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Taking a direct Eurostar train from London to Amsterdam
Planning to take the train from London to Amsterdam? Start your journey with us.
The train from London to Amsterdam usually takes 4 hours and 52 minutes but can take just 4 hours and 10 minutes on the fastest services. You'll be travelling direct on this route with Eurostar.
From the moment you step on the train at London St Pancras station, you'll enjoy comfortable seating with plenty of legroom, free WiFi, power sockets and snacks and drinks from the Eurostar Café (Eurostar’s onboard bar buffet). Fancy travelling in style? Upgrade to Plus or Premier for a complimentary meal served at your seat.
Once you arrive at Amsterdam Centraal station, it’s easy to walk or take the tram to some of the city’s top neighbourhoods and attractions. Not sure where to begin? Some of our favourite things to do in Amsterdam include:
- Vondelpark – the largest city park in Amsterdam, with lots of beautiful trails, indoor and outdoor activities.
- Rijksmuseum – home to a collection of Dutch art and sculpture spanning more than 800 years.
- Anne Frank House – a museum dedicated to the Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank.
So what are you waiting for? Search for cheap train tickets from London to Amsterdam in our Journey Planner today, or keep reading for more information on:
- Eurostar classes
- Eurostar onboard services
- How to get to London St Pancras International
- Facilities available at London St Pancras
- Arriving at Amsterdam Centraal station
- Using public transport in Amsterdam
- Going through the Channel Tunnel
- Things to do in Amsterdam
- Exploring Europe with an Interrail Pass
- Popular train journeys from Amsterdam
Alternatively, you can read a review from one of our travel writers if you want to know more about what it’s like to travel from London to Amsterdam by train.
London to Amsterdam by train
It takes an average of 5h 28m to travel from London to Amsterdam by train, over a distance of around 220 miles (355 km). There are normally 11 trains per day travelling from London to Amsterdam and tickets for this journey start from £51 when you book in advance.
FAQs about the train journey from London to Amsterdam
Want to know more about your journey from London to Amsterdam? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
What's the fastest journey time between London and Amsterdam by train?
Can you take a train directly from London to Amsterdam?
How close is London to Amsterdam by train?
Which train companies operate from London to Amsterdam?
Is it possible to get from London to Amsterdam without flying?
What is the best way to travel from London to Amsterdam?
What time does the first train from London to Amsterdam leave?
What time does the last train from London to Amsterdam leave?
How often are trains from London to Amsterdam?
Do you need to book the train from London to Amsterdam in advance?
Can you buy return train tickets from London to Amsterdam?
Eurostar trains from London to Amsterdam
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). Eurostar also runs trains on more routes between France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. 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 – Eurostar Standard, Eurostar Plus (equivalent to Premium Economy, with light refreshments served), and Eurostar Premier (equivalent to First or Business Class, with flexible travel options, priority boarding, lounge access and delicious food and drink included).
Eurostar classes from London to Amsterdam
Compare the different travel classes offered by Eurostar when travelling from London to Amsterdam.
Eurostar Standard
In Eurostar Standard, you'll find comfortable seats, free WiFi and a large selection of drinks and snacks for sale in the onboard café-bar.
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Luggage storage
- Power sockets
- Complimentary meal at seat
- Catering at your seat
- Gourmet menu
- Lounge access
Eurostar Plus
As well as all the facilities you'll find in Eurostar Standard, in Eurostar Plus you'll also get a light meal served at your seat for trips to and from London. Though you won't get a meal at your seat for trips solely in Europe, you'll get to sit back and relax in comfier seats.
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Luggage storage
- Power sockets
- Complimentary meal at seat (1)
- Catering at your seat
- Gourmet menu
- Lounge access
- (1) A meal at your seat is only provided on trains travelling to or from the United Kingdom.
Eurostar Premier
Eurostar Premier gives you the freedom to travel in your own time, with same-day boarding guaranteed and Eurostar's exclusive lounges (where available) where you can relax before your trip. In Eurostar Premier, you'll also benefit from complete comfort, including a free meal and free drinks at your seat.
- Free WiFi
- Bar/restaurant carriage
- Luggage storage
- Power sockets
- Complimentary meal at seat
- Catering at your seat
- Gourmet menu (1)
- Lounge access
- (1) A gourmet hot meal is exclusive to trains to and from the United Kingdom; on trains in Europe, you'll have a cold meal served at your seat.
