From the Netherlands to German cities by train

Planning a city break from the Netherlands to German cities by train is a great choice for anyone who wants to travel comfortably, efficiently and in a relaxed way. You arrive right in the heart of the city, avoid traffic congestion and the journey itself becomes part of your holiday. Discover the best connections, smart booking tips and how to make your trip run smoothly.

The main rail connections to Germany

The German rail network is well connected to the Netherlands, mainly via the high-speed ICE International train. This train forms the backbone of international rail traffic and takes you quickly to various major cities. The most important departure stations in the Netherlands are Amsterdam Central, Utrecht Central and Arnhem Central.

To Berlin and Hamburg: direct and affordable

Berlin is one of the most popular destinations for a city break. The existing direct connection will be further expanded in the future. From 2026, for example, GoVolta will start operating direct trains from Amsterdam. These journeys are expected to take around six hours, getting you to the German capital in a reasonable time. Hamburg will also be directly accessible with these new services.

The current direct IC service to Berlin takes a little longer, but has the advantage that you travel without changing trains. This saves time and reduces the stress that a transfer can bring, especially if you are travelling with luggage.

By ICE to Frankfurt and Munich

For destinations deeper into Germany, such as Frankfurt am Main and Munich, the ICE is the best option. Several times a day trains depart from Amsterdam that take you quickly and comfortably to the south of Germany.

• Frankfurt: The journey to Frankfurt, the financial heart, takes around four hours. The train also stops at Frankfurt Airport, which offers a convenient transfer option for further travel.
• Munich: A train journey to Munich is a longer trip – allow around eight to ten hours of travel time. Even so, it is a comfortable way to cover the distance. You travel during the day and watch the landscape go by. Connections are getting faster and faster, so travel times will probably become shorter in the future.

Regional connections in the border area

It is not just the big cities that are easy to reach. Investment is also being made in regional connections. From 2026 there will be an hourly direct train between Coevorden and the German town of Bad Bentheim. This line connects to the Dutch Vechtdal line network and from Bad Bentheim it offers direct connections to cities such as Hanover, Bremen and Berlin. It is a good alternative for travellers from the east of the Netherlands who want to leave the car at home.

Booking your train tickets smartly: practical tips

Good preparation is half the battle, especially when it comes to booking train tickets. Prices can vary considerably depending on when you book and which route you choose. With the right approach you save money and travel more smartly.

Booking early pays off

For most international train journeys the rule is: the earlier you book, the lower the price. Deutsche Bahn, for example, offers ‘Super Sparpreis’ tickets. These are often available from just a few tens of euros if you book several months in advance. These tickets are tied to a specific train and time, so your flexibility is limited.

Use the right channels

You can easily book your tickets via the NS International website or app. They provide an overview of most connections and operators. Sometimes it can also be worthwhile to look directly at the German railways (DB), especially for domestic routes within Germany. For the new connections to Berlin and Hamburg you can also consult the GoVolta website.

Consider the Deutschland-Ticket

Are you planning a longer trip through Germany, or do you want to visit several cities? Then the ‘Deutschland-Ticket’ (D-Ticket) can be a good-value option. For a fixed monthly amount (currently €49) you can travel unlimited on all regional public transport in Germany. Note: high-speed trains such as the ICE are excluded, but for day trips from a fixed base or for exploring a region it is a perfect solution.

The travel experience: why the train is a smart choice

Travelling to Germany by train offers more than just transport from A to B. It is a way of travelling that combines peace and comfort. You have the space to sit, read a book, get some work done or simply enjoy the view. The seats are comfortable and there is often a restaurant car on board for a cup of coffee or a meal.

Another major advantage is where you arrive. Railway stations are almost always located in the city centre. You step off the train and are immediately where you need to be, surrounded by hotels, sights and public transport. This saves you the time and cost of a transfer from an airport that is often far outside the city.

Would you like to see more practical route planners or delve deeper into specific cities and travel options? Then visit Traveler Tips for extensive information about train journeys, driving holidays and camper trips across Europe.

Frequently asked questions