Transport and Driving in the Netherlands

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Transport in the Netherlands is considered advanced by international standards. Most of the country is connected by an extensive road network as well as trains and buses, while larger cities often have tram and metro services too. Thanks to the efficiency of public transport, it's easy to get around without a car – expats who do choose to own a car will need to consider driving regulations, parking and taxes.

Of course, a discussion on modes of transport in the Netherlands would be incomplete without mentioning the infamous cycling culture. It’s said that the Netherlands is home to more bicycles than people. So, the sooner expats get hold of a bicycle, the sooner they'll feel at home.

Public transport in the Netherlands

The country has an extensive public transport system, and expats will find that getting around the Netherlands is easy, safe and relatively inexpensive.

OV-chipkaart

A contactless smart card system, OV-chipkaart, is used to pay for the metro, buses, trams and trains across Dutch cities, as well as city-specific public transport ticketing systems. Depending on how long an expat will be in the Netherlands and how often they intend commuting, there are different options for the OV-chipkaart. All cards are valid for five years but can be renewed.

Trains

The Dutch rail network is said to be one of the busiest in the European Union, with trains running between all major cities as well as across national borders. The main railway operator in the Netherlands is NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen), which connects the country with top destinations, including Antwerp, Berlin, Brussels, Paris and London.

There are two different types of trains in the Netherlands: intercity (express) trains that connect main cities directly and are faster; and slower trains connecting small stations, with multiple stops along the way.

Buses

There are a number of ways to travel by bus, with city and regional connections available. For longer distances, most travellers prefer to use trains. Within cities, buses normally have lines covering routes that are not met by other forms of transport, such as trams or the metro.

Several inter-city – and inter-country – bus companies operate in the Netherlands, such as FlixBus, which provides an affordable international travel option.

Metro

Both Amsterdam and Rotterdam have well-developed metro systems that mainly run on elevated railways outside the city and underground within the city centre. The RandstadRail Line E consists of a light rail system integrated with Rotterdam's metro system and it connects the city with The Hague and areas in between.

Trams

Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht all have efficient tram networks. Although the tram system can be difficult to navigate at first, it’s one of the best ways for expats to explore their surroundings and commute to and from work.

Ferries

Some Dutch cities, including Amsterdam and Rotterdam, offer ferry services. Boat travel provides a unique way of getting around and offers an opportunity to explore different areas and get a new perspective. In some cases, ferries and water taxis simply prove a convenient way of getting around.

Ferries allow the OV-chipkaart as well as cash payments or online booking. We advise expats to follow up with the relevant ferry services online for more on their routes, schedules and regulations.

9292 provides the latest travel information for transport across the Netherlands.

Taxis in the Netherlands

Taxis aren't a common form of transport in the Netherlands. They're pricey and in some places they can't be hailed off the street, with commuters instead booking by telephone beforehand, getting one at a taxi stand or calling one via a ride-hailing application such as Uber. All official taxis have blue licence plates.

Driving in the Netherlands

There are pros and cons of driving a car in the Netherlands. Driving is relatively easy thanks to the Netherlands' good roads and clear signage, but traffic congestion can be a problem, and hidden costs and tedious procedures are further hindrances.

Fuel is notoriously expensive in the Netherlands, as is parking, particularly in metropolitan areas. In moves to be more environmentally friendly and to reduce congestion, some Dutch cities have Park and Ride facilities where drivers can park their vehicles in large garages and car parks and complete their journey to the central business district or city centre by public transport.

Getting a car

While public transport is highly recommended, some expats may still choose to buy, lease, ship over or rent a car in the Netherlands.

Buying a car in the Netherlands comes with extensive processes and heavy expenses. Car owners must register their vehicle with RDW (Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer), the national vehicle authority, and cars older than three years must be tested annually to ensure they continue to meet road standards.

Taxes are charged when the vehicle is purchased and in some cases where a car is leased from an expat's employer and used privately. Insurance is essential, but costly.

Driving licences

Generally, expats with a valid foreign driving licence in the Netherlands can use it for up to 185 days. Thereafter, they must check with their local municipality whether they're eligible to exchange their licence or if they must apply for a new one. When applying for a local licence, applicants must pass both a theory and practical test.

Cycling in the Netherlands

Cycling is at the very heart of transport in the Netherlands and is an equally popular form of recreation.

Cyclists are well catered for with dedicated cycle paths, which are regulated with their own set of rules and systems, including traffic signals and lanes. Just as the sidewalks are not meant for bicycles, pedestrians should watch out for cyclists and not walk in designated bike lanes. When driving, expats should give priority to cyclists if they turn across a cycle lane.

The thought of getting on a bike may seem daunting at first, but it's easy to learn and expats can even take lessons – many schools also familiarise children with cycling.

Expats taking public transport should check whether they can carry their bike with them and if so what rules apply to them. For example, only folding bikes are permitted on trams or buses, while train passengers are recommended to register their bicycle before their train trip.

While safety isn't a major concern in the Netherlands compared to other major destinations, expats should be aware of the risk of bike theft and must ensure they lock their bikes up safely. This can be done at bike stands or around trees or other permanent objects.

Getting a bicycle

Most locals would recommend buying a second-hand bike in the Netherlands as it can save a decent amount on buying a brand-new one. Those who opt for the latter are advised to invest in insurance for their bike. It's also easy to rent a bike, and there are several rental companies to go to. As part of the Netherlands public transport system and integrated OV-chipkaart, rental bikes known as OV-fiets can be rented for a period of time for a small fee.

Air travel in the Netherlands

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the main airport in the Netherlands. Regional airports include Eindhoven Airport, Maastricht Aachen Airport, Rotterdam The Hague Airport and Groningen Airport Eelde. Airports are easily accessible by public transport and taxis.

Owing to the country’s small size and abundance of other transport options, domestic flights in the Netherlands are limited, and there's no real need to fly between destinations within the country, though the great number of affordable airlines does make international travel easy.

Larger airports serve both major and budget airlines, from KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, the flag carrier of the Netherlands, and British Airways to easyJet, Vueling Airlines and Ryanair.

Are you an expat living in The Netherlands?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to The Netherlands. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.