When you want to travel from Amsterdam to Maastricht, I recommend two main options: the direct train (2h 20m, €30-50). If you travel without a lot of luggage this is a very convenient way to travel between the two cities. It’s reliable, runs every 30 minutes, and gets you from city center to city center without traffic worries. But trains are busy so always opt for first class.
Or pre-book a private taxi (2h 30m, around €300-350 for up to 4 people) if you prefer door-to-door service and don’t mind paying extra for the luxury.
Table of Contents
Why Visit Maastricht
Maastricht feels different from the rest of the Netherlands, and that’s exactly why you should go. This is the country’s oldest city, where Roman foundations still peek through cobblestone streets and French-influenced architecture creates an atmosphere you won’t find in Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
The city sits at the crossroads of three countries, giving it a distinctly international feel. How about exploring underground caves, admiring the oldest church in the Netherlands, and dining in restaurants that rival anything in Paris?
The Vrijthof square, with its twin basilicas and bustling cafes, serves as the heart of a city.
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Find Places to Stay in Maastricht
Have you already booked your accommodation in Maastricht?
My 3 Favorite Maastricht Hotels
- My top pick: Kruisherenhotel Maastricht – stunning architecture, former church
- Special experience: Maison Haas Hustinx & Spa – Art Deco Guesthouse Near Sint Servaasbasiliek
- Castle experience: Hotel Kasteel Terworm – beautiful grounds and large, comfortable rooms
Train Travel: My Top Recommendation For Most People
The NS Intercity train runs directly from Amsterdam Centraal to Maastricht station every 30 minutes from 6am to 10pm. Journey time is consistent at 2h 20m, and you’ll travel through some pleasant Dutch countryside.
Costs and Classes:
- Second class: €30
- First class: €50
I usually travel first class on this longer route—the wider seats and extra legroom make the journey more comfortable, and is generally quieter.
⤷ Here my article about “How to book train tickets in the Netherlands”
Private Transfer: Premium Comfort With a Pre-Booked Taxi
For those who prefer door-to-door service, I recommend to pre-book a private taxi. The cost is €300-350 for up to four people. This makes sense if you’re traveling as a group (just slightly more than the train). Or for couples who value convenience over cost savings.
The drive takes 2h 30m on the A2 motorway, assuming normal traffic. I recommend booking the “luxury” option since it is a longer drive. If you have a lot of luggage (2+ suitcases), book a van so there is enough space.
Save Up To 50%
When you book a taxi in advance you can save up to 50% off the metered priced and enjoy a fixed price. With coverage around the country.
Reserve Your Taxi Now
Bus Option From Amsterdam to Maastricht: Budget Choice
FlixBus operates several daily services from Amsterdam to Maastricht, with fares starting around €15, so it’s very low cost. But the journey takes longer, approximately 3 hours, and they’re departing from Amsterdam Sloterdijk not from the city center like trains.
I recommend this only if budget is your main concern or if you’re staying near one of the departure points. The buses are comfortable with WiFi and restrooms, but you’re committed to specific departure times unlike the flexible train tickets.
Driving from Amsterdam to Maastricht
The 220km drive on the A2 motorway takes 2h 30m in ideal conditions, but I’d budget at least 3 hours. This is a busy route.
Parking in central Maastricht costs around €3-4 per hour. To avoid this you can consider parking at the free Park & Ride at Maastricht Noord station and taking the short train ride into the center.
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.
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Booking Your Transportation from Amsterdam to Maastricht
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.
My Favorite Netherlands Guidebook
[amazon box=”1641716355″ title=”Rick Steves Amsterdam & the Netherlands Travel Guide” link_id=”27254″ id=”21717″]
You’ll need internet access for your train tickets and navigating Maastricht 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.
My Phone Abroad Guide
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 “Luxe” instead of “Standard” for a nicer driving experience. Standard is comparable with a regular ride-share experience. Luxe 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 50% off the metered priced and enjoy a fixed price. With coverage around the country.
Reserve Your Taxi Now
What to Do in Maastricht
There is so much to do in Maastricht I wrote more than one article about this great city.
⤷ Things to do in Maastricht
⤷ Enjoy the pie famous around the country: Vlaai in Maastricht
But here are just a few ideas: Vrijthof square, where the imposing St. Servatius Basilica—the oldest church in the Netherlands—dominates one side.
The square comes alive with outdoor cafes perfect for people watching. And it’s where the famous Andre Rieu concerts are held every year.
Don’t miss the underground caves at St. Pietersberg, where you can explore limestone tunnels that once sheltered Rembrandts Night Watch during World War II. The Helpoort, the country’s oldest surviving city gate from 1229, offers a glimpse into medieval defenses.
For culture enthusiasts, the Bonnefanten Museum showcases both historical and contemporary art in a striking modern building. Food lovers should try the local Limburgse vlaai and explore the Burgundian-influenced restaurants that make Maastricht the culinary capital of the region.
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Frequently Asked Questions How to Get from Amsterdam to
Is a private driver worth the extra cost between Amsterdam and Maastricht?
If you value door-to-door service, luggage assistance, and privacy a pre-booked taxi is worth the cost. If you enjoy European train travel and you don’t have too much luggage, the train is absolutely fine.
How reliable is train service from Amsterdam to Maastricht?
Very reliable. The Amsterdam-Maastricht line rarely experiences delays, and trains run every 30 minutes throughout the day. These intercity trains are modern and well-maintained.
Can I book same-day transportation?
Yes for trains—tickets never sell out and you can buy right up to departure. If you book in advance you can get a discount. For more information see my article about train tickets in the Netherlands. For private transfers, I recommend pre-booking your taxi at least 24 hours in advance, but earlier to get the best price and make sure your preferred time is available. FlixBus requires advance booking and specific departure times, so this option is a lot less flexible.
What’s the best option for travelers with multiple suitcases?
Booking a private transfer, hands down. Train stations involve walking, stairs, and managing luggage through crowds. Even first-class trains have limited luggage space.
Is Maastricht worth visiting if I only have one day?
Absolutely. Because of the compact historic center you can cover most of the major sights on a leisurely walk. Take a train just after 9 AM, then spend 7-8 hours in the city, and catch an evening train back. You’ll experience a completely different side of the Netherlands. And although one day is super fun, staying overnight is a treat. The area has a lot to offer, and 2-3 days here is ideal.
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For most travelers, I recommend the direct train—it’s reliable, comfortable, and gets you there without traffic stress. Book first class it’s worth it. Choose a private driver if you’re traveling with others and want door-to-door luxury, or if you have mobility concerns. The bus works for budget-conscious travelers, but factor in the extra time and less convenient departure locations.
Read More:
- All my “How To Get From Amsterdam” Transportation Guides
- Why a “Bossche Bol” Pastry is worth a stop in Den Bosch
- More airports than Schiphol. Like Eindhoven which is much closer to Maastricht
If this guide helped you plan your trip to Maastricht, consider buying me a coffee – that helps me to continue producing these detailed guides!
