New night train to link Zwolle, Lelystad, Almere, Amsterdam, and Schiphol
Arriva will launch a new night train service connecting Zwolle, Lelystad, Almere, Amsterdam, and Schiphol, starting March 14-15. The two-year pilot project was approved by the municipalities of Almere and Lelystad to improve nighttime accessibility for commuters, travelers, and nightlife enthusiasts.
The train will run on Friday and Saturday nights, departing from Zwolle at 1:45 a.m., stopping at Lelystad Centrum at 1:59 a.m., Almere Centrum at 2:20 a.m., Amsterdam Centraal at 2:36 a.m., and arriving at Schiphol at 2:42 a.m. The return journey will leave Schiphol at 2:45 a.m., stopping at Amsterdam Centraal at 2:58 a.m., Almere Centrum at 3:21 a.m., Lelystad Centrum at 3:35 a.m., and reaching Zwolle at 3:55 a.m.
Tickets will cost 5, 10, or 15 euros, depending on the travel distance, and will be available via Arriva’s Glimble app, the 9292 app, or onboard for an additional 2.50 euros service fee, which will be refunded as travel credit in the Glimble app.
The project is subsidized by the municipalities of Almere and Lelystad, each contributing 100,000 euros annually to guarantee the service. Ticket sales will offset the subsidy, potentially eliminating the need for municipal contributions if the service proves highly successful. The trial’s outcome will determine whether the night train becomes a permanent feature.
Piet van Dijk, alderman for Lelystad, described the initiative as a “crucial step” in improving the region's accessibility. “This project offers residents better access to metropolitan amenities during nighttime hours, providing a comfortable travel option,” he said.
The train operates under the European “open access” principle, which allows private operators to use existing rail infrastructure. Arriva submitted a proposal following the withdrawal of a similar plan by NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen), the national rail operator.
NS expressed surprise at the subsidy arrangement, noting it had previously withdrawn its offer for a night train service due to expectations that Arriva would operate without public funding. A spokesperson for NS stated, “We wouldn’t have withdrawn if we knew subsidies were an option. This development is disappointing, and we will contact the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management for clarification.”
Almere officials explained that initial legal advice suggested municipal contributions were not allowed under the open access framework. However, further consultation enabled the subsidy structure, paving the way for Arriva’s involvement.
Arriva emphasized the significance of the new route, citing increased accessibility and cost savings for travelers. “This project shows the potential of open-access railways to provide affordable and efficient transportation options,” an Arriva spokesperson said.
A promotional competition will be held before the service launch, with five residents each from Almere and Lelystad winning free tickets for the inaugural journey. Further details will be shared by the municipalities and Arriva.
Objections to the subsidy arrangement can be submitted within 20 days. If no challenges arise, the night train service will proceed as planned in mid-March.
