Netherlands launches €49 unlimited summer train pass

The Dutch national railway operator NS, in partnership with the government, has introduced the NS Flex Dal Vrij (also called Nederland Dal Vrij Trein), a temporary summer subscription that offers unlimited off‑peak train travel across the Netherlands for €49 per month. The pass can be bought for up to two months, saves more than €78 compared with the regular €127.95 fare, and is valid for travel outside peak hours (weekdays 09:00‑16:00 and 18:30‑06:30) and unrestricted on weekends and public holidays. It is limited to second‑class seats, with upgrades available for an extra charge. Subscriptions become available from 15 June, can start on any chosen date, and must be purchased by the end of August through station machines, the NS app or the Discover Holland website. The scheme aims to encourage public‑transport use, reduce car travel and help residents cope with rising energy costs, reflecting a broader EU trend of affordable unlimited rail tickets such as Germany’s €63 Deutschlandticket.