Netherlands
General train travel information for NETHERLANDS. Rail travel tours, accommodation, sightseeing.
Brief History
After World War II, the Dutch railway system underwent modernization. The electrification of many routes was introduced, and new railway lines were constructed. In the 1980s and 1990s, the "Rail 21" program was implemented, focusing on improving infrastructure and increasing train speeds. In 1997, the first Dutch high-speed railway line was opened, connecting Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Since then, the high-speed train network has gradually expanded.
In the 21st century, further development of the Dutch railway system continues. Advancements in technology and services, investments in new routes, and the upgrading of existing infrastructure remain a priority. Dutch railways continue to play a vital role in passenger and freight transportation, connecting cities and countries in Europe.
General Information and Statistics
The Dutch state railway NS was created in 1938. The NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) is the main passenger railway operator in the Netherlands. NS serves 1.1 million travellers with its 4800 scheduled domestic trains per day. NS International, previously known as ‘NS Hispeed’, is the international subsidiary of NS, offering international rail services from the Netherlands to other European destinations
In the Netherlands, there are approximately 400 railway stations and over 3,000 kilometers of railways. The railway network covers the entire country, connecting major cities, towns, and regions.
According to information for 2021, about 90% of the rail network in the Netherlands was electrified.
What connections to other countries there are.
There are frequent train services to all neighbouring countries including the Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland and the UK.
Are trains fast in Netherland in general? How much time to cross the country?
Trains in the Netherlands are limited to no more than 160 km/h (99 mph) with the exception of the HSL-Zuid line which is capable of supporting trains travelling at 300 km/h (190 mph). Thalys and Eurostar services are the only services capable of reaching that speed now.
The journey from Groningen to Maastricht takes 4:11 hours and from Den Haag to Enschede 2:19 hours.
What railway companies are available?
In the Netherlands, the primary railway company is Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), which is the national railway operator. NS operates the majority of train services within the country, including Intercity, Sprinter, and high-speed trains.
However, there are other regional and local railway companies that provide services in specific areas of the Netherlands. Some of these companies include:
Arriva: Arriva operates train services in the northern and southern parts of the Netherlands, serving regions such as Groningen, Friesland, Drenthe, Limburg, and parts of Gelderland.
Keolis Nederland: Keolis Nederland operates train services in the eastern part of the Netherlands, including the provinces of Overijssel and Gelderland.
Connexxion: Connexxion operates train services in the region of Gelderland, specifically the Achterhoek area.
What train types are available in Netherland
In the Netherlands, the following types of trains are available:
• Intercity (IC): Fast trains that connect major cities and offer relatively direct routes for longer distances.
• Sprinter: Local trains that stop at more stations and serve shorter distances within a region.
• Thalys: High-speed trains that connect the Netherlands with other European countries, including Belgium, France, and Germany.
• Intercity Direct: Trains that operate on the high-speed line between Amsterdam and Rotterdam, providing faster connections between these two major cities.
• International Trains: In addition to Thalys, there are other international trains that connect the Netherlands to neighboring countries, such as Eurostar for Amsterdam to London and ICE trains for various German cities.
Are there high-speed-trains available?
There are high-speed trains available in the Netherlands. The primary high-speed train service is provided by Thalys, which connects the Netherlands with other European countries such as Belgium (Brussels), France (Paris), and Germany (Cologne). Thalys trains are known for their speed and comfort, offering a faster travel option for international journeys.
Additionally, the Intercity Direct trains in the Netherlands operate on the high-speed line between Amsterdam and Rotterdam. While not classified as dedicated high-speed trains, they offer a faster connection between these two major cities.
Most important train stations / hubs.
The main railway train stations in Netherland are Amsterdam Centraal, Rotterdam Centraal, Utrecht Centraal, The Hague Centraal, Schiphol Airport.
Websites to buy train tickets for Netherland?
https://www.ns.nl/en/travel-information/buying-your-ticket-online.html
https://www.omio.com/companies/trains/ns
Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Netherland?
Nederlandse Spoorwegen has its own mobile app. You cannot buy a ticket there. You can find travel options near you, choose mode of transport, see alternate travel recommendations for delays. It is also possible to download tickets to the NS app
Possible to buy a ticket at a railway station in Netherland?
You can also buy a ticket directly at one of the stations in the Netherlands. You can buy a ticket at one of the train station ticket offices, in advance or directly the same day. As a rule, it is better to buy the ticket in advance, as it reduces the cost.
If you travel on the train from time to time, you can purchase a ticket from the NS ticket machine or the NS service counter. However, purchasing a ticket online is easier, quicker and cheaper! You can then load your train ticket onto your telephone in the NS app as a mobile ticket, or print it out as an e-ticket.
