In the Netherlands, a personal car is often considered more of an expensive toy than a practical means of transportation. The narrow streets of the old towns aren't well-suited for heavy traffic, but the distances are short, making it relatively easy to reach business and other destinations on your own.
Intercity communications in the Netherlands are served by four classes of trains:
For train schedules and ticket prices, check the Netherlands Railways website. To avoid surcharges, it's best to buy tickets at the station ticket office rather than from the conductor. You can book a ticket for 3.50 EUR at this site. In addition to the railroad, smart, comfortable buses run between major cities.
City public transportation in the Netherlands is top-notch. The streetcar is the most economical and environmentally friendly means of transportation. Alternatives to the streetcar include trolleybuses and buses, and in Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam, there is also a metro.
Municipal transport in the Netherlands typically has short waiting times, with buses arriving within about 20 minutes. However, there's no room for old-fashioned fare evasion, as fares are usually collected upon boarding, and a 60 EUR fine for fare dodging is a significant penalty.
It's convenient to purchase universal tickets (strippenkaarten) or special cards (D-cards) valid for 1-2 days to cover travel on all types of public transport. Fares vary depending on the zone and distance, with average fares within a zone ranging from 1.50-1.60 EUR.
Cycling enthusiasts often praise the excellent bicycle lane markings and the extensive network of bike rentals in Amsterdam and other Dutch cities. However, it's essential to keep in mind that the quiet, winding streets have their own set of challenges. When cycling on a bridge, exercise extra caution, as there may be no guardrail.
