One of the best ways to get around the Netherlands is by train. Trains are cheap, fast, and a very convenient way to travel. Plus, they make day trips from Amsterdam a piece of cake. In this post, learn all about Netherlands train travel, how to book your tickets online, and useful tips for using the trains and storing your luggage.
The Importance of Booking Your Train Tickets in Advance
When planning your train travel in the Netherlands, it is crucial to determine whether booking your tickets in advance is necessary.
If you are considering traveling on a high-speed train, such as the Thalys train from Amsterdam to Brussels and Paris, advance ticket booking is a requirement. These popular routes have high demand, and securing your tickets early ensures a smooth journey.
On the other hand, if you plan to travel on commuter trains within the Netherlands, there is no need to book in advance. Similar to using the metro, you can simply purchase a ticket and board the next available train.
Prior to our own trip, we discovered that some travelers encountered difficulties when attempting to pay for tickets at automated machines using their credit cards. It was even mentioned on the Lonely Planet website that these machines only accept Dutch credit cards. Consequently, their advice was to either book train tickets ahead of time or queue up for assistance from a ticket attendant.
In order to avoid any potential hassles, we decided to book the majority of our tickets in advance, leaving only one ticket to be purchased on the day of travel.
By planning ahead and securing your train tickets, especially for high-speed routes, you can ensure a hassle-free experience and peace of mind during your journey through the Netherlands.
Making Use of the Automated Ticket Machines
When we found ourselves needing to book a last-minute train without a prior reservation, we made use of the user-friendly automated ticket machines available at the Haarlem train station. These machines were incredibly intuitive, offering clear instructions in English, and accepting payment with our credit card proved to be hassle-free. While we can't guarantee the same experience at every station, we were fortunate to have our Mastercard accepted without any issues during our visit.
If you're planning on traveling by train in the Netherlands, it's always wise to book your tickets in advance to secure your desired travel time and seat. However, in situations where spontaneity calls for an impromptu train journey, the automated ticket machines found in most stations offer a convenient and reliable option. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to the Dutch railway system, these machines provide a straightforward way to purchase your tickets on the go.
Important: When purchasing tickets for train travel in the Netherlands, be aware that there is a €1 fee associated with using automated machines or ticket booths.
While it is not necessary to book tickets in advance for local trains, there are several advantages to consider.
Booking your tickets ahead of time can help save time and ensure availability, particularly during peak travel periods. Additionally, it allows you to secure preferred seating or choose from a wider range of travel options.
Why Should You Book Your Tickets in Advance?
Booking your tickets in advance is not necessary but it does save a little bit of time in the train stations.
It’s so much nicer to walk right up to the train and board it, without taking the time to wait in line to buy tickets.
This advance planning takes away a tiny bit of the hassle while traveling and saves you waiting in line. In the end, it may only save several minutes. No big deal. But it’s nice just to walk right up and get right on the train.
Planning your travels in advance offers numerous benefits, especially when it comes to Netherlands train travel. With our meticulous nature and attention to detail as aerospace and medical professionals, Tim and I have put together a comprehensive guide on booking train tickets and utilizing the train system.
While spontaneity can be exciting, there's something to be said about the peace of mind that comes with knowing your travel plans are set. By purchasing your tickets ahead of time, you not only ensure a smooth journey but also gain access to exclusive discounts and deals.
Tips for Booking Your Train Tickets in the Netherlands
If you're planning to travel by train in the Netherlands, purchasing your tickets online in advance can save you time and effort. I recently used the website www.b-europe.com/EN/ and found the process to be relatively straightforward. However, I did have a few questions along the way. Here's what I discovered:
Start by entering your departure and arrival cities, along with the date and preferred travel window. You can choose between single (one way) or return (round trip) tickets. Don't forget to provide the number and ages of each passenger. Additionally, you'll have the option to select either first or second class. Second class trains in the Netherlands are known for their ample seating and cleanliness, making them a comfortable choice for most journeys. Considering the short distances, there might be no need to spend extra money on first class tickets.
When booking your train tickets, keep in mind that certain routes and trains may require additional reservations. It's always a good idea to check for any specific requirements or restrictions before making your purchase. With a user-friendly interface and various options to customize your journey, booking your train tickets online ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience.
When you click SEARCH you will be taken to a new screen. Listed are the first 5 or 6 available trains in your time slot. You can look at available trains that are earlier or later by clicking the appropriate button. However, this doesn’t really matter.
