DB to launch new trains on Berlin-Amsterdam route from October

The Netherlands' national rail company, NS, has announced that new ICE trains will run between Berlin and Amsterdam from October 18, 2025. The new trains will be more comfortable and reliable, and will feature a bar car. 

DB to launch 3neo trains on Berlin-Amsterdam route

Deutsche Bahn will soon run its ICE 3neo model trains on the route connecting Berlin and Amsterdam. Germany’s national rail operator added several ICE 3neo trains to its fleet back in 2022. The high-speed trains have been running between Amsterdam and Frankfurt since 2024.

ICE trains travel the route between the Netherlands and Germany seven times a day, stopping at Dutch stations in Hilversum, Amersfoort, Apeldoorn, Deventer and Hengelo. The new trains will continue with this route, taking over from the older models on October 18. The journey time connecting the capitals remains the same, just under six hours.

ICE 3neo trains more comfortable and reliable

The new trains will be a “major improvement for passengers in terms of comfort and reliability”, according to NS. ICE 3neo trains have more luggage space, seats with tablet holders and power outlets, and more doors for faster boarding.

Anyone who has missed grabbing a snack or drink on the international train will also be glad to hear that the new trains will have an onboard restaurant. Passenger refreshments on the route have previously been served out of a passenger compartment, with only basic items available.

The only downside to the new ICE trains is that they have fewer seats, which means crowding could occur, especially during busy holiday periods. “NS is closely monitoring any potential increased crowds,” wrote the Dutch rail company.