Eurocity Direct trains use new rolling stock, reaching 200 km/h between Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Antwerp and Brussels, following the most direct route with minimal stops. They, therefore, have a travel time of just over two hours from Amsterdam Zuid to Brussels Zuid, providing a strong alternative to Eurostar trains.

Eurocity trains run up to 160km/h with modern long-distance rolling stock. Unlike the Direct trains, Eurocity stops at smaller cities, such as Breda and Mechelen, and only runs from/to Rotterdam Centraal (not Amsterdam). Travel time from Rotterdam to Brussels is just over two hours.

Eurocity Direct (ECD) route:

• Lelystad Centrum – Almere – Amsterdam Zuid – Schipol Airport – Rotterdam – Antwerpen – Brussels Zuid

Eurocity (EC) route:

• Rotterdam – Breda – Noorderkempen – Antwerpen – Mechelen – Brussels Centraal, Noord & Zuid

Both Eurocity Direct and Eurocity trains do not have seat reservations. To ride these trains, you only need to activate a travel day and add your desired train departure to your mobile Pass.

For domestic journeys only: Eurocity Direct (ECD) trains require a supplement (not included in your Interrail Pass) to travel on the route between Rotterdam and Schipol Airport. Find out more here.

Travel classes on Eurocity Direct trains

There are two travel classes on board the brand new ‘Intercity New Generation’ trains of the Dutch Railways (NS):

• 1st class - comfy red seats, including electricity (USB) plugs and large tables.
• 2nd class - comfy blue seats, including electricity (USB) plugs.

Travel classes on Eurocity trains

There are two travel classes on board the comfortable long-distance trains of the Belgian Railways (SNCB):

• 1st class - comfy and wide seats, including electricity plugs and more legroom.
• 2nd class - comfy seats and electricity plugs