Travelling by train & bicycle
Want to take your bicycle on the train? In many cases this is possible during off-peak hours with a Bicycle ticket Off-peak. Space is limited and not every type of bicycle is allowed. Check all the rules and tips here, so you can enjoy a smooth and relaxed journey.
When can you bring your bicycle?
On weekdays, you can bring your bicycle during off-peak hours: from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 pm. and from 6.30 pm. to 6.30 am. On weekends, public holidays (except King’s Day) and throughout July and August, bicycles are allowed all day. Please make sure there is enough space on the train. Each passenger may bring one bicycle.
Which bicycles are allowed?
With a Bicycle Ticket Off-peak, you can bring:
- a regular, electric, racing or mountain bike
- a disassembled bicycle
- a folding bicycle larger than 45 × 86 × 80 cm (whether folded or unfolded)
Tandems, tricycles and recumbent bicycles for travellers with disabilities may be taken free of charge all day, provided they meet the conditions for mobility aids. Unfortunately, cargo bikes, bicycle trailers and handcarts are not permitted on trains.
Travelling abroad by train?
Different rules apply for taking your bike. Find out more about taking your bike on an international train at nsinternational.com.
Purchase a Bicycle ticket Off-peak
In addition to your own ticket, you will need a Bicycle Ticket Off-peak for your bicycle, including at weekends and in July and August.
You can easily buy the ticket online or via the NS app for € 7.95. You can load the e-ticket in the app or print it out.
You can also purchase a Bicycle ticket Off-peak at a ticket machine or service desk at the station. This can be loaded onto your OV-chipkaart or issued on a disposable chip card (extra € 1.50).
Where can you board with your bicycle?
Board through the doors marked with a bicycle symbol. That’s where you’ll find the designated bicycle spaces. You can also see the maximum number of bicycles allowed.
- If there’s still space available, park your bicycle in a designated spot and remove your luggage to help keep the area clear for everyone.
- If the bicycle spaces are full, please wait for the next train and follow the instructions of the staff. Tip: allow a little extra time in case you need to wait for a less crowded train.
Small folding bicycles allowed all day
A fully folded bicycle smaller than 45 × 86 × 80 cm may be carried free of charge throughout the day. Please place it in a luggage compartment rather than in a bicycle space. No Bicycle ticket Off-peak is required for this.
Tip: rent an OV-fiets
No space on the train, or prefer to travel light? You can easily rent an OV-fiets at more than 300 locations. With one free subscription, you can rent up to two bicycles at a time. The NS app shows real-time availability. At many major stations, you can also park your own bicycle for free for the first 24 hours.
FAQ about bringing your bike on the train
-
Can I bring my e-step?
An e-step is considered hand luggage and you may take it with you if it meets the hand luggage conditions in the AVR-NS.
-
How do I take my bicycle past the barriers?
Present your travel product to the card reader to check in and open the barriers.
-
Can I take my bike on international trains?
- Domestic passengers travelling with a bike are not permitted on ICE, Eurostar and Nightjet services.
- During rush hour and in the summer months of July and August, bicycle transport on the Intercity Berlin and Intercity Brussels trains is reserved for travellers with an international bicycle ticket and a compulsory bicycle reservation.
- Outside of this period, you can also take your bicycle on the Dutch part of Eurocity Direct and EuroCity services. It is not possible to make a reservation for a domestic route.
For more information on travelling with your bike on international trains, please visit nsinternational.com.
-
Can I bring my bicycle when buses are being used?
No, you may not bring your bicycle with you on an NS bus. Regrettably, there is no space for bicycles.
Don't see your question here? please contact our Customer Service. We'll be happy to help you.
More about travelling by train and bicycle
