Transportation in the Netherlands
Planes, trains and automobiles…what’s the best way to get around?
Whether you prefer public transportation or pedaling your way to your destination, the Netherlands makes it easy for you to get around. Listed below are various methods of transportation found in the Netherlands that quickly get you from point A to point B.
Bus:
If you’re looking to travel within a small region, consider taking the bus. There is only one class of ticket you can purchase and drivers are able to sell them to you on the spot so there obtaining your ticket in advance in unnecessary.
Become familiar with the strippenkaart (strip card), a travel card that is available for purchase at post offices, bookshops, and train stations. In order to use a strippenkaart on a tram or bus, simply stamp off the number of zones that you plan to cross – typically you will stamp two strips, one for the journey and one for the zone you are in.
Rail:
To travel long distances in the Netherlands, think about taking the train. Trains found in the Netherlands are typically fast, comfortable and frequent. While these trains have 1st class sections, they are very similar to the 2nd class sections so it is not usually worth the extra cost.
Make sure to take advantage of all of the train passes that are available.
- The Voordeelurenabonnement (Off Peak Discount Pass) costs €55, lasts for one year after the purchase date and offers you a 40% discount on train tickets after 9am, weekends, and public holidays.
- The Eurodomino Pass offers you 3-8 days’ unlimited travel. In the Netherlands, the 3-day pass costs £32 for anyone under 26 in 2nd class seats and the 5-day pass costs £53 for anyone under 26.
- Another pass that offers you unlimited travel is the Holland Rail Pass, which costs up to UK£73/49 for 1st and 2nd class for a 3 day pass and UK£118/79 for 1st and 2nd class for a 5 day pass.
Bicycle:
Since the Netherlands has such a flat terrain, there is a multitude of opportunities to travel by bicycle. The country is extremely bike friendly, most major roads have bike lanes, and tourist offices always have suggestions on the best routes to take.
**Pick-pockets: While traveling in the Netherlands is a breeze, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings. Pick-pocketing is a major occurrence, especially in larger cities. Make sure that your bag is zipped up and carried in front of you and that your wallet is tucked away safely. It is also a good idea to keep copies of your passport and essential documents in your dorm or hotel room, just in case. Keep an eye out for yourself and your friends on crowded metro trains and don’t be afraid to make a lot of noise if you see something out of place. Pick-pockets scare easily!
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