Buying a car or going with public transport in The Netherlands? Read more in this article about the benefits of both options
Buying a car vs Public Transport: What Works Best in the Netherlands?
In the Netherlands, both options are available. But which one is cheaper and more convenient? In some countries, like the U.S., people drive for hours to get to work. But here in the Netherlands, that’s not common. The country is small, and the roads and trains are well-connected in many places, so travel can be easier and faster.
Keep in mind that public transportation is way more efficient in the ‘Randstad’ compared to the rest of the Netherlands. For example, the larger cities have an excellent public transport system within the cities.
Why You Might Want to Buy a Car
Having a car gives you freedom. You can go wherever you want, whenever you want. Not every neighborhood is close to public transport, especially new neighborhoods outside big cities (called Vinex-wijken). You might have to walk or bike for at least 20 minutes just to reach a bus or train. On top of that, public transport is also expensive. A daytrip from Amsterdam Central to Rotterdam Central and going back to Amsterdam is at least 38 euro’s.
With a car, you don’t have to wait. You can leave anytime and often arrive earlier. Even late at night or early in the morning, your car is always ready to go.
Top 3 benefits of having a car:
- You can travel anytime.
- You can go anywhere.
- You often arrive (a lot!) faster.
But Cars Are Expensive
Having a car in the Netherlands costs money. Here’s what you’ll need to pay for:
- Insurance: Around €30 to €100 per month depending on your car and how well it’s covered.
- Road tax: Based on your province and the car’s weight. For example:
- Petrol car (1251 kg) in North Holland: about €54.33/month
- Same car in Utrecht: about €56/month
- Fuel (petrol): Costs change, but are usually €1.40–€1.80 per liter. If you fill up 30 liters, that’s around €42–€54. Do that 3 times a month, and you’ll spend about €126–€162.
- Maintenance & Safety Check (APK):
- APK once a year: around €75
- Small and large repairs: about €750 over 3 years
- Total yearly average: about €27
- Parking: In some cities like Amsterdam, it can cost up to €7.50 per hour! Paid parking is increasing across the country.
So, driving is flexible but it is expensive.
Why Public Transport is a Great Option
Public transport is well-organized in the Netherlands. You can use trains, buses, trams, subways, or even ferries (especially in big cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam).
If you live in a big city, public transport will take you almost everywhere. Trains and buses run often and are usually on time.
Example: You can travel from Amsterdam West to the center of Tilburg (another city in the south) in just under 2 hours!
Even if you live outside the city, it’s easy: take the subway or metro to a big train station, hop on the train, and finish the trip by bus.
Downsides of Public Transport
- Not the same everywhere: If you live far from a train station (like in a Vinex-wijk), you’ll need to bike or walk. If the station is far, it might take longer.
- It can be expensive: Train tickets are not cheap, especially on workdays. But here’s a tip: ask your employer for an “OV-kaart” (public transport card). Many companies pay for your commuting costs.
Examples of travel costs (without a work card):
- Amsterdam to Tilburg: €22.30 one-way → €44.60 return → ~€892/month (for 20 workdays)
- Amsterdam to Utrecht: €10.70 one-way → €21.40 return → ~€428/month
So always check if your company pays for your travel.
Conclusion: Buying a Car vs Public Transport in the Netherlands
There’s no one right answer. It depends on:
- Where you live
- Where you work
- If your company pays for transport
- How long the trip takes
If your car ride takes 30 minutes and the train takes 90 minutes, and money isn’t a problem, a car might make your life easier. Think about what gives you more comfort and saves time — that can really improve your work-life balance!
