Dutch trains are modern, clean and punctual. On the train you have two class choices: 1st or 2nd class. The different classes are indicated with a large 1 or 2 painted on the outside of the train. 1st class costs about 50% more and gives you a slightly larger seat in a compartment that is less likely to be full. Smoking is not allowed on any train.
Train tickets are either one-way(enkele reis) or two-way(retour).They are valid only on the day you buy them. You buy your ticket at a ticket window or at a yellow ticket machine at the station. You can pay cash or your bank card.
If you want to travel to another city for the weekend, you can save money by buying a so called ‘weekend retour’.The only condition is to leave on Friday after 1900 and make sure to be back before 0400 on Monday.
If you want to travel extensively within the Netherlands, it is advisable to buy a so-called ‘voordeel-urenkaart’. This pass gives you 40% reduction on your train tickets if you travel on weekdays after 0900hours or during the weekends. Furthermore you can take three other persons with the same 40% reduction provided that you travel together.This railway pass costs €55 and is valid for a whole year.
Ns train information centre: 0900-9292 or 099-9296 (for international train travels).
More info: www.ns.nl
If you are traveling by train and have a lot of luggage, you can use a train taxi. You buy train taxi tickets when you buy the train ticket. One trip costs €6 to €9 for one person, for 2-6km within the local area. For more information or to book a train taxi call 0900-873 46 82 (0,35 euro p.m.) or visit www.treintaxi.nl
For international traveling by train visit: www.nsinternationaal.nl or www.thalys.com