In Rotterdam, there is reliable and comprehensive public transportation. There are numerous ways to get about, including buses, trams, the metro, and boats. The primary modes of public transportation are buses and trams, which are run by RET. The five lines of the metro in Rotterdam, which connects the city center to the suburbs, are run by the Rotterdam Metro Company. A water bus service that runs between the city’s core and the harbor is also available in Rotterdam. An OV chip card, available at the public transportation offices and some supermarkets, is required to use all types of public transportation in Rotterdam.
Rotterdamse metro – Basic information
One of the Netherlands’ most effective and dependable public transit systems is the Metro in Rotterdam. From Capelle aan den IJssel in the south to Hoek van Holland in the west, it is made up of five lines that connect various areas of the city. It is a secure solution that provides practical features like free Wi-Fi and mobile ticketing. It is a fantastic way to navigate the city and take in everything Rotterdam has to offer.
The lines of the Rotterdam subway
Light rail – Line A & B
Lines A and B split off in the northeast of Rotterdam, going to Binnenhof (Line A) and Nesselande (Line B), respectively. Since September 2005, the latter has been expanded; until that time, this line ended at De Tochten. Except for the De Tochten-Nesselande segment, Lines A and B feature some level crossings (with priority) and hence might be referred to as light rail rather than metro north of Capelsebrug station and west of Schiedam Centrum station. In contrast to the majority of the system, which has a third rail (the only exception being Line E (RandstadRail) to The Hague), certain parts also feature overhead wires. However, in Rotterdam, most simply refer to these branches as metro, not light rail.
Line C (Capelsebrug to De Terp)
Line C departs from the main East-West segment at Capelsebrug and travels to De Terp in Capelle aan den IJssel. At the Tussenwater station in Hoogvliet, Line C merges with Line D. While trains on Line C continue and, like those on Line D, finish at De Akkers station in Spijkenisse, trains on Line A and B diverge to the Schiedam-Hoek van Holland line.
Line D (Rotterdam Centraal to De Akkers)
From Rotterdam Centraal, Line D travels to De Akkers via Beurs, Slinge, Rhoon, Tussenwater, and Spijkenisse Centrum. At Beurs station, Line D meets Lines A, B, and C. Some Line D trains used to terminate in Slinge during rush hour before the connection with Line E at Rotterdam Centraal being established in December 2011.
Line E – former Hofpleinlijn railway line
In 2006, the former Hofpleinlijn was directly transformed from a railway line to a rapid transit line as Line E. On two routes from the Hague tram network that travel towards Zoetermeer via the Zoetermeer Stadslijn, light rail vehicles share the stretch of the route between Laan van NOI and Leidschendam-Voorburg. These products and services are all marketed as RandstadRail. The line’s southern terminus was initially maintained as the old Hofplein station. The line’s northern terminus made use of the former railroad platforms at Den Haag Centraal, which had been transferred from the previous terminus at Den Haag Hollands Spoor and had been in service since 1975.
Rotterdam Metro map 2024 – Download
Click and download the map of Rotterdam’s underground system for 2024
You may now download the Map of Rotterdam Metro 2024 for free in PDF format. Anyone who wants to learn more about the city of Rotterdam and its public transportation system should check it out. The map gives a thorough overview of the region’s transportation system by including all of the metro lines, stops, and connections. Visitors may simply traverse the city with this map and move about swiftly and safely. It can also be used to make ahead travel plans and choose the most effective routes. It’s now much simpler to explore Rotterdam thanks to this free download.
Public transport tickets – actual prices
The OV-chipkaart is the most practical choice for individuals who are simply travelling through Rotterdam. This card is accepted in Rotterdam and on every kind of public transit in the Netherlands. The card will calculate the cost of your trip automatically as you tap in and out of it. It is simple to buy and top off at any ticket machine.
A day pass or multi-day pass can be your best bet if you intend to remain in Rotterdam for a few days. For one or three days, the Rotterdam Day Pass entitles you to unlimited use of the city’s public transportation without the need to buy individual tickets. Depending on how many days you buy the pass for, the price changes.
