Cities within 8 hours
10 Exciting Cities to Visit Near Amsterdam: Train-Friendly European Getaways
Discover charming cities within easy reach of Amsterdam by train, offering unique cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Ghent
Ghent, a hidden gem in Belgium, blends medieval charm with modern vibrancy. Its well-preserved architecture, including the iconic Gravensteen castle and St. Bavo's Cathedral, transports visitors back in time. The city's vibrant cultural scene, bustling markets, and picturesque canals create a unique atmosphere. Ghent's eco-friendly initiatives, including car-free zones and extensive bike paths, make it a model for sustainable urban living. Its renowned universities contribute to a youthful, creative energy. Ghent offers a perfect balance of history, culture, and contemporary life, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic Belgian experience away from the tourist crowds.
How to get there from Amsterdam. Take a direct or connecting train from Gent-Sint-Pieters to Amsterdam Centraal, with a journey time of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and multiple departures daily. From the station, you can easily reach the city center by tram or bus in about 10 minutes. If driving, Ghent is accessible via the E40 highway, about a 45-minute drive from Brussels.
How to travel to and from Ghent. Ghent's central location makes it easy to travel to other Belgian and European cities. Brussels Airport is about an hour away by train or car, offering numerous international flights. High-speed trains connect Ghent to Paris, London, and Amsterdam, making it a convenient base for exploring Europe.
Major activities. Visit Gravensteen Castle, explore St. Bavo's Cathedral and see the famous Ghent Altarpiece, take a canal tour, wander through the historic Patershol neighborhood, visit the Design Museum Gent, explore the vibrant Korenmarkt square, and enjoy the view from the Belfry of Ghent.
Recommended restaurants. Try local specialties at Groot Vleeshuis, enjoy vegetarian cuisine at Lokaal, savor Belgian beer at Gruut City Brewery, experience fine dining at Vrijmoed, indulge in sweet treats at Temmerman candy shop, and taste authentic Belgian fries at De Gouden Saté.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise Ghent's stunning architecture, particularly the medieval center. Many enjoy the laid-back atmosphere compared to busier Belgian cities. The local cuisine, especially vegetarian options, receives high marks. Travelers appreciate the city's walkability and excellent public transportation. The Gravensteen castle and canal tours are frequently highlighted as must-do activities.
Some tourists find Ghent's nightlife lacking compared to larger cities. A few mention that popular attractions can get crowded during peak season. Occasional complaints arise about the limited parking in the city center. Some visitors note that English is less widely spoken than in Brussels or Bruges, which can lead to communication challenges.
Antwerp
Antwerp, Belgium's second-largest city, is a vibrant port town with a rich history and modern flair. Known for its diamond trade, fashion scene, and stunning architecture, it's a perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary cool. The city boasts impressive Gothic and Baroque buildings, world-class museums, and a thriving culinary scene. Antwerp's compact size makes it easily walkable, while its friendly locals and diverse attractions cater to all interests. From exploring the medieval old town to shopping in trendy boutiques, Antwerp offers a unique Belgian experience that's both culturally enriching and thoroughly enjoyable.
How to get there from Amsterdam. Take a direct train from Amsterdam Centraal to Antwerp Central Station, with a journey time of approximately 1.5 hours and frequent departures throughout the day. If driving, take the E19 motorway north from Brussels, which takes about an hour. From Amsterdam, direct trains run to Antwerp, taking about 2 hours.
How to travel to and from Antwerp. Antwerp is well-connected for international travel. Antwerp International Airport offers flights to European destinations. For intercontinental flights, Brussels Airport is just 45 minutes away by train. The city's excellent rail connections make it easy to travel to other European cities.
Major activities. Visit the stunning Antwerp Central Station, explore the historic old town, tour the Rubens House, visit the MAS Museum, shop in the Fashion District, explore Diamond District, take a river cruise on the Scheldt, visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, and enjoy Belgian beer at local pubs.
Recommended restaurants. Try local specialties at Frites Atelier, enjoy seafood at The Jane, experience fine dining at 't Zilte, savor Belgian cuisine at De Groote Witte Arend, taste chocolates at The Chocolate Line, and enjoy casual dining at Café Hopper.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors rave about Antwerp's beautiful architecture, particularly the stunning Central Station and Cathedral of Our Lady. The city's fashion scene and shopping options receive high praise. Many appreciate the compact city center, making it easy to explore on foot. The vibrant food scene, especially Belgian chocolate and beer, is often highlighted as a major plus.
