Travelling from Brussels to Amsterdam by train is a fantastic way to experience the history and charm of these two iconic cities. With Rail Europe, booking your trip is simple, allowing you to savour Belgian fries in Brussels and visit the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam all in one amazing trip. Here’s everything you need to know before booking your trip.

How to get from Brussels to Amsterdam by train

Eurostar

The best way to get from Brussels to Amsterdam by train is by taking the Eurostar. Eurostar has been connecting cities like London, Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam for years, building a strong reputation for providing exceptional service. With its extensive experience, Eurostar ensures a smooth and comfortable journey between Brussels and Amsterdam.

Eurostar offers 46 trains per day on this route, departing at a frequency of every 7 minutes.

The Eurostar trains offer modern amenities to provide top-tier comfort for all fare classes:

• Comfortable seats

• Onboard Wi-Fi

• Entertainment

• Ample luggage space

• Accessibility

• Dining options for upper-class fares

Eurostar/Thalys Merger

Thalys has recently merged with Eurostar to form a unified rail network. Now, they connect to create one singular, more extensive rail network connecting France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and the UK.

Travellers will find better deals on a larger network that includes high-speed trains for both direct and indirect routes throughout Europe. A new, more streamlined booking system makes booking travel accommodations much easier. Expect the same excellent service with an even better travel experience.

Brussels to Amsterdam train timetable

Travelling between European countries has become easier than ever. In the morning, travellers indulge in rich Belgian chocolate and stroll along the canals of Amsterdam in the evening.

The Brussels to Amsterdam train has several convenient departure times daily, ensuring customers can always find the right train to suit their travel itineraries.

Fastest travel times:

We know you want to get to your destination as quickly as possible so you can start your adventure. The fastest train from Brussels to Amsterdam travels 176 kilometres in 1 hour and 32 minutes.

Earliest travel times:

For early risers, the earliest weekday train from Brussels to Amsterdam departs at 05:45 and at 05:44 on the weekends.

Latest travel times:

Eurostar offers several late-night travel options on its schedule. The latest weekday train departs at 21:53, whereas the weekend’s latest departure is at 21:57.

Number of daily departures:

Eurostar provides 46 trains daily from Brussels to Amsterdam, with departures every 7 minutes.

Brussels to Amsterdam train price

Train tickets from Brussels to Amsterdam can be very affordable if you use Rail Europe to book your trip. We make sure you are getting the best deals on all your train fares.

Ticket prices

The Brussels to Amsterdam train cost depends on several factors, such as departure day/time and the fare class you choose. That said, it is possible to find an affordable Brussels to Amsterdam train fare. Ticket prices go as low as US$24.00 on this route. Booking in advance also dramatically affects the price of your Brussels to Amsterdam train tickets.

When you are ready to find the best deal for your journey, use Rail Europe for exclusive discounts and deals. Our comprehensive travel website allows you to compare ticket prices, browse train station information, view current and future schedules, and enable booking alerts.

Options for booking in advance

Tickets along this route go on sale 12 months in advance. Booking your train ticket at least 30 days in advance is always a wise option to guarantee your trip's best pricing and availability. A ticket booked 30 days in advance costs US$40, while a ticket booked seven days in advance will cost US$40.

We highly recommend booking early if you want to get the best price and better seat/fare class options for your train from Brussels to Amsterdam.

Set up booking alerts with Rail Europe

Train operators often delay the release of train timetables and the availability of all fare classes. If you have not seen your chosen itinerary yet, you can get an email alert when it becomes available.

Rail Europe helps you simplify the train booking process by setting up alerts for your chosen destinations, like Brussels and Amsterdam. You will be notified of great ticket deals and exclusive discounts when you sign up for free booking alerts.

Train passes vs point-to-point tickets

The Eurail Global pass allows you to explore 33 European countries with one all-inclusive train pass.

Travellers can take advantage of this pass for unlimited travel and the freedom to ride the train whenever and wherever they want, all at a fixed price. While you may need to reserve a seat in advance for certain international journeys, you can explore regional destinations on a whim. With the Eurail pass, you also receive exclusive hotel and museum discounts, free ferry trips and more.

However, if you’re only planning to go from one place to another, such as Brussels to Amsterdam, you may not need to spend the extra money for an all-inclusive pass.

Stations serving trains from Brussels to Amsterdam

Brussels and Amsterdam are two of Europe's most magical destinations. Both cities have conveniently located central train stations, which allow travellers to explore both regions without access to a car.

Brussels Midi/Zuid

Brussels Midi station, also known as the Brussels-Midi/Zuid Station, opened in 1869. This historic building houses one of Europe's principal transportation hubs, making it an ideal starting point for journeys from Brussels to Amsterdam.

This station is linked to the entire Belgian railway network and connects Germany, France and the Netherlands. Brussels Midi is a highly accessible station that caters to travellers with disabilities.

