Transfers Countries Germany CologneCologne to Amsterdam

Private car transfer from Cologne to Amsterdam

Door-to-door
in 3 hours

From €80
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Cologne.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 3 hours.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Amsterdam.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

262 km3 hours

Overview: car trip from Cologne to Amsterdam

The road from Cologne to Amsterdam not only connects two great cities but will also lead you through the best the Netherlands has to offer. Western Europe has lively capitals and modern travel infrastructure, but sometimes getting to those smaller fairytale cities takes more time than we expect.

When you hire a driver through Daytrip, culturally rich cities like Utrecht are well within reach. Stop for lunch and a stroll down the streets that frequently appear on lists of the most beautiful places in Europe. While you’re in Utrecht, tour De Haar Castle. Your family photos will look like they came right out of a storybook against the backdrop of the biggest castle in the Netherlands.

After your road trip through the Netherlands, you’ll come away with a better understanding of the country as a whole, and just in time to enjoy the capital. Welcome to Amsterdam!

About Amsterdam

Before embarking on your trip from Cologne to Amsterdam, get to know the “Venice of the North.”

Amsterdam’s Origins

In the 12th century, a humble fishing village faced an existential threat as the shores of the North Sea were being washed away. They built dikes and dams to reclaim the lost land and protect their village. Amsterdam, or Amstelredamme (”dam on the Amstel”), became one of many Dutch cities to use this technology to build far out onto the fragile marshland. As the Dutch empire grew, so did Amsterdam. Today, the capital is known for its dams, canals, and biking culture.

Amsterdam: paved with protests

Amsterdam wasn't always the bike-friendly utopia it is today. In the mid-20th century, the city faced a grim reality as urban planners prioritized cars and installed major roads in previously walkable areas. This led to a rise in children’s deaths and caused widespread protests in the 1970s. "Stop de Kindermoord" ("Stop the Child Murder") galvanized public demand for safer streets and a return to traditional modes of transit.

Highways were re-routed out of the city center, tram lines were improved, and roads were returned to bikers and pedestrians. The people of Amsterdam changed their fate and the city now has 320 miles (515 km) of dedicated bike lanes for short and long-distance travel.

Amsterdam today

The Netherlands has a strong culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship, which has earned Amsterdam the title of one of the world’s greenest cities. Amsterdam has positioned itself as a center for science and technology to combat climate change, as it is at risk from rising ocean levels. Many companies choose Amsterdam for their European headquarters and attract top talent from all over the world.

Due to both Dutch colonization and the modern pull of international companies, Amsterdam has one of the most diverse populations in Western Europe. You’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, nightlife, and languages spoken on the street. It is among the most popular cities to visit in Europe for its blend of old-world charm and forward-thinking mentality.

From Cologne to Amsterdam: travel tips

Before your trip from Cologne to Amsterdam, brush up on what to expect in the Netherlands so you don’t pay the price for poor planning! <show-more>

Have a rainy day plan in Amsterdam

October is the rainiest month of the year, but expect rain any time of the year in Amsterdam (those beautiful tulips come at a price!). Pack a rain jacket or umbrella for your trip, and wear layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures as you move indoors and outdoors.

If your outdoor plans have been ruined due to rain, don’t worry! Amsterdam has several excellent museums including the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and the NEMO Science Museum.

Be aware of the cannabis laws in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is known for its relaxed approach to recreational marijuana use, but new laws are in place to tighten up on poor street behavior. In order to protect the peace of residential neighborhoods, smoking weed on the streets is now met with a $110 (€100) fine. You are still free to purchase and consume marijuana in the “coffee shops” and on private property but finish your smoke before heading to your next location. </show-more>

How to get from Cologne to Amsterdam

You have plenty of options for your Cologne to Amsterdam transfer. Which will you choose?

<show-more>

Driving from Cologne to Amsterdam

A road trip across Germany and the Netherlands allows you the freedom and flexibility to see smaller cities that would otherwise require multiple train transfers or half-day waits for the village bus.

Your local, professional driver from Daytrip will help you with your luggage and take you from your address in Cologne to your hand-selected pit stops before safely getting you to Amsterdam. Our vehicles are insured, our drivers are background checked, and we can even add children’s car seats.

Amsterdam is very bike-centered, so leave the driving to a professional! When you book a driver from Daytrip, they will take you right to your hotel door in Amsterdam. Save yourself the headache of parallel parking and returning a rental car starting at just $82 (€75) per seat.

Trains from Cologne to Amsterdam

Deutsche Bahn operates ICE high-speed trains from Koln Messe/Deutz to Amsterdam Centraal. They depart eight times per day, every day of the week. The ride is three hours long, and ticket prices range between $30 and $80 (€27-€73). Tickets can be purchased at the station or on the train. Arrive early to ensure your entire family can sit together on busy travel days, such as Friday afternoons and the weekends.

