Travelling by train from Brussels to Amsterdam Centraal
Planning to take the train from Brussels to Amsterdam? Start your journey with us.
The train from Brussels to Amsterdam usually takes 2h 31m, but can take just 1h 52m on the fastest services. You'll be travelling direct on this route with Thalys. On board, you'll find comfortable seating, space for luggage and, on most services, free WiFi as standard.
You'll hop off the train right in the centre of Amsterdam – visit one of the many museums available or hop onto a bicycle in no time to explore the city's waterways like a true Dutch local.
Why not start a search for cheap train tickets from Brussels to Amsterdam with us today? If you want to find out more, keep reading for FAQs and money-saving tips.
Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal by train
Eurostar, Thalys, NS and SNCB trains from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal
Eurostar
Thalys
NS
SNCB
Eurostar is the exclusive high-speed train service that links London to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and the rest of Europe at speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). All Eurostar trains have modern, comfortable facilities, plenty of room for luggage, and onboard food and beverage car. There are three comfort classes on offer – Standard, Standard Premier (equivalent to Premium Economy, with light refreshments served), and Business Premier (equivalent to First or Business Class, with flexible travel options, priority boarding, lounge access and delicious food and drink included).
Thalys is the railway company connecting four European countries – France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. Thalys trains run at a speed of up to 186 mph (300 km/h) and have three comfort classes on all services called – Standard, Comfort and Premium (equivalent to the First Class, with access to the Thalys Lounge). All Thalys trains have a car restaurant (called Thalys Welcome Bar) and a free WiFi connection.
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NS is the main railway operator in the Netherlands. It connects the four corners of the country with regional, medium-distance and high-speed trains. It's also possible for you to travel at night thanks to multi-line night trains, including Schiphol and Eindhoven airports. All trains are equipped with two comfort classes – First Class and Second Class.
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SNCB is the national railway company of Belgium, with services that include national (Intercity) and regional (Local) express trains. All SNCB trains come with both First Class and Second Class carriages. Belgium has one of the densest rail networks in the world. Seat reservations aren’t possible for any of the company's trains.
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Cheap train tickets from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
Journey details
How long does the train from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal take?
The average journey time by train between Brussels and Amsterdam-Centraal is 2 hours and 31 minutes, with around 23 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Brussels and Amsterdam-Centraal by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal is 1 hour and 52 minutes.
How much does the train from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal cost?
Train ticket prices from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal can start from as little as €25 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.
Is there a direct train from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal without having to change trains. There are 16 direct trains from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal leave?
The first train from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal leaves at 05:45. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal leave?
The last train from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal leaves at 20:55. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Brussels and Amsterdam-Centraal by train?
Trains travelling from Brussels to Amsterdam-Centraal cover a distance of around 108 miles (175 km) during the journey.