Arnhem–Utrecht Train Disruptions Start 20 October: Dates and Alternatives

1. Which Routes Are Affected, and When?

NS has announced two phases of disruption. The exact closure matters: passengers should not assume that the same stretch of track is closed throughout the full period.

These dates come from NS and ProRail’s published work notices. ProRail says the track-free period at Wolfheze is scheduled to end at 07:00 on Sunday, 1 November. Services can be affected differently on either side of the station, so check the exact origin and destination in the planner.

2. Alternative Routes to Utrecht and Amsterdam

NS expects replacement buses to be busy and advises passengers to consider travelling by train around the affected area where possible. The best option depends on where your journey begins and ends.

• Travelling between Utrecht Centraal and Nijmegen: the current NS disruption information lists a route via ‘s-Hertogenbosch.
• Travelling from Amsterdam Centraal to Arnhem Centraal: NS lists a route via Amersfoort and Deventer.
• Travelling between Arnhem and Ede-Wageningen: replacement buses will be used during the relevant phase, from 24 to 31 October.

These are route suggestions for the specified journeys, not a guarantee that the same detour is best for every station pair. Check your full journey—including transfers—before leaving, and allow additional time in case connections are tight.

Official trip planner: NS: works around Driebergen-Zeist, Ede-Wageningen and Arnhem Centraal.

3. Where Do Replacement Buses Leave From?

NS will operate replacement buses, but the departure side of Arnhem Centraal changes by date and destination. Do not simply follow the same route to the bus every day.

NS says the bus departure points can change according to the date. Use the NS work-information page and the journey planner for the most up-to-date departure location and connection.

4. Why Is the Railway Closed?

The main project at Wolfheze is the installation of a new railway underpass to replace the level crossing on Wolfhezerweg. During the closure, the underpass structure will be moved into its final position beneath the railway. Sections of track and overhead equipment then need to be rebuilt and checked before trains can return.

ProRail says it will use specialist equipment, including a Kirow rail crane, for the operation. The current plan is to move the underpass deck into position during the night of Saturday 24 October into Sunday 25 October. The Wolfheze station square is also being redesigned to make it more accessible for people with reduced mobility.

There are also works at Maarsbergen during the same period. Together, these projects require the railway closure and help explain why the disruption affects more than just the immediate area around Wolfheze.

The engineering work is intended to improve safety and traffic flow by separating road and rail movements. The precise return to service remains subject to the work being completed and the necessary checks.

5. Practical Tips for Passengers

• Plan again shortly before departure. NS recommends using the journey planner or app close to the time you travel, because it gives the most current route advice.
• Leave extra time. Replacement buses can be busy, and the journey may take longer than usual. A longer transfer can also mean you miss a connection.
• Check the exact station. A route that works for Arnhem Centraal may not be the best choice for Ede-Wageningen, Rhenen or Wolfheze.
• Look for the correct bus stop. At Arnhem Centraal, the replacement bus departure point differs by period and destination.
• Check the return journey too. If you are travelling home later in the day, the service pattern or bus departure point may differ from your outward trip.

For wider public-transport updates, see our guide to public transport strikes in the Netherlands.

6. Accessibility, Tickets and Compensation

Passengers using replacement buses should expect a different boarding arrangement from a regular train. NS warns that there may be a high step onto the bus, longer walking distances to and from the bus stop, and more standing while waiting. If you use a wheelchair or another mobility aid, contact NS Reisassistentie before travelling to arrange suitable assistance. NS lists the number 030 235 7822 for travel assistance.

You still need a valid ticket or travel product when using an NS replacement bus. NS says you do not pay extra for the overall journey just because part of it is made by a replacement bus. Follow the temporary check-in and check-out instructions at the station and bus stop.

Because these are planned engineering works, NS says a longer journey time caused by the announced timetable does not normally qualify for compensation. Its conditions say passengers may still be able to claim if the train is at least 30 minutes later than the timetable shown in the NS journey planner. Check the current rules and your specific journey before submitting a claim.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

Are all trains between Arnhem and Utrecht cancelled for 12 days?

No. The closures are split into phases and affect specific sections on different dates. From 20–23 October the affected sections include Driebergen-Zeist–Arnhem Centraal and Driebergen-Zeist–Rhenen. From 24–31 October, the announced closure is Arnhem Centraal–Ede-Wageningen.

Will there be replacement buses?

Yes. NS will operate replacement buses on affected sections, but expects them to be busy. Check the journey planner for the right bus and departure location.

Can I travel to Utrecht or Amsterdam another way?

Alternative train routes may be available. NS lists a route via ‘s-Hertogenbosch between Utrecht Centraal and Nijmegen, and a route via Amersfoort and Deventer between Amsterdam Centraal and Arnhem Centraal. Confirm the best route for your exact journey in the NS planner.

When will trains return through Wolfheze?

ProRail’s current schedule says trains will not run to, from or through Wolfheze from 01:00 on 20 October until 07:00 on Sunday, 1 November. This is the published plan; check for updates before travelling.

Do I need to buy a separate ticket for a replacement bus?

You need a valid ticket or travel product, but NS says there is no extra charge for the overall journey when you use its replacement bus service.