Eindhoven and Amsterdam sit on opposite sides of the Netherlands in terms of character. One is a design-and-technology city in the south, the other the capital and the country’s main tourist magnet. People travel between them daily for work, for flights and for leisure. Here is how to do the Eindhoven Amsterdam trip well.
Eindhoven amsterdam: by train
The train is the simplest option. Direct intercity trains run between Eindhoven Centraal and Amsterdam Centraal, usually taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes, depending on the service and stops. Some services run via Utrecht, which can include a change. Trains are frequent, often every 15 to 30 minutes at peak times, but timetables change, so check the NS journey planner.
Tickets can be bought online, at machines, or by tapping in with a contactless card. A second-class ticket is cheaper and perfectly comfortable. Off-peak discounts apply if you hold an NS discount pass.
To and from Schiphol
If you are heading to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, trains from Eindhoven often take roughly 1 hour 20 minutes, sometimes with a change at Utrecht or Amsterdam Zuid. Eindhoven also has its own airport, Eindhoven Airport, with mostly low-cost flights, and a bus connects it with the central station in around 20 to 25 minutes.
By bus
Long-distance coaches, often run by budget operators, link Eindhoven with Amsterdam. They can be cheaper than trains, especially when booked early, but they are slower and can be stuck in traffic. Pick-up points vary, so check the exact location. Buses are a decent choice if you travel with heavy luggage and the price matters more than time.
By car
The distance is about 120 kilometres. By car, expect around 1 hour 20 minutes under good conditions. The A2 motorway is the main road. Traffic jams are common around Utrecht and Amsterdam during rush hour. Parking in Amsterdam is expensive and limited. Consider using a park-and-ride facility on the edge of the city and taking public transport in.
Carpooling and ridesharing
Ridesharing platforms are used by some Dutch travellers, and they may be cheaper than the train. Follow safety tips and check reviews before you travel.
Timing and costs
Trains can be busy in the morning and evening commute. If you can, travel outside those hours. Costs vary: a standard single ticket costs more than a bus ticket, while a discount pass or advance bus tickets can lower the price. Always compare current prices, because they change.
Things to do in Eindhoven
Eindhoven is known for the Philips company’s history and for the Dutch Design Week, held every October. The Van Abbemuseum shows modern and contemporary art. The Strijp-S district, a former Philips factory area, has been turned into a creative neighbourhood with restaurants, shops and studios. For families, the Philips Museum and the Evoluon building, shaped like a flying saucer, are popular. In the evening, the Stratumseind street is lined with bars.
Things to do in Amsterdam
Amsterdam offers canals, museums, markets and a lot of history. Book timed tickets to major sights ahead of time, and consider a canal tour for an easy introduction. For something different, visit neighbourhoods such as De Pijp, the Jordaan or Amsterdam Noord, which have cafés and markets.
Day trip ideas
You can do Eindhoven Amsterdam as a day trip in either direction, but it makes for a long day. If you plan to see both, consider an overnight stay. Another option is to stop in ‘s-Hertogenbosch or Utrecht on the way, both of which are easy to reach by train and have attractive old centres.
Practical tips
1. Check the NS app for disruptions before you leave.
2. Carry a contactless bank card or an OV-chipkaart.
3. Be at the platform a few minutes early, since trains are punctual.
4. If you have a flight, plan a buffer of at least three hours between your train and the check-in deadline.
A few extra ideas
If you have a spare hour in Utrecht on the way, step out at the station and walk to the canals; luggage lockers are available at most large stations. Another option is to take a slower regional train for the view of fields and small towns. Always keep your ticket or card handy for inspections, and check the platform display, because the train from Eindhoven sometimes splits or changes destination.
The journey between Eindhoven and Amsterdam is easy and well served. With a little planning, you can choose the quickest, cheapest or most comfortable way, and arrive ready to enjoy both cities.
More like this: browse our Netherlands section.
