Arnhem · Getting around
How to get around Arnhem by train, trolleybus, and bike
August 29, 2026 · last updated · about 3 min read
Navigating Arnhem by Transit, Bike, and Rail
Arnhem’s city center is easily explored on foot, but local trips and regional links rely on three main modes:
- Trolleybuses: Arnhem operates the only trolleybus system in the Netherlands. These electric buses connect Arnhem Centraal to outer districts, northern cultural sites, and across the Rhine.
- Bicycles: Bike lanes cover the city. Riverfront paths are flat, while routes heading north toward the Veluwe feature gentle slopes.
- Regional trains: Frequent trains connect Arnhem Centraal to Nijmegen in about fifteen minutes.
Tickets and Payment Options
The national OVpay system allows riders to tap in and tap out on all trains and buses using a contactless debit card, credit card, or phone.
- Who it suits: Short-term visitors seeking pay-as-you-go travel without paper tickets.
- Who it does not suit: Travelers using Dutch rail discount subscriptions, which require a registered card.
Getting from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Direct Intercity trains run from Schiphol Airport to Arnhem Centraal in roughly an hour and a quarter. Rail offers low effort and standard public transit fare bands. Taxis occupy a high cost band and face potential motorway delays near Utrecht without saving time.
Practical Transit Notes
- Rush hours: Expect crowded trains and platforms on weekdays between 07:30 to 09:00 and 16:30 to 18:30.
- Last services: Trolleybuses end service around midnight, after which rail departures become sparse.
- Accessibility and luggage: Arnhem Centraal offers step-free elevator access. Trolleybuses feature low floors and space for wheelchairs and luggage.
Pick your dates — we'll search Arnhem hotels for you
Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.
View on Booking.com
View on Hotels.com
Things to see in Arnhem
See all →
Parks & gardens
Veluwezoom National Park
Veluwezoom National Park is the oldest national park in the Netherlands, located at the southeastern edge of the Veluwe region near Arnhem. You can walk through its varied, undulating terrain and enjoy unspoiled natural scenery.
Museums & galleries
Netherlands Open Air Museum
The Netherlands Open Air Museum in Arnhem is a national museum devoted to the everyday life and culture of ordinary people in the past. With scenes of traditional life recreated throughout the grounds, it's a great place to explore and experience Dutch heritage firsthand.
Nature
IJssel
The IJssel is a river flowing through the Dutch provinces of Gelderland and Overijssel, stretching 125 km. To distinguish it from the similarly named Hollandse IJssel, it is also known as the Gelderse IJssel.
Temples & religious sites
St Eusebius' Church, Arnhem
The largest building and church in Arnhem, rising to an impressive 93 meters. Visible from almost anywhere in the city, it's a landmark well worth looking up at.
More Arnhem guides
Best value
Where to stay in Arnhem for the best value and easy transit
5-star & luxury
Where to Stay in Arnhem for Luxury and Five-Star Comfort
Pool villas & resorts
Where to stay in Arnhem for resorts and pool villas
Family travel
Where to stay in Arnhem for a family trip
Couples & honeymoon
Where to Stay in Arnhem for a Couples Trip or Honeymoon
Central & near stations
Where to stay in Arnhem near the central train station
Best time to visit
When Is the Best Time to Visit Arnhem, Netherlands?
First-time guide
How to Navigate Arnhem on Your First Visit: Districts, Transit, and Sightseeing Priority
Getting around guides for other destinations
Guantánamo
How to Get Around Guantánamo and Travel from Antonio Maceo Airport
Cetinje
How to Get Around Cetinje and Travel from Podgorica Airport
North Nicosia
How to get around North Nicosia and travel from Larnaca Airport
Cienfuegos
How to get around Cienfuegos: transport options and airport transfers