Some visitors find Antwerp expensive, particularly for accommodation and dining. A few complain about crowded tourist areas, especially during peak season. Some travelers mention that while English is widely spoken, language barriers can occasionally be an issue in less touristy areas. Parking in the city center can be challenging and costly for those driving.
Cologne
Cologne, Germany's fourth-largest city, is a vibrant metropolis on the Rhine River. Known for its iconic Gothic cathedral, rich history, and lively cultural scene, it's a must-visit destination. The city seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern urban life, offering visitors a unique experience. From world-class museums and art galleries to bustling markets and beer halls, Cologne has something for everyone. Its famous Kölsch beer and friendly locals (known as 'Kölsche') add to the city's welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply soaking up the local culture, Cologne provides an unforgettable German experience.
How to get there from Amsterdam. Take a direct train from Amsterdam Centraal to Cologne Hauptbahnhof (Köln Hbf), with a journey time of approximately 2.5 hours and frequent daily departures. If flying, Cologne Bonn Airport is well-connected to the city center via train or taxi. Within the city, use the efficient public transport system including trams, buses, and the U-Bahn (subway).
How to travel to and from Cologne. Cologne is well-connected for international travel. Cologne Bonn Airport offers flights to many European destinations and some intercontinental routes. For more options, Frankfurt Airport, one of Europe's busiest hubs, is just an hour away by train. The city's central location also makes it easy to continue your journey to other parts of Germany or neighboring countries by train or car.
Major activities. Visit the Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), explore the Ludwig Museum, take a Rhine River cruise, tour the Chocolate Museum, enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the Belgian Quarter, visit the Romano-Germanic Museum, experience local beer culture in a traditional Brauhaus, and shop at the bustling Schildergasse.
Recommended restaurants. Try traditional German cuisine at Früh am Dom or Peters Brauhaus. For fine dining, visit Le Moissonnier or Maibeck. Enjoy international flavors at Ox & Klee or Luigi's. Don't miss street food at Heinzel-Markt or the Belgian Quarter. For vegetarian options, check out Sattgrün or Bunte Burger.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors rave about Cologne's stunning cathedral, describing it as awe-inspiring and unmissable. The city's museums, particularly the Ludwig Museum, receive high praise for their extensive collections. Many appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and the unique Kölsch beer culture. The Rhine promenade and Old Town are often highlighted as perfect spots for leisurely walks.
Some tourists find Cologne expensive, especially during peak seasons or events like Carnival. A few mention that parts of the city feel industrial or lack the charm of other German destinations. Occasional complaints arise about crowded public transport and touristy areas. Some visitors note that while the cathedral is impressive, the rest of the city might not meet expectations for those seeking a 'typical' German town experience.
Hamburg
Hamburg, Germany's second-largest city, is a vibrant maritime metropolis with a rich history. Known for its stunning architecture, bustling port, and cultural diversity, Hamburg offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The city's famous Speicherstadt, the world's largest warehouse district, showcases impressive red-brick buildings. Hamburg's modern HafenCity district, with its cutting-edge architecture, contrasts beautifully with the historic charm of the Altstadt. The city's numerous parks, lakes, and canals provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities, while its thriving arts scene, world-class museums, and legendary nightlife ensure there's always something exciting to do.
How to get there from Amsterdam. Take a directl train from Amsterdam Centraal to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, with a journey time of approximately 5.5 hours and several departures throughout the day. Alternatively, you can drive via the A24 autobahn, which takes about 3 hours. Budget airlines also offer quick 1-hour flights between the two cities.
How to travel to and from Hamburg. Hamburg Airport offers good connections to major European cities and some intercontinental flights. Direct flights to the US are limited, but connections through larger hubs like Frankfurt or Amsterdam are readily available. The city's excellent rail connections make it easy to travel to other parts of Germany and neighboring countries.
Major activities. Explore the historic Speicherstadt, visit the impressive Elbphilharmonie, take a harbor cruise, enjoy the vibrant St. Pauli neighborhood, relax in Planten un Blomen park, visit world-class museums like Kunsthalle Hamburg, experience the famous Fish Market, and shop along the elegant Jungfernstieg promenade.
Recommended restaurants. Try traditional Northern German cuisine at Alte Schifferbörse, enjoy fresh seafood at Fischereihafen Restaurant, experience fine dining at The Table Kevin Fehling, savor international flavors at Nikkei Nine, indulge in local specialties at Café Paris, and don't miss the street food scene at Schanzenviertel.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors rave about Hamburg's stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful waterfront areas. The city's diverse culinary offerings, from traditional fish markets to trendy restaurants, receive high praise. Many appreciate the efficient public transportation system and the friendly locals. The Elbphilharmonie concert hall is often mentioned as a must-see architectural marvel.
