What is NS Travel Information

The NS Travel Information MCP Server is a platform that connects AI assistants to real-time travel information from Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), the Dutch railway company. It enables users to get detailed train information, including real-time updates, pricing, and station details, making it an essential tool for navigating the Netherlands’ rail network efficiently.

Use cases

Common use cases include checking train schedules and delays, finding alternative routes during disruptions, getting pricing information for tickets, and inquiring about station facilities such as accessibility and bike rentals. Users can ask specific questions about travel times, class options, group pricing, and service updates, making travel planning seamless and informed.

How to use

To use the NS MCP Server, install it via NPM, Smithery, or from source. Configure your AI setup by adding your NS API key and updating the Claude configuration file accordingly. This setup enables your AI assistant to access real-time NS data and respond to travel-related queries effectively.

Key features

Key features include real-time information about train departures and arrivals, journey planning with real-time updates, comprehensive pricing information, station details covering facilities and accessibility, and multi-language support. The server also tracks service updates for disruptions and maintenance, ensuring users have the latest information.

Where to use

The NS Travel Information MCP Server is ideal for use in travel planning applications, digital assistants, customer service interfaces for transport companies, and as an interactive tool for tourists and locals navigating Dutch public transportation. It enhances user experience by providing accurate and timely information regarding train travel in the Netherlands.

NS Travel Information MCP Server

Transform your AI assistant into a Dutch railways expert! This MCP server connects Claude to real-time NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) travel information, making it your perfect companion for navigating the Netherlands by train.

Installation

You can install this server in three ways:

1. Using Claude Desktop with NPM Package

Update your Claude configuration file (~/Library/Application Support/Claude/claude_desktop_config.json):

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "ns-server": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": [
        "-y",
        "ns-mcp-server"
      ],
      "env": {
        "NS_API_KEY": "your_api_key_here"
      }
    }
  }
}

You can get an API key from NS API Portal

2. Using Smithery

To install NS Travel Information Server automatically via Smithery:

npx -y @smithery/cli install ns-server --client claude

3. From Source

1. Clone this repository
2. Install dependencies:

   npm install
   

3. Copy the example environment file:

   cp .env.example .env
   

4. Add your NS API key to the .env file:

   NS_API_KEY=your_api_key_here
   

Then update your Claude configuration file:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "ns-server": {
      "command": "node",
      "args": [
        "/path/to/ns-server/build/index.js"
      ],
      "env": {
        "NS_API_KEY": "your_api_key_here"
      }
    }
  }
}

Make sure to:

1. Replace /path/to/ns-server with the actual path to your installation
2. Add your NS API key in the env section. It can be obtained from here https://apiportal.ns.nl/product#product=NsApp

After updating the configuration, restart Claude Desktop for the changes to take effect.

Real-World Use Cases

• “Is my usual 8:15 train from Almere to Amsterdam running on time?”
• “Are there any delays on the Rotterdam-Den Haag route today?”
• “What’s the best alternative route to Utrecht if there’s maintenance on the direct line?”
• “Which train should I take to arrive at my office in Amsterdam Zuid before 9 AM?”
• “Which route to Amsterdam has the fewest transfers with a stroller?”
• “What’s the earliest train I can take to make my 10 AM meeting in The Hague?”
• “When’s the last train back to Groningen after a night out in Amsterdam?”
• “Are there any weekend engineering works that might affect my Monday morning class?”
• “Are there OV-fiets bikes available at Utrecht Centraal for my afternoon meeting?”
• “Is Eindhoven Strijp-S station wheelchair accessible and what platforms does it have?”
• “What trains are arriving at Utrecht Centraal in the next hour?”
• “Has the train from Venlo to Schiphol Airport arrived on time?”
• “How much does a first-class ticket from Amsterdam to Rotterdam cost?”
• “What’s the price for 2 adults and 1 child traveling to Den Haag?”

🔑 Environment Variables

🌟 Features

This MCP server provides comprehensive access to NS train information through the following endpoints:

Real-time Train Information

• Departures: Get real-time departure information including platform numbers, delays, and travel notes
• Arrivals: Access upcoming train arrivals with origin stations, platform changes, and status updates
• Journey Planning: Find optimal travel routes with transfers and real-time updates
• Service Updates: Check for disruptions, maintenance work, and engineering activities

Pricing Information

• Ticket Prices: Get accurate pricing for single and return journeys
• Travel Classes: Compare prices for first and second class travel
• Group Pricing: Calculate fares for adults and children
• Discount Options: Check joint journey discounts and special offers
• Validity Details: View ticket validity periods and travel conditions

Station Information

• Station Details: Access comprehensive station information including:
  • Facilities and accessibility features
  • Platform layouts and track information
  • OV-fiets (bike rental) availability
  • Location and approach details

Additional Features

• Multi-language Support: Information available in Dutch and English
• Flexible Queries: Search by station name, code, or UIC identifier
• Time Zones: Proper handling of time zones for international stations
• Status Updates: Track changes, delays, and cancellations in real-time

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License - see the LICENSE file for details