Planning a trip to Germany?
Here’s exactly how to travel from Amsterdam to Düsseldorf by train — including travel time, ticket prices, and how to book.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, shopping, or Japanese food in Düsseldorf, this guide covers everything you need.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, shopping, or exploring the Japanese district, this guide covers everything you need.
If you’re planning your trip specifically for sushi, manga, or Japanese groceries, check out my detailed weekend guide to Japanese food in Düsseldorf.
- Quick Answer: Amsterdam to Düsseldorf by Train
- Where to Buy Train Tickets
- Ticket Prices: How Much Does It Cost?
- Direct Train vs. Transfer: Which Is Better?
- What Is the Train Like?
- Amsterdam to Düsseldorf: Departure & Arrival Stations
- Can You Do a Day Trip?
- Is It Cheaper to Book Early?
- FAQ: Amsterdam to Düsseldorf Train
- Final Thoughts
Quick Answer: Amsterdam to Düsseldorf by Train
- Travel time: around 2h 15m–2h 30m
- Direct train available: Yes (ICE high-speed train)
- Ticket prices: from €19–€35 one way if booked early
- Distance: approx. 230 km
- Arrival station: Düsseldorf Hbf (main station)
Direct trains run multiple times per day, making this one of the easiest international train trips from the Netherlands.
Where to Buy Train Tickets
You can buy tickets through:
- NS International
- Deutsche Bahn (DB)
- At the station (usually more expensive)
For convenience, I usually check schedules and prices via NS International because:
• English interface
• Easy comparison of routes
• Mobile tickets available
• Accepts Dutch payment methods
Weekend trains, especially Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings, can sell out or increase in price.
👉 Check train prices to Düsseldorf here
Booking in advance usually gives you the best fares.
Ticket Prices: How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary depending on:
• Time of booking
• Time of day
• Direct vs. transfer
• Flex vs. saver fare
Typical price ranges:
• Early booking: €19–€29 one way
• Standard fare: €29–€39
• Last-minute ticket: €40+
High-speed ICE trains tend to be slightly more expensive but significantly faster.
If you’re flexible with departure times, you can often find cheaper fares.
Direct Train vs. Transfer: Which Is Better?
Direct ICE Train
- Fastest option (around 2h 15m–2h)
- Comfortable high-speed train
- No transfer or Requires one transfer
- Direct or 1-3 transfer
Best for short weekend trips.
Transfer via Arnhem
- Sometimes slightly cheaper
- Travel time: around 1h 20m–2h
- Direct or 1-2 transfer
If saving €5–€10 matters more than time, this can be an option.
What Is the Train Like?
Most direct routes use the German ICE high-speed train.
Expect:
• Comfortable seating
• Luggage storage areas
• Toilets onboard
• Power outlets (varies by carriage)
• Optional seat reservation
Seat reservations are not always mandatory, but during busy periods they can provide peace of mind.
Amsterdam to Düsseldorf: Departure & Arrival Stations
Departure: Amsterdam Centraal
- Easy access by tram/metro
- International departure platforms clearly marked
- Arrive at least 15–20 minutes early
Arrival: Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof (Hbf)
Düsseldorf Hbf is centrally located.
From the station:
• Immermannstraße (Japanese district): ~5–10 min walk
• Altstadt (Old Town): ~15 min walk or short tram ride
• Rhine promenade: ~20 min
You can realistically step off the train and be eating ramen within 15 minutes.
If you’re heading straight for Japanese restaurants or grocery shopping, I’ve put together a complete weekend guide to Japanese food, manga shops, and supermarkets in Düsseldorf to help you plan your route.
Can You Do a Day Trip?
Yes — and many people do.
Example day-trip schedule
• 08:30 departure from Amsterdam
• 11:00 arrival in Düsseldorf
• Afternoon exploring / shopping / food
• 18:00–20:00 return train
The last direct trains back to Amsterdam usually depart in the evening.
For food-focused trips, staying one night gives you more flexibility — but a day trip is absolutely realistic.
Is It Cheaper to Book Early?
Yes.
International train tickets in Europe typically use dynamic pricing.
That means:
• The earlier you book, the cheaper the ticket
• Weekend and peak hours sell out faster
• Last-minute tickets are usually significantly more expensive
If your dates are fixed, booking 2–4 weeks in advance is often ideal.
👉 Compare train tickets to Düsseldorf here
FAQ: Amsterdam to Düsseldorf Train
Is there a direct train from Amsterdam to Düsseldorf?
Yes, several direct ICE trains run daily.
Do I need a seat reservation?
Usually not mandatory, but recommended during busy travel periods.
Can I use my OV-chipkaart?
No. International trains require a separate ticket.
Is the train better than driving?
For most travelers, yes.
No traffic, no parking fees, and city-center arrival.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Amsterdam to Düsseldorf by train is simple, fast, and comfortable.
With a journey time of just over two hours, it’s one of the easiest cross-border trips you can take from the Netherlands.
If you’re planning your visit, it’s worth checking ticket prices early to secure the best fare.
👉 Find the best train ticket to Düsseldorf here
If you’re planning a full weekend rather than just transportation, you might also want to read my detailed guide to spending a weekend in Düsseldorf for Japanese food and shopping.