NL
With the direct ICE connection you travel comfortably and quickly to the heart of the German capital. Taking the train to Berlin gets you from city centre to city centre in around six hours. The journey is not only efficient, but also the start of your city break. Curious how to plan this trip in the best possible way and what you can experience straight after arrival? Read on for all the practical tips.
How long does the train journey to Berlin take?
From the Netherlands, Berlin is very easy to reach by train. The most direct and comfortable option is the international ICE (Intercity-Express), which departs several times a day from Amsterdam Central Station. This train takes you to Berlin Hauptbahnhof, the city’s main station, without having to change trains. From Utrecht Central, the journey takes roughly 5 hours and 45 minutes with a short change. From other cities such as Arnhem and Amersfoort there are also good connections, often with just one change.
Travel times are as follows:
- From Amsterdam Central: approximately 5 hours and 51 minutes (direct)
- From Utrecht Central: approximately 5 hours and 44 minutes (1 change)
- From Arnhem Central: approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes (1 change)
- From Amersfoort: approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes (direct)
Bear in mind that from the end of 2026 major engineering works are planned on the railway line. As a result, the journey time will increase by about an hour because the train company will reroute the service. Before you book, always check the latest travel information via the NS International journey planner. Tickets are generally available from €38 for a one-way ticket if you book in good time.
‘ A major advantage of travelling by train is that there is no check-in time. ’
Smart tips for a comfortable journey
Good preparation makes your train journey to Berlin even more enjoyable. A major advantage of travelling by train is that there is no check-in time. Just get on board and find your reserved seat.
The ICE trains have Wi‑Fi, power sockets at the seats and a restaurant carriage. In the restaurant carriage you can go for a cup of coffee or a meal. For anyone who wants to work or read in peace, there is a quiet carriage. Consider upgrading to first class for extra legroom and comfort.
For the cheapest tickets it’s best to book a few weeks to months in advance. Super Sparpreis tickets are the lowest-priced, but they offer no flexibility. If you want the option to change your journey, choose a Flexpreis ticket. Use the German railways’ DB Navigator app for up-to-date travel information and any delays along the way.
What can you discover right away from Berlin Hauptbahnhof?
You arrive at Berlin Hauptbahnhof, a modern and centrally located station. From here you can easily get around the city by public transport (S‑Bahn and U‑Bahn). Some of the most famous sights are just a stone’s throw away and are the perfect starting point for your exploration.
Brandenburger Tor and the Reichstag
From the station it’s about a twenty-minute walk to the Brandenburg Gate, the iconic symbol of German unity. Close by you’ll find the Reichstag building, the seat of the German parliament. The glass dome offers a beautiful panoramic view over the city. Entry is free, but you do need to reserve online in advance.
Museum Island
Cultural lovers will be in their element on Museum Island. This island in the River Spree is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Here you’ll find five world-famous museums, including the Pergamon Museum and the Neues Museum. With a combined ticket you get access to several museums, which is often better value.
East Side Gallery
Take the S‑Bahn to Ostbahnhof to visit the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin Wall: the East Side Gallery. This 1.3‑kilometre open-air gallery shows more than one hundred artworks painted directly onto the wall by artists. It is an impressive reminder of the city’s turbulent history.
Why travel to Berlin with Interrail?
A city break to Berlin can also easily be planned with an Interrail pass. If you’re planning to visit several European cities, an Interrail Global Pass is a good-value option. It lets you travel without limits through the participating countries for a set period. For the direct ICE train to Berlin, a seat reservation is often compulsory, so factor in these additional costs. An Interrail pass gives you the freedom to shape your trip flexibly. For example, you can make a stop in another German city along the route.
A well-planned trip is the foundation for an unforgettable experience. On the Traveler Tips website you’ll find many more articles and guides about train travel. You’ll also find tips for planning city breaks and the most beautiful destinations in Europe. Discover how to travel smarter and more consciously and get the most out of your next holiday.
Frequently asked questions
The most comfortable and efficient train route from the Netherlands to Berlin is the direct ICE train from Amsterdam Central or Amersfoort, with journey times of 5 hours and 51 minutes and 5 hours and 15 minutes respectively. Tickets start from €38 for a one-way trip in 2nd class. From October 2026, the journey time will increase to more than 6 hours and 50 minutes due to a diversion via Hamburg. Book early via NS International for the lowest fares and flexible options, and always check the current journey times because of planned engineering works.
To travel comfortably and affordably to Berlin by train, book your tickets early via NS International for the lowest prices, from €38 one way. Choose the direct ICE from Amsterdam or Amersfoort to minimise changes and enjoy facilities such as Wi‑Fi and a restaurant carriage. Take into account the planned engineering works from October 2026, which may increase the journey time, and consider alternative routes or the new low-cost option GoVolta from March 2026. Use the DB Navigator app for live updates and consider an upgrade to 1st class for extra space.
Berlin offers numerous highlights you really shouldn’t miss. Start your exploration at the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the nearby Reichstag with its glass dome (book in advance). Combine this with a visit to Museum Island, where a combined ticket gives access to several top museums, and the East Side Gallery for impressive street art on the Berlin Wall. Finish at Checkpoint Charlie and the Topography of Terror for an in-depth look at the Cold War era. Use the Berlin WelcomeCard for unlimited public transport and discounts, and visit attractions early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
To make the train journey to Berlin relaxed and rewarding, minimise changes by choosing direct ICE connections. Make use of the on-board facilities, such as Wi‑Fi and a restaurant carriage. Book early for the best prices and consider an upgrade to 1st class for extra space. Check the NS International journey planner for current departure times and flexible cancellation options.
Use the S‑Bahn and U‑Bahn (metro) to easily reach Berlin’s highlights, as Berlin Hauptbahnhof is centrally located. Consider the Berlin WelcomeCard for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions. Hire an e‑bike for a sustainable way to explore the city. Visit popular spots such as the Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag early in the morning to avoid queues.