Some visitors find Hamburg expensive, particularly for accommodation and dining. Rainy weather is a common complaint, as the city experiences frequent precipitation. A few tourists mention that some areas can feel crowded, especially during peak seasons. Some also note that English is not as widely spoken as in other major German cities.
Lille
Lille, France's fourth-largest city, is a hidden gem in the north. This vibrant metropolis blends Flemish and French cultures, offering a unique experience. Known for its stunning architecture, from the grand Place du Général-de-Gaulle to the modern Euralille district, Lille captivates visitors. The city's rich history, evident in its Old Town (Vieux Lille), coexists with a youthful energy from its large student population. Lille's proximity to Belgium and the UK makes it an ideal base for exploring Northern Europe. With world-class museums, a thriving food scene, and excellent shopping, Lille offers a perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and charm.
How to get there from Amsterdam. Take a direct high-speed train from Amsterdam Centraal to Lille Europe, with a journey time of approximately 2.5 hours and multiple daily departures. Alternatively, drive via A1 motorway, which takes around 2.5 hours. From Brussels, it's a 35-minute train ride or 1.5-hour drive. Lille's efficient metro system makes getting around the city easy once you arrive.
How to travel to and from Lille. Lille is well-connected for international travel. Lille Airport offers flights to major European cities. High-speed trains connect to Paris, Brussels, and London, making it easy to reach larger international hubs. The city's location makes it convenient for further exploration of France, Belgium, and beyond.
Major activities. Explore the charming Vieux Lille, visit world-class museums like LaM and Palais des Beaux-Arts, shop at Euralille mall, enjoy the Citadel park, take a beer tour, attend cultural events at Lille Grand Palais, and experience the famous Wazemmes Market.
Recommended restaurants. Lille offers diverse dining options. Try local specialties at Estaminet Gantois, enjoy fine dining at La Table, savor modern French cuisine at Bloempot, indulge in seafood at Ecume des Mers, or grab a quick bite at Meert, famous for its waffles.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise Lille's charming Old Town, excellent museums like Palais des Beaux-Arts, and vibrant food scene. Many enjoy the friendly locals, beautiful architecture, and the city's walkability. The annual Braderie de Lille flea market is highly recommended. Travelers appreciate Lille's affordability compared to other major French cities.
Some tourists find Lille less picturesque than other French cities. A few complain about limited English signage and occasional difficulty communicating. Rainy weather, especially in winter, disappoints some visitors. Others mention that some areas outside the city center can feel less safe at night.
Bremen
Bremen, a charming Hanseatic city in northern Germany, offers a perfect blend of history and modernity. Its UNESCO-listed Town Hall and Roland statue showcase stunning Gothic architecture. The picturesque Schnoor quarter, with its narrow lanes and 15th-century houses, transports visitors back in time. Bremen's innovative spirit shines through its cutting-edge science center and aerospace industries. Music lovers will appreciate the city's connection to the Brothers Grimm's 'Town Musicians of Bremen' fairy tale. With its vibrant cultural scene, excellent museums, and beautiful parks, Bremen provides a unique and enriching experience for travelers seeking an authentic German destination off the beaten path.
How to get there from Amsterdam. Take a direct Deutsche Bahn or connecting IC/ICE train from Amsterdam Centraal to Bremen Hauptbahnhof, with a journey time of approximately 4.5 to 5 hours and several daily departures. If flying, Bremen Airport is well-connected to major European cities. From the airport, tram line 6 takes you to the city center in about 15 minutes.
How to travel to and from Bremen. Bremen Airport offers good connections to major European cities, making it relatively easy to travel internationally. However, for flights to the US, you may need to connect through larger hubs like Frankfurt or Munich. The city's excellent rail connections make it convenient to travel to other German and European destinations.
Major activities. Explore the UNESCO-listed Town Hall and Roland statue, wander through the medieval Schnoor quarter, visit the Beck's Brewery, enjoy interactive exhibits at the Universum Science Center, relax in the Bürgerpark, and take a river cruise on the Weser.
