Dutch trains will get you anywhere in the country faster, cheaper, and more comfortably than driving—but only if you understand how the Netherlands by Train actually works.
As someone who grew up riding these trains and now helps travelers navigate them, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to travel like a local, not a confused tourist fumbling at ticket machines.
The two biggest mistake I see visitors make? Standing in ticket machine lines and sitting in 1st class with a 2nd class ticket.
In this post I tell you about the system, the different train types, classes, and tickets you can travel comfortably on the trains in this country.
Table of Contents
Why Dutch Trains Beat Driving
Something most people don’t realize is that the Netherlands is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Those picture-perfect countryside views? They exist between some seriously congested cities.
Dutch trains bypass all that traffic while you sit back with free WiFi, arriving exactly on schedule. No hunting for parking spots (Amsterdam charges almost €8 per hour, 24/7), plus no navigation stress, and no fuel costs.
The train connects Amsterdam to places like Haarlem in 20 minutes, The Hague in 50 minutes, and Rotterdam 40 minutes. Try doing that by car during rush hour, you properly haven’t even left Amsterdam.
Trains also run at high-frequency. Pretty much always every 30 minutes from early morning to late at night. Busy routes have trains depart every few minutes.
What’s also great about Dutch trains is that you’re never bound to a specific departure. You can take any train you like as long as you observe your ticket conditions (that only applies for discounted tickets) full-fare means any departure on the date printed on your ticket.
There is one exception when I don’t recommend taking the train and pre-book a taxi. And that is when you really value door-to-door comfort or you’re traveling with luggage. Never take a metered taxi, that is super expensive, or use Uber, they do not cover trips outside of Amsterdam.
But taxis are always available, and when you pre-book your taxi you save a lot compared to metered prices.
Save Up To 50%
When you book a taxi in advance you can save up to 70% off the metered priced and enjoy a fixed price. With coverage around the country.
Reserve Your Taxi Now
Understanding Dutch Train Types (It’s Simpler Than You Think)
Dutch trains operate on a simple hierarchy based on how many stops they make. There are four train types:
Sprinter Trains = Local trains that stop at every station
- Stop at all stations
- Perfect for short trips (Amsterdam to Zandvoort beach)
- Mostly used to get from a smaller station to a main station and visa versa
- Great for accessibility since they have no barrier entrances
Intercity Trains = Express trains that skip smaller stations
- Connect major cities directly
- More comfortable seats, quieter, especially first class
- All have bathrooms and WiFi
- Choose these for longer journeys
Intercity Direct = (Amsterdam/Airport – Rotterdam only)
- Costs extra €3 but saves 30+ minutes
- Premium seats and extra luggage space
- Worth it for pretty much everybody taking this route
International Trains = Cross-border connections
Traveling to Belgium, Germany, or France? Different rules apply:
Brussels: No reservations needed on regular Eurocity Brussels trains, but they’re always crowded. Consider first class, or even better book the Eurostar trains, more expensive, but a lot more comfortable.
- Book your Belgium train tickets here
- Here are all my transit guides including the four major Belgium cities
Paris/London: Eurostar requires advance booking and reservations. You can book your Eurostar train tickets at the official NS International website.
Germany: ICE trains need reservations; regular trains don’t. You can book your Germany train tickets at the official NS International website.
Trains vs. Trams vs. Metro: What’s What?
This confuses everyone who’s not European, for people not used to transit all of the above are vehicles on rails, so isn’t the same system, and same tickets. The answer is unfortunately not:
- Trains = Travel between cities (what this guide covers)
- Trams = Local transport within cities, run on street level, street cars
- Metro = Underground city transport (only in Amsterdam and Rotterdam)
You can use contactless payments for all transportation options. For train travel there are limitations to this option which I explain below. But what is important to remember:
Eevery time you switch between these transport modes, you’re starting a new journey with a new fare.
For trams and metros it is simple: tap the entry barrier or machine at the door with your contactless debit or credit card. Then do the same when you exit, this calculates the correct fare.
Remember contactless debit/credit card tapping only supports one card per person, so never share.
How To Pay For Netherlands Trains
If you are okay traveling 2nd class (smaller seats, busier compartment) you can use the same payment method as above. Just tap your contactless payment card at an entry barrier or pole at the platform. Do they same when you arrive.
For the IC direct surcharge between the airport and Rotterdam there is a seperate red pole on the platform to tab.
But if you want a off-peak discount, travel 1st class for longer trips, or you’re taking a more complicated journey like switching train carriers (which happens on rural journeys) you’ll need to book advance tickets through the NS website.
Learn more about different train tickets and how to book in my article
Travel Classes on Dutch Trains: When to Upgrade
Second class works fine for trips under 30 minutes. These are journeys for example between Amsterdam and the Airport, or Zaanse Schans, and Haarlem.
For longer journeys, first class is absolutely the better choice. It offers wider seats, more space, and it’s generally quieter. The price difference is about 60%.
If you want to travel first class you need to book your through the NS website.
It’s easy to recognize the correct class. 2nd seats are blue. 1st class seats are red. Also on the outside, right next to the entry doors is a large number 1 or 2.
They represent the travel class for that compartment. You also find these numbers above the inside doors when entering a compartment.
Saying you didn’t know because you’re a tourist will not fly. It’s easy enough to see and you do risk a fine for traveling first class illegally without a 1st class ticket.
How to Actually Use Dutch Trains (The Smart Way)
Step 1: Download App Get the NS app before you arrive. The NS app handles both train, and all transport modes travel. It works great in English. The app is also necessary to store your tickets.
Make sure to have reliable internet and a solid data bundle when traveling on the train system. International bundles from your home carrier are usually expensive ($10/day per phone), and limited in data. An eSIM is for most people the better choice.
