travel london to amsterdam

Traveling from London to Amsterdam

admin Europe, Netherlands, United Kingdom

Traveling from London to Amsterdam is a popular route, and there are several convenient options for making the journey. Here’s a guide to help you plan your trip:

1. Eurostar Train:

Departure: London St Pancras International Arrival: Amsterdam Centraal Duration: Approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes (direct train) Details:

  • Eurostar operates a high-speed train service from London to Amsterdam.
  • The train goes through the Channel Tunnel, providing a comfortable and efficient journey.
  • Book your tickets in advance to secure the best prices.

2. Flight:

Departure: London Heathrow Airport (LHR), London Gatwick Airport (LGW), or London City Airport (LCY) Arrival: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) Duration: Approximately 1 hour (flight time) Details:

  • Multiple airlines, including British Airways, KLM, and easyJet, offer direct flights.
  • Flights are generally quick and convenient, but consider the time it takes to go through security and travel to and from airports.

3. Bus:

Departure: Various bus terminals in London Arrival: Amsterdam Sloterdijk or other central locations Duration: Around 8-9 hours Details:

  • Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines operate long-distance buses between London and Amsterdam.
  • Buses are a more budget-friendly option, but the journey is longer compared to the train or flight.

4. Car:

Driving:

  • If you prefer driving, you can take the ferry from Dover to Calais and then drive to Amsterdam.
  • The journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route.
  • Consider parking options in Amsterdam, as city center parking can be limited.

Tips for the Journey:

  1. Book Tickets in Advance:
    • Whether you choose the train, flight, or bus, booking tickets in advance often provides better prices.
  2. Check Visa Requirements:
    • Ensure you have the necessary visas, if applicable, for both the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.
  3. Transportation in Amsterdam:
    • Amsterdam has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains. Consider purchasing an OV-chipkaart for convenience.
  4. Currency:
    • The Netherlands uses the Euro (EUR). It’s advisable to have some local currency for small expenses.
  5. Local Time:
    • Amsterdam is in the Central European Time (CET) zone. Be mindful of the time difference if you’re coming from a different time zone.
  6. Cultural Etiquette:
    • Familiarize yourself with Dutch customs and etiquette to ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit.
  7. Explore Public Transport in Amsterdam:
    • Consider purchasing an OV-chipkaart for convenient travel on trams, buses, and metro in Amsterdam.
  8. Accommodation:
    • Amsterdam offers a variety of accommodations. Book your stay in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Whether you prefer the speed of a train, the convenience of a flight, the budget-friendliness of a bus, or the flexibility of driving, there are options to suit different preferences for traveling from London to Amsterdam.