In this article I help you decide how best to get get from Amsterdam to Berlin. As a Dutch local I am familiar with all travel options, so it’s easy for me to help you decide which option is best.
This route is a unique case where I actually recommend two equally viable options: the direct InterCity train (5h51), or fly (1h20 flight time).
Unlike most European routes where trains or planes have a clear advantage, here both options get you there in roughly the same total time – around 5 hours.
It really is a matter of preference, I like flying a lot, but European train travel is also great, and with the new trains being introduced at the end of 2025 the trip to Berlin by train gets a lot more comfortable.
Table of Contents
Why Berlin Should Be Your Next Stop
Berlin fascinates me as a destination because it’s where 20th-century history comes alive. Walking through the Brandenburg Gate, you’re literally passing through the symbol that once divided East and West.
The city offers authentic experiences: world-class museums on UNESCO-listed Museum Island, remnants of the Berlin Wall that tell powerful stories, and a food scene that goes far beyond bratwurst.
Where To Stay in Berlin – My Recommendations
Have you already booked your accommodation in Berlin?
My Top Pick: Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin
Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is my top pick. This hotel is a legendary property with a perfect location.
Other Recommended Hotels:
Boutique experience: Orania.Berlin – intimate luxury, and this lovely boutique hotel is highly rated.
Modern pick: Courtyard by Mariott Berlin – I love the light at this hotel, it also maintains high service standards.
Your Best Transportation Options from Amsterdam to Berlin
Option 1: Direct InterCity Train (Best for Convenience)
Currently regular InterCity trains run on this route, not high-speed trains. This is changing however from September 2025 ICE (the sleek high-speed trains) will start to replace the current trains. By 2026 all trains should be replaced.
For now, they continue to run at conventional speeds – and depart every two hours between Amsterdam Centraal and Berlin Hauptbahnhof, covering 624 km in 5h51.
I recommend this for a more stress-free experience – no security lines, no transfers, and you arrive right in the city center. Definately upgrade to first class, it’s a lot more comfortable, with larger seats and legroom. Standard class is cramped.
Practical Details:
- Cost: From €38 for advance bookings, up to €160 on busy days, first class prices are about 50% more.
- Frequency: Every two hours throughout the day
- Comfort: Air-conditioned cars, WiFi, power outlets, restaurant service
- Luggage: No restrictions, store bags above your seat, in baggage areas (keep an eye on them at stops)
- Total journey time: 5h51 city center to city center
When I choose the train: For relaxed travel where I can work or read, or when I want to arrive in Berlin without airport stress.
Option 2: Flight between Amsterdam and Berlin
Flights take just 1h20 in the air, with prices ranging from €80-200. When I calculate total travel time including getting to Schiphol, check-in, security, flight, and transfer from Berlin airport, you’re looking at about 4.5-5 hours door-to-door – which is slightly faster than the train, but not much, especially if you prefer not to be there last minute.
- Airlines: KLM and easyJet are the main carriers (strangely enough not Lufthansa)
- Airport access: Schiphol Airport is 20 minutes from Amsterdam center
- Berlin arrival: Brandenburg Airport is 45 minutes from city center
- Total journey time: 4.5-5 hours door-to-door including all procedures
When I choose flights: trains can get expensive, so often is flight is the more economical option. I also prefer the short legs, and have breaks in between. But this is a very personal choice. Both options work great.
Alternative Budget Option: Bus Travel to Berlin
FlixBus operates direct services taking 8h15 from €44. While this is the most economical option, the long journey time makes it less practical when train and flight options get you there in half the time.
I only recommend buses for travelers on very tight budgets who don’t mind the extended travel time. Also note, in Amsterdam you need to travel to Amsterdam West for the departure point next to Sloterdijk Train Station.
Driving Yourself To Berlin
The 650 km (400-mile) drive takes 6h30 – 8 hours via A1/E30 through Osnabrück and Hannover, then A2/E30 to Berlin. The German “Autobahn” is well-maintained with no tolls.
Practical Considerations:
- Car rental costs: €50-100 per day
- Fuel costs: €160-200 for a round trip
- Parking in Berlin: €15-25 per day for hotel parking
Who this works for: Travelers exploring multiple areas in Germany, or wanting flexibility for countryside day trips. I don’t recommend it for first-time visitors or those staying only in city center due to parking challenges.
⤷ Find the best car deal here (tip: book full insurance, European rental locations are strict with damages!)
