival at Amsterdam Centraal Station
Stepping into Amsterdam Centraal Station is an experience in itself. The station’s stunning architecture, a blend of Gothic and Dutch Renaissance styles, immediately captivates. Take a moment to look upwards in the ticket hall and admire the impressive ceilings. Before diving into the city’s famous canals and vibrant heart, consider a short detour to the IJ waterfront. Free ferries depart regularly from behind the station, offering a quick trip across the IJ to locations like A’DAM Lookout. From the viewing platform at A’DAM Lookout, you can enjoy panoramic views of Amsterdam and its surrounding areas, providing a fantastic introduction to the city.
Amsterdam is truly a remarkable city that beckons for a return visit. And when we do, traveling by train will undoubtedly be our first choice again.