If you are booking your tickets online and will be printing them out at home, the time you choose does not matter. The ticket is valid for the entire day. That means that if you book a ticket for April 5 at 8:37 am from Amsterdam to Utrecht, you can use that ticket all day (10 am, noon, or 12 pm) on April 5. However, you do have to ride the type of train you selected (IC, ICE, etc) and if you chose 2nd class, you will have to ride in a 2nd class compartment. The ticket is only valid for the date you choose. You cannot use your April 5 ticket on April 6.
The only train that you need to make a seat reservation for is the Thalys train that connects Amsterdam to Paris. The local trains that connect the towns of Amsterdam, Haarlem, Schiphol Airport, The Hague, etc do not take seat reservations.
Once you choose your tickets, click BOOK THIS JOURNEY and you are taken to the ticketing screen. I chose e-ticket, because it was free and I could conveniently print them at home, without having to collect the tickets at the station or wait for them to arrive in the mail. Add in the travelers’ details and proceed to the next step.
Enter your details, accept the Terms and Conditions, and proceed to payment. Once your payment is accepted, you will be taken to a screen with a link to the PDF version of your tickets. Save this to your desktop and print out your tickets.
Choosing the Right Ticket Option: Paper, Email, or Mobile
When it comes to ticket options, there are a few things to consider. The instructions provided usually recommend printing your tickets on A4 paper, which may not be the standard size in the US. However, fret not! I found that printing the tickets on standard US paper (8 1/2 by 11 inches) worked perfectly well for me. I was able to use these tickets both at the train stations' turnstiles and when they were scanned by the ticket attendant on the trains.
If you prefer to go paperless, another option is choosing the email version of your ticket. Just make sure to have it readily accessible on your smartphone or other electronic devices when traveling. Additionally, some train operators offer specialized smartphone apps that allow you to conveniently store and access your tickets digitally.
A copy of our printed train ticket.
If you look at these tickets, you will see that the date of the journey is listed but not the time you chose. You can now use this ticket all day on your selected date.
You also have the option to open the email on your smartphone to show your ticket on the train, but you will need to have an internet connection to do this. As a back up, take screen shots of the tickets with the barcode and you can show these to the ticket attendant (or at the turnstiles) without needing cellular service (I tested this too and it worked fine). Just make sure your phone is charged!
By the way, many trains do offer free wifi, but the signal is rather weak and we didn’t always have the best luck getting it to work.
The final option is to install the SNCB Europe app on your phone and download your tickets into this app. The instructions on how to do this are included in the email that contains your tickets.
Plan Your Train Travel Efficiently
When it comes to traveling by train in the Netherlands, it's crucial to plan ahead and familiarize yourself with the train schedule. By jotting down the timings of your preferred trains, you can ensure a seamless journey.
With trains departing frequently (at least four times per hour), you generally won't have to wait long for the next one. Nevertheless, it's advisable to be aware of the train schedule for your specific travel time slot.
To access the train schedule, visit the SNCB website and proceed to step 2. Make note of the departure times for each train and check if there are any transfers involved. By utilizing the information button, you can gather details about the train stations and the transfer points, if applicable.
Remember, it's worth considering a slightly later train if it means avoiding transfers. For instance, the 8:04 and 8:34 trains may take a few extra minutes, but they offer a direct route without any transfers. Opting for a direct train can save you time and hassle during your journey.
Plan your train travel efficiently to make the most of your time exploring the beautiful Netherlands!
Traveling with Your Tickets
When using the trains in the Netherlands, it's important to be aware of how to navigate the ticketing process. At most stations, you'll need to scan your tickets at the turnstiles in order to enter or exit the station. Remember to hold onto your tickets until you've left the station, as you may be required to present them if requested.
While not all trains have ticket attendants on board, some do. These attendants will scan the tickets of passengers during the journey. However, it's always a good idea to ensure you have a valid and properly scanned ticket before boarding.
Traveling through the Netherlands by train can be a delightful experience, especially when one has planned everything ahead, including accommodations. Before embarking on your journey, consider exploring hotel deals in Netherlands to ensure your stay is as convenient and comfortable as your train travel.
It's worth noting that the ticketing system in the Netherlands is efficient and user-friendly. You can rely on the digital or physical tickets provided to conveniently travel around the country.
Plan your trip, get your tickets ready, and embark on a seamless train travel experience across the Netherlands!