The Rotterdam Tourist Pass is a fantastic choice for individuals who intend to remain in Rotterdam for a long period of time. You may utilize all forms of public transit for a whole week with this pass, which also offers savings at a number of restaurants and activities.
In Rotterdam, there are several different ways to purchase a ticket for public transportation. The Rotterdam Day Pass is the best choice for those who will be in town for a few days because it enables you to utilize all forms of public transit without needing to buy individual tickets.
Summary of fares for public transport in Rotterdam
- OV-chipkaart is accepted on all Dutch public transportation – the best option for traveling
- A Rotterdam Day Pass for 1 or 3 days provides unlimited access to the city’s public transportation.
- A weeklong Rotterdam Tourist Pass provides unlimited access to public transportation as well as discounts at restaurants and attractions.
Timetables & Schedules for Metro
On weekdays, the Metro is open from 6 am to 12 am, while on weekends, it is open from 6 am until 1 am. The first train leaves the Slinge station every weekday at 6 am, while the last train leaves at 11:30 a.m. The first train leaves on weekends at 6 a.m., and the final train leaves at 12:30 a.m. During peak hours, trains operate every 5 to 10 minutes, and off-peak hours, they run every 15 to 20 minutes. It is simple to get from one place in Rotterdam to another because of connections between the tram and bus networks and the Metro system.
What Are Other Options For Public Transportation?
In addition to the metro, Rotterdam has a variety of other public transit choices. Along with the waterbus and watertaxi, these include the tram and bus networks. There are numerous tram and bus lines that travel around the city and its environs, making getting around town simple and convenient. Passengers can travel while taking in the scenery on the waterbus and watertaxi, which both offer scenic routes along the river and canals. The city of Rotterdam also has a bike rental scheme that enables short-term bicycle rentals. Both commuters and visitors can benefit from these alternate modes of transportation, which give them a range of options for travelling around the city.
how does the public bus transportation work in Rotterdam
In Rotterdam, public bus transit is a crucial component of the city’s transportation system because it offers residents and visitors a practical and reasonably priced means of transportation. More than 100 bus routes make up the city’s extensive public bus network, which serves the whole metro region. The majority of the city’s bus services are run by RET, the city’s primary public bus provider. Modern and comfortable buses that are operated by RET are instantly recognized by their eye-catching yellow and blue livery. All buses have air conditioning and plenty of luggage room.
Every zone in the city has its own set of bus lines and stations. The city is divided into zones. The city core is served by several bus lines, including lines 4, 7, 9, and 10. All of the city’s well-known sights and destinations are conveniently accessible thanks to the regular service provided by these lines. Other bus routes, such as lines 1, 2, and 3, are available to take you to the city’s periphery. Access to some of Rotterdam’s more rural districts, as well as the neighboring towns and villages, is made possible via these lines.
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) – public TRAINS
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), the national railroad of the Netherlands, runs trains in Rotterdam. The Noord-Zuidlijn (North-South Line) and the Hoekse Lijn (Hoek Line) are the two lines that make up the network.
- The Noord-Zuidlijn links Rotterdam’s city center to that city
- The Hoekse Lijn and Hague Airport provide access from the city center to Hoek van Holland.
The Netherlands’ other major cities can be reached by train from Rotterdam. Serving the cities of Utrecht, Amsterdam, Arnhem, and Leeuwarden is the Noord-Zuidlijn. The Hague, Delft, Schiedam, Vlaardingen, and Hoek van Holland are all connected to Rotterdam via the Hoekse Lijn.
The Benelux train network also connects Rotterdam to other European cities. The Benelux train is a transatlantic service that runs between Rotterdam and Luxembourg City as well as between Rotterdam and Brussels in Belgium. This train connects these cities three times daily and provides a comfortable and practical mode of transportation.
The Eurostar connects Rotterdam to other European cities in addition to the Benelux train. The Eurostar is a fast train that travels between Rotterdam and Paris in France as well as between Rotterdam and London in the United Kingdom. These cities can be reached quickly and comfortably by taking this train, which runs twice daily.
How To Get From Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) To The City Center With Public Transport?
Public transportation is the best option if you want to get from Rotterdam The Hague Airport to the city center. With a distance of only 18 kilometers from the city center, the airport is simple to get to by bus, train, and tram. What you need to know about going from the airport to the city center is provided here.
