Amsterdam to Antwerp train with NS International | IC Brussel

Trains from Amsterdam to Antwerp

This is a very popular route, with about 30 departures from Amsterdam headed to Antwerp each day. Most services are direct, with journey times of between one and two hours between locations. Thalys and NS International operate the trains on this route, with an almost equal share of departures.

Amsterdam to Antwerp train times: daily departures

On weekdays approximately two trains per hour depart Amsterdam for Antwerp. The first train leaves at around 6.00 a.m., and the last service at about 9:30 p.m. There are normally 30 train services operating along this route every day. The frequency of departures over weekends is largely the same (except that the first departure is a little later in the morning). 

How long is the journey by train from Amsterdam to Antwerp?

Four of the 30 trains each weekday (and only one over weekend) require a transfer during the journey. These indirect routes take about two hours and 20 minutes to complete. The direct routes take between and one and two hours to complete the journey.

What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Amsterdam to Antwerp?

Departure train station: all trains to Antwerp from Amsterdam leave from the Amsterdam Central station. The station has facilities for trams, buses and ferries outside, and is very well-served by public transport. The city centre is within walking distance for those looking to experience a slower pace. All modern facilities are available at the station, including many shops and restaurants as well as ATMs, toilets, waiting rooms and WiFi.

Arrival train station: trains arrive at the Antwerp Central Station, about three miles drive from the city centre, which should not take more than 10 minutes. The station is well serviced by trams, buses and taxis, and offers an ample variety of facilities. In 2009, the American magazine Newsweek chose this station as the world's fourth most beautiful; this was after renovations to accommodate high-speed trains. The renovations provided for the inclusion of an array of shops and restaurants. The station is, itself, one of Antwerp's tourist attractions.

Which train companies travel from Amsterdam to Antwerp?

Operators working this route are Thalys and NS International.

Thalys Trains: Amsterdam to Antwerp

Thalys operates 14 trips a day on trains from Amsterdam to Antwerp. All services are direct and take around one hour and 15 minutes to complete the journey.

NS International Trains: Amsterdam to Antwerp

NS International operates 14 direct trips each day on trains from Amsterdam to Antwerp, with two trips requiring transfers at Rotterdam. All of these trips take approximately two hours to complete.

Amsterdam to Antwerp trains: services on board

Different comfort levels are available by both operators, at different prices. Thalys offers three levels of comfort and NS offers two, including both first and second-class tickets.

Ordinarily, two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage are allowed per passenger. Arrangements can be made to take extra bags, or unusual items such as bicycles (which must have the wheels removed and be properly packed) and pets. Pets must be caged or kept on a leash. No dangerous animals are allowed on board.

Assisted access is available for passengers with limited mobility and should be arranged beforehand.

How to find cheap train tickets from Amsterdam to Antwerp?

It is always best to book in advance to maximise your chances of finding and securing good deals. Also, try and plan for a period rather than specific days, allowing you to be flexible enough to catch the special deals. If you have time to spare, you can save yourself some cash by booking services that take a little longer or require a change on the route.

Taking the Train from Amsterdam

Trains depart from Amsterdam Central Station. This is located in the heart of the city on the Stationsplein. The station can be reached from the airport using the Netherlands Railway train network. Trains run every ten minutes and every hour from 6 a.m. to midnight. GVB trams offer transport to other stations. Taxis and airport shuttles provide alternative transport.

Getting into Antwerp by Train

Antwerp is a busy, international port city, also known as the cultural capital of Flanders. It is a very historic region and a visit to the Grote Markt, St. Paul's church or Plantin-Moretus museum is a must-do activity. Take a trip to the Diamond Museum or stroll through the beautiful Antwerp Zoo while you are there. Trains from Amsterdam arrive at Antwerp Central Station which is located in the city center. Public transport to the station includes bus, trams, taxis or shuttles, including evenings.