The NS is running extra trains between Amsterdam Centraal and Zandvoort aan Zee from this Friday (August 21) to Sunday (August 23).
The Dutch rail provider predicts thousands of fans will descend on the coast for the last-ever Dutch Grand Prix under Formula 1’s current contract.
To make room for the surge, the NS has reshuffled its timetable across several routes through to this Sunday. Even if you aren’t travelling to Zandvoort, there’s a chance your commute might be affected.
Here’s what to know, from extra trains to route changes and even special tickets.
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NS now offers special day tickets (with a Saturday discount)
In addition to organising extra trains to and from Zandvoort, NS is selling event-specific rail tickets for the Grand Prix weekend.
If you haven’t got an OVpas (or OV-chipkaart) and you’re looking to avoid queues at the ticket machine, you can opt for:
- Dutch Grand Prix Dagretour: This is a one-day ticket, valid for a return journey from any station across the Netherlands to Zandvoort aan Zee. Staying over the weekend instead? You can adjust your travel days with the Dutch Grand Prix Terugreis.
- Dutch Grand Prix Railrunner: Similar to the Dagretour, this is a one-day ticket specifically for children aged 4 to 11. Got children younger than that? Good news: they can travel for free!
- Dutch Grand Prix Heenreis: If you’re staying in Zandvoort over the weekend, this one-day ticket will take you straight to Zandvoort aan Zee (with no return journey).
All the tickets allow you to choose between first and second class, but you’ll have to leave your trusty fiets behind, because bikes aren’t permitted.
For commuters travelling on a Saturday, the rail provider notes that you can get discounts of up to 60% if you arrive in Zandvoort before 9 AM, with an NS PrijsTijd Deal.
Helaas, other commuters may experience delays
Of course, there’s always a catch somewhere. In this case, the NS warns that several rail timetables have been changed to accommodate the Grand Prix routes.
While the news bulletin wasn’t forthcoming about which routes, specifically, have been altered, the rail provider advises consulting their reisplanner (or journey planner) before you take the train this weekend.
In addition to altered routes, the NS suggests allowing for “longer transfer and waiting times than usual”, even if you aren’t travelling to Zandvoort.
Will you be braving the crowds among the sand dunes, watching the action at home, or cursing a weekend of rail chaos? Share your thoughts in the comments.
