Amsterdam to Berlin train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,RB,RE)

From Amsterdam to Berlin by Ice: A Smooth Ride From One Historic City to the Next

Introduction

Taking the ICE train from Amsterdam to Berlin is a wonderfully comfortable way to cross from the Netherlands into the heart of Germany. No airports and no stress. It was just hours of countryside rolling past your window while you relax with a coffee and your legs fully stretched out. It’s not just changing location; it’s a travel experience you’ll actually enjoy.

Route Overview

The high-speed ICE train, operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB), connects Amsterdam Centraal with Berlin Hauptbahnhof in five hours and fifty minutes. While that may sound long at first glance, trust me when I say it doesn’t feel like it. You avoid the airport chaos, get to see the countryside of three countries, and travel straight from city center to city center.

There are multiple departures daily, so whether you’re an early riser or prefer a leisurely morning, you’ll find a time that fits your schedule. You can also check out Amsterdam to Berlin buses on Omio, but if comfort and scenery matter to you, the train easily comes out on top.

Transportation Experience

I booked my ticket through Omio in less than five minutes: selected the date, filtered by fastest connection, and it was done. I went for First Class this time, and it really made a difference. My seat was in a compartment with a sliding door, which gave me extra space and peace. I got the seat right by the door and was quite happy with the extra legroom. At 196 cm tall, I usually struggle a bit in tight spots—but here, I could really stretch out.

As you approach Berlin, you want to sit on the left side of the train. The urban landscape unfolds beautifully on that side, especially during the final 30 minutes before arrival. It was like the city slowly revealed itself as we rolled in.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Amsterdam Centraal is one of Europe’s most iconic stations, with easy connections to trams, buses, and the metro. I arrived about 25 minutes before departure, grabbed a snack, and found my platform without hassle. Everything was well-signed and efficient. If it’s your first time in Amsterdam, be sure to go outside for a brief moment to take a good look at the gorgeous building.

Berlin Hbf is equally impressive but in a different way. With several levels of trains and shops all stacked vertically, it can be quite an overwhelming station. Definitely make sure you’re on time if you need to catch a connection here. Berlin Hbf is located right in the heart of the city and makes arriving in the city super convenient. Whether you're heading to Mitte, Kreuzberg, or Prenzlauer Berg, you're just a short S-Bahn ride away.

Schedule & Frequency

The ICE runs multiple times a day, generally from early morning until around 6 PM. My train left Amsterdam at 10:00 AM and arrived in Berlin just after 4:00 PM. We passed through cities like Osnabrück and Hannover, with smooth stops along the way. I barely noticed the time passing. It was one of those rides where you can zone out and enjoy the rhythm of the tracks.

Onboard Experience & Services

I booked a First Class train ticket, and that was a great choice. The seats were wide, reclinable, and came with power outlets. The table, however, was only for the window and middle seats. I did get some extra legroom by sitting next to the door, though. I also had Wi-Fi for the entirety of the trip.

There is also a restaurant/bar on the train. I found the food to be too expensive, though, and I didn't get any complimentary snacks or drinks. So, before boarding in Amsterdam, get yourself some food and drinks! There is an Albert Heijn ToGo in the station, where you can do just that.

On ICE trains from Amsterdam to Berlin, passengers can bring luggage for free as long as they can carry it themselves and store it safely. Recommended dimensions are up to 70×50×30 cm for standard luggage and 85×85×85 cm (max 30 kg) for larger items like instruments or folded bikes.

As we got closer to Berlin, I noticed the scenery shifting from farmland to suburbs and, finally, into the denser cityscape. As I looked out of the left-side window, I could see us entering Berlin alongside the S-bahn metros.

For travel on the ICE train from Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Berlin (Germany), passport or ID requirements depend on your nationality and residency status, as both countries are part of the Schengen Area, where internal border controls are generally not enforced.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

I booked my First Class train ticket about ten days in advance through Omio and paid €64. Second Class would have cost around €45, but:

• I chose First Class for the extra space and comfort.
• It was summer, so I expected the train to be crowded, making First Class feel worth it.

If you're traveling on a budget, Second Class is still a great option:

• You’ll enjoy the same scenic views.
• Seats are comfortable, but with less legroom and fewer perks.

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Sit on the left side of the train for the best views coming into Berlin.
• If you’re tall, try booking the door seat in First Class for extra legroom.
• Download your ticket before boarding, just in case you lose signal during the ride.
• If you need to catch a connection in Berlin, make sure to have enough time, as Berlin Hbf can be very busy and confusing to navigate.

Conclusion

The Amsterdam to Berlin by train journey was the perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and scenery. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and stress-free way to travel between these two great historical cities, skip the plane and go for the train. Book your train tickets on Omio, settle in, and enjoy the ride.

About the Author: Luke Patrick Hoogmoed

• Job Title: Travel Content Creator

• Bio: Luke Patrick Hoogmoed is a solo traveler and Instagram content creator from the Netherlands. He has a passion for train travel and Eastern Europe.