The “OV-chipkaart” is a contactless smart card system for all public transport in the Netherlands. Only for trains it is still possible to buy a single or return paper ticket. The system is similar to the Oyster card system in London and Octopus system in Hong Kong. It has an electronic purse feature, so you pay per kilometer you travel. There are two types of cards available, the anonymous and personal OV-chipcard.
If you travel with public transport occasionally or do not wish to share your personal details, an anonymous OV-chipkaart will probably be the most convenient option for you. You can buy an anonomous OV-chipkaart on vending machines at the stations or various supermarkets:
If you often travel by public transport, a personal OV-chipkaart will probably be the most convenient option for you. You can apply for a personal OV-chipkaart on ov-chipkaart.nl. Features of a personal OV chip card are: