If you’re traveling between Amsterdam and Brussels, the train is almost always the right choice. Except when you travel with luggage.
The Eurostar takes just under two hours and runs direct from Amsterdam Centraal to Brussels-Midi. It’s faster door-to-door than flying, more comfortable than the bus, and far simpler than driving. For people traveling with luggage I have a better solution.
Let’s look at when each option makes sense.
⤷ Here are my other travel guides for traveling from and to Amsterdam
Table of Contents
Find Places to Stay in Brussels
Have you already booked your Brussels accommodation?
My 3 Favorite Brussels Hotels
- My top pick: Hotel le Dixseptième – luxury, that feels like home, right near Grance Place
- Boutique Comfort: Hotel des Galeries – modern comfort with historic location
- Modern option: Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place – reliable comfort with excellent location
Option 1: Eurostar (Fastest & Most Comfortable)
- Duration: 1h 55m
- Direct
- Seat reservation included
- From €35 if booked early
This is the option I recommend most often.
You would need to arrive about 20 minutes before departure. No airport procedures. No transfers. And you arrive right in the center of Brussels.
If you value comfort, first class (Plus/Premier) is worth it on this route. It’s a lot quieter, seats are wider, and food and drinks are included. Prices are very reasonable for the extra comfort you get.
For first-time anyone who want a straight forward, affodable and comfortable way to travel, Eurostar is the clear winner.
Option 2: EuroCity (Cheaper, But Busier)
- Duration: About 2h10m
- Trains leave from Amsterdam Zuid station (and stop at the Airport)
- Lower prices, and hourly departures
- Open seating
EuroCity works fine if you’re flexible. But these trains are often crowded. There’s no seat reservation, and luggage space is more limited than on Eurostar.
If you’re traveling light and want to save money, it’s a good alternative.
But for most people who prefer a comfortable journey, Eurostar is worth the difference.
Some of the images I took on my train journey from Brussels – © Hidden Holland
Option 3: Private Transfer (Door-to-Door)
For travelers who prefer privacy or are traveling with large luggage, a pre-booked transfer can make a lot of sense.
- Duration: 2.5–3 hours
- Door-to-door
- No transfers
- Fixed price when booked in advance
Pre-booked transfers typically range between €290–€330 depending on vehicle size.
For groups of four, the price per person becomes competitive compared to first-class train tickets, especially when you factor in taxi rides to and from stations. But even for couples the price is reasonable if you travel with luggage.
I recommend this for:
- Hotel-to-hotel moves with luggage
- Travelers uncomfortable with train travel
- Families or small groups
Remember that on trains luggage space is limited, especially on EuroCity. EuroCity can also mean standing places if you’re out of luck. Theft is an issue, so you can never leave luggage unattended on a train. With a pre-booked private transfer you never have to worry about that.
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Option 4: Flying (Usually Not Worth It)
Flying between Amsterdam and Brussels rarely makes sense.
Once you factor in travel to the airport, security, waiting time, and airport transfers in Brussels, the total journey is longer than the train.
Unless you’re connecting to another international flight, or want to used points, skip this.
Book These Brussels City Activities Before You Arrive:
Option 5: Bus Travel (Cheapest Option)
FlixBus runs services between Amsterdam Sloterdijk and Brussels Noord.
- Around 3 to 4 hours
- Tickets start from €9
It’s inexpensive but less comfortable (smaller seats and you can’t move around), and busses arrives outside the city center. Adding travel time and costs on both ends. Usually best for budget travelers.
I only recommend this if price is your main priority.
Option 6: Driving to Brussels
Driving takes around 3 hours in normal traffic.
But Brussels is not car-friendly, and parking is expensive and limited in the center.
Only consider this if you need a car for other parts of your trip.
Brussels Train Stations (Important to Know)
- Eurostar arrives at Brussels-Midi/Zuid
- EuroCity may also stop at Brussels-Central (closest to Grand Place)
Brussels-Midi is well connected by metro and tram. You’re usually 10–15 minutes from the historic center
Luggage on the Train
Eurostar allows two large items plus hand luggage. There are no weight restrictions like airlines. I also would not be comfortable to leave luggage unattended during stops.
EuroCity has no strict limits either, but luggage space is more limited and trains are busier.
If you’re carrying multiple large suitcases and want the easiest option possible, a private transfer avoids stairs, platforms, and crowded aisles entirely.
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My Bottom-Line Recommendation
For most travelers: take the Eurostar. It’s the fastest, simplest, and most comfortable way to travel between Amsterdam and Brussels.
Choose EuroCity if you’re flexible and want to save some money.
Choose a private transfer if you want door-to-door service or are traveling with significant luggage.
Skip flying.
That’s it.
Some pictures I took in Brussels – © Hidden Holland
Here my other guides for Belgium:
⤷ How to get from Amsterdam to Antwerp
⤷ How to get from Amsterdam to Bruges
⤷ How to get from Amsterdam to Ghent
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a direct train from Amsterdam to Brussels?
Yes. The Eurostar runs direct from Amsterdam Centraal to Brussels-Midi in just under two hours. No transfer needed. EuroCity trains depart from Amsterdam Zuid station, or Schiphol Airport. Find prices and schedules here. Book as soon as you can, because prices only go up.
How long does the train take from Amsterdam to Brussels?
The Eurostar takes about 1 hour and 55 minutes. EuroCity trains take around 2 hours and 10 minutes including the transfer.
Is it better to take Eurostar or EuroCity?
For most travelers, Eurostar is the better option. It’s direct, reserved seating is included, and the trains are calmer. EuroCity is cheaper and more flexible, but usually busier. You can buy both tickets here.
Do I need a passport to travel between Amsterdam and Brussels?
Yes. Both countries are in the Schengen Area, so there are usually no border checks, but you must carry valid identification when crossing the border. But police controls do take please, and it’s the law to carry an official travel document with you. Not just a copy!
How does luggage work on the train to Belgium?
Eurostar allows two large pieces plus hand luggage. EuroCity has no strict limits, but luggage space is more limited and trains are busier. So it’s not comfortable at all. If you’re traveling with multiple large suitcases and want the simplest experience, a pre-booked private transfer avoids managing luggage on platforms and crowded trains.
Is flying between Amsterdam and Brussels worth it?
No, unless you’re connecting to a long-haul international flight. Door-to-door, the train is significantly faster and simpler.
Is Brussels worth visiting from Amsterdam?
Yes. It works very well as a one- or two-night stop. The train connection is short enough that it doesn’t feel like a travel-heavy day.