Onboard services on Eurostar
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from London to Amsterdam.
Although there's no weight limit for your luggage on Eurostar trains, you must be able to carry your bags safely by yourself.
Each bag must be clearly labelled and must be no longer than 85 cm (for trains to and from the United Kingdom) or no larger than 75 x 53 x 30 cm (for trains in Europe).
Are you travelling to or from the United Kingdom? In Eurostar Standard, choose from a wide selection of drinks and snacks at the Eurostar Café, the onboard café-bar in the middle of the train. Cards and cash (Euros or pounds) are accepted. If you're travelling in Eurostar Plus, a light meal and a drink will be served at your seat.
Travel in Eurostar Premier and you'll be treated to a gourmet meal, as well as a continuous drinks service throughout your journey.
For all other Eurostar trains (red trains, formerly Thalys), head to the bar car and choose from a wide range of hot and cold drinks as well as sweet and savoury snacks.
In Eurostar Premier on European routes, you'll get a free meal served directly to your seat.
Eurostar doesn't have an onboard entertainment portal. However, there is free WiFi available, as well as UK and EU plug sockets at your seat so you can charge your devices while travelling.
Children under 4 can travel free on Eurostar trains, as long as they're sitting on an accompanying adult's lap. Alternatively, buying a child ticket guarantees them their own seat.
You'll find changing tables on all Eurostar trains, as well as family-oriented seating (4 seats facing one another) where available.
Currently, only certain Eurostar trains running between London and Brussels can transport fully assembled bikes - contact Eurostar for more information. You can, however, take a foldable bike on board Eurostar trains to and from the UK provided that it's no more than 85 cm long and it fits in a protective bag that covers the whole bicycle. Folded bikes are treated as standard luggage.
For all other Eurostar trains in Europe, a limited number of non-foldable bikes can be brought on board, provided that the wheels are taken off and the whole bicycle is stored in a suitable cover (max. size 135 x 85 x 30 cm). Foldable bicycles are also allowed and count towards standard luggage limits.
The rules around travelling with your pets depend on whether you're travelling across the Channel or not, so check before you travel:
Eurostar trains to and from the United Kingdom:
- Pets are not permitted on board.
- Guide dogs and assistance dogs can travel, but they must be accompanied by their owner. You must also reserve a ticket for your assistance dog at least 48 hours before travel, by filling out Eurostar's contact form.
Trains in the rest of Europe:
- Small dogs and other pets weighing less than 6 kg can travel for free. They must travel in a cage or carrier (max. dimensions 45 x 30 x 25 cm).
- If your dog is larger than this, you must buy them a dog ticket (generally the price is fixed at €30, around £26), and the dog must travel on your lap or on the ground, on a lead and with a muzzle.
- Guide dogs and assistance dogs, whatever their size, travel for free.
If you need help getting on or off the train, you should contact Eurostar directly before your trip. To use Eurostar's special assistance program, fill in the contact form at least 48 hours before your journey so that the team can help you.
If you're travelling to/from the United Kingdom:
- Arrive at least one hour before your train's scheduled departure time, then head to the Eurostar Assist desk or ask a member of staff.
- If you have a wheelchair, you must reserve a wheelchair space in either Eurostar Plus or Eurostar Premier - you'll only pay for a Eurostar Standard ticket. Someone can travel with you at a discounted rate.
If you're travelling on red trains in the rest of Europe:
- Wheelchair users travel in Eurostar Premier on routes in Europe.
- Wheelchairs can be transported as long as they're no bigger than 70 cm long and 120 cm high. The wheelchair's turning circle must be no larger than 150 cm in diameter. The combined weight of the wheelchair, passenger and any luggage must not exceed 300 kg.
- Please note that combustion engine-powered wheelchairs are not permitted on board. However, electric wheelchairs are allowed.
Specific restrictions for trains to/from the United Kingdom:
Liquids:
- There's no restriction on liquids. However, there are restrictions on alcohol: you can take 4 bottles/cans of beer or 1 bottle of wine per person to enjoy on the journey, but large bottles of spirits are not permitted. If you're travelling with large quantities of alcohol, you should contact a courier service.
