Train travel in the Netherlands
Trains form the heart of Dutch public transport. Operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), they connect all major cities and hundreds of small towns. You can travel from Amsterdam to Rotterdam in just 40 minutes or take scenic routes through charming spots like Delft and Haarlem.
International routes extend the network far beyond Dutch borders, with high-speed trains linking the Netherlands to Belgium, France, Germany, and the UK. For a complete guide, check out our full article on train travel in the Netherlands.
For the train journey between Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam Centraal. Check the direction and ticket option before booking.
View ticket on GetYourGuideTrams and metros
Most Dutch cities have trams or metro systems that make urban travel simple. Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam have large tram networks Randstadrail or Erasmuslijn, while Rotterdam also has an efficient metro line that runs deep into the suburbs. Trams are clean, frequent, and run until late at night, offering a reliable way to explore cities without worrying about traffic or parking.
Use a valid local ticket or a supported contactless card or phone. With contactless travel, check in and out using the same card or device.
Buses and regional connections
Buses fill in the gaps where trains don’t go, connecting rural areas, nature parks, and small towns. Services are frequent and punctual, especially in provinces like Gelderland, Limburg and Friesland. Some regional routes even offer scenic rides past lakes, dikes and windmills, making the journey part of the experience.
Major bus companies include Arriva, Connexxion, and Qbuzz, all of which accept the same payment system as trains and trams.
Bicycles: the Dutch way of life
No discussion about transport in the Netherlands is complete without bicycles. With more bikes than people, cycling is woven into daily life. Every train station has massive bike parking facilities, and most (in my opinion all) towns have dedicated lanes and rental options. For short distances, cycling is not just convenient it’s the most authentic Dutch experience you can have. Check out a few of my favorite cycle routes or some cool videos of me biking in the countryside on TikTok.
You can rent a bike almost anywhere, often directly at the station via the NS. It’s the perfect way to explore towns like Utrecht or smaller gems such as Giethoorn, Urk and Leiden.
Find a well-connected place to stay
Use the accommodation map to check nearby stations, tram stops or metro connections for your itinerary.
Tickets, passes and payments
OVpay lets you check in and out on Dutch trains, buses, trams and metros with a supported payment card or phone. Each traveller needs their own card or device. Special services and supplements may need a separate ticket. The OV-chipkaart is being replaced; visitors should check OVpay payment options before buying a travel card.
For tourists, the Holland Travel Ticket offers unlimited travel for one day across all forms of public transport, perfect for day trips that combine trains, trams and buses. You can book via the link below.
One-day public transport across the Netherlands. Check the peak/off-peak conditions and train supplements with NS.
Check tickets on the official websiteSustainable, safe and smart
NS purchases renewable electricity from wind and solar sources for its electric trains. For your journey, check live departures and allow time for transfers: disruption and engineering works can affect even a familiar route.
Apps like NS and Google Maps make it easy to plan routes and see real-time updates in English.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same ticket for trains, trams and buses?
Supported contactless cards work on regular Dutch trains, buses, trams and metros through OVpay. Each traveller needs their own card or device. Check separate ticket or supplement rules for special services.
Is it cheaper to buy tickets in advance?
Not for domestic travel. Prices are fixed by distance. For international routes, booking early is often cheaper.
Do trams and buses accept cash?
No. You must pay by card or use a travel pass.
How late do trams and trains run?
Most cities have trams and metros until around midnight, and trains run from early morning until shortly after midnight. But on Friday and Saturday both run much longer or all night long.
Is public transport safe at night?
Yes. Stations, trams and buses are well-lit, and security staff are present, especially on main routes and in big cities.