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Taking the train from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal
Soak up waterside history and charm by jumping on an NS train from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal. There's no easier way to travel between these two Dutch cities. After all, with up to six departures an hour, a short journey time of around half an hour and a service that runs from the early hours well into the evening taking the scenic route by train is the only way to go.
The train from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal departs from and arrives in the city centres, so soaking up the culture of both cities can easily be done in a day. Your Netherlands Intercity train transports you from the museums of Utrecht to the delights of Van Gogh and Rembrandt in the time it takes to catch up on a few emails.
Travel Standard or First Class to enjoy comfortable seats, luggage space, WiFi and power sockets and once you reach Amsterdam Centraal, you have a wealth of travel options right outside the station but, in our book, hopping on a water taxi or exploring on foot are the only options in this watery city. Get speeding on your journey now by scrolling down further for train times, ticket prices and useful FAQs.
Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal by train
| First train | 00:09 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:52 | |
| Departure station | Utrecht | |
| Arrival station | Amsterdam-Centraal | |
| Journey time | From 25m | |
| Distance | 22 miles (36 km) | |
| Frequency | 115 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Train and bus operators |
FAQs about the train journey from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal
Want to know more about your journey from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How close is Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal by train?
Which train companies operate from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal?
Is it possible to get from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal without flying?
What is the best way to travel from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal?
What time does the first train from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal leave?
What time does the last train from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal leave?
How often are trains from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal?
Do you need to book the train from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal in advance?
Can you buy return train tickets from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal?
NS trains from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal
NS is the main railway operator in the Netherlands. It connects the four corners of the country with regional, medium-distance and high-speed trains. It's also possible for you to travel at night thanks to multi-line night trains, including Schiphol and Eindhoven airports. All trains are equipped with two comfort classes – First Class and Second Class.
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NS classes from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal
Compare the different travel classes offered by NS when travelling from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal.
Second Class
NS Second Class is perfect for you if you're looking for free WiFi and generous luggage allowance at an affordable price.
- Free WiFi
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- Power sockets
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
- Quiet area
First Class
Upgrade to NS First Class and enjoy more onboard amenities, including adjustable seats and more legroom.
- Free WiFi
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- Power sockets
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
- Quiet area
Onboard services on NS
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal.
There are no luggage weight limits on NS trains, so long as you can carry your bags by yourself.
There is no onboard catering on NS trains.
The majority of NS Intercity trains have free WiFi on board. If your train has WiFi available, connect to the network 'Wifi in the train' to get online.
Children under 4 travel free on NS trains. Children between 4 and 11 years old can get a 'Railrunner' ticket, which costs €2.50 a day, for unlimited travel.
Outside peak hours (from 9am to 4:30pm, and after 6pm), at the weekend, on bank holidays and during the summer months, you can take your bike on board NS trains. Bikes must be placed in the designated storage spaces, which you can find by looking for a bike symbol on the side of the carriage. Foldable bikes can be transported like normal luggage.
Small pets are allowed on board, provided that they travel on your lap or in a suitable travel carrier. Guide dogs are also allowed on board but must be recognisable as guide dogs for the blind or another type of assistance dog. Larger dogs can travel on NS trains, so long as they wear a muzzle and are kept on a lead - you must also buy a dog train ticket.
If you need help getting on or off the train, you can reserve NS Travel Assistance. This service is available 7 days a week. You need to specify the help you need on your online NS account and reserve assistance on the NS website, on the NS app or by phoning (+31) 30 235 78 22.
Cheap train tickets from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Utrecht to Amsterdam-Centraal by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.