Getting around Eindhoven is straightforward thanks to an efficient and well-connected public transport system. While the city itself is perfect for cycling, public transport is ideal for longer distances, rainy days, or traveling to nearby towns and cities.
The OV-chipkaart: Your Key to Travel
The primary way to pay for all public transport in the Netherlands is the OV-chipkaart. It’s a rechargeable smart card used for buses, trains, trams, and metros nationwide.
- Anonymous vs. Personal Card: You can buy an anonymous card at stations and some supermarkets. A personal card, ordered online, can be linked to your bank account for automatic reloading and is required for travel subscriptions and discounts.
- How it Works: You must “check in” at the start of your journey by holding your card against the reader and “check out” in the same way when you exit. The system calculates the fare based on the distance traveled. Forgetting to check out can result in a penalty fare.
Buses in Eindhoven
The city and regional bus network in Eindhoven is operated by Hermes under the brand name Bravo. Buses are modern, comfortable, and frequent.
- Finding Your Way: The best way to plan your journey is by using apps like 9292 or Google Maps. They provide real-time departure information and route options.
- Key Routes: Several bus lines run from Eindhoven Central Station to key locations like High Tech Campus, Eindhoven Airport, and various residential areas. Lines 400 and 401 are direct shuttle buses to the airport.
Trains from Eindhoven Central
Eindhoven Centraal is a major railway hub connecting the city to the rest of the Netherlands and beyond. The national railway company is called NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen).
- Destinations: Direct intercity trains run frequently to major cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, and The Hague.
- Tickets: You can travel with your OV-chipkaart or buy single-use tickets at the station’s yellow machines or via the NS app. Remember to check in and out at the gates or platform poles.
Biking and Public Transport
The Netherlands is famous for its cycling culture. You can often combine biking with public transport. Most train stations have extensive bike parking facilities. It’s also possible to take your bicycle on the train during off-peak hours for a special fee.