Transport in the Netherlands
As everyone knows, Dutchies really like to bike everywhere. According to the Dutch government, over 25% of the journeys residents make are by bike. Of course, this is practical when you're just going a few blocks over to visit your friend. But what if you want to make a longer trip? It may not be as practical to use your bicycle then.
If you're wondering about the other modes of transportation available in the Netherlands, then read on. We'll tell you all about them, their costs, and how you can get discounts.
Modes of transportation in the Netherlands
The main modes of transportation in the Netherlands are the bus, metro, tram, and train. You can also either drive yourself or book taxis/Ubers.
Generally, the Dutch will take the train for longer trips, as they're clean, convenient, and affordable. For commuting within large cities like Amsterdam, people usually walk or bike. However, if the weather isn't so great, Dutchies will take either the bus, metro, or tram, depending on what's most convenient.
Cost of transportation in the Netherlands
To ride public transport in this country, you'll need an OV chip card (chipkaart). With one card, you can swipe to check in and out on any of these public transport systems. Make sure you always check in and out; if you don't, you'll be penalized the maximum amount possible for your chosen method of transportation.
Below, you'll find the cost of each mode of transportation in the Netherlands.
Bus
You can get on any bus with your OV-chipkaart. If you don't have one, you'll need to purchase a ticket. Do note that you cannot use cash to buy tickets.
Prices are by the kilometer but will vary depending on which region you're in. For people ages 4 to 11 or over 65, you'll get 34% off your kilometer fare.
Metro
In Amsterdam and Rotterdam, you have the option of taking the metro to get around. They're a lot quicker than trams, as they go underground and don't have to deal with traffic.
Like with the bus, you can't pay cash for your ticket. Also, you're charged by the kilometer, and children 4 to 11 and seniors over 65 get 34% off.
Tram
All major cities will have tram services available. You can only pay for tickets by card.
As with the previous two modes of transport, prices are by the kilometer, and a 34% discount applies to kids 4 to 11 and seniors over 65.
Train
On the train, there are both first and second-class seats. By default, your tickets are second-class. If you want to sit in the first-class section, you'll have to pay more. You can see what class you're in by looking at the painted numbers both inside and outside the train carriage.
You can buy a single-use ticket; it comes with a €1 surcharge if you get the paper version instead of on your app. While you're also charged by the kilometer for the train, there's no automatic discount for children or seniors. However, you can request a Kids Vrij (Kids Free) card for free, and children aged 4 to 11 can ride with those 12 and over for free.
Discount cards for transportation in the Netherlands
Earlier in this article, we mentioned you need to get an OV chipkaart. There are three types: anonymous, personal, and business.
If you don't travel that frequently, an anonymous chipkaart is adequate; there's a non-refundable charge of €7.50 per card. Plus, anyone can use it, including your guests from out of town.
However, if you travel a lot, you'll want to get a personal chipkaart. With this, you can get several types of subscriptions for the train, which can save you some money. This card also has a non-refundable charge of €7.50 per card, but you'll get it waived with a subscription.
Here are some examples of subscriptions you can get:
- Dal Voordeel: You get a 40% discount on the weekends and non-peak hours for around €5 a month or €61 a year.
- Altijd Voordeel: You get a 40% discount on the weekends, non-peak hours, and 20% off for peak hours for around €24 a month.
- Traject Vrij: You get unlimited travel between two locations and 40% off other journeys; the price is dependent on the locations you choose.
To view all the options available, check NS's website.
If you plan on taking the bus, tram, and/or metro frequently, then you can also apply for discounts for those methods of transportation. Check on the OV-chipkaart website to see all the current savings you can get.
