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This is how public transport works in the Netherlands
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In the Netherlands, you can get almost anywhere by public transport. With trains, buses, trams and metros. On this page you can read more about public transport in the Netherlands.
There are several transport companies
The Netherlands has several transport companies responsible for different forms of public transportation.
Visit the website of the transport company in your area for key transportation information. And for possible discount offers.
You can plan your trip in advance
If you need to go somewhere soon, you can plan your trip in advance on the internet. For a train journey, you can look online at the NS website. At www.ns.nl you can see when your train is going, from which platform, and if there are any problems. You can also do that with their app for your phone.
If you would like information on all types of trips, check out www.9292.nl. You can then plan exactly how to get from your home to your destination. This way you can avoid unexpectedly long waits. You can also download the 9292 app on your phone.
You must have a valid ticket
You always need to have a valid ticket. There are several ways to get a valid ticket. For example, by checking in with a public transport chip card. Or by buying a paper ticket from a ticket machine.
You can often rent a bike at stations
At many train stations you can rent bikes from the NS. This is called an 'OV-fiets' (public transport bike). You need a personal 'OV-chipkaart' (public transposrt chip card) to rent a public transport bike. You can add the public transport bike subscription to this for free.
To use a public transport bike you pay €4.45 per 24 hours. Even if you need a bike for less than 24 hours, you pay €4.45.
These are the rules on public transport
On public transport, you have to follow certain rules. Below you can read the most important ones: