Amsterdam is a top must-visit destination for millions of travellers. Whether you’re going for the stunning architecture and exciting museums or the thrill of its electric nightlife, there’s so much to do and it’s no wonder that it’s at the top of many traveller bucket lists.
For those in the North East, there are two main routes to get to Amsterdam and both have their pros and cons. Just a trip across the sea, the DFDS ferry departs once a day from Newcastle’s Port of Tyne to Amsterdam, while KLM operates up to four flights a day from Newcastle Airport, with flights leaving every day of the week.
Flying, obviously, takes less time and gets you into Amsterdam in around an hour and 20 minutes. However, flying isn’t for everyone and sometimes, big savings can be made by opting for the ferry instead.
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As a comparison, we've checked what two passengers would pay to go from Newcastle to Amsterdam by plane and ferry. We have compared the price for a short-notice journey setting off on April 14 and returning on April 16 and a second, summer trip from August 1 to August 4.
All prices are correct at the time of writing on March 29 2023.
Newcastle to Amsterdam flight costs
Spring dates
A return flight from Newcastle to Amsterdam for the April dates clocks in at £245 each. The flight, operated by KLM, leaves three times on a Friday with departures as early as 6am or as late as 5.30pm.
Travellers can carry just one personal bag that weighs no more than 12kg and there is no seat selection offered. Places are assigned upon check-in, so if you’re travelling as a group there’s no guarantee that you’ll be sat together.
Summer dates
For those looking to get away in the height of the summer holidays, KLM is offering light fares from Newcastle to Amsterdam for just £178 return each. Luggage is light, with passengers permitted only one personal item that weighs no more than 12kg.
A KLM flight from Newcastle International to Amsterdam Schipol usually takes around one hour and 20 minutes
Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry costs
Spring dates
The ferry to Amsterdam takes roughly 17 hours, so if you’re heading for a short trip you won’t get much time in the city itself. However, for longer journeys, the DFDS ferry allows you to take your own car and as much luggage as you’ll need.
A two-bed standard cabin with no vehicle for a crossing in April will set you back £187 each way.
Summer dates
Summer is significantly more expensive, but you can bet that a crossing will be picturesque. A 2-bed cabin with no vehicle will cost £300 going out and £450 coming back, costing a whopping £765. If you want to add a car, expect the cost of the crossing to go up even further.
DFDS ferry food costs
As the DFDS ferry crossing from Newcastle to Amsterdam takes 16 hours and 45 minutes, you may want to consider the price of food on board if you plan to save money by sailing instead of flying the 80 minutes you'd spend on a plane. Prices quoted below are for customers who reserve in advance while booking their tickets.
Dinner buffet, £23 per person
Two-course bistro meal, £32.95
Three-course bistro meal, £36.50
Breakfast buffet £10.95
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