Getting around Netherlands
Europe
From Europe ✈️
Direct flight from Paris
Yes
Duration
1h20 direct (or 3h20 by Thalys/Eurostar)
Indicative round-trip price
60-200 EUR A/R
Book
1-3 months ahead
Recommended airlines
Local transport
Bus
A dense regional network, often complementing the train; single tickets are pricey, go for contactless.
Train
NS: a very dense and punctual network. Amsterdam-Rotterdam in ~40 min, Amsterdam-Utrecht in ~30 min.
Taxi
Expensive metered taxis; Uber and Bolt are available in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague.
Metro
Metro in Amsterdam and Rotterdam; dense tram network in the big cities.
Essential apps
Common routes and indicative prices
| From | To | Mode | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schiphol Airport | Amsterdam Centraal | NS train | 15-20 min | 5-6 EUR |
| Amsterdam | Rotterdam | Intercity train | 40 min | 17 EUR |
| Amsterdam | Utrecht | Intercity train | 30 min | 9 EUR |
| Amsterdam | The Hague | Intercity train | 50 min | 13 EUR |
Indicative prices for 2025-2026. Fares vary by season, demand and how far ahead you book.
Vehicle rental 🛵
Scooter / Motorbike
20-40 EUR / day
Category AM/B licence depending on engine size
Car
35-70 EUR / day
French licence accepted
International permit : Not required (French license accepted)
Transport scams to know ⚠️
Fake bike 'guides'
Overpriced bike rentals near the attractions.
Tip :Rent from MacBike, Black Bikes or the OV-fiets at the station (~4 EUR/day for subscribers).
Unofficial taxis
Pirate taxis outside stations and Schiphol.
Tip :Take a taxi from the official rank or order via Uber/Bolt.
Practical tips
- The bike is the real local means of transport: flat, fast and cheaper than public transport.
- Pay for transit contactlessly (OVpay) with your bank card, without buying an OV-chipkaart.
- Always 'in-en uitchecken' (tap in AND out) on trains, trams and buses.
Other transport guides
Europe
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