Dutch passengers have awarded public transport a solid passing grade for 2025. Recent research from the knowledge platform CROW shows an average score of 7.8 out of 10. This figure matches the consistent satisfaction levels recorded in both 2023 and 2024.
Highly rated Dutch transport system
The study surveyed commuters regarding their experiences with trains, buses, trams, metros, and ferries. Water-based transport continues its long-term trend of excellence, securing the highest rating with an 8.7. Buses and trams also performed well, scoring slightly above the national average at 7.9. While the metro, Sprinter, and Eurocity Direct services met the 7.8 benchmark, regional trains and Intercity services fell slightly below this mark.
The survey further analysed specific service elements, such as boarding ease and seat availability. However, the category of price received an unsatisfactory score of 5.4. Passengers also gave “marginal passes” to the quality of information provided during delays (6.3) and general vehicle crowding (6.9).
Beyond these statistics, the Dutch transport system remains unique due to its seamless integration. The network operates as a single “takt” or clock-face schedule, ensuring vehicles arrive at the exact same minutes every hour. Furthermore, the system solves the “last mile” problem through its world-famous bicycle-train synergy. By providing massive underground cycle parks and the shared OV-fiets scheme, the Netherlands allows travellers to transition perfectly between cycling and rail. Sustainability also defines the network, as the national rail system runs entirely on wind energy while the bus fleet transitions toward 100% zero-emission vehicles.
Room for improvement
Ultimately, while the Netherlands maintains a world-class infrastructure, there remains clear room for growth. If authorities successfully address current shortcomings regarding ticket affordability, real-time communication, and peak-time crowding, the national rating could easily climb even higher. By refining these specific pain points, the Dutch model could move from a “steady 7.8” to an even more impressive level of public approval.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