Recommended restaurants. Try traditional North German cuisine at Ratskeller, enjoy panoramic views at OBEN im Radisson BLU, savor fresh seafood at Fisch Grube, experience modern German dishes at Grashoff's Bistro, or grab a quick bite at the historic Markthalle Acht food hall.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise Bremen's compact, walkable city center, beautiful architecture, and friendly locals. The Schnoor quarter and Böttcherstraße are often highlighted as must-see areas. Many enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, excellent beer gardens, and the city's unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The Bremen Town Musicians statue is a popular photo spot.
Some tourists find Bremen less exciting compared to larger German cities. A few complain about limited nightlife options and shops closing early. Rainy weather can dampen outdoor experiences. Some visitors mention that while charming, Bremen might not have enough attractions to warrant a long stay for those seeking constant excitement.
Maastricht
Maastricht, a charming city in the southern Netherlands, offers a unique blend of history and modernity. Known for its medieval architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and excellent cuisine, it's a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists. The city's picturesque streets, lined with boutique shops and cafes, invite leisurely exploration. Maastricht University adds a youthful energy, while the Meuse River provides scenic beauty. The city's location at the crossroads of three countries – the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany – gives it a distinct international flavor, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.
How to get there from Amsterdam. From Amsterdam, take a direct train to Maastricht. The journey takes about 2.5 hours. Trains depart regularly from Amsterdam Centraal Station. Once in Maastricht, the city center is easily walkable from the train station, or you can take a local bus or taxi.
How to travel to and from Maastricht. Maastricht Airport offers limited international flights. For more options, consider nearby Eindhoven Airport or Brussels Airport. Train connections to major Dutch cities are excellent. The city's proximity to Belgium and Germany also provides additional travel options.
Major activities. Visit the Basilica of Saint Servatius, explore the underground caves of Sint Pietersberg, stroll through the historic city center, shop at the Vrijthof square, tour the Bonnefanten Museum, cruise on the Meuse River, visit the Fort Sint Pieter, explore the bookstore in a 13th-century Dominican church.
Recommended restaurants. Try local Limburg cuisine at Café Sjiek, enjoy fine dining at Beluga Loves You, experience farm-to-table at Tout à Fait, savor international flavors at Bistro Céramique, indulge in Dutch pancakes at Pannenkoekenrestaurant Wilhelmina.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors rave about Maastricht's beautiful old town, excellent restaurants, and friendly locals. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. Many praise the stunning Basilica of Saint Servatius and the lively Vrijthof square. The city's unique location allows for easy day trips to Belgium and Germany.
Some travelers find Maastricht expensive compared to other Dutch cities. A few mention that it can be crowded during peak tourist seasons. Others note that while charming, the city might feel small for those used to larger metropolitan areas. Some international visitors report occasional language barriers outside of tourist areas.
Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf, a vibrant city on the Rhine, blends modern architecture with rich history. Known for its fashion industry, art scene, and Altbier breweries, it offers a perfect mix of culture and commerce. The scenic Rheinuferpromenade and MediaHafen district showcase the city's innovative spirit. With world-class shopping on Königsallee and a thriving Japanese community, Düsseldorf provides a unique cosmopolitan experience. Its efficient public transport and proximity to other major German cities make it an ideal base for exploring the region.
How to get there from Amsterdam. From Amsterdam, take a direct train to Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof, which takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, fly to Düsseldorf International Airport and take a 15-minute train ride to the city center. Once in Düsseldorf, use the extensive public transport network of trams, buses, and U-Bahn to navigate the city easily.
How to travel to and from Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf International Airport offers numerous direct flights to major US and Canadian cities, making it easy to return home. The city's central location and excellent rail connections also provide convenient access to other European destinations for extended travel plans.
Major activities. Visit the MedienHafen for modern architecture, explore art at Museum Kunstpalast, stroll through the Altstadt (Old Town), shop on Königsallee, enjoy panoramic views from Rheinturm, relax in Hofgarten park, experience local beer culture in Füchschen brewery.
Recommended restaurants. Savor traditional German cuisine at Füchschen, enjoy Japanese dishes in Little Tokyo, experience fine dining at Restaurant Schiffchen, try modern European fare at Fritz's Frau Franzi, indulge in seafood at Catch by Popsoup, taste local specialties at Zum Schiffchen.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise Düsseldorf's clean, safe atmosphere and efficient public transport. The city's blend of modern architecture and historic charm receives high marks. Many enjoy the riverside promenade, diverse culinary scene, and excellent shopping options. The friendly locals and easy-to-navigate layout are frequently mentioned as positives.
Some travelers find Düsseldorf expensive, especially for accommodation and dining. A few note that the city can feel less exciting compared to Berlin or Munich. Occasional complaints about crowded shopping areas during peak seasons and limited English signage in some parts of the city are mentioned.
