Getting around the Netherlands
Getting around the Netherlands is easy because the public transportation is efficient and widely used. Extensive network of buses, trains, trams and metros makes it effortless to travel from place to another. Distances between the biggest cities are short and traveling from place to another doesn’t take half a day, just an hour or so. Due to the easy distances and well-functioning public transport, it is possible to see more than just one city during a weekend trip to The Netherlands.
Trains
The train system in the Netherlands is exceptional. Most main towns are connected with the trains, and even connected well with nearby countries such as Belgium, France and Germany. Trains in fact are the fastest way to to move between bigger towns in The Netherlands.
Metros and Trams
In Amsterdam and Rotterdam, you’ll find something called the metro. Metros act similar to the trams, but are a much faster means of travelling. Compared to metros, trams are greater for small distances inside big cities.
Buses
Buses are very useful for getting around the smaller towns in the Netherlands. Looking to travel further distances? Flix bus stops in many towns around the Netherlands (such as The Hague, Maastricht and Utrecht) and may provide a cheaper option for moving around the country.
9292
In our experience, we have found 9292 to be the best app/website for planning the journey in advance. This app gives live updates and can tell you in an instant whether a mode of transport has been cancelled or delayed. You’ll be able to see the price of the journey as well as you can buy the ticket online. We highly recommend downloading this app before arriving in the Netherlands if you intend to use public transport. Don’t rely only on the inaccurate Google Maps.
How to pay
Debit or credit card
It’s as easy as tapping your physical debit or credit card at the check in points on either the buses or when entering the train and metro stations; just don’t forget to tap out on the other end!
Contactless payment on mobile device
This works the same as your physical card, except you tap on with Google or Apple pay instead. Again, remember to tap off, or you’ll incur a higher fee.
Barcode (e-ticket)
Tickets can be purchased on the 9292 app, which gives you a barcode that is scanned by the same machines used to tap on and off.
For trains internationally, Eurorail and Interrail passes may provide a cheaper option for fast-moving travellers. A good option is the Benelux pass, which includes travel within the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg. Just don’t forget to check whether a seat reservation is required!
Physical paper tickets
At most metro and train stations, you can find machines that sell paper tickets. These can be paid with cash or card. They are also used to tap on and off.
Average costs for popular routes
Amsterdam Centraal – Den Haag Centraal will cost around €13.60 with the train
Amsterdam Centraal – Rotterdam Centraal will cost around €18 with the train
Noordwijk (Flying Pig Beach Hostel) – Leiden Centraal will cost around €3 and will take 30 mins on the bus
Noordwijk (Flying Pig Beach Hostel) – The Hague Centraal will cost around €6 and will take around one hour with a direct bus.
