Public transport
The Netherlands has a very well integrated bus and rail system and it is possible to travel nearly anywhere without a car. Here are some tips:
- Get an OV-chipcard (see below)
- When planning a journey use www.9292.nl/en (this is a really good travel guide/timetable which includes bus, trains, ferries and more)
- For train only use www.ns.nl/en or download the NS app on your smart phone.
- When waiting for a bus to arrive you can scan a barcode at the bus-stop with your smartphone and you will be notified of the arrival of the next bus by SMS
- Also cross-check the directions to your destination using Google Maps. You may find it is faster to bike, in which case take advantage of OV-fiets (OV-bike), see below.
OV-fiets
OV-fiets (Public Transport Bicycle) is a fast growing bike sharing program in the Netherlands. It is a unique supplement to public transport. It is available at almost all important train stations and other locations (over 250 stations). It is very easy to pick-up a bicycle from automatic dispensers or from a staffed rental location. Bicycles are always accessible at least during public transport operation hours, and in many places 24 hrs a day 7 days a week. The widespread availability of the OV-fiets makes it successful. Cost is €0,01 for a yearly subscription plus a rental fee of €4.15 per bike for 24hr per bike.
⫘ www.ov-fiets.nl (Dutch only)
The OV-chipkaart
The OV-chipkaart is compulsory in the Netherlands, and is necessary for anyone using public transport regularly (bus, train and rented bicycles). You can order either a personal or anonymous card online, or purchase one in a NS ticket office. You can then add money to it online or at any train station. To use the card you swipe it on a sensor at the station or on the bus, then again when you’ve completed your journey.
⫘ www.ov-chipkaart.nl/?taal=en
Auto delen (Car sharing)
If you occasionally need a (second) car, car sharing might be an option. Some car share providers own a fleet of cars, that are parked at dedicated spots spread over the city.
Examples are Green wheels (www.greenwheels.com/nl-en), My Wheels (www.mywheels.nl) and ConnectCar (www.connectcar.nl). Other providers are just an intermediate between private car owners and car share users, for example SnappCar (www.snappcar.nl).