Berlin to Amsterdam train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RB,RE)

From Berlin to Amsterdam by Comfortable DB InterCity Train

Introduction

Berlin and Amsterdam are two of Europe’s most trendy capital cities, and both of them are well worth a visit. When traveling from Berlin to Amsterdam, the most convenient option is the train, with frequent departures available using comfortable carriages.

In this article, I’ll show you why I recommend this route and share a few tips to make the most of your journey on the Deutsche Bahn (DB) InterCity from Berlin to Amsterdam.

Route Overview

The direct trains from Berlin to Amsterdam that operate throughout the day are operated by Deutsche Bahn, the national railway operator of Germany. These are classed as InterCity (IC) services, the second-best train type operating in Germany. Journey times are usually just under 6 hours, covering a distance of 641 kilometers.

There are also buses and flights from Berlin to Amsterdam on Omio, but these are less convenient and less comfortable in my experience, so I’d always choose the train over these alternatives.

Transportation Experience

I booked my ticket on Omio, which made it easy to compare travel options and complete the purchase. You can pay using various international methods, and best of all, your ticket is delivered digitally, ready for boarding.

The DB InterCity train from Berlin Hauptbahnhof to Amsterdam Centraal is a convenient experience, thanks to centrally located stations at both ends. You are picked up in the heart of the city of Berlin and dropped off in the tourist center of Amsterdam. What a perfect way to travel!

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Most passengers will start their journey from Berlin Hbf. This is a centrally located station with easy access to the rest of Berlin, thanks to its connections to the S-Bahn (commuter rail) and U-Bahn (metro) systems. Also, consider booking your journey from the alternative of Berlin Ostbahnhof (Berlin East station), where most trains also pick up from.

Both of these stations in Berlin have a great selection of restaurants and shops, which is ideal since the train doesn't have a dining car. By the way, there’s no need to check in: just find the platform on the list of departures, and then you can simply walk on board at your own leisure. It really doesn’t get any easier than that.

All trains finish in Amsterdam Centraal, found in the heart of Amsterdam’s tourist hotspots. It’s just a minute away from the canals on foot, and an expansive network of tram or metro options will take you anywhere else you need to be.

Schedule & Frequency

Trains from Berlin to Amsterdam depart throughout the day at two-hour intervals. Departures start early in the morning, with the last service leaving in the late afternoon, resulting in a total of six trains to choose from.

You can also travel overnight by European Sleeper, which departs at night and has a longer journey time to allow a good night of sleep. However, this service only runs three times a week.

I traveled on IC 144, which departed at 12:06 and had a journey time of 5 hours and 52 minutes. Keep in mind that trains in Germany can occasionally face disruptions, so it’s wise not to schedule anything important immediately after your arrival.

Onboard Experiences & Services

I booked a First Class ticket for this journey on the DB InterCity from Berlin to Amsterdam. First Class features spacious compartments for up to six passengers, making it a very pleasant and civilized way to travel. I loved the seating, too. With great ergonomics and good padding, it made the ride very comfortable.

Along the way, the scenery is nothing spectacular, though I found it very relaxing to watch the rolling hills and smaller German and Dutch towns speed past at up to 160km/h as the hours pass. You’ll know you’ve arrived in the Netherlands once you start seeing so many cycle paths running alongside the railway line!

Second Class is also a great option, offering similarly comfortable seating in a more traditional airline-style layout. All classes feature reclining seats with padded headrests, air conditioning, and access to tables.

These carriages date back to the 1980s but were extensively rebuilt around 2015, making them perfect for the modern traveler. The train is hauled by a modern Siemens Vectron locomotive, which is capable of operating across various international systems to cross borders without delays.

Note that due to new regulations, these trains no longer have a dining car. Be sure to pack enough snacks and drinks for the journey. There are plenty of shops at the station in Berlin where you can stock up before boarding.

Free Wi-Fi is available, and I found this to be pretty fast, allowing me to browse the web and keep in contact with friends. Luggage storage is available throughout the train, with large overhead luggage racks and larger shelves at the end of carriages. Further space can also be found between seats that face apart from one another.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

Train tickets from Berlin to Amsterdam on Omio vary based on demand. Therefore, it’s best to book far ahead and secure the best deal.

Here’s what I paid when booking six weeks ahead:

• Second Class: €40.00
• First Class Upgrade: +€16.00
• Seat Reservation (Optional) +€6.00
• Total: €62.00

During the summer season, seat reservations are compulsory and included in the ticket price. At other times of the year, they are optional and can be added for a fee of €6.

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Pack some food and drinks — the train does not have a dining car.
• Choose First Class — and enjoy a classic journey in a compartment.
• Reserve a seat — even if you are traveling in the off-season. You can use the seat selector on Omio to choose your favorite.
• Delays do happen — so plan ahead by not making any important plans immediately after your train’s arrival in Amsterdam.

Conclusion

Overall, taking the DB InterCity train from Berlin to Amsterdam was a fantastic experience and easily the best way to travel between these two great European capitals. With frequent departures and comfortable seating, it’s a great way to see the countryside along the way. Book your train ticket on Omio now to secure your seat at the best price.

About the Author: Albie Pearce

• Job Title: Train Travel Content Creator

• Bio: Passionate global rail traveler from the UK since a very young age—I’ve traveled on thousands of trains in over 60 countries. I create engaging videos highlighting the very best of my train travel experiences from around the world.