Luxembourg City
Luxembourg City, the capital of Luxembourg, is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Perched atop high cliffs, its UNESCO-listed Old Quarter boasts stunning medieval architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and panoramic views. The city's unique location at the heart of Europe makes it a hub for EU institutions and international finance. With its rich history, diverse cultural scene, and multilingual population, Luxembourg City offers a fascinating mix of traditions and innovation. Visitors can explore ancient fortifications, world-class museums, and lush parks, all while enjoying the city's high quality of life and excellent cuisine.
How to get there from Amsterdam. Take a direct or connecting international train from Amsterdam Centraal to Luxembourg City, with a journey time of approximately 5.5 to 6 hours and several departures throughout the day. If flying, arrive at Luxembourg Airport, then take a bus or taxi to the city center. Within the city, use the efficient public transport system, including buses and trams. Walking is ideal for exploring the compact Old Town.
How to travel to and from Luxembourg City. Luxembourg Airport offers flights to major European cities and some intercontinental destinations. While direct flights to the US are limited, connections through major European hubs like Frankfurt, Paris, or Amsterdam are readily available. The city's central location also makes it easy to travel by train or bus to neighboring countries.
Major activities. Explore the Old Quarter and Casemates du Bock, visit MUDAM and National Museum of History and Art, stroll through the Grund and Pétrusse Valley, see the Grand Ducal Palace, enjoy panoramic views from Chemin de la Corniche, relax in Merl Park, shop on Grand Rue.
Recommended restaurants. Try traditional Luxembourgish cuisine at Mousel's Cantine or Am Tiirmschen. For fine dining, visit Clairefontaine or Ma Langue Sourit. Enjoy international options at Cafe Italiano or Kamakura. Don't miss local specialties like Bouneschlupp soup and Quetschentaart plum tart.
Summary of reviews from
Travelers praise Luxembourg City's stunning architecture, clean streets, and efficient public transport. Many appreciate the city's compact size, making it easy to explore on foot. The Casemates du Bock, Place Guillaume II, and MUDAM art museum receive high marks. Visitors also enjoy the city's green spaces and diverse culinary scene.
Some visitors find Luxembourg City expensive, particularly for accommodations and dining. Others note that the city can feel quiet, especially on Sundays when many shops are closed. A few travelers mention that while beautiful, the city might lack the excitement of larger European capitals and can be explored in just a day or two.
Groningen
Groningen, a vibrant university city in northern Netherlands, offers a perfect blend of history and modernity. Its car-free city center boasts medieval architecture, lively markets, and cutting-edge museums. The Martini Tower, a 97-meter tall landmark, dominates the skyline. Groningen's youthful energy is palpable, with students making up a quarter of its population. The city is known for its thriving cultural scene, innovative sustainability initiatives, and excellent cycling infrastructure. Art lovers will appreciate the Groninger Museum's bold exhibitions, while nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Lauwersmeer National Park.
How to get there from Amsterdam. From Amsterdam, take a direct train to Groningen. The journey takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day. Once in Groningen, the city center is easily walkable from the central station, or you can rent a bike for efficient transportation.
How to travel to and from Groningen. Groningen Airport Eelde offers limited international flights. For more options, return to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (2.5-hour train ride) for extensive global connections. Alternatively, take a train to Germany for flights from Bremen or Hamburg airports.
Major activities. Climb the Martini Tower, explore the Groninger Museum, cycle through the city, visit the University of Groningen Botanical Gardens, enjoy the Vismarkt (fish market), tour the Noordelijk Scheepvaartmuseum (Northern Maritime Museum), relax in the Noorderplantsoen park.
Recommended restaurants. Try local specialties at Merckt food hall, enjoy fine dining at De Loohoeve, savor Indonesian rijsttafel at Indonesisch Restaurant Tong Ah, experience farm-to-table cuisine at Groninga, indulge in Dutch pancakes at De Pannekoekenschip, taste craft beers at Baxbier.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise Groningen's compact, walkable city center, friendly locals, and vibrant student atmosphere. The Martini Tower and Groninger Museum receive high marks. Many appreciate the city's excellent bike infrastructure and numerous green spaces. The local food scene, particularly the fresh produce markets, is also highly regarded.
Some tourists find Groningen less exciting compared to larger Dutch cities. A few complain about limited English signage outside the city center. Rainy weather can dampen outdoor experiences. Some visitors mention that accommodations can be pricey, especially during university events or festivals.
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