DDD Europe 2024 - - Software Modelling & Design Conference

Travel

With Amsterdam's well-connected public transportation system, there are plenty of green and sustainable travel alternatives to consider.

Train Travel

Europe's extensive rail network makes it convenient to reach Amsterdam from various European cities. The Netherlands has an efficient and reliable train system, making it a good choice for sustainable travel.

Here's an extended section on train options from various cities to Amsterdam, including estimated travel times:

Train Travel from Various Cities to Amsterdam:

1. From Paris, France:

  • High-speed Eurostar trains operate between Paris Gare du Nord and Amsterdam Central Station.
  • Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes.

2. From Brussels, Belgium:

  • Eurostar trains and Intercity trains connect Brussels Midi/Zuid Station to Amsterdam Centraal.
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 1 hour and 50 minutes with Thalys, or 2 hours and 45 minutes with Intercity trains.

3. From Berlin, Germany:

4. From London, United Kingdom:

  • Eurostar trains link London St Pancras International to Amsterdam Centraal Station.
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 4 hours and 30 minutes (including a change in Brussels for passport control).

5. From Frankfurt, Germany:

  • ICE International trains connect Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof to Amsterdam Centraal.
  • Estimated Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes.

Check with the respective railway operators or online journey planners for the most up-to-date information when planning your trip.

From Amsterdam Central Station, it's easy to connect to The Meervaart via tram or bus.

Tram Options

Once you arrive at Amsterdam Central Station, you can hop on one of the city's trams to reach The Meervaart. There are several tram and busstops in the vicinity. Tram 17 stops directly in front of the theater (stop: Ruimzicht) and Tram 1 stops at a walking distance of about 4 minutes (stop Meer en Vaart).

Bus Routes

Amsterdam's extensive bus network covers the entire city. Several bus routes pass near The Meervaart:

  1. Bus Line 21: This bus route starts from Amsterdam Centraal Station and stops at various points before reaching The Meervaart. The approximate travel time from Amsterdam Centraal to The Meervaart is around 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
  2. Bus Line 61-63-69: These busses also originates from Amsterdam Centraal Station and stop right in front of the theater (stop: Ruimzicht).. The travel time for this route is approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic.
  3. Bus Line 369: If you're arriving from Schiphol Airport, you can take Bus Line 369, which passes by The Meervaart (stop: Osdorp).The travel time from Schiphol Airport to The Meervaart is approximately 30-35 minutes.

Check the local transportation website or use mobile apps for real-time information on bus schedules and routes.

Biking Options

Here's some information to consider regarding bike options for getting to The Meervaart:

  1. Local Rental Shops: Amsterdam boasts numerous bike rental shops scattered throughout the city. Visitors can easily rent bikes for short durations, such as a few hours or a full day. Many rental shops offer various types of bikes, including city bikes, electric bikes, and cargo bikes, catering to different preferences and needs.
  2. Hotel Services: Some hotels in Amsterdam provide bike rental services to their guests. If you're staying at a hotel in the city, inquire about bike rental options at the front desk. This can be a convenient way to explore Amsterdam at your own pace while minimising your environmental impact. WestCord Fashion Hotel provides free bikes for the DDD Europe participants that booked via this link.
  3. OV-fiets: Operated by the Dutch Railways (NS), OV-fiets is a bike-sharing program available at train stations across the Netherlands, including Amsterdam Centraal Station. Participants can rent bikes using their “OV-chipkaart” (see below) for a nominal fee. This option is ideal for travellers arriving at Amsterdam Centraal Station who wish to cycle to The Meervaart or explore other parts of the city.
  4. Public Bike-Sharing: Amsterdam also offers public bike-sharing programs, such as the White Bikes (Witte Fietsen) initiative in the Vondelpark area. While these bikes are free to use, they operate on a first-come, first-served basis and are intended for short trips within designated areas. Keep in mind that availability may vary depending on demand.

General Tips for Travel in Amsterdam:

  • Consider purchasing an “OV-chipkaart”, a reusable smart card that offers discounted fares on public transportation in the Netherlands. The card is available at the NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) ticket machines in stations, or Tickets & Service shops.
  • Opt for walking or cycling whenever possible to explore Amsterdam's charming streets and canals.

We look forward to welcoming you to DDD Europe 2024 for an inspiring conference experience, safe travels!