Travel by train in the Netherlands

How to travel by train in the Netherlands? The Dutch Railways provides an excellent, reliable and affordable domestic rail network connecting to the neighboring countries. Therefore there is no need for long distance domestic bus services between cities in the Netherlands.

The domestic network is run, with a some regional exceptions, by the national rail company Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and covers the entire Netherlands as you can see on this map NS network map

There are three kinds of trains:

Intercity Direct runs between Amsterdam and Breda via Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam. A supplement is required for this service.
Intercity (IC)
Sprinter trains (a.k.a. stop trains)

And these trains are divided in a first and second class. There is usually no on board service for food and drinks and many IC trains are now equipped with free wifi.

Tickets

Ticket prices are based on the distance travelled. First class is more expensive than second class but both are comfortable. First class offers more space and is less crowded. There are no seat reservation on domestic trains.And you can buy your tickets in advance but the tickets won’t run out.

Since September 2014, all ticket machines accept MasterCard/VISA creditcards with a pincode. However some non Dutch cards can be problematic. You can always buy your ticket with coins! (No paper money!) or at the ticket counter of large stations. Small stations might be unmanned! Be aware of this.

With your ticket you must always check in and check out at your station regardless of your ticket.

You can find timetables and ticket prices on the public transportation website 9292.nl/en

For discounts you need a Dutch Address and Bank account so not suitable for tourist.s

When you travel with luggage keep them in sight at all times. Don’t doze off after a long flight because pickpockets work on trains too.

Have a look at our blogposts about train travel:

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Tulips in Holland provides you information about the spring flowers and flower fields in the Netherlands.

Have a look at the FAQ Section in the menu of this website to get all the information you need for a wonderful visit to the beautiful flower fields in the Netherlands.

If you are interested to see what the current blooming status is have a look here for the weekly flower updates.

Or sign up for our weekly newsletter to get the blooming status and helpful tips for your visit directly into your mailbox on Tuesday (a day earlier than on the website!).

If you have any questions – write them below in the comments or find us on social media.

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