An Innovative Way to Travel: OV-Chip Cards
Exploring the Netherlands can be made easier with the use of OV-Chip cards, a convenient travel option. These smart cards can be purchased for a non-refundable fee of €7.50 and you have the flexibility to load them with a travel credit ranging from €20 to €150. This provides a seamless experience for frequent train travelers and those intending to embark on several day trips across the country.
With the OV-Chip card, boarding the train becomes effortless - simply scan the card upon entering the station. As you reach your final destination and exit the station, the fare for your train journey will be automatically deducted from the card. This eliminates the need to calculate train fares or make advanced bookings, allowing for a hassle-free travel experience.
Beyond the convenience aspect, it's worth noting that the OV-Chip card is widely accepted across various modes of public transportation in the Netherlands, including buses, trams, and metros. With such versatility, travelers can effortlessly explore different cities and regions, maximizing their time and experience in this beautiful country.
You can also use this OV-Chip card on all forms of public transportation in the Netherlands.
At the end of your stay in the Netherlands, you can get a refund of the money you have remaining on the card. Go to a ticket office at train station. If your balance is less than €30, you will get your money back, minus a €1 fee. If your balance is over €30, you need a Dutch bank account to be refunded the money. Make sure your balance is under €30 if you choose to use the OV-Chip Card.
Navigating the Station
Arriving at the bustling train station, you might wonder how to locate your train amidst the organized chaos. Look no further than the departure screens, conveniently displaying key information such as platform numbers, train destinations, and departure times.
Having your departure time at hand proves invaluable, enabling you to quickly identify your train. For example, if you plan to catch the 8:37 am train bound for Utrecht, locate the corresponding listing on the screen. Departure times are meticulously organized, ensuring minimal overlap. Once you confirm that the 8:37 am train is headed to Utrecht, proceed towards the platform indicated.
Upon arriving at the platform, keep an eye out for any changes or updates, as train schedules may occasionally vary. Now, you can confidently embark on your Netherlands train adventure, ready to explore the charming city of Utrecht or any other captivating destination.
Luggage Storage
If you're traveling through the Netherlands by train, you'll be pleased to know that most train stations offer luggage storage facilities. These areas, marked with the sign "Bagage," provide lockers of various sizes to securely store your belongings while you explore a town in transit.
There are two types of lockers available:
Small locker: 90cm deep, 45cm high, and 40cm wide. It costs €8.50 for a 24-hour period.
Large locker: 90cm deep, 60cm high, and 40cm wide. It costs €11.50 for a 24-hour period.
Prior to your journey, it's useful to measure your suitcases or backpacks to ensure they will fit in the lockers. The large locker is suitable for accommodating a sizable backpack or a medium-sized suitcase.
When traveling the Netherlands by train, take advantage of these convenient luggage storage options, allowing you to explore towns unrestricted and unencumbered by your belongings.
Put your belongings in the locker. When you close the locker door, the computer will ask you to insert your credit card. This pays the fee and then the locker will lock. Take the printed ticket and you will use this to reopen your locker when you return to the train station.
And now, go out and enjoy the Netherlands!
Supplementary Resources for Your Voyage through The Netherlands and Europe
NETHERLANDS: To get the most out of Amsterdam, we propose you explore our guides detailing how to fill 2 remarkable days in Amsterdam along with our compilation of the top activities in Amsterdam. We also share comprehensive recommendations on accommodations in Amsterdam and trips to such places as Haarlem, Utrecht, and The Hague.
BELGIUM: In addition, you'd be interested in our guide for a DIY chocolate tour of Brussels that adds a sampling of the city's most famous sights. Furthermore, you'll find an article laced with tips on how to make a day trip to the attractive cities of Bruges and Ghent.
LONDON: Embark on your London adventure with our article spanning the most appealing things to do in London. Precisely plan your city venture with our guide for spending 5 memorable days in London. We also provide advice for newcomers to London combined with a thorough guide on Where to find comfortable accommodations in London.
BEST OF PARIS: To identify the must-see attractions in Paris, delve into our article delineating the top things to do in Paris. Our 3 Day Paris Itinerary then lets you design an unforgettable Parisian adventure.
EUROPE TRAVEL INSPIRATION: Inspire your travel ambitions with our article containing 10 different itineraries for a ten-day Europe exploration. Or if your time is limited, we have article outlining 25 unique ways of experiencing Europe in just a week.
Related Posts
One Perfect Day in The Hague, the Netherlands
10 Day Amsterdam Brussels Paris Itinerary
6 Reasons Why You Should Take a Day Trip to Haarlem
Amsterdam Itinerary: Best Way to Spend Two Days in Amsterdam