The bus is the quickest and most convenient way to get to the city center. Rotterdam The RET bus line 33 provides service to The Hague Airport. The bus leaves from the airport’s bus station and travels to the city center in around 30 minutes. Tickets for the bus are available at the airport’s ticket machines, and it runs seven days a week.
Take a train as your second choice. The RandstadRail line E, which departs from the airport and travels to the city center in around 25 minutes, serves the airport. Tickets can be purchased from the ticket dispensers at the airport, and the train runs seven days a week.
Take the tram as your third choice. Rotterdam The RET tram line 2 provides service to The Hague Airport. It takes the tram about 30 minutes to travel from the tram stop at the airport to the city center. Tickets for the tram can be obtained from the ticket dispensers at the airport, and it operates seven days a week.
how to spend 3 days in Rotterdam?
Are you trying to find the ideal three-day trip in Rotterdam? Rotterdam is the ideal location for a weekend break because of its vibrant culture, varied attractions, and thrilling nightlife. There are many ways to see the finest of Rotterdam in three days, whether you’re an experienced tourist or a first-time visitor. To help you make the most of your time in the city, here is a guide.
First, be sure to check out some of the most popular sights in the city. There are many places to see in Rotterdam, including the famous Erasmus Bridge and the old Markthal. To gain a fascinating understanding of the history and culture of the city, go to the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. Visit the Dutch Water Line, a system of fortifications that has long kept Rotterdam safe from attack.
After experiencing the history and culture of the city, try some of the local cuisine. From quaint cafes to Michelin-starred restaurants, Rotterdam is home to a diverse range of dining establishments. The easiest way to find the city’s secret gems is to ask the locals for advice.
Last but not least, don’t skip the city’s nightlife. There are several taverns, clubs, and music venues in Rotterdam. There is something for everyone, whether you want a fun night out at a jazz club or a busy evening at your neighborhood bar.
What other metro systems are nearby to Rotterdam?
The Dutch city of Rotterdam has a dedicated metro system that serves it. However, there are additional metro systems close by Rotterdam that make it simple to go to other cities. These include the metro systems of Amsterdam, Den Haag, and Utrecht. The RandstadRail is a light rail system that links Rotterdam to neighboring cities including Schiedam, Delft, and The Hague for individuals who want to learn more about the Netherlands.
Summary of our tour guide for Rotterdam
Since I’ve been a resident of Rotterdam for the past five years, I’ve had personal experience with the city’s transit system. The metro, trams, and buses all run on time and provide good coverage of all the major locations, making it an effective and convenient method to navigate around the city. Despite not always being the most comfortable or enjoyable experience, the system is dependable and far less expensive than other forms of transportation. I enjoy that I can always rely on public transit when I need to get somewhere quickly because it has made it so easy for me to reach practically any destination in the city.
Top 5 FAQs and answers about Rotterdam public transport?
What kinds of transportation are offered in Rotterdam?
- Buses, trams, metro lines, and waterbuses are all part of the comprehensive public transportation system of Rotterdam. The city’s metro system consists of four lines: A, B, C, and D, and it extends from the downtown area to the city’s outskirts. Additionally broad and covering the entire city is the bus system. The waterbuses connect the suburbs with the trams that travel through the city’s core.
How much does using Rotterdam’s public transportation cost?
- Depending on the type of ticket you buy, utilizing the public transportation in Rotterdam will cost you. Ticket prices range from €3.50 for one trip to €7.50 for a day pass to €37.50 for a four-week pass. Children and elderly are eligible for discounts as well.
How do I purchase tickets?
- There are numerous ways to buy tickets. All stations have ticket vending machines, and you can also purchase tickets at ticket offices or online. At the machines and ticket offices, you can also buy tickets using debit or credit cards.
What are the public transportation’s operational hours?
- In Rotterdam, the public transportation system is open from 5:00 am until 1:00 am. The service is available on weekends from 6:00 am to 12:00 midnight.
Are there any special offers?
- Yes, travelers are eligible for a number of discounts. Discounts for elders, students, and young children under the age of six are among them. Additionally, tickets for groups of up to five people may be purchased.
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