There are two types of trains in Amsterdam, intercity and local. Intercity trains go directly from Amsterdam to other cities on an express route, while local trains stop at all stations along the way. Therefore, if you are traveling to another city in the Netherlands, the intercity trains will usually be the quickest, easiest and least expensive ways to get from one point to the next.
The prices of train tickets are calculated in the same way as other forms of train & public transport around the city are calculated (except for those that still accept strip tickets, which are slightly different). That is to say that your price will be calculated based on the distance that you travel. You can purchase tickets at the vibrant yellow and blue ticket stands that are located outside and inside train stations, or you can go to an NS service desk (where the staff will be able to assist you if you are not sure which ticket is suitable for the trip you intend to make). There are also kiosks and convenience shops at the train stations where you can purchase tickets, along with other NS outlets. While you can’t purchase tickets online, you can plan your trip online using the NS routeplanner. This online gadget lets you know the times and prices for your travels.
There are different kinds of tickets that you can purchase for your train travel, and it is worth considering which kinds are the most convenient and practical for your needs. The options include:
- single and return tickets, which must be used on the date of purchase (though breaks mid-journey are allowed if the entire trip is completed between midnight and 4.00 the following day;
- 5 return tickets for the same journey that you can purchase at once (these are not dated, so they must be validated at the start of each trip, or they will not be accepted once you are on the train);
- weekend return (which is valid from 19.00 Friday until 4.00 Monday morning, and with which both journeys must be completed in one day).
It is worth noting that you can no longer purchase tickets on the trains in Amsterdam. Therefore, it is important to be sure that you have a (valid) ticket at the time that you enter the train. Otherwise, you will be subject to a fine and might be asked to leave the train at the next departure point.
Train Stations in Amsterdam
- Central Station
Stationsplein 15
1012 AA Amsterdam - Amstel
Julianaplein 1
1097 DN Amsterdam - Bijlmer
Hoogoorddreef
1102 BH Amsterdam - Duivendracht
Stationsplein 1
1115 BZ Duivendrecht - Lelylaan
C. Lelylaan 25
1062 AD Amsterdam - Muiderpoort
Oosterspoorplein 1
1093 JW Amsterdam - RAI
Europaboulevard 6
1083 AD Amsterdam - Sloterdijk
Orlyplein 105
1043 DT Amsterdam - Zuid/WTC
Zuidplein 10
1077 XV Amsterdam
