How to Travel from Amsterdam to London (Van Amsterdam Naar Londen)
Planning a trip from Amsterdam to London? Whether you're looking for speed, comfort, or affordability, there are plenty of options to get you from the heart of the Netherlands to the buzzing capital of the UK. In Dutch, the phrase "van Amsterdam naar Londen" simply means “from Amsterdam to London,” and it’s a very common route for both tourists and locals alike.
This guide is perfect for first-time travelers and seasoned commuters. We’ll cover all the ways you can make this trip – including by train, plane, bus, and even car – while also sharing handy tips, travel times, price ranges, and booking advice. Let’s dive into your options!
Option 1: High-Speed Train – Eurostar
Arguably the most popular and eco-friendly way to travel van Amsterdam naar Londen is by high-speed train. The Eurostar runs directly between Amsterdam Centraal and London St Pancras International. It’s fast, convenient, and city center to city center – no airport hassle!
- Duration: Around 4 hours
- Frequency: 3–4 departures per day
- Prices: Start from €40 one-way if booked early
- Pros: Direct, comfortable, check-in only 30 minutes before departure
- Cons: Seats sell out fast, especially weekends
Tip: Booking early on the Eurostar website guarantees the best fares. Also, keep your passport ready, as you'll go through both Dutch and UK border control in Amsterdam before boarding.
Option 2: Flying from Amsterdam to London
If time is of the essence, flying may be your quickest option – especially for long-haul travelers connecting through Schiphol Airport. Multiple airlines serve this route, including KLM, British Airways, and budget airlines like easyJet and Ryanair.
- Duration: 1 hour flight time + airport time
- Airports: Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) to London Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), Stansted (STN), or Luton (LTN)
- Prices: As low as €25 if booked far in advance
Tip: Budget airlines fly into less central airports (like Stansted or Luton), so factor in the cost and time of travel into the city center once you land.
Option 3: Intercity Bus – Cheapest Way
Looking for the most budget-friendly option? Then taking a bus from Amsterdam to London might be your best bet. Companies like FlixBus, BlaBlaBus, and Eurolines run regular services, often overnight.
- Duration: 10–12 hours
- Departure Points: Amsterdam Sloterdijk or Bijlmer Arena
- Arrival Points: London Victoria Coach Station or Stratford
- Prices: From €15–€30 depending on season and how early you book
Tip: Bring snacks, water, and entertainment. Buses are reliable but not always the most comfortable for such long distances.
Option 4: Driving from Amsterdam to London
If you love the freedom of the road, you can drive from Amsterdam to London. The total driving time is around 6–7 hours, depending on the route and traffic. You'll need to use the Channel Tunnel (Eurotunnel) or ferry from Calais or Dunkirk to cross into the UK.
- Distance: Approx. 540 km (335 miles)
- Ferry: DFDS or P&O Ferries (Calais–Dover or Dunkirk–Dover)
- Channel Tunnel: Eurotunnel Le Shuttle from Calais to Folkestone
Tip: Remember, they drive on the left in the UK! And if you're renting a car in the Netherlands, check whether you're allowed to take it across international borders.
Option 5: Combination Trip – Stopovers & Flexibility
Want to make the journey part of your vacation? Try a combo route! For example, take the train from Amsterdam to Brussels or Paris, spend a day exploring, then continue to London. It’s a great way to add more destinations to your trip without much extra travel time.
- Amsterdam → Brussels → London
- Amsterdam → Paris → London
Tip: Book each leg separately to get better deals, and look out for rail passes like the Interrail or Eurail global pass if you’re planning multiple trips within Europe.
Which Option is Best?
It depends on your priorities:
- Fastest: Plane (including airport time)
- Most comfortable: Eurostar train
- Cheapest: Bus
- Most scenic/flexible: Car or combination route
Most travelers prefer the Eurostar for its mix of speed, comfort, and eco-friendliness. But if you're on a tight budget or traveling spontaneously, buses and flights also offer great flexibility.
Summary: Van Amsterdam Naar Londen
The route van Amsterdam naar Londen is well-traveled and packed with options. Whether you prefer the sleek Eurostar, a budget-friendly bus, or a quick flight, getting between these two major cities is easier than ever.
Here's a quick summary:
- Train: ~4 hours, direct, comfortable
- Flight: ~1 hour + airport time, cheap options
- Bus: ~10 hours, cheapest choice
- Car: ~6–7 hours, flexible, scenic
So pick your route, grab your tickets, and enjoy the journey from the canals of Amsterdam to the landmarks of London. Safe travels!
FAQ: Van Amsterdam Naar Londen
- Do I need a visa to travel from Amsterdam to London? – After Brexit, EU passport holders may need extra documentation. Always check the latest UK entry rules.
- Is there passport control on the train? – Yes, for the Eurostar, you'll go through Dutch and UK border control before boarding.
- Can I take a bike on the train or bus? – On the Eurostar, bike transport is limited. FlixBus and other buses allow folding bikes only.
- Are there overnight buses or trains? – Buses yes, trains no direct overnight service between Amsterdam and London.