A day trip to Amsterdam from London is absolutely doable—and I’ll show you exactly how to make it work. You have two excellent options: the direct Eurostar train (under 4 hours) or flights (just over an hour).
This guide works whether you’re planning a quick day trip, a longer Amsterdam stay, or when you’re traveling the opposite direction from Amsterdam to London.
I’m Dutch, born and raised in the Netherlands, and I have travelled to London countless times, so I know this route well from both sides.
The key is choosing the right mode of transport for your schedule and knowing exactly what to prioritize once you arrive, this is especially true if you’re coming for just a day.
Table of Contents
Train or Plane: Which Works Better for You?
Both options get you there in good time, but your choice depends on where you’re starting in London and what matters most to you.
Choose the Eurostar train if:
- You’re staying in central London (St Pancras is well-connected)
- You want a relaxed journey with space to work or read
- You prefer avoiding airport security and luggage restrictions
- You don’t mind paying a bit more for convenience
Choose flying if:
- You’re near Gatwick, Heathrow, or London City Airport
- You want the cheapest option (budget airlines)
- You prefer more departure times throughout the day
- You’re comfortable with airport procedures
- You want to use miles for free travel
Time-wise, they’re surprisingly similar. The train takes 4-5 hours door-to-door, while flying takes 4-5 hours once you factor in airport travel and security. The train wins on comfort, flights win on frequency and often price.
Eurostar Train: City Center to City Center
The Eurostar runs direct from London St Pancras to Amsterdam Centraal—no airport hassles, no transfers. You travel from the heart of London to the center of Amsterdam in 4 hours 17 minutes, or a bit longer if you need to transfer in Brussels.
Best departure times:
From London to Amsterdam:
- First direct train: 06:16 departure from London arrives 11:20 (local time) in Amsterdam
- Last direct train: 18:04 departure from London arrives 23:20 (local time) in Amsterdam
From Amsterdam to London
- First direct train: 06:40 departure from Amsterdam arrives 9:57 (local time) in London
- Last direct train: 18:40 departure from Amsterdam arrives 21:57 (local time) in London
If you travel from London to Amsterdam you’d have 7 hours and 20 minutes in Amsterdam.
When you travel from Amsterdam to London you’d have 8 hours and 7 minutes in London.
My Tip: I alway travel first class on this train, never standard class. Standard class is cramped. In first class you’d have a lot more space, and a more peaceful journey.
When booking 1st class you have two options: Eurostar Plus or Premier. Plus is great for most people. It allows 2 suitcases per person, and a light meal. It has limited rebooking and cancellation options. This is what I usually book. Premier is more expensive, but includes 3 suitcases per person, a nicer hot meal, and the best flexibility.
Search Train Tickets Here:
Pro tip: Platform 15 in Amsterdam is where London-bound trains depart. Arrive 45 minutes early for passport control.
Get a GVB Day-Pass (public transport within Amsterdam Only) if you arrive by train (or just walk)
Flying: More Flights, More Flexibility
Multiple airlines serve the London-Amsterdam route with multiple departures every hour. The flight time is 75-90 minutes, but factor in airport travel and security.
Best London airports for Amsterdam:
- London City Airport – Closest to central London, quick security both KLM and British Airways serve this airport
- London Gatwick – Good for south/central London. British Airways and Easyjet serve this airport
- London Heathrow – Most flights, but furthest from center. BA and KLM.
I recommend starting your search for flights on a comparision site first like Kayak or Expedia
TIP: From Amsterdam Schiphol, the train to Central Station takes just 17 minutes. Get the Amsterdam Travel Day ticket which allows both travel to and from the airport and all around Amsterdam throughout the day!
Travel by Bus from London to Amsterdam (or visa versa)
You can travel by bus between these cities. Flixbus operates this route, but at 12+ hours each way, they’re not realistic for day trips.
Personally I would never recommend the bus, but if you have time, and want to travel at the lowest possible cost you might want to consider it.
You can search for bus schedules, prices and tickets between London and Amsterdam here.
What to Do During Your Day Trip to Amsterdam from London
With 6-8 hours in the city, you can see a lot—if you plan smart. I’ve created four one-day focused Amsterdam itineraries that work perfectly for day visitors.
Here is one for first-timers: Canal cruise + Van Gogh + Jordaan neighborhood walk. This covers Amsterdam’s highlights without rushing.
Going The Other Direction? London Tips
If you’re traveling the other direction—Amsterdam to London for the day—here’s what works well with limited time:
Classic London in 6 hours: Westminster area (Big Ben, Parliament, Westminster Abbey) + Buckingham Palace + Borough Market for lunch. Then hop on the London Eye for a great view on the city. Everything’s walkable or a short tube ride apart.
Essential Tips for Your Amsterdam From London Trip
Book everything in advance. Amsterdam’s top attractions sell out, especially if you’re visiting during tulip season (April) or summer months. So make to make your reservations. I recommend Tiqets as my preferred ticket partner, or use Get your Guide. Both offer great cancellation policies on your tickets if things change.
Travel light. A small backpack with essentials is perfect. You’ll be walking a lot, and Amsterdam’s cobblestones aren’t trolley-friendly.
Time buffers are important. Arrive at the station/airport 60 minutes early. Missing your transport ruins everything.
Weather backup plan. Amsterdam weather changes quickly. I always recommend layers and a small umbrella. Here is my favorite one:
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Currency. Most places accept cards, but carry some euros for market stalls or small cafes. I love Wise as my preferred debit travel card. No matter what your credit card company or bank claims, in my experience Wise is always cheaper.
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Staying Longer in Either City
Find a great hotel to match with your stay. Search on your favorite platform: Expedia | Booking | Hotels.com | Trivago.
In Amsterdam I recommend staying in either the canal belt, or near Central Station (but search a more quiet location). Avoid the Red Light District. In London I recommend Central London, close to the train station from where you leave London.
Frequently Asked Questions London to Amsterdam
How much time do I actually have in Amsterdam on a day trip from London?
With the morning Eurostar, you’ll have about 6.5 hours in the city. Flying can give you up to 8 hours, depending on departure times and airports.
Is it worth doing Amsterdam as a day trip or should I stay overnight?
A day trip gives you a great taste of Amsterdam and works perfectly if you’re short on time. If you love what you see, plan a longer return visit. Many of my day-trip clients book a proper Amsterdam stay within months.
What’s the cost difference between Eurostar and flying between London and Amsterdam?
Flights are often cheaper, especially budget airlines from Gatwick. But factor in airport transport costs. Eurostar prices vary by demand—book early for better deals.
Can I see tulips on a day trip from London?
Absolutely, if you visit between mid-March and mid-May. Keukenhof Gardens is about 45 minutes from Amsterdam. [AFFILIATE LINK PLACEHOLDER: Keukenhof tickets + transport] I recommend this only if tulips are your main priority.
What if my return transport is delayed or cancelled?
Always have a backup plan. Both Eurostar and airlines offer later services. Travel insurance helps, and I recommend keeping some buffer time rather than booking the very last departure.
Conclusion
Amsterdam with its combination of canals, world-class museums, and that unique Dutch atmosphere creates something special—even in just one day. And London is always exhilarating with its iconic landmarks, and that unmistakable British character.
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