Amsterdam by train
Amsterdam train stations
The city's train network is operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), connecting major stations such as Amsterdam Centraal, Amsterdam Amstel, Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Lelylaan and Amsterdam Zuid. These stations serve as hubs, linking various neighbourhoods and providing access to regional destinations. Trains run regularly, ensuring timely connections for commuters and tourists alike. Learn more about the facilities available at Amsterdam's train stations. For train schedules and ticket prices, use the NS online planner. Find more information on how to get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam via train here.
How to buy train tickets in Amsterdam
Tickets can be purchased online from the NS website, the yellow ticket machines at stations (please note that most machines only accept card payments) or customer service desks (only available at a limited number of stations). Several train tickets and travel passes are available, ranging from singles and day returns to monthly and annual subscriptions.
Check in and out with OVpay
For anyone who is travelling via train infrequently, for example for travelling to and from the airport, OVpay is the new way to check in and out of public transport with your debit/credit card, smartphone, or online ticket on your mobile device. Simply hold your card against the turnstiles to enter the platforms to check-in. The system will beep once you have checked in correctly. Be sure to check out with the same card at your destination. For more information, visit the OVpay website. You can link your debit card to Mijn NS for immediate access to your travel history and costs.
Save on public transport
- I amsterdam City Card: The I amsterdam City Card includes unlimited use of Amsterdam's public transport network for 24, 48, 72 or 96 hours. The card also gives you a discount on museums and attractions.
- Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket: Want to discover everything within the city and the wider Amsterdam Metropolitan Area? The Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket is an affordable public transport option. It gives you one, two, or three days of unlimited use of all tram, bus, and metro lines of GVB, Connexxion, AllGo, R-net, EBS (including night lines), and NS in Amsterdam and the region.
Where to go with the train from Amsterdam
Looking for inspiration? Browse our selection of fun activities and day trips from amsterdam by train into the Amsterdam Area. Such destinations as Haarlem, Zaanse Schans and Keukenhof are easy to reach with the train. To plan your trip and find detailed travel advice for Amsterdam’s public transport network (and beyond), download the public transport app 9292, or use detailed interactive maps of the public transport network via the GVB website. For train-specific travel always refer to the NS website.
Accessible public transport
Many train stations have lifts, ramps, and escalators, while most trains have wheelchair-friendly facilities. NS offers specific information about accessibility on Amsterdam trains, such as Travel Assistance, facilities aboard the train, and accurate and thorough travel information. Read the full guidance about travelling with a disability here.
Public transport operator GVB can provide specific information about accessibility for the rest of Amsterdam’s public transport network. For example, route folders and timetables indicate which transport stops are not wheelchair accessible or which trams and bus services are not equipped with an accessibility ramp. Read the guidance here.
International train travel to and from Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a hub for international train travel, offering seamless connections to major European cities. High-speed trains like the Eurostar (Thalys) and ICE whisk travellers to destinations such as London, Paris, Brussels, and Frankfurt in just a few hours. Sleeper trains like the Nightjet provide a comfortable and eco-friendly option for overnight journeys, connecting Amsterdam to cities like Vienna, Zurich, and Munich. With central departures from Amsterdam Centraal, international train travel is a stress-free, sustainable way to explore Europe.
For information on travelling by train to international destinations from Amsterdam (and other Dutch cities), visit NS International.
