How to Get to Amsterdam From Paris [2025–2026 Guide]
Travel Paris to Amsterdam in 3 hrs 20 mins by train (€35–€120), 1 hr 15 mins by flight (€70–€180), or 5–6 hrs by bus (€20–€60) for 2025–2026.
The fastest way from Paris to Amsterdam is the Thalys high-speed train (3 hrs 20 mins, €35–€120). Flights take 1 hr 15 mins (€70–€180), while buses are cheaper but slower at 5–6 hrs (€20–€60).
🚄 Traveling by Train: Paris to Amsterdam
The Thalys high-speed train is the most popular and efficient option for traveling between Paris and Amsterdam. Trains run frequently and provide a comfortable, scenic ride through Belgium and the Netherlands.
- Duration: 3 hrs 20 mins
- Departure: Paris Gare du Nord
- Arrival: Amsterdam Centraal
- Cost: €35–€120 (depending on booking time and class)
- Frequency: Every 1–2 hours
Why choose the train?
- City-center to city-center travel
- No long airport security or check-in times
- Comfortable seating with WiFi and dining options
✈️ Flying from Paris to Amsterdam
Flying is the fastest air travel option but less time-efficient overall once you factor in airport transfers and security.
- Flight Duration: 1 hr 15 mins
- Airports: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) → Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)
- Cost: €70–€180 round trip
- Airlines: Air France, KLM, Transavia, easyJet
- Total Time (including airport transfers & security): ~4 hrs
Why fly?
- Ideal if connecting to international long-haul flights from Amsterdam
- Competitive fares with low-cost carriers if booked early
🚌 Traveling by Bus: Paris to Amsterdam
If budget is your priority, buses are the most affordable option. Though slower, modern coaches are comfortable with WiFi and rest stops.
- Duration: 5–6 hrs
- Operators: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus, Eurolines
- Cost: €20–€60
- Departures: Multiple daily from Paris Bercy Seine, Porte Maillot, or CDG Airport
- Arrival: Amsterdam Sloterdijk or Amsterdam Bijlmer
Why take the bus?
- Cheapest travel option
- Overnight buses save on accommodation
- Frequent departures and flexible booking
🚗 Driving from Paris to Amsterdam
For those who prefer flexibility, driving allows you to explore small towns along the way.
- Distance: ~500 km (310 miles)
- Duration: 5–6 hrs depending on traffic
- Route: A1/E19 highway via Brussels and Antwerp
- Cost: €70–€120 (fuel + tolls)
- Car Rentals: Available in Paris, with drop-off options in Amsterdam
Why drive?
- Flexibility to stop in Brussels, Antwerp, or Rotterdam
- Great option for families or small groups
- Scenic countryside views along the route
🌸 Best Time to Travel
- Spring (Apr–May): Ideal for tulip season in the Netherlands
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Warm weather, peak travel season (higher prices)
- Autumn (Sep–Oct): Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Lower fares, but colder and shorter days
🗺️ Travel Summary Table
| Travel Mode | Duration | Cost Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 3 hrs 20 mins | €35–€120 | Fastest city-center to city-center |
| Flight | 1 hr 15 mins (4 hrs total) | €70–€180 | Best for connections, less convenient |
| Bus | 5–6 hrs | €20–€60 | Cheapest option, comfortable coaches |
| Car | 5–6 hrs (500 km) | €70–€120 | Flexible, scenic route via Belgium |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the fastest way to get from Paris to Amsterdam?
The Thalys high-speed train (3 hrs 20 mins) is the fastest overall.
Q2: Is it cheaper to fly or take the train from Paris to Amsterdam?
Trains can be cheaper if booked early (€35–€120), while flights usually cost €70–€180.
Q3: How far is Amsterdam from Paris by train?
The journey covers about 500 km (310 miles) in 3 hrs 20 mins.
Q4: Are overnight travel options available?
Yes, overnight buses provide budget-friendly travel and save hotel costs.
Q5: Do I need to book train tickets in advance?
Yes, booking early secures the best fares and ensures seat availability.
This 2025–2026 guide gives you all travel options from Paris to Amsterdam, whether you prefer speed, savings, or flexibility.