How will you get to work, explore your new city, or visit other parts of the Netherlands? Choosing the right way to travel plays a big role in how quickly you settle into daily life.
Luckily, the Netherlands offers a wide range of convenient and reliable transport options. In this guide, we’ll walk you through them so you can decide what works best for you.
Public transport: easy and reliable
The Netherlands has an excellent public transport system that connects cities, towns, and even smaller villages. Many expats rely on public transport, especially in the early stages of relocation.
To use public transport, you’ll need an OV-chipkaart, which works across trains, buses, trams, and metros. You simply check in and out at the start and end of your journey.
In addition, at Wypoon we support commuting through a business NS card. This allows you to travel by train without buying separate tickets, making daily travel more convenient and cost-efficient. Combined with the fact that many companies offer hybrid working options, it often means you don’t need to commute every day, giving you more flexibility in how you structure your week.
Train (NS)
The Dutch railway network, operated by NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen), is one of the most efficient ways to travel longer distances. There are two main types of trains:
- Intercity trains: fast connections between major cities
- Sprinter trains: stop at smaller stations and local areas
Trains run frequently and are known for being reliable. You can also choose between first and second class, depending on your preference.
Bus, tram and metro
Buses operate throughout the entire country, connecting both cities and rural areas. In larger cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, trams and metros are widely used for daily commuting.
These options are ideal for shorter distances or getting around within a city. They are modern, comfortable, and well-integrated with train schedules.
Planning your journey
Apps like 9292 or the NS app make it easy to plan your route using all forms of public transport. They provide real-time updates and help you find the fastest and most efficient connections.
Cycling: the Dutch way of life
If there’s one thing the Netherlands is famous for, it’s cycling.
Many expats quickly discover that a bike is often the fastest and most convenient way to travel short distances. Cities are designed with cyclists in mind, with dedicated bike lanes, traffic lights, and parking facilities.
Cycling is not only practical but also affordable and healthy. Whether you choose a traditional bike or an e-bike, it’s a great way to explore your new surroundings and integrate into Dutch daily life.
Bike leasing programs, such as Swapfiets, are popular among expats. For a fixed monthly fee, you get a bike with maintenance included, making it a hassle-free option when you first arrive.
Driving in the Netherlands
While public transport and cycling cover most needs, some expats prefer the flexibility of having a car.
If you have a valid non-Dutch driving licence, you can usually use it for up to 185 days after registering in the Netherlands. After that, you may need to exchange it for a Dutch licence, depending on your country of origin.
Car rental
Renting a car is a good option if you only need one occasionally, for example for weekend trips or moving house. There are many rental companies available, and booking can often be done online within minutes.
Leasing a car
Leasing is a popular option for professionals who want the convenience of a car without the upfront cost of buying one. With operational lease, most costs such as maintenance, insurance, and taxes are included in a fixed monthly fee.
Financial lease
If you’re planning to stay longer, financial lease can be an attractive option. This works similarly to a loan, where you eventually become the owner of the car. Monthly costs may be lower than operational lease, but additional expenses like maintenance and insurance are your responsibility.
What suits you best?
Getting around in the Netherlands is easy, efficient, and flexible. Whether you choose to cycle like the locals, rely on public transport, or drive a car, there are plenty of options to suit your needs.
Take some time to explore what works best for your daily routine. With the right combination, you’ll quickly feel at home and be able to focus on what really matters: building your life and career in the Netherlands.
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