Amsterdam to Antwerp is one of the easiest international routes in Europe.
By train, you’re there in only 1 hour 20 minutes. By private transfer (car service), about 2 hours door-to-door.
For most travelers, the train is the obvious choice. But there are situations where a pre-booked driver makes more sense. Here’s how I would decide.
⤷ Looking for transportation guides for other cities? Find them here
Table of Contents
Find Places to Stay in Antwerp
Have you already booked your accommodation in Antwerp?
My 3 Favorite Antwerp Hotels
- My top pick: Sapphire House Antwerp – beautifully designed, spacious room
- Special experience: De Gulde Schoen – historic apartments, generous spaces
- Modern chain pick: Hilton Antwerp Old Town – Very nice and good Breakfast
Option 1: Train (Fastest & Most Practical)
There are two train types on this route.
Eurostar (Fastest & Most Comfortable)
- 1h 20m
- Direct
- Reserved seating
- From around €49 standard, €79 first class
This is the smoothest option.
It runs direct from Amsterdam Centraal to Antwerp Central. No transfer needed.
First class is worth it on this route. It’s more spacious, and simply more comfortable.
If you want the easiest, fastest solution — this is it.
Pictures from my Eurostar train journey to Antwerp – © Hidden Holland
EuroCity (Cheaper, Slightly Slower)
- About 1h 40m
- Requires a transfer at Schiphol Airport (or depart from Amsterdam Zuid)
- Lower fares
- Open seating
EuroCity works well if you’re flexible and price-sensitive.
But these trains have more stops, are often much busier, without a guaranteed seat and luggage space is also more limited.
If you value speed and comfort, Eurostar is better.
If you want to save money and don’t mind a busier train, EuroCity works fine.
Luggage on the Train
On Eurostar, luggage space is manageable with special luggage racks. But there are stops along the way and risk for theft exits. On EuroCity trains, it’s more open. On these trains stay close to your bags at all times. If you’re traveling with multiple large suitcases and want zero stress, a private transfer is usually a much better idea, and safer too (see below).
Some of my pictures when I arrived at the beautiful Antwerp central station – © Hidden Holland
Option 2: Private Transfer
A pre-booked transfer costs around €230–€260 for up to 4 passengers.
Travel time: about 2 hours in normal traffic.
This is not faster than the train. In fact, it’s usually slower.
But it becomes interesting when:
- You’re traveling as a group
- You have multiple large suitcases
- You prefer door-to-door service
- You don’t want to deal with stations and platforms
For four people, the per-person cost can be comparable to first-class train tickets.
The difference is convenience.
Important: Always pre-book. Metered taxis on this route are significantly more expensive.
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Option 3: Bus (Cheapest Option)
FlixBus and BlaBlaCar run multiple daily services.
- 2–3 hours
- From €6
It’s inexpensive but slower and less comfortable than the train.
I only recommend it if price is your main concern.
⤷ You can find bus schedules and tickets here
Option 4: Driving to Antwerp
Driving takes just over 2 hours in normal traffic.
But traffic around Amsterdam and the Antwerp ring road can cause delays. Parking in Antwerp’s historic center is limited and expensive.
Only consider this if you need a car in Belgium.
Some of the images I took in beautiful Antwerp – © Hidden Holland
Why Visit Antwerp
Antwerp is an easy Belgian city to like, but many visitor skip it over Brussels, Ghent, or Bruges.
The Cathedral of Our Lady alone is worth the trip. You’ll see several original Rubens paintings inside, and the tower dominates the skyline. It’s impressive without feeling overwhelming.
The Grote Markt is compact and lively, with old guild houses and good places to sit down for lunch or a Belgian beer. It’s the kind of square where you slow down a bit.
If you’re into art, the Rubens House (his former home) is interesting. And Antwerp Central Station is one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe, don’t just rush through it.
And yes, the famous Antwerp Zoo is right next door if you’re traveling with family.
Antwerp feels more relaxed than Brussels and less tourist-heavy than Bruges. That’s part of its charm.
Antwerp City Activities To Book Before You Arrive:
Here my other guides for Belgium:
⤷ How to get from Amsterdam to Bruges
⤷ How to get from Amsterdam to Brussels
⤷ How to get from Amsterdam to Ghent
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a private driver worth it compared to the train?
For most people, no — the train is faster and more practical. A private transfer makes sense if you’re carrying multiple large suitcases, simply want door-to-door service, or you’re traveling with three or four people. Otherwise, the train is the easier choice.
How reliable are the trains between Amsterdam and Antwerp?
Very reliable. Eurostar runs direct every other hour. EuroCity runs more frequently. Delays can happen, but they’re usually minor. I wouldn’t hesitate to plan this route by train.
Can I buy train tickets on the same day?
Yes, you can. But prices are lower when booked in advance. Tickets are released about six months ahead, and cheaper fares sell first. If you know your date, book early.
How does luggage work on this route from Amsterdam to Antwerp?
There are no strict weight limits on the train. You bring your bags on board yourself and store them in overhead racks or designated luggage areas (Eurostar only). Stay close to your luggage during station stops. On Eurocity never leave your bags unattended. If you prefer not to manage suitcases in stations and on platforms, I recommend to book a private transfer, to removes that entirely.
What’s the main difference between Eurostar and EuroCity?
Eurostar is direct, faster, and more comfortable. EuroCity is cheaper, slightly slower, and requires a transfer at Schiphol Airport if you depart from Amsterdam central station. Both get you there easily, the choice mostly comes down to budget versus comfort. I always choose Eurostar.
