Transportation
Your guide to getting around Enschede and the Netherlands with ease and efficiency.
Overview
Transportation is a crucial aspect when moving to a new country. The Netherlands offers a variety of options to meet everyone's needs. From cycling, which is the country's primary mode of transport, to the extensive public transport network and alternative solutions like bike and train combinations, you'll find plenty of accessible options. This guide provides all the necessary information to organize your daily commutes effectively, saving you time, effort, and money, while helping you adapt to the local lifestyle.
Map of Enschede and nearby cities.
Cycling
Cycling is the primary mode of transportation in the Netherlands. The infrastructure is excellently adapted for bicycles, with cyclists often given priority over drivers. However, following traffic rules is crucial for safety.
Where to Get a Bicycle?
For short-term stays, consider renting a bicycle long-term. Many companies offer this service, often including maintenance and repairs in the monthly subscription.
Public Transport Options
OV-chipkaart
The OV-chipkaart is a rechargeable transportation card used for all public transport in the Netherlands, including buses, trains, metro, and trams. There are two types: anonymous and personal. The personal card allows for additional functionalities like discounts and subscriptions tailored to your needs.
OV-pay
OV-pay is a modern solution allowing travelers to use public transport without an OV-chipkaart. It supports contactless payment via debit or credit cards and mobile payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Ideal for occasional travelers.
OV-fiets
OV-fiets is a bike rental service available at train stations. You can activate OV-fiets on your OV-chipkaart and rent bikes for short trips. Costs are around €4.55 per 24 hours.
Traveling by Train
If you plan to stay in Gronau, Germany, a train journey to Enschede takes only 12 minutes. The Deutsche Bahn offers the Deutschland-Ticket, allowing unlimited travel within Germany (and to Enschede) for €49 per month. For the second part of your journey, you can use an OV-fiets or leave your own bike at the Enschede station.