Sports equipment:
- You can travel with a golf bag as long as it's no larger than 120 x 35 x 35 cm.
- You can bring tents or other shelters if they're stored in bags or cases less than 85 cm long.
- Camping gas or butane bottles are not permitted on board.
- Camping utensils or tools such as pocket knives and Swiss army knives are permitted provided the blades are less than 75 mm long. Folding knives where the blade locks into place are prohibited.
- You can bring bats, snooker or pool cues and darts on board if they're stored in a protective case.
Cheap train tickets from London to Amsterdam
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 London to Amsterdam 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.
How many bags are allowed in the different Eurostar classes?
Standard/Plus
- 2 pieces of luggage up to 85cm long for rucksacks, suitcases, golf clubs or ski equipment
- 1 hand luggage, e.g. handbag, laptop bag or briefcase
Premier
- 3 pieces of luggage up to 85cm long for rucksacks, suitcases, golf clubs or ski equipment
- 1 hand luggage, e.g. handbag, laptop bag or briefcase
Children (for all classes)
- 1 piece of luggage up to 85cm long
- 1 hand luggage, e.g. backpack or laptop bag
How to get to London St Pancras International
Your Eurostar train to Amsterdam will depart from London St Pancras International station. Keep reading for more information on how to get there.
London St. Pancras International station is conveniently located in central London in the King’s Cross area and can be easily reached by National Rail, London Underground, bus services and car.
- Tube: King’s Cross St Pancras Underground station is served by 6 Tube lines, including the Hammersmith & City (pink line), Circle (yellow line), Metropolitan (purple line), Northern (black line), Piccadilly (dark blue line) and Victoria (light blue line).
- Train: If you’re travelling by train, you can get to London St Pancras from Euston, Victoria, and Paddington stations in around half an hour.
- Car: If you’re driving to St Pancras International, you’ll find a Click and Park car park at the station – it has 315 spaces and is always open, with staff on hand 24/7.
- Bike: If you’re cycling to the station, there are plenty of cycle spaces where you can store your bike too.
Arriving at London St Pancras International
Once you arrive at London St Pancras International station, you’ll need to check-in. Read on for more information on checking in, station facilities and First Class lounges.
How ahead of time do you need to arrive?
Where are Eurostar check-in gates?
How does Eurostar check-in work?
What’s on offer at London St Pancras International?
Which facilities are in the Eurostar Departure Lounge?
Which facilities are in the Business Premier Lounge?
Arriving at Amsterdam Centraal station from London
Your Eurostar train from London to Amsterdam will arrive right in the heart of the Dutch capital at Amsterdam Centraal station.
Once you get off the train, you won’t need to go through passport checks again as these are done before leaving the UK. You’ll just need to scan the barcode on your ticket to pass through NS ticket gates and exit the platform area at Amsterdam Centraal station, so make sure you keep your ticket handy when you arrive.
Please note that if you store your bank card in your phone wallet, you'll need to save your Eurostar ticket to your Google/Apple Wallet or print it out before travelling. We advise you to do so because the station’s ticket gates are set up to read both ticket barcodes and digital bank cards, enabling commuters to tap in and out. Occasionally, these gates may read a bank card stored on a phone rather than an on-screen image of your ticket’s barcode. This will result in an incorrect payment of up to €20.
Saving your ticket to your Google/Apple Wallet or printing it out will help ensure that your ticket is scanned correctly and prevent undue charges.
If you’re looking for local information, head to the Amsterdam Tourist Office outside the main entrance – you’ll find it in a traditional white wooden Dutch coffee house.
Using public transport in Amsterdam
Amsterdam Centraal Station is extremely well-connected to the rest of the city by the local tram, metro and bus networks and is within walking distance from most of the top neighbourhoods.
Taking the tram in Amsterdam
Taking the metro in Amsterdam
Taking the bus in Amsterdam
Going through the Channel Tunnel
Does the train from London to Amsterdam go underwater?
Yes. Trains from London to Amsterdam do go underwater. In fact, the Channel Tunnel (or “Chunnel” if you prefer its nickname) is just over 31 miles (50 km) in length and is the longest continuous underwater tunnel in the world. At a maximum speed of 100 mph (160 km/h) in the Chunnel, it takes a Eurostar train around 35 minutes to travel this underwater stretch between London and Paris.
