If you're new to the Netherlands, using public transport might seem a little confusing at first. The good news is that it's easy once you know how it works. The Dutch public transport system is reliable, well connected and one of the easiest ways to travel around the country. Whether you're travelling to Saxion, spending a day in Amsterdam, or even crossing the border and going to Germany, this guide will help you get started.
Travelling in the Netherlands by public transport
The Netherlands has one public transport system that connects trains, buses, trams, metros and even some ferries. Before you start your journey, you need to check in by tapping your travel card, bank card or mobile phone against a card reader. When you reach your destination, don't forget to check out using the same card or device. The correct fare is then calculated automatically. If you change between different train operators during your journey, you also need to check out with one operator and check in with the next.
There are several ways to pay for public transport in the Netherlands. The easiest option is OVpay, which allows you to check in and out using your contactless debit card, credit card, smartphone or smartwatch. If you prefer using a separate travel card, you can order an OV-card.
You can also travel with a personal OV-chipkaart, which is still widely used throughout the Netherlands. It works on trains, buses, trams, metros and most ferries. You can load credit onto the card or add travel products such as an NS subscription or the Student Travel Product. A personal OV-chipkaart costs € 7.50 and is usually delivered within one week. Although it is still available, the OV-chipkaart is expected to be phased out by the end of 2027 as OVpay becomes the new standard.
Travelling by train
Before boarding your train, always check the information screens on the platform. These show the train's destination, departure time, platform number and any delays. They also indicate where each carriage will stop and how busy the train is expected to be, making it easier to find a seat.
If you would like a quieter journey, look for the Silent Zone (Stilte) carriage. In these carriages, passengers are expected to keep noise to a minimum. Phone calls, loud conversations and music played through speakers are not allowed, making it an ideal place to study, read, or simply relax.
Make your journey easier
Another way to make travelling easier is by downloading the NS app. It allows you to plan your journey, check departure times and platforms, receive updates about delays and buy train tickets. If your journey also includes a bus, tram, metro or ferry, the 9292 app is another useful app. It plans journeys using all forms of public transport and is available in English.
Many railway stations offer OV-fiets (NS bikes), making it easy to travel the final part of your journey. You can hire a bike using a personal OV-chipkaart with the OV-fiets service activated or an eligible NS Flex subscription. Normally, you return the bike to the same station where you collected it, although returning it elsewhere is possible for an additional fee.
Tips to save money on public transport
If you travel by train regularly, an NS subscription could also help you save money. Dal Vrij offers unlimited train travel during off-peak hours, weekends and Dutch public holidays, making it a good option if you commute several times a week. Off-peak hours are Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 16:00 and from 18:30 to 06:30, while weekends and public holidays are always off-peak. If you mainly travel during your free time, Weekend Vrij gives you unlimited train travel on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. It's also worth checking the NS website regularly, as temporary discounts and seasonal offers are available throughout the year.
If you qualify for Dutch student finance through DUO, you may also be eligible for the Student Travel Product. This allows you to travel for free or at a reduced rate, depending on your travel product. Eligibility depends on the conditions set by DUO, so make sure you check the requirements before applying.
One final tip
Always remember to check in before you travel and check out when you arrive. This applies whether you're travelling by train, bus, tram or metro. If you forget to check out, you may pay more than necessary. After a few journeys, using public transport in the Netherlands will quickly become second nature.
