The Antwerp to Amsterdam rail journey is one of Europe’s most iconic and historic rail journeys, connected by the Thalys train which takes only one hour and 12 minutes from start to finish. If you are on a budget and have allowed some extra travel time, you can also take a slower but slightly less expensive intercity train, which connects the two cities in about two hours. The high speed Thalys train has a total of eight carriages: three first-class and four second-class, with a ‘Thalys bar’ carriage in-between.
How to Purchase Your Tickets
The Antwerp to Amsterdam ticket prices range from $50 to $100 each way depending on the class of service. The train line runs regularly throughout the day, giving you the flexibility to plan your travel as you wish. Where you can, it is always advisable to book as far in advance as you can, as you are far more likely to save money on your ticket. You can book your tickets online and you’ll need your booking reference number, as well as the debit or credit card you used to purchase your tickets, when collecting them. Alternatively you can have your tickets sent to you in the post, either first class, second class or next working day delivery. This train route is very popular so it’s best to arrive as early as possible to guarantee a seat.
Other Onboard Facilities
The ‘Comfort 1’ carriage, the dedicated first-class carriage, offers large luxurious reclining seats, giving you supreme comfort for your journey. You can keep on top of emails by using the onboard Wi-Fi service and there are plug sockets for each seat so you can charge your laptop or tablet easily. All food and drink purchased in the Thalys Bar is made of organic, seasonal and fair-trade ingredients. Once you order your food and drink, you can return to your seat and the train staff will bring your order to you. The train is also set-up for disabled access and there is a disabled toilet onboard.
What to Do When you Arrive in Amsterdam
Once you leave the Thalys train in Amsterdam, there is plenty to see and do on foot. There are world-class museums, unique festivals, quirky theatres, live music and a vast array of bars and restaurants. Amsterdam is filled with attractions and sights, most of which can be accessed on foot so you can really soak up the city as you stroll. During the day, you can soak up the history and culture of Amsterdam by visiting one of the many world-famous museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum or the Anne Frank Huis. Keen shoppers will be spoilt for choice in Amsterdam, with a fine selection of exclusive boutiques and multi-storey department stores to choose from. In the evening, stroll out to one of the many eclectic and stylish bars and restaurants and taste the local food and drink.
Ana Aleksejeva writes about her travel experiences for travel blogs and guides. As a regular traveller and a frequent user of the Antwerp to Amsterdam train journey, she is able to share her top tips for train travel and her recommendations for sight-seeing in the fascinating city of Amsterdam.
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