Can someone please help me understand the easiest and most cost effective way to get between these 3 cities. I plan to start in Ghent and would like to visit both Delft and Amsterdam. The train fares seemed steep for a 1 hour ride, but maybe my expectations aren't correct. Are there buses? Thanks in advance for any advice you may offer.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9109 posts
In which order are you visiting the cities?? From Ghent to Delft, you need to connect in Antwerp. In Antwerp take the inter-city "international" train to Rotterdam (it ends it's journey in Amsterdam), then transfer to a local train to Delft. Fare is around 40 euros, travel time about 3 hours. To/From Delft to Amsterdam there are direct trains every 15 minutes or so.
Posted by
Los Angeles, California
1986 posts
Echoing above: Trains between Delft and Amsterdam are easy and relatively quick.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9109 posts
11.50 euros one-way. Check schedules and fares at the Dutch Rail site: http://www.ns.nl
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
Martha, I'm not sure which site you were using, but it may have quoted prices for the high-speed Thalys line, which is much more expensive and only stops in Brussels, Antwerp, Rotterdam and Amsterdam (including Schipol airport, I think...). The most cost effective way to visit the cities you listed is basically what the others have said. Use a Belgian rail (NMBS) intercity train from Ghent to Antwerp, the "international train" (quotes because that's what they call it over the loudspeaker, this is a different train than Thalys) from Antwerp to Den Haag, then local transportation from Den Haag to Delft. I'm not sure if this last connection would be Dutch Rail (NS), a tram or a commuter train. One ticket from Ghent should cover the entire trip. Just specify at the counter that you don't want the Thalys option. Trains leave from all destinations very frequently. Reservations are neither necessary nor available.