How early to get to Amsterdam train station?

Please arrive at the station at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Then, just look for your train on the departure board and scan your ticket to reach the platform. When the train arrives, hop on and find your seat.



For departures from Amsterdam Centraal, the recommended arrival time depends heavily on your destination. If you are taking a domestic NS (Dutch Railways) train, arriving 15 to 20 minutes before departure is usually sufficient, as these trains run frequently and do not require check-in. However, for international high-speed services like Eurostar (formerly Thalys) to Paris or London, you should arrive 60 to 90 minutes early. Eurostar trips to London are particularly time-consuming because they require a full passport control and security screening process similar to an airport. If you are taking the ICE International to Germany, 30 minutes is a safe buffer to navigate the station's large layout and find your platform. In 2026, Amsterdam Centraal is undergoing significant renovations, which can lead to platform changes and detours. If you need to purchase a ticket at the station or use the OV-chipkaart kiosks, add an extra 15 minutes. Always check the NS app or international rail apps for real-time "spoor" (platform) updates before you arrive.

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Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes to an hour in advance to give yourself time to get your bearings and find your way to the correct terminal.

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That's because, in the Netherlands, there is no social or written requirement to tip a restaurant worker. However, if you received good service or thoroughly enjoyed the food, it's customary to give a small tip — around 5-10% of the bill. If your service was just average, round up the bill or leave some change.

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At Schiphol Airport, taxis are available at the airport's exit. Depending on the traffic, a taxi can take you to the city centre in half an hour. One-way rides between the airport and downtown range from €35 to €55.

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You don't need a passport if you're travelling between cities in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. It's worth bringing an identity document though, as customs do random spot checks from time to time. Don't forget your ticket, too.

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Eurostar passengers require a valid passport or identity card. You will pass through UK, French, Dutch or Belgian customs depending on the journey you are undertaking.

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The check-in procedure for Eurostar train journeys takes roughly 20 minutes from start to finish, and depending on the class you're travelling in, it's recommended that you arrive at least 90 minutes before your Eurostar train leaves.

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On Eurostar there's no weight limit for your luggage, but you must be able to carry and lift your bags safely on your own, as there is no porter service at the station and our teams are unfortunately unable to help with luggage. Each bag can be up to 85cm long at its widest point and should be clearly labelled.

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Lines are efficiently managed, so allow 2-15 minutes. For most flights there will be no additional securitycheck at the gate. If you fly outside the Schengenarea you will need to go to a central checkpoint where your passport and ticket will be checked. The security check will take place at the gate.

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Generally speaking, most airlines advise that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to a domestic flight, and at least 3 hours prior to an international flight.

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Is Central Amsterdam safe? Amsterdam's most popular tourist destination, Amsterdam Central is where you'll find the red light district, myriad cannabis cafes, bars, clubs, and multiple tourist attractions. Overall, it is considered a very safe part of the city.

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Yes, the tap water in Amsterdam is safe to drink according to international standards. According to many Dutch people it's among the best in Europe. The local water provider Waternet continuously monitors water quality to ensure it meets high safety standards.

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If you like to get you're bill you'll have to ask the waiter for it. You can pay by cash or pin (debit or credit card). Waiters are on a salary (like everybody else in Holland) (s)he doesn't depend on a tip for a solid wage, so no tipping neccesary. What we normally do is round the bill upwards.

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