Of all Europeans, Dutch residents face the longest daily commute. No less than 30 percent of workers in the Netherlands spend 45 minutes or more on the road or public transport between home and work.
Public transport and OV chipcard
The most convenient way to use all sorts of public transport (train, bus, tram and metro), is by owning the so-called OV chipcard. Here you can find detailed information regarding what OV chipcard is and what types of OV chipcard there are: OV-chipkaart: go anywhere with Dutch public transport.
If you need to travel often, you can benefit a lot from buying an NS subscription. You can do so when you have a personalized OV chipcard (to get one, you must have a Dutch address and a bank account). Here you can have a look at the various possibilities: Products | NS.
Travel apps
The best way to organize your journey is by using an app that can guide you and show you the schedule of the public transport you need. Here are the two of the most used apps in the Netherlands:
- 9292: This app helps you plan your public transport journey anywhere in the Netherlands, at any time, using all modes of transport you want to use. The app allows you to search for addresses, postcodes and any stations or stops you want to travel through and it gives you a step-by-step route to get to the location of your choice. If you don’t have an OV chipcard, you can buy an online ticket using the app.
- NS: With the same name as the Dutch Railway system company, the NS app is similar to 9292’s services - but only covers train journeys. The app also provides live updates on train delays, disruptions and planned maintenance so travelers can check what’s working and what isn’t. Just like 9292, the NS app allows you to buy tickets online.
Relevant websites if you need a car:
- Car sharing: Greenwheels
- Car rental: Worldwide Van & Car Hire with Hertz Car Rental