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The train route from Amsterdam to Brussels via Thalys, now Eurostar, is the most efficient way to reach the heart of Europe and serves as the perfect starting point for your onward journey to cities such as Paris and London. This connection combines speed and convenience, allowing you to travel in a relaxed way from one city centre to the other. Discover how to plan this trip smartly, from finding the best tickets to making a smooth connection.
The fastest connection: what you need to know about Eurostar
Since October 2023, Thalys and Eurostar have merged their train services. Although the name changed, the service and speed have remained the same. The Eurostar train takes you from Amsterdam Central to Brussels-South (Midi) in about 1 hour and 52 minutes. This is the fastest and most direct way to travel between the two capitals. On the high-speed line the train reaches speeds of up to 300 kilometres per hour, making the journey time considerably shorter than by car.
The route is straightforward and comfortable. From Amsterdam Central there are usually stops at Schiphol Airport, Rotterdam Central and Antwerp Central before the train reaches its final destination in Brussels. This also makes the connection ideal for travellers departing from other parts of the Netherlands. On board, you can count on free wifi and power sockets at your seat, so you can work or relax during the journey.
Choose the class that suits you
Eurostar offers three travel classes, depending on your budget and comfort requirements. Your choice determines the level of service and flexibility.
- Standard: This is the most economical option. You get a comfortable seat and access to basic facilities such as wifi and power sockets. For drinks and snacks, you can visit the bar carriage.
- Plus: In this class you enjoy more legroom and a more spacious seat. Staff serve drinks and a light meal at your seat. The ticket conditions are also more flexible, which is useful if your plans change.
- Premium: For the most extensive service, choose Premium. Here you benefit from the most spacious seats, a full meal with drinks, and access to the lounges at the stations in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Brussels. The tickets are fully flexible.
‘ The most important rule for a budget-friendly ticket is therefore: book as early as possible. ’
How do I book the fastest and cheapest tickets?
Eurostar train fares are dynamic, just like air fares. This means that the price depends on when you book and how busy it is on your chosen travel day. A one-way ticket often starts at around 25 to 35 euros, but can increase as the departure date approaches. The most important rule for a budget-friendly ticket is therefore: book as early as possible.
The easiest way to book your tickets is via the official Eurostar website or through authorised sellers such as NS International. Here you will find the most up-to-date timetable and fares. Travelling outside peak hours, such as early in the morning or late in the evening, is often cheaper. Also consider travelling on a weekday instead of at the weekend.
Luggage rules: what can you take with you?
One major advantage of travelling with Eurostar is the flexible luggage policy. Unlike many airlines, there are no weight limits. The general rule is that you may take two pieces of large luggage (such as a suitcase) and one piece of hand luggage per person. Do make sure you can carry your own luggage and store it yourself in the designated racks above the seats or at the ends of the carriages. For the most up-to-date and specific rules, it is always wise to check the Eurostar website before departure.
Brussels-South/Midi: your connection to the rest of Europe
Brussels-South station, known in French as Bruxelles-Midi, is one of the most important international rail hubs in Europe. On arrival from Amsterdam, you will already be in the right place to continue your journey to other destinations. The station is easy to navigate and the signs clearly indicate the platforms for international trains.
Changing trains for Paris and London
Good planning of your connection time is important for a relaxed journey. The time you need depends on your final destination.
- To Paris: Eurostar trains to Paris depart several times an hour from Brussels-South. As you are travelling within the Schengen area, no passport control is required. A connection time of 30 minutes is usually more than enough to walk calmly from one platform to another.
- To London: For the journey to London, you need to allow for a more extensive procedure. As the United Kingdom is not part of the Schengen area, you must go through passport and security checks. The Eurostar terminal for trains to London has a separate check-in. Make sure you are there at least 60 to 90 minutes before your train departs. The entrance to the terminal generally closes 30 minutes before departure.
Travelling in comfort and well prepared
Good preparation ensures that your journey runs smoothly. Keep the following practical points in mind. Aim to arrive at Amsterdam Central around twenty minutes before departure. This gives you enough time to find the right platform without having to rush. Information boards usually announce the platforms fifteen minutes in advance. Take a valid identity card or passport with you, even though you are travelling within the Schengen area. For the journey to London, a passport is compulsory. Both at Amsterdam Central and Brussels-South you will find a wide range of shops, cafés and restaurants if you want to eat or drink something before or after your journey.
Your journey does not have to end in Brussels. On the Traveler Tips website you will find extensive city break guides, detailed itineraries and practical information for your visit to France and the United Kingdom. Discover more and plan your next trip.
Frequently asked questions
The cheapest Thalys (now Eurostar) tickets for the Amsterdam–Brussels route are best booked as early as possible, as prices are dynamic and start from €25–€35 (one way). You do this via official sites such as Eurostar.com or Rail Europe. Trains usually run weekly from around 06:08 to 21:28. Book outside peak hours for the lowest fares, sometimes from as little as €18+.
On board the Thalys (now Eurostar) from Amsterdam to Brussels, you can expect basic comfort in Standard class, with WiFi, power sockets and air conditioning. In Plus/Premium (first class) you enjoy extra space, meals and access to lounges, such as the NS International Lounge at Amsterdam Central. The trains are wheelchair accessible and offer free WiFi.
The Thalys (now Eurostar) offers a fast and comfortable journey from Amsterdam to Brussels in around 1 hour and 50 minutes, which is significantly shorter than travelling by car. Travellers benefit from high-speed lines, stops in city centres and avoiding traffic jams and parking problems. In addition, the train is a sustainable, low-emission alternative, with facilities such as WiFi and power sockets on board. By booking early, tickets are available from as little as €25–€35.
The train journey from Amsterdam to Brussels with Eurostar (formerly Thalys) takes on average between 1 hour 34 minutes and 1 hour 52 minutes. For a smooth trip, it is advisable to be present 20 minutes before departure for document checks and to book tickets in advance via Eurostar.com or Rail Europe, as prices are dynamic. Don’t forget to take your ID card or passport with you.
On Eurostar (formerly Thalys) trains, no specific luggage rules are detailed in the information provided here, apart from the general facilities. For travellers, luggage lockers are available at Amsterdam Central and Brussels-South/Midi stations. The trains offer basic comfort with WiFi and power sockets, and in Plus/Premium class there is extra space.