Buses from Cologne to Amsterdam

Flixbus buses leave from Cologne Airport or Cologne Central Station multiple times per day to Amsterdam Sloterdijk bus station. Sloterdijk is located just outside of Amsterdam’s city center.

The journey takes 3.5 to 5.5 hours, and tickets cost between $17 and $45 (€15-€41). Tickets must be bought ahead of time, and lower prices are available when booked far in advance.

</show-more> ## Things to do when you get to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is synonymous with biking culture! You may have traveled from Cologne to Amsterdam by car, but the best way to get around Amsterdam is by bike. Rent a bike for your stay and use it to visit these places:

Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum

People are usually surprised to learn that Vincent Van Gogh only sold one painting during his life. His fame came after his death, and his posthumous legacy in the Post-Impressionist movement continues to inspire artists. The Van Gogh Museum has a large collection of his work and letters, as well as a sunflower maze in the summer months.

The Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is perhaps Amsterdam’s most famous building. The Frank family, as well as some family friends, hid in the attic apartment of her father’s company for over two years during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. The building is now a museum dedicated to the life of the Frank family and the events leading up to their demise. As you ascend the floors of the building, the tour ends with a walk inside the annex they called home.

Anne Frank’s home is one of Amsterdam’s most visited sites, but it is incredibly small. Tickets are limited and sell out fast, so it is recommended that you book your tour early.

The NEMO Science Museum

If you’re looking for family-friendly fun for a rainy day, you’ve found it! The NEMO Science Museum is located in a striking green-copper building and has five floors of interactive exhibits. You’ll conduct hands-on experiments and learn about science and technology advancements from all over the world.

Amsterdam’s Heineken Experience

Uncap the secrets behind the iconic green bottle in the former factory where Heineken got its start. The Heineken Experience takes you through the brewing process, history of the brand, and ends with a beer tasting. Say “Cheers!” to an unforgettable experience!

When is the best time to visit Amsterdam

The best time to make a road trip from Cologne to Amsterdam is during the spring months of April and May. You’ll experience mild temperatures from 50° to 70° F (10° to 20° C) and smaller crowds than in the summer. Take a cruise on the canals to see springtime blooms from the apartment balconies and enjoy lower hotel prices at this time.

The saying goes “April showers bring May flowers” cannot be more true than in the Netherlands! Spring does bring a lot of rain, but it is also when the Keukenhof Gardens bloom. This is one of the world’s largest flower gardens, and it is only a short distance from Amsterdam.

King’s Day is April 27th and is a nationwide celebration of Dutch culture. Line your visit up with this holiday to experience the lively street parades, concerts, and markets.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Cologne to Amsterdam

What is the fastest way to get from Cologne to Amsterdam?

Hiring a private driver is the fastest way to get directly from Cologne to Amsterdam without traveling to and from the train stations or hauling heavy luggage. Daytrip makes it easy to book in advance or at the last minute.

What is the easiest way to get from Cologne to Amsterdam?

Hire a driver! The easiest way to avoid missing your bus or figuring out how to take your luggage from the train station to your hotel is to hire a driver from Daytrip. They will take you door-to-door all in one easy online booking.

Can I take a flight from Cologne to Amsterdam?

No, there are currently no direct flights from Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). The fastest way to reach Amsterdam is by car. Hire a Daytrip private driver for this trip to be in Amsterdam in as little as 3 hours.

Is there a high-speed train from Cologne to Amsterdam?

Yes, Deutsche Bahn has ICE high-speed trains that leave eight times per day, seven days a week, from Koln Messe/Deutz to Amsterdam Centraal. The ride is 3 hours long, and tickets can be purchased at the station or on the train.

Do I need to wear a bike helmet in Amsterdam?

No! It is not required, nor is it common for Dutch people to wear a bike helmet. Due to Amsterdam’s excellent biking infrastructure, deadly crashes between cars and bikes are rare. You are, of course, welcome to wear a helmet, but don’t feel obligated.

How do you get from Cologne to Amsterdam?

You have several options: car, train, or bus. Each mode of transportation has its pros and cons, so carefully review your options. Buses are cheap, trains are direct, and a car allows you the flexibility to cruise around Germany and the Netherlands to hard-to-reach cities.

Visit these sights on the way

Schloss Benrath

With its huge park and ponds, this splendid example of baroque excess was built as summer retreat. Pink Pleasure Palace

Classic Remise Dusseldorf

This free-to-enter nirvana for car enthusiasts offers a closer look at hundreds of highly coveted vehicles. Let the Good Times Roll

Huis Bergh Castle

This 20th century neo-Gothic castle-cum-hotel has stayed true to its medieval roots. Keeping Up Appearances

Nijmegen

The oldest city in the Netherlands was made for walking - from its historic quarter to boat-watching, to the world’s largest multi-day walking event. Chugging Along

Utrecht

The canals in this ancient Dutch city were voted the most beautiful in Europe. Canal Culture

De Haar Castle

Get a glimpse into the extravagant lives of the Rothschilds in the largest castle in the Netherlands. The Golden Age

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

550 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

“We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.