For travelers heading from Amsterdam to Den Bosch, you have two excellent options: take the direct train (60 minutes, €19-32) for convenience and reliability, or book a private transfer (€140-160 for up to 4 people) for door-to-door comfort.
PS: The city is officially called ‘s Hertogenbosch (name in travel planners, and station) but people use the name “Den Bosch” more commonly.
I recommend the train for most travelers—it’s frequent, comfortable, and gets you right into the city center. Choose the private transfer if you’re traveling with luggage, prefer not to navigate stations, or just want the comfort for door-to-door transportation.
⤷ Here is my article on things to do in Den Bosch
Table of Contents
My Favorite Netherlands Guidebook
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Why Visit Den Bosch
Den Bosch (officially ‘s-Hertogenbosch) sits just an hour south of Amsterdam and offers something most tourists never experience: authentic Dutch culture without the crowds.
This medieval city is the birthplace of painter Hieronymus Bosch and home to one of Europe’s finest Gothic cathedrals. The compact historic center features underground waterways (which makes for a great boat ride, very different from Amsterdam, excellent museums showcasing Van Gogh’s early works, and the famous Bossche Bol pastry.
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Find Places to Stay in Den Bosch
Have you already booked your accommodation in Den Bosch?
My 3 Favorite Den Bosch Hotels
- My top pick: Boutique Hotel De Blauwe Pauw – magical place, back into time , with great breakfast
- Special experience: Monastery Hotel De Soete Moeder – special spot near the center, next to a lovely park.
- Central pick: Hotel Julien – another fantastic choice for a short stay in Den Bosch, central location.
Train from Amsterdam to Den Bosch: The Smart Choice for Most Travelers
Direct trains run from Amsterdam Centraal to Den Bosch every 15-30 minutes, taking 60 minutes. Second-class tickets cost €19, while first-class runs about €32. I always travel first class on this route—the seats are wider, it’s quieter. This is a busy route, so a bit of extra comfort is worth the modest higher price tag.
⤷ Here my article about “How to book train tickets in the Netherlands”
Private Transfer: Comfort and Convenience
Private transfers from Amsterdam to Den Bosch cost around €140-160 for up to 4 passengers, making them cost-effective for couples or small groups when you factor in train tickets plus taxi/public transport at each end.
I recommend private transfers for travelers who value door-to-door service, have multiple bags, or want to control their departure time. Your driver meets you at your hotel, handles the luggage, and delivers you directly to your destination. This eliminates the need to navigate stations and platforms.
I recommend to pre-book a taxi here (and opt for the luxury vehicle) to save costs on a metered taxi ride. Book the van option for more than two suitcases.
Save Up To 50%
When you book a taxi in advance you can save up to 70% off the metered priced and enjoy a fixed price. With coverage around the country.
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Alternative: Driving Yourself Between Amsterdam and Den Bosch
The drive covers 80 kilometers (50 miles) and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes depending on traffic. Rental cars are readily available in Amsterdam, or even easier from the airport, and driving gives you flexibility to explore the Brabant region beyond Den Bosch.
However, parking in Den Bosch city center is paid throughout, typically €2-4 per hour. I’d only recommend driving if you’re planning multiple stops or prefer having a car for your entire visit.
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A Rental Car is perfect for exploring the Dutch countryside and attractions, harder to reach at your own pace.
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Booking Your Transportation from Amsterdam to Den Bosch
Train Tickets
Book through the official NS website and then load your tickets onto the app to avoid the €1,50 machine surcharge. Your ticket works for any train that day, giving you complete flexibility.
⤷ Here is my article where I tell you all about booking your train tickets in the Netherlands
Money-saving tip: When you book 4+ days ahead you’re often eligible for a discount if you travel off-peak, the earlier you book the higher the discount.
You’ll need internet access for your train tickets and navigating Den Bosch with an app like Google Maps. 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.
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Private Driver
Book your taxi in advance and you save significantly on the fare compared to metered journeys. When booking it’s worth it to select “Luxury” instead of “Standard” for a nicer driving experience. Standard is comparable with a regular ride-share experience. Luxury means a driver in suit, and a nicer vehicle.
Save Up To 50%
When you book a taxi in advance you can save up to 70% off the metered priced and enjoy a fixed price. With coverage around the country.
Reserve Your Taxi Now
What to Do in Den Bosch
The imposing St. John’s Cathedral dominates the skyline—Gothic construction that took 200 years to complete, with stunning stained glass windows. You can climb the 73-meter tower for panoramic views on a guided tour but Dutch only.
The Noordbrabants Museum houses an impressive collection including 12 original Van Gogh paintings from his early Brabant period, plus regional history from Roman times forward. The Jheronimus Bosch Art Center displays life-size reproductions of all the master’s works, giving you a comprehensive view of the city’s most famous son.
Don’t miss the Binnendieze boat tour—underground waterways that uniquely pass under houses, offering a perspective impossible in Amsterdam’s open canals. And yes, you must try a Bossche Bol, the city’s signature cream-filled pastry covered in dark chocolate.
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Frequently Asked Questions How to Get from Amsterdam to Den Bosch
Is the train service reliable between Amsterdam and Den Bosch?
Very reliable—the Netherlands has one of the world’s most punctual railway networks. Delays are rare, and when they occur, alternative arrangements are quickly made. I’ve made this journey dozens of times with minimal issues.
Should I choose a private transfer over the train from Amsterdam to Den Bosch?
For couples spending €32-50 on train tickets, the €140-160 private transfer makes financial sense because it offers significant convenience. You do not have to travel to station first, and you can easily bring your luggage. You’re paying roughly €60-100 extra for door-to-door service. But pre-book your taxi ahead of time, metered prices are a lot higher.
Can I use my credit card for train payments?
Yes, but not at the ticket machines (which are more expensive anyway). If you want to travel 2nd class, just tap a contactless bank or credit card when you enter the station, and (important), again when you leave. For first-class travel, you’ll need to purchase tickets through the NS app or website (I recommend the website). Look at my article here where I explain exactly how to buy your train tickets in the Netherlands.
Is Den Bosch worth visiting for first-time Netherlands visitors?
I recommend Den Bosch for travelers on their second Netherlands visit or those with extra time. While it’s genuinely beautiful and culturally rich, first-timers might prioritize destinations like Haarlem, Delft, or Utrecht that are closer to Amsterdam. However Den Bosch can also be a great 1/2 day stop if you’re visiting Maastricht.
How walkable is Den Bosch from the train station?
Extremely walkable. The historic center is compact with most attractions within a 5-10 minute walk from each other. The train station sits just outside the medieval core, requiring about 5-10 minutes to reach the main sights.
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Conclusion
Take the train if you’re comfortable with public transport and traveling light. It’s reliable, frequent, and delivers you right into the city center. Choose the private transfer if you’re traveling as a couple or group, have luggage, or simply prefer the convenience of door-to-door service. The cost difference isn’t dramatic when you factor in total travel time and comfort.
Read More:
- All my “How To Get From Amsterdam” Transportation Guides
- Here is my full article on “Things to do in Den Bosch”
- Discover the beautiful city of Maastricht
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