Transport in the Netherlands

Internationally, the Netherlands' transportation system is regarded as advanced. Trains travel between all major cities as well as across national boundaries, making the Dutch rail network one of the busiest in the EU. The Netherlands' primary railway operator is NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen). International and regional buses, as well as local buses, are available. Bus lines run across cities, covering routes that are not served by other modes of transportation.

In the Netherlands, taxis are not a widespread mode of transportation. Both Amsterdam and Rotterdam, on the other hand, have well-developed metro systems. The RandstadRail Line E is a light rail line that runs between Rotterdam and The Hague, as well as other cities in the region. The tram networks of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht are all well-developed. Ferry services are also available in various Dutch cities, such as Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

Cycling is at the very heart of transport in the Netherlands and cyclists are well catered for with dedicated cycle paths, which are regulated with their own set of rules and systems, including traffic signals and lanes.

Driving is relatively easy thanks to the country’s good roads and clear signage, but traffic can be a problem. Fuel is notoriously expensive, as is parking, particularly in metropolitan areas. Generally, expats with a valid foreign driving licence in the Netherlands can use it for up to 185 days. Thereafter, they must exchange their licence, if eligible, or apply for a new one. When applying for a local licence, applicants must pass both a theory and practical test.