Leiden

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Taxis and Ridesharing

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Taxis in Leiden

Types of Taxi Services

  1. Standard Taxis: These are the most common taxis you will find in Leiden. They can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands, or booked in advance.
  2. Luxury Taxis: Some companies offer premium services with higher-end vehicles for a more comfortable ride.
  3. Accessible Taxis: Vehicles equipped for passengers with disabilities are available upon request.

Booking a Taxi

  • Street Hailing: You can hail a taxi on the street, especially in busy areas or near train stations.
  • Taxi Stands: Look for designated taxi stands, typically located near major attractions, train stations, and hotels.
  • Phone Booking: You can call a local taxi company to book a ride. Some popular companies include:
    • Taxi Leiden: +31 71 512 1212
    • Leiden Taxi: +31 71 512 2222
  • Mobile Apps: Some taxi services may have their own apps, or you can use general taxi apps like Taxi.eu.

Costs

  • Base Fare: The starting fare is approximately €3.50.
  • Per Kilometer Rate: Around €2.00 to €2.50 per kilometer.
  • Waiting Time: Charges apply for waiting time, typically around €0.50 per minute.
  • Airport Transfers: Expect higher rates for rides to and from Schiphol Airport, often around €70-€100 depending on the time of day and traffic.

Payment Methods

  • Cash: Most taxis accept cash, but it’s advisable to have small denominations.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Most taxis accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) and contactless payments.
  • Mobile Payments: Some taxis may accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Local Regulations

  • Licensing: All taxis must be licensed and display a taxi sign on the roof.
  • Taxi Meters: Taxis are required to use a meter to calculate fares.
  • Driver Identification: Drivers should have identification visible inside the vehicle.

Ridesharing in Leiden

Available Services

  • Uber: Uber operates in Leiden, providing a convenient ridesharing option. You can book rides through the Uber app.
  • Bolt: Another popular ridesharing service available in the Netherlands, offering competitive pricing and similar features to Uber.

Booking a Rideshare

  • Mobile Apps: Download the Uber or Bolt app, create an account, and enter your destination to request a ride.
  • Pick-Up Locations: Rideshare drivers may have designated pick-up points, especially near busy areas or events.

Costs

  • Base Fare: Rideshare fares can vary based on demand, time of day, and distance. Expect a base fare of around €1.50 to €3.00.
  • Per Kilometer Rate: Typically ranges from €0.80 to €1.50 per kilometer.
  • Surge Pricing: During peak hours or high demand, prices may increase significantly.

Payment Methods

  • In-App Payments: Payments are made through the app using a linked credit/debit card.
  • Promotions: Keep an eye out for promotions or discounts offered by ridesharing services.

Cultural Considerations

  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Rounding up the fare or adding a small tip (5-10%) is common.
  • Politeness: Greet your driver when entering the vehicle and thank them upon exiting.
  • Language: While many drivers speak English, learning a few basic Dutch phrases can enhance your experience.

Tips for Using Taxis and Ridesharing in Leiden

  1. Plan Ahead: During peak hours or events, it may take longer to get a taxi or rideshare. Consider booking in advance.
  2. Check Ratings: For ridesharing, check driver ratings and vehicle details before confirming your ride.
  3. Safety: Always verify the vehicle’s license plate and driver’s name before getting in.
  4. Local Knowledge: Drivers may have insights on the best routes or local attractions, so don’t hesitate to ask.

By following this guide, you should be well-equipped to navigate taxis and ridesharing services in Leiden, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience in the city.