Best Day Trip from Paris to Amsterdam (2024)
As a frequent traveler to Paris and Amsterdam, I have come to love the many things these two cities offer.
Paris is an ideal city for exploration with its vibrant culture, delicious food, and fascinating history. And with its picturesque canals and stunning architecture, Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
I am excited to share my knowledge about a perfect day trip from Paris to Amsterdam.
This journey will take you through some of the most iconic sights in Amsterdam while providing an unforgettable experience.
As someone who has done this route multiple times on trains, I’m confident you’ll find the journey comfortable and enjoyable.
How to get from Paris to Amsterdam
There are several ways to get from Paris to Amsterdam, you can fly, take the train, a bus or drive.
However, when going from Paris to Amsterdam for the day, the quickest way to get to Amsterdam is via the train or flying
Fly
Direct flights take approximately 1 hour, or 3 hours if you have a stopover.
When deciding to fly from Paris to Amsterdam remember to factor in time for getting to the airport, checking in clearing security, clearing customs at the other end, collecting your luggage, and getting into Amsterdam.
Train
One of the easiest ways to get from Paris to Amsterdam is by taking the train.
The train offers a convenient and comfortable way to explore this stunning city in just 3.5 hours!
With direct trains leaving every two hours from Gare du Nord, getting there has never been easier.
Tickets for the train from Paris to Amsterdam can be purchased online or over the phone at the station.
To save yourself time and hassle, it is recommended that you purchase your tickets in advance. This way, you won’t have to worry about ticket availability when you arrive at the station on the day of travel.
Seat reservation is required when traveling from Paris to Amsterdam.
If you plan on traveling with luggage, check the maximum baggage allowance before boarding the train.
Also, make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes early to have enough time to find your seat and stow your luggage away.
🚉 Book your train tickets here
How much does it cost to get from Paris to Amsterdam?
For those looking for a day trip from Paris to Amsterdam, it’s surprisingly affordable!
The Gare du Nord to Amsterdam Centraal costs around $120 per person each way in second class on a direct train. And if you’re looking for something faster, plenty of flights cost around $90 per person each way.
So no matter your travel mode or budget, you can make your day trip from Paris to Amsterdam happen!
What is the cheapest way to get from Paris to Amsterdam?
Taking the bus is the cheapest way to get from Paris to Amsterdam.
Buses depart from Paris’ Gare Bercy, Porte Maillot, or Routiere Gallieni bus stations and arrive at Amsterdam’s Sloterdijk bus station about 7 hours later.
For a day trip, the easiest and cheapest way to get from Paris to Amsterdam is by taking the train. Direct flights are cheaper however, there are not many direct flights departing daily.
When pricing flights you need to factor in the cost of getting to and from the airport which can be costly.
🚉 Book your train tickets here
The Best way to get around Amsterdam in a day
Walk
Exploring Amsterdam on foot is the best way to truly experience the city.
There are so many interesting streets and neighborhoods waiting to be discovered.
Plus, getting around on foot lets you appreciate the city’s architecture, culture, and history.
Taking your time allows you more opportunities to explore hidden gems and local hotspots that you would miss if you were zooming around in a car or on public transport.
Don’t forget to take pictures along the way – there is boundless beauty around every corner!
Tram
Exploring Amsterdam on a day trip from Paris is an exciting way to get an up-close experience of the city’s charms.
Taking the tram is a great option for those who want to make the most of their limited time!
The trams move through the canals and cobblestoned streets of this vibrant city, giving you some of the most beautiful views imaginable.
Plus, it’s an easy way to get around as many of Amsterdam’s top attractions are within walking distance from its tram stops!
Bike
Riding a bike around Amsterdam is a must for anyone visiting the city on a day trip.
From the iconic canals to the cobblestone streets, Amsterdam is one of those cities that looks so entirely different on two wheels.
The city has over 800,000 bicycles – more than it has people! – and they’re everywhere you look.
You’ll find that most bikers are locals who have used their bikes as a mode of transportation since childhood.
You don’t need to be a pro cyclist to rent a bike in Amsterdam, but having some basic cycling experience will make your ride much smoother and more enjoyable.
Take it slow and enjoy all that Amsterdam has to offer!
With so many bridges and canals around, you never know what you might stumble upon as you explore this beautiful Dutch city from the comfort of your bike seat.
🚲 Check bike rental prices here
Driving in Amsterdam
Whilst you can drive in Amsterdam the inner city is quite an enclosed area and it can be difficult to navigate.
Having a car when visiting Amsterdam is unnecessary as you can easily get around on foot, bike, or public transport.
