14/02/2016
Embarking on a journey from the vibrant canals of Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to the romantic streets of Paris via Eurostar is a popular choice for travellers seeking a seamless and comfortable experience. This high-speed rail service connects two iconic European cities, offering a convenient alternative to flying. But what can you expect once you're on board, and how much will it set you back? This comprehensive guide delves into the essential details of travelling with Eurostar between Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and Paris, covering everything from ticket pricing to onboard amenities and specific travel considerations.
Understanding Eurostar Ticket Pricing
While a definitive, fixed price for a Eurostar ticket from Amsterdam Schiphol to Paris isn't readily available as it fluctuates based on demand, booking time, and class of travel, it's generally considered a competitive option, especially when booked in advance. Prices can range from approximately £40 for a Standard ticket booked well ahead of time, to upwards of £150 or more for Premier class closer to the travel date. The earlier you book, the greater your chances of securing a bargain ticket. It's always advisable to check the official Eurostar website or reputable travel aggregators for the most up-to-date pricing and availability.
Onboard Services: A Class Apart
Eurostar offers different classes of service, each with its own set of amenities designed to enhance your travel experience. Let's explore what's on offer:
Eurostar Standard
For budget-conscious travellers, Eurostar Standard provides a comfortable and efficient journey. At the heart of this service is the Eurostar Café, an onboard café-bar where you can purchase a variety of drinks and snacks. Both card and cash (Euros or Pounds Sterling) are accepted here, ensuring convenience for all passengers. While there's no complimentary meal service in Standard, the café offers a good selection to keep you satisfied during your trip.
Eurostar Plus
Stepping up to Eurostar Plus, you'll experience enhanced comfort and service. A light meal and a drink are served directly to your seat, offering a more relaxed dining experience without the need to visit the café-bar. This class is ideal for those who want a bit more convenience and service during their journey.
Eurostar Premier
The pinnacle of Eurostar travel, Eurostar Premier, offers a truly premium experience. Passengers can expect a gourmet meal served at their seat, accompanied by a continuous drinks service throughout the journey. This is the perfect option for travellers seeking luxury and a truly pampered experience as they travel between Amsterdam and Paris.
Red Trains (formerly Thalys)
For journeys on what were formerly known as Thalys trains (now integrated into the Eurostar network for European routes), you'll find a bar car offering a wide range of hot and cold drinks, as well as sweet and savoury snacks. This provides a similar, albeit slightly less formal, option to the Eurostar Café.
Connectivity and Entertainment
In today's connected world, staying online is crucial. Eurostar understands this and provides free WiFi across all its services. This allows you to stay connected, catch up on work, or share your travel updates with friends and family. Furthermore, UK and EU plug sockets are conveniently located at your seat, ensuring you can keep your devices charged throughout your journey. While Eurostar doesn't offer an onboard entertainment portal, the reliable WiFi and charging facilities mean you can utilise your own devices for entertainment.
Luggage Allowances: Pack Smart
Navigating luggage restrictions can often be a source of travel stress. Eurostar aims to make this process straightforward. While there's no strict weight limit for your luggage, the crucial factor is that you must be able to carry your bags safely and unaided. Each piece of luggage needs to be clearly labelled. For European routes, including Amsterdam to Paris, the dimensions for your luggage are no larger than 75 cm x 53 cm x 30 cm. For trains travelling to and from the United Kingdom, the maximum length for any bag is 85 cm. It's important to adhere to these guidelines to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Travelling with Children
Eurostar is a family-friendly operator, making travel with younger passengers a pleasant experience. Children under the age of 4 can travel for free, provided they sit on an accompanying adult's lap. If you prefer your child to have their own seat, a child ticket can be purchased. All Eurostar trains are equipped with changing tables, a vital facility for parents. Additionally, where available, you'll find family-oriented seating arrangements, typically consisting of four seats facing each other, creating a more communal and convenient space for families to interact during the journey.
Bringing Your Bicycle Aboard
For cycling enthusiasts, bringing your bike on board Eurostar requires a bit of planning. Currently, the transportation of fully assembled bicycles is only permitted on specific Eurostar services between London and Brussels. For other routes, including Amsterdam to Paris, you have a couple of options. Foldable bicycles are allowed, provided they are no longer than 85 cm and are stored in a protective bag that covers the entire bicycle. Folded bikes are treated as standard luggage. On European routes, a limited number of non-foldable bikes can be accommodated, but this requires removing the wheels and storing the entire bicycle in a suitable cover, with maximum dimensions of 135 cm x 85 cm x 30 cm. Foldable bicycles are also permitted and count towards your standard luggage allowance.
Travelling with Pets
The rules for travelling with pets on Eurostar differ depending on whether your journey involves crossing the Channel. For services within mainland Europe, such as Amsterdam to Paris, small dogs and other pets weighing under 6 kg can travel for free. They must be kept in a carrier or cage with maximum dimensions of 45 cm x 30 cm x 25 cm. If your dog is larger than this, you'll need to purchase a dedicated dog ticket, typically costing around €30 (approximately £26). Your larger dog must then travel on your lap or on the floor, secured by a lead and fitted with a muzzle. Guide dogs and assistance dogs, regardless of their size, travel for free on all Eurostar services.
Special Assistance and Wheelchair Users
Eurostar is committed to providing excellent special assistance for all passengers. If you require help boarding or alighting the train, it is essential to contact Eurostar directly at least 48 hours before your journey. This allows them to make the necessary arrangements. For wheelchair users travelling to or from the UK, it is recommended to arrive at the station at least one hour before departure and report to the Eurostar Assist desk or a member of staff. Wheelchair spaces can be reserved in Eurostar Plus or Premier classes, with passengers only paying the Eurostar Standard ticket price. A companion can also travel with a wheelchair user at a discounted rate.
For wheelchair users travelling on red trains within Europe, the arrangements are slightly different. You will travel in Eurostar Premier. There are specific dimensions for wheelchairs that can be accommodated: a maximum length of 70 cm and a height of 120 cm, with a turning circle no larger than 150 cm in diameter. The combined weight of the wheelchair, passenger, and any luggage must not exceed 300 kg. Importantly, combustion engine-powered wheelchairs are not permitted, but electric wheelchairs are welcome aboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How much is a train ticket from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Paris?
A1: Ticket prices vary. Booking in advance is recommended for the best fares, which can start from around £40 for Standard class. Prices increase closer to the travel date and for higher classes of service.
Q2: What are the luggage limits on Eurostar?
A2: You must be able to carry your bags unaided. For European routes, bags should not exceed 75 cm x 53 cm x 30 cm. For UK routes, the maximum length is 85 cm.
Q3: Can I bring my pet on the Eurostar from Amsterdam to Paris?
A3: Small pets under 6kg can travel for free in a carrier (max. 45x30x25cm). Larger dogs require a ticket (approx. €30) and must be muzzled and leashed. Guide and assistance dogs travel for free.
Q4: Is WiFi available on Eurostar?
A4: Yes, free WiFi is available on all Eurostar trains, along with UK and EU plug sockets at your seat.
Q5: Can I take my bicycle on the Eurostar?
A5: Foldable bikes in a protective bag are allowed. Non-foldable bikes may be permitted on certain European routes with wheels removed and in a cover, subject to space availability and specific dimensions.
Travelling from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Paris by Eurostar offers a blend of convenience, comfort, and efficiency. By understanding the ticket options, onboard services, and specific travel policies, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Remember to book in advance for the best fares and to make any necessary arrangements for special assistance or specific luggage needs. Enjoy your trip to the City of Lights!
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