Thalys trains have gotten a name change thanks to their recent merger with Eurostar.
Since October 2023, Thalys train cars now sport the Eurostar branding thanks to a mega merger.
What does this mean for intrepid travelers such as yourselves who are traveling between Amsterdam and Paris by train?
Is the Amsterdam to Paris train route the same?
Do Eurostar trains offer the same classes and amenities as Thalys trains?
You’ve got questions about the Paris to Amsterdam route and we’ve got answers. Here’s everything you need to know about the Paris to Amsterdam train route now operated by Eurostar.
Is Thalys the same as Eurostar?
As of October 2023, yes. The two companies merged and are operating under the Eurostar brand. Red-colored trains (formerly known as Thalys) will continue to run routes between France, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, just with Eurostar branding. Blue-colored Eurostar trains will continue operating trains that connect the UK to France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
Image Credit: Getty Images. Image Location: Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
Does the Eurostar train stop between Amsterdam and Paris?
Yes, the Eurostar train between Amsterdam and Paris stops at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Rotterdam (Netherlands), Antwerp (Belgium), and Brussels (Belgium). Since these tickets have reserved seating, you’ll need to stay on-board and ride the rail to your final destination. That is to say, you usually can’t hop off for a waffle in Brussels then get on another train to Paris with the same Eurostar ticket.
Trainline tip: Want to make spur of the moment stops? Maybe a Eurail pass is a better option.
Arriving from Amsterdam Centraal to Gare du Nord
Gare du Nord is your final destination when traveling between Amsterdam and Paris. France’s capital has six train stations, but Gare du Nord is the crème of the crêpe. Paris’ Eurostar station is located in the 10th arrondissement near the theater-filled 9th and artist-abode 18th.
Also called Paris-Nord, you’ll come to know it as the awesome station in the center of Paris. It connects directly to the Paris M4 and M5 metro lines, with M2 and M7 also close by. In 15 minutes or less, a cab can get you to the Louvre, Panthéon, Arc de Triomphe, and Eiffel Tower.
How early do you need to arrive for Paris–Amsterdam trains?
Eurostar recommends arriving at the train station 20 minutes prior to your train departure. Just remember that for security reasons you need to be on the platform ready to board at least 2 mins before the scheduled departure time.
Image Credit: Getty Images. Image Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Did you know it’s easier and faster to travel between Amsterdam and Paris by train?
From instant access to the train stations in the city center to fast, affordable routes and smooth rides, getting from Amsterdam to Paris by train is comfortable, convenient, and cheap.
How many bags can I take on Amsterdam–Paris trains?
A heck of a lot more than you can take on a plane for free. Tickets include two items of luggage and an item of hand luggage. There's no weight limit, but you'll need to be able to carry all your luggage yourself. But the great news is: zero bag check-ins, no added fees, and you can also bring your own meals and drinks to enjoy on-board.
What’s the difference between train classes on Amsterdam–Paris trains?
There are some significant differences between train classes on Eurostar trains, particularly that premium tickets get perks like more comfortable seats, lounge access, and complimentary gourmet meals. Standard tickets don’t have all the bells and whistles, but they do include free WiFi, power sockets, and access to the café on-board.
Why is train travel more sustainable than flying between Amsterdam and Paris?
Train travel is generally a more sustainable way of traveling compared to flying. But even if you’re being selfish and don’t give a hoot about the tons of carbon emissions you’ll prevent by avoiding air travel, train travel from Amsterdam to Paris is also sustainable for your vacation schedule.
The average train time between Amsterdam and Paris is 3h 20m, city center to city center. No time wasted getting to and from the airports away from the centers. Always remember, the “flight time” is just the estimated time in the sky, not the total travel time required.
Make another sustainable choice: instead of purchasing paper train tickets, download the Trainline app and store your digital tickets right on your phone.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images. Image Location: Paris Gare du Nord Station