Inexpensive and Flexible SIM
Stay connected in the Netherlands
Skip hunting for WiFi. Get on the go navigation, translations and mobile internet that works everywhere in Europe – skip expensive international charges from your phone company.
My Phone Abroad Guide
Step 2: Pay The Right Way Forget everything you’ve read about OV-chipkaarts. These articles are outdated. Just use your contactless bank card or credit card (Visa/Mastercard) to tap in and out for short journeys. It’s cheaper, easier, and works everywhere.
The system automatically calculates your fare based on distance traveled. No tickets to buy, no cards to top up, no €20 minimum balances.
Buy your train tickets online for longer journeys to be able to purchase 1st class tickets, and/or qualify for advance booking off-peak travel discounts (more in my article on train tickets)
Step 3: Enter the Station Larger stations have barriers (like subway turnstiles). Tap your card to enter, tap again to exit. Smaller stations have open access—just board the train directly but do not forget to tap at the poles if you travel contactless.
when you travel with an actual ticket purchased online you can open it in the app (right bottom corner – more options, then my tickets on the next screen). Scan the QR by holding your phone face down to open the barrier. If you’re traveling from or to a station with open access you do not have to tap or scan anything if you have ticket.
Step 4: Check Departure Boards Always double-check the platform before boarding. Trains occasionally change tracks . Look for your destination in the “Direction” field, not just the final destination.
Step 5: Board Like a Local
- Press the round button next to the door if it doesn’t open automatically
- First class seats are red, second class are blue, also look at the numbers next to the entry doors
- Look for “Stilte/Silence” signs if you want quiet zones
- Never leave luggage unattended on the train, it can get stolen
Essential Practical Netherlands Trains Tips
Luggage: There’s no weight limit, but space is limited. Each train has overhead racks (like airplane bins), but much lower, and floor space by the doors. Never block seats or the aisles for other travelers. Always stay with your luggage, it can get stolen otherwise.
Pro tip: If you’re traveling with large suitcases, book first class or even better consider a private transfer service instead (taxi). You’ll pay more but avoid the luggage stress entirely. When you pre-book your taxi ride you save significantly on the regular metered fare.
Save Up To 50%
When you book a taxi in advance you can save up to 70% off the metered priced and enjoy a fixed price. With coverage around the country.
Reserve Your Taxi Now
Safety and Security Dutch trains are very safe, but stay alert on busy routes like Amsterdam-Brussels or Rotterdam. The biggest risk? Luggage theft from overhead racks or near the exit doors when thieves board at stations, grab bags, and exit quickly.
Keep valuables with you. If someone’s acting sketchy, text train security: +31 6 13 18 13 18 (WhatsApp)
When Trains Go Wrong Delays happen. Strikes happen. Not often, but it is always possible. The app will show alternatives, often there are replacement buses.
Money-Saving Tip Book advance tickets through the NS website for longer journeys. You can save up to 60% with “Early Bird” tickets if you avoid peak hours and book ahead. See my train ticket article for more information.
What About Buses?
Don’t count on buses as a train alternative. They’re designed for local transport, not intercity travel. Buses take 2-3 times longer than trains for city-to-city trips and don’t offer the comfort or reliability.
You do find for some routes now intercity Flix Buses. While they sound cheap on paper, they’re often not worthwhile for most people. Prices are low, but travel time is longer, and you first need to travel to Amsterdam West to board them.
Still curious? You look up Intercity Bus schedules and prices here.
Why Dutch Trains Are Nothing Like North American Transit
Forget everything you think about trains being “public transportation” for people who can’t afford cars. Dutch trains are premium infrastructure that everyone uses by choice—there’s zero social stigma because the system actually works.
While North American railways prioritize freight over passengers, the Netherlands does the opposite. The result? Trains every 10-30 minutes with reliable service, while roads are congested, and parking fees sky high.
Stop thinking “public transit” and start thinking “premium transport network.” Dutch trains aren’t for people without alternatives—they’re the smart choice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just hop on any train in Holland without a specific departure time?
Yes, for domestic travel. Your ticket is valid all day, not for a specific departure. Just hop on the next train going your direction. International trains often require specific reservations. If you want a off-peak and book in advance discount more rules apply. For those I recommend checking out my train ticket post here.
What if I need wheelchair accessibility for Netherlands train travel?
Sprinter trains in the Netherlands have low-level boarding—you can board independently. These trains might take longer but are your best choice. Intercity trains require advance booking (free) for assistance since they have steps. Call NS customer service at least an hour before travel. The NS app has an easy feature to select “no assistance needed” trains for those traveling in a wheelchair or walker. Super handy!
How do I know when to get off a train in the Netherlands?
Every train has digital displays showing upcoming stops, and there are announcements (Dutch only, except at major stations). I recommend setting a phone alarm for 5 minutes before your scheduled arrival.
What happens if I forget to tap out when I exit a Dutch train?
You’ll be charged the maximum possible fare. Always tap your card when exiting stations. If you forget, contact NS customer service—they can often refund the difference. Sometimes they ask for proof. Proof can be proof of payment for another journey you took right after in that city, or your return journey. Proof can also be a receipt or statement that you eat at restaurant in your arrival city, or bought something in a store.
Is it worth buying a rail pass for short visits?
Usually no. Rail passes only make sense if you’re taking 3+ longer journeys per day. For most tourists, paying per trip with contactless cards or buy tickets on the website pay less and this offers more flexibility.
Ready to Explore?
The Dutch train system opens up the entire country—from Amsterdam’s museums to Utrecht’s canals, from seaside Scheveningen to historic Maastricht. Once you understand the basics, it’s actually one of Europe’s most user-friendly transport networks.
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