Transportation in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is known for being a haven for cyclists, but there are plenty of other modes of transportation available to you while you live here. Whether you're travelling on a budget or you've got some cash to splurge, here's how you can make your way around the country.  

Cycling in the Netherlands

Did you know that there are over 20 million bicycles in this country and over 1 million are sold each year? It’s no wonder then that the Netherlands is a cyclist’s dream. The country’s flat terrain is ideal for any beginner and the bicycle lane infrastructure is second to none. Here is what you need to know about cycling in the Netherlands.

Public transport in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has a great public transport infrastructure. There are trains and buses going to every nook of the country, and in large cities there are metro stations and tram stops as well. Read more about how public transport works in the Netherlands.

OV-chipkaart & public transport tickets in the Netherlands

All of the public transport services in the Netherlands are run by different companies, but you can pay for all of these modes of public transport with the same card, the OV-chipkaart. Learn about tapping in and out on public transport, topping up your OV-chipkaart, and purchasing subscriptions and season tickets, in our guide to public transport tickets. 

Taxi companies in the Netherlands

If you only need to get somewhere by car occasionally, calling a taxi is a good option, for instance if you need transport to and from the airport without any hassle. There are a wide number of taxi companies and operators located in the Netherlands. Here is a handy list of taxi companies that will be more than happy to help you out with your transportation needs.

Dutch airports

Did you know that the Netherlands has more than one civil airport? The following airports are the most noteworthy: Schiphol Airport, Rotterdam The Hague Airport, Groningen Airport Eelde, Eindhoven Airport and Maastricht Aachen Airport. Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam is the largest, serving over 100 airlines. Read more about airports in the Netherlands.

Driving in the Netherlands

While the Netherlands is a small country, it’s not always possible to cycle to your destination. Driving remains a popular mode of transportation. If you are moving to the Netherlands long-term, you might want to think about importing your car. If that isn't a viable option for you, you may consider leasing a car instead. Also, learn if you are allowed to use your foreign driving licence in the Netherlands.