Getting around
The Netherlands possesses a highly developed transport infrastructure. With more than 152 million kilometres of tracks, the country has the busiest railway network in Europe. There are also more than 135,000 kilometres of modern roadways, 35,000 kilometres of bicycle paths and more bikes than people. So, one way or another, there is no problem in getting from A to B. You can find below some information on transport in Utrecht Region and the Netherlands.
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Bicycle
Bicycle
Dutch cycling philosophy can be summed up in two words: calm and assertive. Once this is understood, riding a bike becomes much easier and more relaxed. In the cities, cycling is the most popular ways of getting around, so don’t miss out on this ultimate Dutch experience.
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Car
Car
With a highly developed and well-signposted road system, driving in the Netherlands is easy. Due to its central location and the nation’s extensive road network, Utrecht Region is well connected to the rest of the country.
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Taxi
Taxi
Taxis are relatively expensive in the Netherlands. If you need a taxi, make sure the meter is working and check if the costs are fixed before you start your journey. Uber is also widely used in the cities. Use the link below to check taxi fares in Utrecht Region.
Public Transport
Dutch public transport includes trains, buses, trams, metros, ferries and OV bikes. It is possible to purchase daily and weekly transit passes to use public transport (openbaar vervoer or OV in Dutch). However, it is much cheaper, easier and more common to travel with the ‘OV-Chipkaart’. A wide range of companies accept this card and it will help get you around the country with ease. There are two options: you can obtain a blue ‘anonymous’ card (one that is not tied to a specific person, so it is useful if you plan to share it with others) at train stations, tobacconists or supermarkets; or you can acquire a yellow ‘personal’ card, which includes your name and picture, and is available online at www.ov-chipkaart.nl. The advantage of a personal card is that you can take out annually renewable discounted subscriptions with particular transit companies. Click here to apply for a personal OV-Chipkaart and find information about pick up points for an anonymous OV-Chipkaart. You will need a minimum amount of money on both cards to be able to travel. This is 4 euros for buses, trams, and metros, and 10 or 20 euros for trains. Machines to top up your credit are located at train stations, supermarkets and elsewhere. It's also possible to automatically top up your credit.
Sometimes it is also possible to travel with your debit card of credit card. This can be convenient since you don't have to sign up or arrange a OV-Chipkaart.
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Train
Train
A lot of people travel through Utrecht Central Station, the largest train station of the Netherlands. On the NS website and its reisplanner app, you can find timetables, and buy travel products. You can plan your journey door to door, as the planner also includes the timetables of other public transport systems.
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Bus
Bus
You will be surprised just how comprehensive the bus network is in the Netherlands. From the major cities to the smallest village, there are almost always services available. Buses generally run at least every 30 minutes and every 10 to 15 minutes in busier regions.
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Tram
Tram
The tram is easy to jump on and off and gets you to your destination quickly. Utrecht has invested in new tramlines with a direct connection to the Utrecht Science Park. Click the link below to plan your trip.
Any questions?
Do you require more information? The information officers at the Utrecht International Center
are always to assist you with any questions you may have.
Other settling-in topics
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Culture & leisure
Culture & leisure
There is a lot to explore in Utrecht Region: the history, the beautiful countryside and the wide variety of museums, theatres and events. Discover useful suggestions for day trips and gain the latest insights into culture and leisure in Utrecht Region.
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Education & childcare
Education & childcare
How does the Dutch education system work? On this page, you will find information about the structure of education in the Netherlands and cover the entire system from childcare to primary and secondary education through to vocational and higher education.
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Learning Dutch
Learning Dutch
Do you want to learn the Dutch language? Utrecht Region offers many learning opportunities. Learn about- the local subsidised language courses, language schools & cafés, and self-study opportunities.