NS Price Hike 2026: Paying Record Fares for Record Delays?

Utrecht – “Dames en heren, jongens en meisjes…” usually signals the start of a journey. But in January 2026, for many commuters, it signals the start of a headache. Following the latest price adjustments, taking the train in the Netherlands has become significantly more expensive, even as service reliability hits new lows.

The Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) has implemented its annual tariff increase, but this year it bites harder than usual. With the introduction of steeper “Rush Hour Surcharges” (Spitsheffing) and inflation corrections, a round trip between major cities now costs a small fortune. Are we paying luxury prices for a standing-room-only experience?

Table of Contents

• The Price Shock: Commuting Costs Soar
• The ‘Spitsheffing’: Penalty for Working 9-to-5
• The Reality: Short Trains & Staff Shortages
• Is the Car Cheaper? (The Math)
• Survival Guide: How to Pay Less
• Key Takeaways
• Dutch Learning Corner

The Price Shock: Commuting Costs Soar

As of January 1st, ticket prices have risen by an average of 6% to 8%.

While this might sound manageable, it adds up. A standard second-class return ticket (dagretour) between Amsterdam Central and Rotterdam Central during peak hours has crossed the psychological price barrier. For expats who commute daily without a full employer reimbursement, this is a massive hit to monthly disposable income.

The ‘Spitsheffing’: Penalty for Working 9-to-5

The most controversial change is the aggressive differentiation between Peak (Spits) and Off-Peak (Dal) pricing.

NS argues they need to spread the crowds. Their solution? Make traveling during Rush Hour (06:30–09:00 and 16:00–18:30) painfully expensive.

Critics call this a “9-to-5 Tax.” Most people don’t choose to travel at 08:00 AM for fun; they do it because their boss expects them at the office. By raising these prices, NS is effectively penalizing the working class.

The Reality: Short Trains & Staff Shortages

Dutch commuters would likely accept higher prices if the service was impeccable. It is not.

The “Personeelstekort” Excuse:

Due to a chronic shortage of conductors and machinists, NS is running fewer trains.

* The Result: Shorter trains during rush hour.
* The Experience: You pay premium prices to stand in a balcony area, pressed against a toilet door, because there are no seats available.

Furthermore, the prestigious Intercity Direct remains plagued by technical issues, often forcing passengers onto slower regional trains without a refund of the supplement.

Is the Car Cheaper? (The Math)

With train prices rising, the “Car vs. Train” debate has reopened.

Despite the rising Road Tax (MRB) and petrol prices, for a family of four or even a couple, taking the car is now often cheaper than buying four train tickets—even when factoring in parking. This undermines the government’s goal of pushing people towards sustainable public transport.

Survival Guide: How to Pay Less

If you must take the train, never pay full price.

1. Dal Voordeel Subscription: For just ~€5 per month, you get 40% off during weekends and off-peak hours.
2. NS Flex: Switch your subscription monthly based on your travel needs.
3. Travel 1st Class (Secret Hack): Ironically, during extreme rush hour disruptions, NS sometimes declassifies 1st class, allowing everyone to sit there. Listen to announcements!

Key Takeaways

• Price Hike: Expect to pay ~8% more for your commute in 2026.
• Rush Hour Pain: Traveling between 07:30-08:30 is the most expensive option.
• Crowding: Staff shortages mean shorter trains and more standing.
• Subscription Essential: Traveling on a full-fare single ticket (zonder abonnement) is financial suicide.

Dutch Learning Corner