Things to do in Amsterdam in one day
There are so many things to do in Amsterdam that you must be selective in what you want to see because you won’t get to see everything.
One day in Amsterdam will give you a good taste of what there is to see and you will tick off quite a few bucket list items.
Explore the canals on foot
Exploring the canals of Amsterdam on foot is an experience like no other.
As you wander lazily around the city, taking in the sights and sounds of one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, you feel like you’ve returned to a simpler era.
No matter where your journey takes you, you will discover something beautiful around every corner.
From quiet corner cafes to stylish boutique stores and art galleries, something new is always awaiting exploration.
Take a canal tour
Canal tours in Amsterdam are a must for any traveler visiting the city for a day.
It provides an unbeatable insight into Amsterdam’s culture and history, and its beauty will leave you in awe as you cruise through what is known as the ‘Venice of the North’.
You’ll soon understand why this charming city has been captivating visitors from all over the world for generations.
Throughout the tour you’ll be able to take plenty of photos and videos so that your memories last long after you’ve left the marvelous canals of Amsterdam.
And if that wasn’t enough, there are activities such as cheese tasting or beer tasting along many of the canal tours, so you don’t miss out on sampling some of Holland’s finest produce!
So when visiting Amsterdam for just one day, make sure to include a canal tour – it’s one of those experiences that truly makes it feel like home.
🤩 I love this tour because it is very informative and you get to see a lot of the canals in Amsterdam
See Damrak, Dam Square and the Royal Palace
Damrak and Dam Square are two of the main attractions in Amsterdam on a day trip.
Located in the city center, Dam Square is an iconic hub of activity lined with stunning buildings like the Royal Palace, one of the most beautiful palaces in Europe.
The cobblestone square is always bustling with visitors, street performers and merchants, who walk amongst tourists taking photos of the historic structures surrounding them.
Damrak runs parallel to the square and is a great place to stroll while you admire canalside architecture.
Here you’ll find lively cafes, shops, galleries and markets selling unique souvenirs.
Visit Amsterdam Begijnhof
Amsterdam Begijnhof is a serene sanctuary in the heart of the city.
Located steps away from tourist-populated areas, it offers an oasis for those looking for peace and quiet!
The charming alleyways and quaint gardens are framed by centuries-old brick buildings that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Each corner of the courtyard offers something unique and beautiful to discover, making Amsterdam Begijnhof perfect for a break during your day trip to Amsterdam.
Whether you go there to reflect, marvel at its beauty or appreciate its history, this hidden gem will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Floating Flower Market
Exploring the Amsterdam Flower Market is a must-do for anyone visiting Amsterdam.
This unique market is filled with vibrant blooms and exotic flowers set atop boats bobbing along in the canal.
You can wander around, browsing the many stalls for a bouquet that captures your heart, or marvel at the stunning colours of the tulips!
Plus, there are plenty of photo opportunities to capture your special day.
Visit one museum: Van Gough Museum, Anne Frank House or Rijksmuseum
Visiting one of Amsterdam’s most well-known museums, the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, or Rijksmuseum, is a must for any traveler visiting the city for only one day.
These iconic landmarks offer incredible insight into Amsterdam’s culture and history.
The Van Gogh Museum houses the world’s largest collection of works by the Dutch master, with permanent and temporary exhibitions to explore.
Learn about his life, influences and inspirations as you wander the many galleries showcasing Vincent van Gogh’s stunning work.
The Anne Frank House is a particularly special place to visit in Amsterdam, with original diary entries from Anne on display in the Secret Annexe Room where she wrote her famous diary during World War II.
The museum offers visitors an opportunity to learn more about Anne’s life through interactive exhibits and audio guides.
Last but not least is the Rijksmuseum, one of Holland’s oldest museums.
Offering insights into some of the Netherlands’ most renowned artists such as Vermeer and Rembrandt, this museum also displays extensive collections of decorative art and artifacts from all over Europe.
We visited the Anne Frank House and I highly recommend you visit it too, just book your tickets in advance.
Museumplein: i Amsterdam sign
Visiting the iconic i Amsterdam sign is a must for any traveler passing through the Dutch capital.
The bright red letters, which spell out ‘I AMSTERDAM’, stand tall and proud in the city center, and make for an impressive photo opportunity.
The sight of these giant letters offers a unique perspective on this beautiful city – not to mention a fantastic backdrop!
Whether you’re there to take a picture or just soak up the atmosphere, it’s an experience you won’t forget in a hurry.
Heineken Tour
Make the most of your day with a Heineken tour!
Get an exclusive look at the famous brewery and learn all about its legendary brewing process.
