When moving to a foreign country you are confronted with a lot that is done differently. One thing that is very important is getting around in that new country. Luckily we have some information for you about the transportation here in the Netherlands. Getting around in the Netherlands is hardly a problem. The Netherlands’ transport system is structured in a way that even the most remote areas are accessible by public transportation. Be it trains, trams, metros, busses and taxis, you are most likely able to easily arrange a way to get to your final destination. Now, we know what you are thinking; a taxi is not exactly a form of public transportation. But we will explain our reasoning in more detail in this article. If you ask any one living in the Netherlands what they think about NS, the passenger railway operator, chances are that you might just have started a never-ending discussion. Trains in the Netherlands are generally on time. The times that the trains have delays, these are quickly resolved (usually). In the more dire cases, when it is storming or snowing, you should however be prepared to wait longer on delayed and cancelled trains or commuting in a crowded train. Even so, we can proudly say that the Netherlands offers well-arranged train transportation. NS offers both domestic and international rail services. Their domestic services are covered by the NS Sprinter, which covers the routes with the most stops at shorter distances, and the Intercity with transits from city to city. Scheduling a train trip can be done online at www.NS.nl.

There are a number of train tickets available when travelling with NS. The most basic ones, the one-way and retour tickets, have a fixed price depending on your journey. NS also offers day tickets. With this unlimited ticket you can travel a whole day throughout the Netherlands. NS often offers limited deals and tickets. These are usually discounted day tickets, starting from € 14, sold through local retailers (Albert Heijn, Kruidvat, Hema, Etos, etc.). For more information on these deals see treinreiziger.nl. Please note that this website is in Dutch. But if you are looking for a bargain this is a site we can absolute recommend.

Complementing the trains are the extensive city and regional lines. These companies vary per region but the connections are often well structured. To make use of these means of transportation you can either use the single-use chip card (can be purchased in the bus, tram, and stations) or the anonymous OV-chipcard. In addition to the bus and tram service, some cities also have a metro service. The metro covers longer routes within (and sometimes outside) of the cities. Tickets for the metro can be bought at a ticket machine at the metro station or, just like with all the other forms of transportation, the OV chipcard can also be used to travel with the metro. Local timetables can be found online and at the stations. 9292.nl also offers the option to plan your journey starting from point A to B and includes the total fare price. Most bus, tram and metro services run from 6am until approximately midnight. After midnight the bus nightlines are implemented. The costs for these lines are generally more expensive (when purchasing a single ticket) but is definitely a great option when there is no any other way home.

If you would prefer a more personal and straightforward option you can book an OV-taxi through NS as well. Unlike the normal taxis the OV-taxi is a door-to-door service provided by NS that offers the possibility of traveling comfortably and easily to and from more than 320 NS network stations. The tariff structure for such a taxi ride is visible when you book, and is based on a fixed rate (this applies for a maximum of 4 people). The OV-taxi can be booked either online or by calling the number 0900-6798294. To get to the NS taxis follow the instructions you receive in the ride confirmation. They can usually be found at the taxi stands or the Kiss & Ride outside the station, however this can be different per station so make sure to check your confirmation email for specifics.

Remember that checking-in is mandatory to be able to make use of public transportation in the Netherlands. You can do this with a single ticket or the OV-chipcard. You need to be aware that there are regular check ups in the public transportation, and if you are not in possession of a valid ticket you will have to pay a ridiculously high fine. We recommend always traveling with a valid ticket, and better yet get an OV-chipcard and you will be a pro at public transportation in no time....just like the Dutchies. Now go on and start your journey!