You can also travel with a contactless debit or credit card or cell phone.
Can I buy my ticket by phone?
In NS there is no option to buy tickets by phone.
Return the ticket.
E-tickets or mobile tickets cannot be changed, returned and refunded unless there is a delay of 60 minutes or more. In that case, you can choose from 2 options: You can choose to make your trip at a later time. You can apply online for a refund of the e-ticket.
Train ticket prices
For city trips or flexible travel in the Netherlands, the best choice is the "Day Ticket" € 58,80 which gives you unlimited travel for the whole day.
Many people travel with the OV Chipkaart, a magnetic card that can be used for single trips or recharged – you can buy it at train stations, newsstands and even in some supermarkets.
Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?
Saver fares to neighbouring countries are available from NS. For example, from Amsterdam to Frankfurt am Main from EUR 27.90. And from Amsterdam to Brussels from EUR 48.99.
Where to find timetables.
Find train schedules on https://www.ns.nl/en, https://www.raileurope.com/en/trains/dutch-trains, omio
Buying tickets in advance or right before the train
If you know when you want to travel on a long-distance journey within Netherland or to neighbouring countries, buy your ticket now. You will then be able to find cheaper fares.
If you are travelling within a region on local trains, you do not need to buy your ticket in advance.
Types of tickets.
One-way ticket: A ticket that allows travel in one direction, with the flexibility to make multiple stops along the way. It is valid between 00:00 and 04:00 the following day.
Day Return: A ticket for a round trip to a destination, to be completed within a single day. Passengers can make multiple stops during the journey. This ticket is valid between 00:00 and 04:00 the following day.
Group tickets: If traveling in a group of 3 or more, passengers can enjoy discounted fares, starting from as low as 8 euros per person. For every additional person beyond 4, they only pay an additional 1.50 euros.
Interrail/Eurail Passes in Netherland
Both InterRail and Eurail passes are generally valid for travel on Dutch domestic trains. Only the Intercity Direct trains between Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam requires the €2.90 supplement to be paid.
Saver price.
If you are going to travel all over Holland, the "Holland Travel Ticket", which costs 48 euros, is the best choice for you. It is only valid for travel after 09:00 (Mon-Fri). On weekends, however, it is valid throughout the day.
You can also get a 10% discount if you purchase singles or day returns online at least 4 days in advance. Payment in euros only, tickets are non-refundable.
Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?
Domestic rail fares in the Netherlands are fixed and depend on distance travelled. You can always just turn up at the station and purchase a ticket at the standard fare.
Flexible tickets.
Most NS tickets are flexible and you can change trains on your way
With a valid train ticket (disposable ticket, checked-in OV-chip card, e-ticket/mobile ticket) you can jump onboard any standard service to your destination.
Rules of boarding.
You must always be able to show proof of identity (passport, ID card or driving licence) when travelling by train in the Netherlands. Identification is compulsory in the Netherlands for everyone from 14 years old.
Discounts for group travel.
The most economical ticket choice for a group of 2 to 7 people is the Off-Peak Group Ticket. The price starts at 7.15 euros. The Off-Peak group ticket is only valid during off-peak hours, i.e. weekdays until 06:30, 09:00 to 16:00 and after 18:30. On weekends and all day on public holidays.
Age groups and discounts.
Children up to 3 can travel for free if they share a seat.
Children between 4 – 11 can travel for € 2,50 with a Railrunner ticket.
Children can travel 1st class if accompanied by an adult age 18 or over. An adult can take 3 children with them, as long as they're carrying a Railrunner.
Age limitations for minors.
Children from the age of 12 are allowed to travel alone. An unaccompanied minor (up to and including 17 years of age) must be in possession of (and be able to show this upon request) written permission for the trip from a parent or legal guardian throughout the trip.
Handicapped passengers.
If a person with a disability needs help boarding, transferring or getting off the train, or if there is a vision problem and you need someone to guide you through the station, you can use NS Travel Assistance, a free service. NS offers Travel Assistance at more than 125 stations throughout the Netherlands.
Seat reservations in trains in Netherland.
With a valid train ticket (disposable ticket, checked-in OV-chip card, e-ticket/mobile ticket) you can jump onboard any standard service to your destination and just find a free seat in your class. There are no seating reservations required on standard trains.
Comfort classes on the trains.
On most trains in the Netherlands, you can choose between traveling in 1st and 2nd class, which vary in price and seat comfort. First class compartments have more seats and more space between them, especially on Intercity trains.
Food and drink in trains / train restaurant in Netherland.