Compare Car Rental Companies
Find the lowest price for Car rental in the Netherlands
A Rental Car is perfect for exploring the Dutch countryside and attractions, harder to reach at your own pace.
Book Your Rental Car
Booking Your Transportation from Amsterdam to Berlin
Train Tickets Tips
Best booking window: Book early for €38 tickets; prices increase closer to departure. Seats become available about four months in advance. Seat reservations: Optional but recommended (around €5), sometimes mandatory. Where to book: NS International website.
Flight Booking Tips
- Airport timing: Arrive 90 minutes early for European flights from Schiphol
- Best booking window: 3-4 months in advance for international flights
- Price comparison: Compare KLM (full service) vs easyJet (budget)
I prefer KLM personally, I find them friendlier, more services, lounge access (if you have that) and a free drink and snack. You can compare flights here.
Station and Airport Information
- Amsterdam train departure: Amsterdam Centraal (main station, easy tram/taxi access)
- Berlin train arrival: Berlin Hauptbahnhof (central location, 15-minute walk to Brandenburg Gate)
- Amsterdam flight departure: Schiphol Airport (20 minutes from city center by train)
- Berlin flight arrival: Brandenburg Airport (45 minutes to city center by train)
TIP: Have you thought about internet access in Amsterdam and Berlin? You need it for tickets, and navigation on Google Maps for example. Skip the expensive international roaming charges, or plans—an eSIM costs a fraction of your provider’s rates and gives you more data. Plus, it’s simple to install before you travel.
Inexpensive and Flexible SIM
Stay connected in the Netherlands
Skip hunting for WiFi. Get on the go navigation, translations and mobile internet that works everywhere in Europe – skip expensive international charges from your phone company.
My Phone Abroad Guide
What to Do in Berlin
Berlin always impresses visitors with its cutting edge city life, iconic icons and powerful history. Start with the essential trio: the Brandenburg Gate (Germany’s symbol of reunification), the Reichstag building with its glass dome, and Museum Island – a UNESCO World Heritage site housing five world-class museums including the famous Nefertiti bust.
For orientation, I recommend a hop-on hop-off bus tour on your first day – it covers all major sights and helps you plan the rest of your visit. Go up the iconic TV Tower on Alexanderplatz for panoramic city views from 368 meters high. Then explore the East Side Gallery (the longest remaining Berlin Wall section, now an open-air art gallery) and Checkpoint Charlie.
Here are links to get tickets:
- Berlin Hop-on hop-off bus tour
- Guided Berlin Bike Tour I took and loved
- Access to Berlin TV Tower
- DDR Museum (I found this super interesting)
Frequently Asked Questions How to Get from Amsterdam to
Which option is better value – train or flight between Amsterdam and Berlin?
Train tickets from Amsterdam to Berlin start at €38 and include seating, luggage allowance, and city-center arrival. Budget flights start at €80 but add airport transfer costs (€20-30 total) and potential baggage fees. However, train prices go up much faster than flights, so it really depends. I call it a tie.
How reliable are trains vs flights between Amsterdam and Berlin?
Trains have on this route have a reputation for delays and cancellations (about 80% runs (ontime). But with new trains coming now soon this will soon be a thing of the past. Flights can also be delayed due to weather or other conditions. So again, I call it a tie.
Which option is more comfortable for travelers who prefer spacious seating?
Train seats offer more legroom, especially whe you upgrade to first class what I always do. Plus you have the freedom to move around during the journey. You can visit the restaurant car, work at your seat, or simply enjoy the scenery. Aircraft seats are more restrictive, though the journey is shorter. For travelers who value comfort over speed, trains win decisively.
Can I easily change my travel plans with both options?
Train tickets offer more flexibility – you can often change to earlier or later departures on the same day for a fee. Flight changes typically involve higher rebooking fees and schedule constraints. If your itinerary might change, trains provide more adaptability. Both offer pricing tiers that include full flexibility.
What’s the most stress-free option for travelers to Berlin?
Definitely the train. No security lines, luggage restrictions, or arrival procedures – just board at Amsterdam Centraal and arrive in central Berlin. You avoid the stress of going around airports, potential flight delays.
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My Bottom-Line Recommendation
For most travelers: Take the train. Book in advance for good prices, and I always recommend upgrading to first class. It’s worth it on this route.
When to choose flights: If you find exceptional flight deals, prefer shorter travel times, or are combining with other flights. Just remember to factor in airport transfer time and costs.
