Living in the South of the Netherlands? Then getting to Schiphol for that early morning flight must be a nightmare! Not anymore though…
The German railway company, Arriva, wants to compete with our beloved NS and has launched a new night train from Maastricht to Schiphol airport.
This way, travellers from the south can at least catch some shut-eye before tackling the chaos that is Schiphol.
Comfortable and cost effective
Not only is this a much more comfortable option (have you tried to sleep on an NS train before?), but compared to the current NS prices, it will also be way cheaper.
Tickets will only cost €10 for a one-way ride, metro reports. For context, this ticket would usually cost a whopping €27.90 with the NS.
The route
The new night train will take you not only to Schiphol airport, but it will also stop along the road at Sittard, Roermond, Weert, Eindhoven, Den Bosch, Utrecht, Amsterdam Bijlmer Arena, and Amsterdam Zuid stations.
READ MORE: The NS is changing its trains: here’s what you need to know
While southerners may be popping the champagne bottles right now, the good news is also coming for northerners. Arriva also plans to start an additional line from Groningen at the beginning of 2023.
The schedule
For now, there will be one train per week that will leave Maastricht station at 1:01 AM on Fridays. The train will arrive at 3:15 AM at Schiphol Airport, meaning it’s perfect for those who want to catch their early morning zombie flight.
READ MORE: Dinner time! Man uses air fryer to cook kaasoufflés on NS train
The train then departs from the airport at 5:40 AM and arrives back at 7:57 AM.
Ok, what’s the catch?
Listen, it’s 2022, and we all know at this stage that good things come with at least a few strings attached. Let’s talk about them.
Firstly, it’s worth noting that because Arriva is a separate company, you won’t be able to use your OV chip card (or your discount) for your travel. Instead, you will need to purchase your ticket on the Arriva app — not too bad, right?
READ MORE: Packed NS trains: complaints rise as number of trains drop
Secondly, the ticket will guarantee you a place to sit, however, if your train is late, you will only be reimbursed the cost of the ticket, there’ll be no extra compensation.
Will you use the new night train? Tell us in the comments!
Pretty sure you can use your ov chip in Arriva trains and busses.
Absolutely! Welcome more night trains, indeed! ❤
If I ever have an early morning flight on a Saturday, I will definitely use this option! It has been a nightmare getting to Schiphol from Den Bosch for the early flights.