Public Transport
The Netherlands has an extensive and efficient public transport system known as Openbaar Vervoer (OV). This network includes trains, trams, buses, and metros, making it easy to travel anywhere in the country. Whether you’re commuting to work, visiting different cities, or exploring the Dutch countryside, understanding how public transport works will make your life in the Netherlands much easier.
Planning Your Journey
Before setting out on a trip, it's important to check routes, schedules, and ticket prices. There are three main tools that will help you navigate the Dutch public transport system:
9292 App & Website (www.9292.nl): This app provides up-to-date travel information for all forms of public transport. Simply enter your starting location and destination, and it will show you the best route, including transfers and estimated travel times. You can also purchase tickets for your journey directly in the 9292 app.
NS App (www.ns.nl): If you plan to travel mainly by train, the NS app is essential. It provides real-time train schedules, platform information, updates on any service disruptions, and allows you to buy train tickets directly through the app.
Google Maps (www.google.com/maps): By using the public transport toggle, you can see all available routes using Dutch trains, buses, trams, and metros. Google Maps also provides walking directions to and from stations, which is useful if you are new to a city.
How to Pay for Public Transport
Public transport in the Netherlands is not free, but there are multiple ways to pay for your trips.
1. OV-chipkaart (Public Transport Smart Card)
The OV-chipkaart is a reusable contactless card used for public transport. There are three types:
Anonymous OV-chipkaart: Can be purchased at train stations and used by anyone. It requires a minimum balance to travel.
Personal OV-chipkaart: Linked to your identity and bank account, allowing you to set up automatic top-ups or use subscriptions.
Disposable OV-chipkaart: A single-use ticket that is more expensive than using a regular OV-chipkaart.
Where to Buy?
You can buy OV-chipkaarten at train station ticket machines, service counters, supermarkets, and some convenience stores. More info: www.ov-chipkaart.nl
2. OVpay – Contactless Bank Card Payments
With OVpay, you can now use your debit or credit card (including mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay) to check in and out. No activation is required—just tap your card on the yellow check-in and check-out points. The fare is automatically deducted from your bank account.
🚨 Important: If you travel using OVpay, you are charged a standard second-class fare, and discounts/subscriptions do not apply. More info: www.ovpay.nl
3. Paper Tickets and QR Codes
You can also buy single-use train tickets from NS ticket machines, the NS app, or online via www.ns.nl. These tickets come with a €1 surcharge compared to using an OV-chipkaart. Some transport companies also allow QR code tickets that you can scan at the gates.
How to Check In and Out
Checking in and out is mandatory for all public transport in the Netherlands.
Trains & Metros: Gates or poles at the station entrance. Always check out at your final station to avoid being overcharged.
Buses & Trams: Check-in devices are located inside the vehicle near the doors. Tap your OV-chipkaart, debit card, or mobile phone on the reader when boarding and again when exiting.
🚨 For train travel: Be sure to check in with the right operator (NS, Arriva, Blauwnet, etc.) as different companies operate different train routes.
Travelling with Children
Children under 4 years old: Travel for free on all public transport.
Children aged 4-11 years: Can use the NS Railrunner ticket (€2.50 per journey) when travelling with an adult.
For frequent travel, consider a discount subscription on a personal OV-chipkaart.
How to Rent an OV-Fiets (Public Transport Bicycle)
Cycling is a major part of Dutch culture, and OV-fiets is a convenient bike rental system available at most train stations.
How to rent an OV-fiets?
Get a personal OV-chipkaart and activate the OV-fiets subscription (€0 per month, pay per rental).
Pick up a bike at the designated rental point.
Ride freely! You’ll be charged €4.45 per 24 hours (up to 72 hours).
Return the bike to the same rental location.
More details: www.ns.nl/ov-fiets
Discounts & Travel Subscriptions
If you plan to commute frequently, getting an NS travel subscription can save you a lot of money.
Dal Voordeel (Off-Peak Discount): 40% discount during off-peak hours (€5.60 per month).
Weekend Vrij (Weekend Free Travel): Unlimited travel on weekends (€34.95 per month).
Altijd Vrij (Unlimited Travel): Travel anytime, anywhere (€151 per month).
More info: www.ns.nl/abonnementen
International Train Travel
The Netherlands is well-connected to other European countries via high-speed trains.
Eurostar (to Belgium, France, UK)
Thalys (to Belgium, France)
ICE International (to Germany)
Intercity Brussels (to Belgium)
Booking international train tickets
Tickets can be booked via www.nsinternational.nl. It’s best to book early for the lowest prices.
Final Tips for Public Transport in the Netherlands
✅ Always check in and out! Forgetting to check out may result in extra charges.
✅ Use the NS, 9292, and Google Maps apps for real-time journey planning.
✅ Travel off-peak for lower fares and less crowded trains.
✅ Consider an OV-chipkaart or subscription for frequent travel.
✅ For international trips, book tickets in advance.
For more details, visit:
With this guide, you'll be well-prepared to use Dutch public transport like a pro! 🚆🇳🇱