Amongst its many amenities are the following:

• Connections to taxis, rideshare and regional trains

• Transportation to the airport

• Open 24 hours

• Ticket offices

• Restaurants

• Supermarket

• Connected to Pullman Hotel

• Comfortable waiting rooms

• Staff- and coin-operated luggage storage facilities

• Wi-Fi and charging outlets

• Mobility assistance

Amsterdam Centraal

Your Brussels Midi to Amsterdam train will arrive at the impressive Amsterdam Centraal. Located in the heart of this Dutch capital city, Amsterdam Centraal station is within walking distance of many of the local sights and hotels. Initially opened in 1889, Amsterdam Centraal was designed by Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers, who also designed the Rijksmuseum. This station accommodates over 250,000 travellers daily and offers many domestic and international train connections, such as the regional train from Brussels to Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Centraal offers all the amenities travellers need for an enjoyable trip:

• Connections to taxis, buses, rideshare, ferries and regional trains

• Located near Amsterdam Tourist office

• Information booths

• Ticketing machines

• ATM and currency exchange

• Restaurants, bars and coffee

• Retail and dining concourse

• Comfortable waiting rooms

• Luggage storage lockers

• Wi-Fi and charging outlets

• Mobility assistance

• Safety and security

What to know before boarding your Eurostar train from Brussels to Amsterdam

Travelling from Brussels to Amsterdam requires you to cross country lines. Therefore, there are a few points to remember for a smooth Eurostar security experience.

Security procedures

Security with Eurostar is much easier and more laidback than airport security.

You may be asked to do an X-ray screening and wait on several lines. Liquids are okay to bring with you. If you have coffee, they will even give you a tray to help you get it through security.

Tips for navigating the station and boarding

To make your journey as smooth as possible, we encourage you to check in at least 45 minutes prior to departure.

You are allowed two pieces of luggage and a personal item, none of which are subject to weight restrictions.

Eurostar caters to people with disabilities who need assistance boarding. To request mobility assistance, simply contact the station in advance.

Classes of service aboard a Brussels to Amsterdam train

Whether you're headed to Paris, Amsterdam, London, Cologne or one the seasonal destinations in France that Eurostar serves, your experience will be streamlined.

Eurostar Standard (formerly known simply as Standard)

Eurostar Standard class remains the most budget-friendly option, but don't let the price tag fool you—comfort and flexibility are still top priorities. Eurostar Standard includes:

• 2 pieces of luggage up to 85cm + 1 hand luggage with no weight limit

• Free Wi-Fi

• UK + EU plug sockets

• Kids four and under travel free (if seated on an adult’s lap)

• Drinks and food available for purchase onboard at the Eurostar Café

You can exchange your Eurostar Standard ticket at no extra charge up until 1 hour before departure, only needing to pay the fare difference if applicable. Refunds are allowed up to 7 days before the scheduled departure for a €25 fee. After this period, tickets are non-refundable.

Eurostar Plus (formerly known as Standard Premier/Comfort)

For a more elevated experience, Eurostar Plus offers all the amenities of Eurostar Standard with additional perks like more spacious seats and a light meal served at your seat. Benefits include:

• 2 pieces of luggage up to 85cm + 1 hand luggage with no weight limit

• A light meal served directly to your seat

• Drinks and food available for purchase onboard at the Eurostar Café

• Free Wi-Fi

• UK + EU plug sockets

• Kids four and under travel free (if seated on an adult’s lap)

As with Eurostar Standard, Eurostar Plus tickets can be exchanged at no extra cost up to 1 hour before departure, with any fare difference applicable. Refunds are allowed up to 7 days before the scheduled departure for a €25 fee. After this period, tickets are non-refundable.

Eurostar Premier (Formerly known as Business Premier/Premium)

This class of service includes more luxe service and amenities; you’ll get access to exclusive lounges, enjoy seat-side service, ensuring a an elevated train journey, start to finish:

• Get on the fast-track to ticket gates and Business Premier Lounges at available locations

• Bring up to three pieces of luggage (up to 85cm) plus 1 hand luggage with no weight limit

• Enjoy a three-course meal brought straight to your seat, designed by Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc OBE. Any dietary restrictions can be accommodated with 48-hour advance notice

• Spacious seating

• Free wine, champagne and hot and cold beverages

• Free newspapers and magazines

• Free Wi-Fi

• UK + EU plug sockets

• Kids four and under travel free (if seated on an adult’s lap)

All passengers can exchange or refund their Eurostar Premier tickets up until two days after the departure date of the ticket purchase. With ticket exchanges, you only pay the fare difference, if applicable.

🚆 More details about travelling with Eurostar

Necessary train travel documents and custom procedures

Travelling between Brussels and Amsterdam may require passport control and customs procedures. Everything you will need for your trip is listed below:

Train tickets

Your best bet is to print your tickets prior to arrival. You may also collect your ticket at the Eurostar station using the collection reference code in your booking confirmation. Eurostar does not yet offer mobile ticket options for this route, so you will need a physical ticket to board your train.

Passport

All passengers will be required to present a valid passport or a national ID card for EEA citizens and Swiss Nationals. Passengers over the age of 18 may choose to use ePassports to access the electronic gates.

Customs Procedures

If you're travelling to Amsterdam, there may be customs officials onboard or on the platform carrying out checks during the journey. Limitations are dependent on the type of product you are bringing into the country.