How long is the Chunnel?
The Channel Tunnel is 31.3 miles (50.56 km) in length and it takes a Eurostar train approximately 35 minutes to travel its full length. In total, the fastest journey time from London to Amsterdam is 3 hours and 55 minutes.
Things to see and do in Amsterdam
When visiting Amsterdam, there are so many things to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to start! To help you find inspiration, here are some ideas for things to do in Amsterdam:
Explore Europe by train with an Interrail Pass
Once you’ve finished exploring Amsterdam, why not continue exploring Europe by train? With an Interrail Pass, you can travel across 33 European countries as much as you want on participating European train networks for a set amount of travel days.
If you're a European citizen or a non-European who is an official legal resident of a European country, you can use an Interrail Pass. If you’re not a European citizen or resident, you can use a Eurail Pass instead.
Popular train journeys from Amsterdam
If you’ve enjoyed your time in Amsterdam and want to explore more of the Netherlands and Europe, you can easily reach nearby towns and cities by train. To inspire your next trip, we’ve picked some of the most popular train journeys from Amsterdam for you to choose:
Tips and tricks from our Trainline team
We love helping our customers find inspiration for their next train journey. Discover some travel stories written based on our employees' experiences.
Standard
Plus
Standard Premier on a Eurostar train was a dream!
In April 2024, I got to go on a solo trip to Amsterdam. I’m a keen traveller, so I jumped at the chance! I took a Eurostar train directly to Amsterdam from London – and even got to try out Standard Premier for the first time.
Catching the train at London St Pancras station
I’m a semi-frequent Eurostar traveller, so I’m well-acquainted with the boarding process. Luckily, it’s easy – whether you’ve travelled with Eurostar before or not.
I arrived at London St Pancras station around an hour before my train was due to depart. This gave me enough time to queue for security (it often gets quite busy, so be prepared to wait a few minutes!)
The security process means your bags must be scanned, but there are no liquids limits on Eurostar, which keeps things simple. I then had to go through passport control – both British and French – and that was it!
Once I was through security and passport control, I took a seat in the waiting area. Here, there are a couple of shops and cafés if you want to grab a bite to eat. In Standard Premier, a light meal is served at your seat shortly after the train departs – plus there’s the Eurostar Café onboard for all passengers – so I decided to hold off.
One thing about the waiting area at London St Pancras station is that there are often not enough seats for all the passengers, so you might find yourself standing while you wait for the platform to be announced (around 20 minutes before departure).
Travelling in Eurostar Standard Premier
When the platform for my train was announced, I made my way to the train. One of the train crew checked my ticket as I stepped onto the train and welcomed me on board.
Standard Premier and Business Premier carriages have solo seats, two seats facing one another, and tables of four. Standard, on the other hand, doesn’t have the luxury of solo seating.
I was happy to see I’d been allocated a solo seat for the journey. I got settled and plugged my phone into the plug socket at my seat.
Not long after we left the station, the onboard staff began serving drinks and a light meal to everyone in Standard Premier class. As I was taking an early morning train, I was offered a pastry, some fruit, a yoghurt and some juice, as well as tea and coffee.
The train journey from London to Amsterdam takes around 4 hours, so I had plenty of time to get stuck into the knitting I’d brought with me. There’s also free WiFi on board, so I could let my family know how the journey was going.
Arriving at Amsterdam-Centraal station
At 1:45 pm, 4 hours and 29 minutes after we’d left London St Pancras, the train pulled into Amsterdam-Centraal station. As the name might suggest, this is Amsterdam’s central station – so it’s well-connected to other parts of the city by public transport. You could even walk or take a bike – it's the Dutch way, after all!
I was staying on the other side of the IJ from the station, so I walked off the train, made my way through the station and caught a free ferry across the water to begin my weekend trip in the Netherlands.
Overall, I loved my experience travelling to Amsterdam in Eurostar Standard Premier. The service on board was great, and it felt like I was making a good choice for the environment too. I’d definitely recommend it.
About Kristina
Kristina, a Trainline employee, chose to share their experience of the journey between London and Amsterdam. The review was written before Standard Premier was rebranded as Plus.