Hello. I'm traveling to Amsterdam for the first time in December. I'm arriving on 12/22 and meeting friends in Paris on 12/27. Thinking of stopping in Brugge, Belguim for a couple of nights and trying to navigate the train system for the first time. Looking to travel on Christmas Day from Amsterdam to Brugge. Does anyone have advice for navigating the train? Should I buy in advance or purchase a ticket at a local outlet once I arrive? Also, any concerns re: traveling on Christmas Day? Will trains be operating on normal schedules? Thank you in advance for any advice/suggestions! - Kate
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
You will have to make one change - perhaps in Antwerp. Yes, train services will be reduced on Christmas day and nearly every other service. So pack a lunch -- and maybe dinner. Our experience with Europe on Christmas and New Years Day, nearly everything is closed but no direct experience with Amsterdam on Christmas day. I personally would avoid traveling on Christmas day. Buying in advance allows you to take advantage of any discount that might be available.
Posted by
Chicago
8163 posts
It is pretty easy. Use these official sites the schedule is not complete yet but you can sign up to get an alert when it is :
Netherland rail https://www.nsinternational.nl/en/home or Belgium rail
https://www.belgiantrain.be/en/home
The earlier you buy online the cheaper it is. The only concern I would have traveling on Xmas day is getting from the train station to your lodging in Brugge as there may not be any buses or cabs around. So if possible map it out on Google maps and/or choose one within walking distance of the train station. The train station in Brugge is outside the old town kind of far but I managed to walk to it with my rolling carry on bag. That approach is not for everyone.
Posted by
OP
7 posts
Thank you for the quick responses! I really appreciate the advice. I'm up for an adventure and ok with walking with my rolling suitcase. Good to know about the rail service. I'll sign up for alerts and get a ticket as soon as the schedule comes out.
Posted by
307 posts
Amsterdam to Paris with a stop in Bruges is very doable.
From Amsterdam, you can take the Thalys to Antwerp and change trains there for Bruges. You will travel through Ghent, which if you have time, is worth a look-see.
You might consider one night in Bruges and another in Ghent before heading back to Antwerp to catch the Thalys to Paris. Ghent is a little larger than Bruges, so you may have more options for hotels (recommend the hotel Carlton in Ghent) and other services. It is a friendly, family-run establishment you might find to your liking. they can also guide you to what is open, closed, etc. They are very knowledgeable and amenable.
Your trains will likely be limited, but most of those schedules are likely available or will be very shortly.
I would advance purchase the train tickets because they can be less expensive the earlier you purchase.
and the trains are very easy to navigate; all the signage is very clear. You will not have any problem.
Have fun!