Getting Around the Netherlands

Road Network, Traffic

There are no problems getting around the Netherlands by road. The road and motorway network is well maintained, and signage is good. However, large urban areas can be congested, and parking is not always easy.

Driving rules are broadly the same as those in France. Seat belts are always mandatory, and the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 g/l. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on roads, and 100 or 130 km/h on expressways or motorways. Speed cameras are very common.

Car, Camper Van

Personal Vehicle

Rental

Bus

Two Wheels

Bicycle

The Netherlands is the ultimate cycling country, perfect for day trips or longer journeys. The flat terrain, mild climate (though sometimes rainy), and short distances between points of interest make it ideal for cyclists of all levels. The country has 32,000 km of cycle paths with good signage, ensuring safe riding. The Netherlands Board of Tourism offers a bicycle route planner for the whole country, in addition to the many pre-defined routes and rides provided by local tourist offices.

Good to know: you can take your bike on Dutch trains. This is allowed outside peak hours (and all day during holidays), meaning between 9:00 and 16:30 and after 18:00. Simply buy an "NS bike day ticket" from vending machines in stations for 6 €, valid for the day. Also, bike theft is common in the Netherlands, especially in cities, so always lock your bike—preferably with others or even in one of the guarded bike parks that exist in some cities.

Rental

Renting a bike in the Netherlands is very easy. You’ll find rental shops near major train stations, in city centres, and often through hotels and other accommodations. Expect to pay between 10 and 15 € per day on average. Note that Dutch bikes usually have a coaster brake system.

Motorcycle and Scooter

Hitchhiking

Trains

The Dutch rail network (NS) is extensive, with nearly 400 stations across the country, connecting most major and minor cities. You can also reach Schiphol Airport by train from Amsterdam or Rotterdam.

Since trains are frequent and distances short, it’s a great way to explore the country if you’re not driving—afterward, you can use a bicycle to explore nature. This is why Dutch trains allow bikes on board.

For fares, there are various discounts and passes, such as the "OV-chipkaart" (and participation in the InterRail network). Otherwise, expect to pay between 12 and 15 € per 100 km.

Boats

Several regular ferry and small boat services operate domestically between cities or to the islands.

To/from Amsterdam: GVB provides daily services to the coastal city of Velsen (the Fast Flying Ferries no longer operate since 2014). There’s also an internal service in the capital (see network), often free for pedestrians.

To/from Rotterdam: Similar to Amsterdam, with water taxis in the city and a water bus to Dordrecht.

To/from the Frisian Islands: Rederij Doeksen operates a triangular ferry route: Harlingen (mainland) - Vlieland (Friesland) - Terschelling (Friesland) - Harlingen. Other islands like Texel (from Den Helder with Teso), Ameland (from Holvert with Wagenborg), and Schiermonnikoog (from Lauwersoog with Wagenborg) also have maritime connections.

Domestic Flights

Given the Netherlands' small size, its good road and public transport networks, there are no domestic flights in the country.

In Town

Taxis

Taxis are plentiful and easily recognizable. The fare is usually 7.50 € for the initial charge, covering the first two kilometres, then a maximum of 2.20 € per kilometre. Note that most train stations have a "shared taxi" system.

Public Transport

Urban buses:

Metro:

Tram:

On Foot or by Bike

This is often the best way to explore a Dutch city. The layout of cities (starting with Amsterdam) makes driving impractical, and many urban areas are designed for pedestrians and cyclists. The only downside is the rain, which can sometimes spoil walks and encourage the use of public transport.

What to Choose for Getting Around?

As is often the case in Europe, having your own vehicle is the best way to explore the country. Otherwise, combining train and bicycle travel allows you to get around easily and access most of the country’s interesting cities and sites.

Distances Between Cities

Distances (km) between the main cities in the country: