Amsterdam and Germany Trip: A Perfect European Itinerary

Planning an Amsterdam and Germany trip is an exciting adventure filled with vibrant culture, world-class art, charming towns, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned Euro explorer, combining the Netherlands' free-spirited capital with Germany's historic and diverse cities makes for an unforgettable journey.

Why Combine Amsterdam with Germany?

Amsterdam, with its iconic canals, rich history, and laid-back vibe, is a great starting point for your European trip. From there, Germany opens up a world of possibilities — think medieval towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, buzzing metropolises like Berlin, and scenic routes like the Romantic Road or the Rhine Valley. The proximity and excellent transportation options make this combo trip both convenient and enriching.

Traveling Between Amsterdam and Germany

Getting from Amsterdam to Germany is incredibly easy, thanks to efficient trains, buses, and flights. Here are some options:

• Train: Direct trains run between Amsterdam and major German cities like Berlin, Cologne, Frankfurt, and Düsseldorf. The high-speed ICE trains are comfortable and scenic, taking around 6 hours to reach Berlin and under 3 hours to Cologne.
• Bus: Budget-friendly services like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar offer routes to Germany from Amsterdam, though they may take longer.
• Flight: Short flights are available, but with airport time and transfers, the train is usually more efficient for most routes.

Suggested Amsterdam and Germany Itinerary

If you have about 10–14 days, here’s a well-paced itinerary:

• Days 1–3: Amsterdam – Explore the canals, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, and Jordaan district. Consider a day trip to Zaanse Schans or Keukenhof in spring.
• Days 4–5: Cologne – Head to Cologne via train. Visit the stunning Cologne Cathedral, walk along the Rhine, and try the local Kölsch beer.
• Days 6–8: Berlin – Dive into Germany’s capital with its fascinating mix of history, art, and nightlife. Highlights include the Berlin Wall Memorial, Brandenburg Gate, and Museum Island.
• Days 9–11: Munich or Romantic Road – Choose Munich for beer gardens and Bavarian vibes, or take a car/train to explore the Romantic Road, with stops like Würzburg, Dinkelsbühl, and Neuschwanstein Castle.
• Day 12–14: Return to Amsterdam or fly home from Germany .

Local Insights and Travel Tips

• Book trains early: Especially for high-speed ICE trains, booking ahead can save you a lot.
• Consider a Eurail Pass: If you plan to travel extensively by train in both countries.
• Pack for varied weather: Amsterdam and northern Germany can be rainy even in summer, while southern Germany might be warmer.
• Use local transit apps: 9292.nl for Dutch public transport and DB Navigator for German trains and buses.
• Try regional foods: Dutch stroopwafels, bitterballen, and German sausages, schnitzels, and pretzels are musts!

Best Cities to Visit in Germany After Amsterdam

If you want to pick just one or two German cities, consider the following:

• Berlin: Modern, edgy, and full of history and nightlife.
• Cologne: A charming riverside city known for its cathedral and Christmas markets.
• Frankfurt: Financial hub with impressive skyline and museums.
• Hamburg: Port city with great seafood, nightlife, and architecture.
• Munich: Bavarian capital perfect for beer, culture, and proximity to the Alps.

Budgeting Your Trip

Here’s a rough breakdown for a mid-range traveler:

• Accommodation: €80–150 per night (hotels or well-rated Airbnbs)
• Transport: €30–80 per intercity trip
• Food: €25–50 per day depending on whether you eat street food or dine in restaurants
• Attractions: €10–20 per site on average

Tip: Use combination museum passes like the I Amsterdam Card or Berlin WelcomeCard to save on attractions and transport.

Summary: Is an Amsterdam and Germany Trip Worth It?

Absolutely! Whether you're drawn by canals or castles, museums or mountains, this dual-country trip blends modern energy and old-world charm. Amsterdam and Germany each offer something unique, and combining them creates a richer, more complete European experience.

FAQs

• Is it easy to travel from Amsterdam to Germany?
  Yes, direct trains and buses connect the countries efficiently.
• How many days do I need?
  10–14 days is ideal to explore both Amsterdam and key German cities.
• Do I need a visa?
  If you're from the EU, US, Canada, or Australia, you can typically travel visa-free for up to 90 days. Check current regulations.
• Is English widely spoken?
  Yes, especially in Amsterdam and major German cities.