Generally, almost any IC (InterCity) train or double-decker train with several stops (about 7 or more) has catering services. InterCity staff will announce and approach. Payment by cash or debit card. No bars/restaurants.
Night trains in Netherland?
Night trains in the Netherlands usually carry passengers through the Randstad area (Amsterdam, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Hauge) and depart from Utrecht and Rotterdam. Usually it is one train per hour, which starts after the last standard NS train leaves. NS night trains have no berths, but tickets cost the same as any other NS train on the same route.
Important train routes in Netherland.
Amsterdam - The Hague / 0:48 hours / from 13,90 EUR / every 20 minutes
Amsterdam - Utrecht / 0:26 hours / from 8,90 EUR / 1-2 trains per hour
Amsterdam - Eindhoven / 1:18 hours / from 22,90 EUR / 1-2 trains per hour
Amsterdam -Emmen / 2:52 hours / from 28,90 EUR / 1-2 trains per hour
Amsterdam -Zwolle / 1:05 hours / from 21,90 EUR / 1-2 trains per hour
Amsterdam -Maastricht / 2:25 hours / from 29,90 EUR / 2-3 trains per hour
International train routes.
Amsterdam has a number of direct international rail services which can connect you to Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Switzerland, UK and beyond.
Tourist / scenic routes in Netherland.
Rotterdam
The second largest city in the Netherlands, Rotterdam, is rapidly developing. As a result, there is something for everyone among visitors to the city. Rotterdam offers a wide range of attractions, including art, modern breweries, medieval architecture and windmill education.
When you arrive at Rotterdam Central Station, head into the old city center to visit the Grotte Sint Laurenskerk, a beautifully designed medieval church dating back to 1449. After the church, admire the view of the Erasmus Bridge or the Maritime Museum, both outstanding landmarks of the city.
Zaanse Schans
On the banks of the River Saan is the small village of Zaanse Schans. There are neat green houses, real working windmills and niche museums such as the Clock Museum and the first Albert Heijn store.
The Dutch economy was fueled by the thousands of windmills that stood along the levees in the 17th and 18th centuries. These mills produced lumber, dyes, and oil, among other things. You can get an idea of what that was like by visiting the village of Saanse Schaanse. Not all of the windmills and structures were built in Saanse Schaanse originally; many were brought here from other parts of North Holland as a result of urban expansion.
Connection: Amsterdam - Saanse Schaanse
Gouda
The city of Gouda, which is well-known for its delicious cheese, is situated near The Hague and Rotterdam in the western part of the Netherlands. Gouda, a city in South Holland with a population of 70,000, is one of the smaller cities but is nonetheless a well-liked tourist attraction because of its cheese tradition and plenty of old structures.
Gouda was primarily covered in peat throughout the 11th century, and peat harvesting was the principal industry. Gouda developed into an important trading center as a result of the Oude Rijn’s connection to the extensive Dutch canal network as technology advanced. It had a lot of unrest following this time, including wars, epidemics, and economic downfall. This place is the home world’s most scenic railway journey from Amsterdam.
Luggage information.
Luggage is free of charge but asked to be kept as to as much as you can carry.
Bicycle on the train.
During off-hours (from 09:00 to 16:30 and after 18:00), on weekends and public holidays as well as during the summer months you can transport your bicycle on NS trains. To do this you need to buy a bicycle ticket for 7,5 euros at one of the vending machines. The bike must be placed in the appropriate spaces, indicated by a bicycle symbol, on the side of the cars.
Folding bicycles can be carried as normal luggage.
Ski or snowboard on the train.
It is no problem to take your skis or snowboard with you on a Deutsche Bahn train at no extra charge. Put them in a baggage area, not in the aisle.
Luggage lockers on the stations in Netherland.
Many train stations offer a secure luggage storage service. The lockers are electronically protected and can be rented for up to three days at a time. There are two sizes of lockers to choose from - small and large. The size of the small locker is 90x45x40 cm and the price starts at €3.85. The size of the large locker - 90x60x40 cm, the price - from €5,70.
Lost and Found Items.
If you lose or forget something on the train or at the station you can report it on the website (https://www.ns.nl/en/customer-service/lost-or-stolen/lost-and-found-items/report-lost-item)
How it works
If you have lost something, report it online as soon as possible.
If you lost an item on another carrier's train, visit iLost or report the loss to the appropriate carrier.
Pets on the trains.
Small pets kept in a cage (no larger than 30x30x55) can travel for free. If the dog is too large, it will also need a ticket to be kept on a leash and a muzzle put on.
Guide dogs can travel for free, but a guide dog ticket is required.
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