apologies if this is already on the forum somewhere wanted to take a train from Amsterdam to Cologne with luggage - should we take the ICE train? should we purchase in advance? 2nd class vs. first?
thanks in advance.
Posted by
Tilburg, Netherlands
2829 posts
Yes, you should take the ICE and purchase in advance for steep discounts (prices range from € 29 on the most discounted departures to almost € 110 its full price).
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
To get the best fare, book ASAP (up to 92 days allowed) on the German Rail site. IMO, 1st class isn't worth the extra money. 2nd class seats on trains are roomy and comfortable.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
First class service on Deutsche Bahn is intended for business travelers who need to work en route. It offers very little for a casual traveler.
Posted by
OP
Blue Bell, PA, USA
59 posts
per the DB Bahn website, Amsterdam Central to Cologne (1 way)
2nd class is 34 Euros per person regular price is 60 E per person based on advice we will purchase the 2nd class tix in advance.
Posted by
Lakewood, Colorado
19274 posts
When you purchase online in advance they will email you a PDF file which you can print out on your home printer and take with you. Just make sure you have Adobe Acrobat to print it (you can download Acobat for free from the Bahn site). You can print it on 8½ x 11 paper, and you can even fold the sheet in half to carry it. Just make sure the "bar code" in the upper right corner doesn't get creased. You will need to have with you as identification the same bank card you used to make the purchase.