Netherlands launches €49 unlimited train pass and Utrecht funds bus discounts with fines

A new €49 monthly pass lets passengers travel unlimited on Dutch trains during off‑peak hours and weekends, covering all national operators such as NS, Arriva and Keolis. The offer, cheaper than the regular €127.95 monthly ticket, excludes buses, trams, metros and OV‑bikes but aims to boost regional day trips.

In the province of Utrecht, €2.65 million in penalties imposed on operators Transdev and Keolis will be redirected to subsidise bus travel. From October, the U‑OV Max Maand and Dal Vrij subscriptions will be halved, the kilometertarief will be suspended from 13 to 31 December, and other short‑term discounts will apply, allowing riders to pay only the flat boarding fee of €1.16.

Both measures are intended to make public transport more affordable and encourage domestic travel.