Sample some of their signature beers, explore the grounds, and even have your photo taken to remember your time there.
The Heineken tour is sure to make your day trip to Amsterdam unforgettable!
🤩 I love this tour because it combines the Heineken experience with a canal tour
Jordaan Neighbourhood
The Jordaan Neighbourhood is the perfect destination for day-trippers looking to immerse themselves in authentic Dutch culture and explore a vibrant, lively part of Amsterdam.
With its bustling streets, canals lined with houseboats, quaint cafes, and beautiful churches, the Jordaan neighborhood is like stepping straight into a painting.
There’s no shortage of things to do – you can visit one of the many museums this area offers, explore the narrow street corners, or simply grab a bite from one of the cafes and restaurants.
No matter your plans, you will surely have an unforgettable experience in this unique neighborhood.
The nine streets
The Nine Streets of Amsterdam are an iconic part of the city that no traveler should miss.
This small, pedestrian-only network of streets is lined with charming canals and boutiques full of unique items you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
You can easily spend hours exploring this distinctive area, meandering past the endless rows of designer shops, specialty coffee shops and quirky art galleries.
There’s something for everyone to discover here – whether it’s a piece of vintage furniture or handmade jewelry, you’re sure to find something special in The Nine Streets.
A sample Amsterdam 1 day Itinerary
8:00 AM – Departure from Paris: Take an early train from Paris to Amsterdam. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours and trains depart from Gare du Nord station.
11:30 AM – Arrive in Amsterdam: Head to the city center via public transportation. The easiest way to get around Amsterdam is by bike, so consider renting a bike for the day.
12:00 PM – Canal Cruise: Take a canal cruise to explore Amsterdam’s charming waterways. It’s a great way to see the city differently and learn about its history.
1:00 PM – Lunch: Head to a local cafe or restaurant for lunch after the canal cruise. Try some traditional Dutch dishes such as bitterballen, stamppot or poffertjes.
2:00 PM – Explore Amsterdam: Spend the afternoon exploring one of Amsterdam’s famous landmarks, such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House. You can also visit some of the city’s picturesque neighborhoods, such as the Jordaan or De Pijp.
5:00 PM – Relax in a Park: Take a break from sightseeing and relax in one of Amsterdam’s many parks. Vondelpark, Amsterdamse Bos or Westerpark are all great options.
6:30 PM – Dinner: Try some of Amsterdam’s international cuisine for dinner. The city has a diverse food scene, ranging from Indonesian to Surinamese to Middle Eastern.
7:30 PM – Return to Paris: Take a late train back to Paris, arriving around 11 PM.
FAQs: One day trip from Paris to Amsterdam
Can you do a day trip from Paris to Amsterdam?
Yes, it is possible to do a day trip from Paris to Amsterdam. The journey takes approximately 3 and a half hours by train. If you leave early enough, you’ll have plenty of time to explore Amsterdam and take in the sights before returning.
How many hours from Paris to Amsterdam?
Traveling from Paris to Amsterdam takes around 5 hours by car, just under 4 hours by train, about 7 hours by train and around 2 hours by plane.
How many hours from Paris to Amsterdam by train?
The journey from Paris to Amsterdam by train typically takes around 4 hours.
Is a day trip from Paris to Amsterdam worth it?
A day trip from Paris to Amsterdam is worth it, as the two cities are relatively close together and home to incredible sights. Amsterdam is known for its world-renowned museums, and beautiful canals that will make you feel like you stepped into a postcard.
Is the train ride from Paris to Amsterdam scenic?
The train ride from Paris to Amsterdam is undeniably stunning. The journey takes about three and a half hours, during which you’ll get to pass through the picturesque French countryside, before arriving into Holland’s beautiful cities and unique landscape.
What is the best way to get to Amsterdam from Paris?
The best way to get from Paris to Amsterdam is to take the high-speed train. The journey takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes, with direct trains departing every hour in peak times.
Is one day in Amsterdam enough?
Spending a day in Amsterdam can be enough to get a sense of the city, though there is much more to see and do. It depends on what your interests are; if you’re interested in art, culture, and architecture then one day might not be enough. On the other hand, if you just want to explore the city and maybe visit some museums then one day could be enough.
Final Thoughts: 1 day trip from Paris to Amsterdam
Paris and Amsterdam are two of Europe’s most iconic cities, and a day trip from Paris to Amsterdam is one of the most exciting ways to explore both.
From learning about the historical landmarks in Paris to exploring the canals of Amsterdam, travelers have the opportunity for an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re looking for a culture-filled escapade or a fun-filled adventure, don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore two fascinating cities in one day.
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