Types of public transport

1. Train
   Trains are the most popular mode of transport for longer distances between cities and towns. The Dutch railway network is extensive and mostly operated by NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen). Regional lines are often managed by other companies such as Arriva, Connexxion and Keolis.
2. Bus
   Buses connect smaller villages to larger cities and serve neighbourhoods that are not accessible by train or tram. Regional bus operators vary by province.
3. Tram
   Trams are mainly found in larger cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht. They are convenient for short to medium distances within a city.
4. Metro
   The metro system is available only in Amsterdam and Rotterdam. In Amsterdam, the metro connects the city centre with areas like the south-east, north and Amstelveen. In Rotterdam, the metro also extends to surrounding cities such as Schiedam, Capelle aan den IJssel, Spijkenisse and Hoek van Holland. Other Dutch cities do not have a metro system, but are usually well served by trains, buses or trams.
5. Ferry
   In cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, there are both free and paid ferries that cross the water. These are mainly used by pedestrians and cyclists. Ferries are also common in regions like Zeeland and Friesland.

OV-chipkaart and contactless payment

To use public transport in the Netherlands, you usually need an OV-chipkaart (public transport smart card). You can top it up with credit or load a travel subscription. There are three types:

• Personal OV-chipkaart – registered to your name and date of birth. Required for most discount subscriptions.
• Anonymous OV-chipkaart – not linked to a person. Suitable for occasional use or visitors.
• Single-use tickets – available from ticket machines or apps, but usually more expensive than travelling with a card.

You must check in and out at the start and end of every journey. You do this by tapping your card or payment method on the card reader. You can charge your personal card online and at stations or 'oplaadpunten' (service points). Anonymus cards can only be charged at stations or service points.

New: Contactless payment with your bank card or phone
A recent development is OVpay, which allows you to travel using your debit card, credit card, or mobile phone (Apple Pay or Google Pay). Simply tap your card or phone at the card reader to check in and out. The correct fare will be charged automatically. This is especially convenient for visitors or people who travel occasionally. However, please note that subscriptions and discounts are not available when using contactless bank cards.

Journey planning and travel information

To plan your trip, you can use apps and websites such as:

• 9292.nl – a nationwide route planner for all public transport
• NS.nl or the NS app – for train journeys
• Google Maps – shows real-time routes and departure times
• GVB, RET, HTM – local apps for city transport in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague

These platforms provide up-to-date information on departure times, connections, delays and alternatives.

Subscriptions and discounts for public transport in The Netherlands

If you travel regularly, a subscription may save you money. Common options include:

• Dal Voordeel – discount during off-peak hours
• Weekend Vrij – unlimited travel during weekends
• Traject Vrij – unlimited travel between two fixed stations

There are also special subscriptions for students, children and seniors.

Bicycles and public transport

Many people in the Netherlands combine cycling with public transport. Most stations have bicycle parking, often in covered or guarded facilities. You can also rent a public transport bike (OV-fiets), available at over 300 locations. This service is linked to your OV-chipkaart. Be aware: you need to activate this service online before you can use the OV-bikes.

Tips for using public transport in The Netherlands

• Always make sure you have enough credit on your OV-chipkaart, or a valid payment method.
• Check for planned maintenance or disruptions before you travel.
• Trains, trams and buses leave on time – so arrive at the platform or stop a few minutes early.
• Don’t speak Dutch yet? Most signs, announcements and apps also provide information in English.