NS Train Ticket Prices Will Increase, Again
With inflation catching up, NS raises fares up to 9% while warning of fuller trains and scrapped youth deals.
Train travel in the Netherlands is set to become more expensive next year, with ticket prices rising by 6 to 9%, according to a letter sent to the House of Representatives by caretaker State Secretary for Public Transport Thierry Aartsen (VVD). The Dutch Railways (NS) had initially projected a 12% increase, but cost-cutting measures will allow for a smaller hike.
Cost-Saving Measures and Passenger Impact
NS will reorganise train maintenance to reduce expenses. This includes keeping fewer trains available as a backup and postponing maintenance on busy days. While these changes will cut costs, they also increase the likelihood of overcrowded trains, especially during rush hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays, in the autumn, and in the Randstad region.
Additional adjustments include converting some first-class compartments into second-class, and discontinuing certain discount schemes, such as the Youth Day Pass, which previously allowed young travellers to make more affordable day trips.
Why Are Prices Increasing?
The fare hike stems from inflation not being fully accounted for in earlier years. In 2023, the Cabinet intervened to prevent a significant increase, but no government funds are available this year to do the same. According to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, the NS must now absorb these costs on its own.
Aartsen emphasised that NS and the Ministry have worked hard to limit the increase. “We’ve looked critically at all options to keep the fare hike as low as possible,” he stated.
Mixed Reactions and Concerns
NS says it would have preferred more government support and earlier agreements to better plan for 2026, especially as it continues to operate at a loss, faces wage disputes, and requires significant investments in new trains and infrastructure. The company is now independently saving around €200 million per year, including through cuts to its headquarters, IT, hiring, and housing expenses.
Passenger advocacy group Rover has criticised the decision, calling the price increase “unjustifiable” and warning that it could lead to a decline in public transport use. Director Freek Bos urged Parliament to step in and pressure the government to support travellers once again.
The final ticket prices for 2026 will be announced in the fall. For now, travellers can expect moderate increases, but potentially more crowded conditions and fewer perks.