Public transport in Amsterdam | I amsterdam (2024)

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Public transport in Amsterdam | I amsterdam (7)Public transport in Amsterdam | I amsterdam (8)

Image from Koen Smilde

Updated 21 March 2024 at 15:44

Travelling within Amsterdam by public transport is straightforward and convenient. The extensive network is operated by GVB and connects the city's neighbourhoods by train, tram, metro, bus and ferry.

Please note:GVB's public transport network is cashless. You can only check in with a ticket or debit / credit card.

OVpay

OVpay is the new way to check-in and out of public transport with your debit or credit card. Simply hold your card against the card reader on the bus, tram and metro. The system will beep once you have checked in correctly. Be sure to check out with the same card at your destination. For more information visit the OVpay website.

Public transport chip card (OV-Chipkaart)

In Amsterdam and throughout the Netherlands, the public transport chip card (OV-Chipkaart)is a rechargeable card used for travel on trams, buses, metros and trains. Residents typically own a personalised card that can be loaded up with credit. However, it is also possible to purchase a non-personalised card that can be reused and recharged with credit at any time.

  • Non-personalised cards: Available at GVB ticket machines, GVB Tickets & Info offices, and select newsstands and supermarkets.
  • Personalised cards:Available online. Please note that public transport cards provided by Dutch Railways (NS) can also be used on other parts of public transport. These passes require a passport-style photo.

TheofficialOV-Chipkaartwebsite offers helpful, in-depth advice in English, from checking in and out and transfers to public transport companies and detailed explanations about how to recharge your card with credit.

Tram

There is a reliable and frequent tram service across Amsterdam (except for Amsterdam-Noord), with many routes terminating at Central Station. It is easy to check in and out with a public transport chip card (OV-Chipkaart) at the start and end of your journeys (including when you change trams). Alternatively, 1, 24 or 48-hour and other tickets (including multi-day tickets) can be purchased at GVB Tickets & Info offices or GVB ticket machines.

Bus

Amsterdam’s extensive bus network connects all neighbourhoods with other city areas and extends into the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area. The main bus companies include GVB(primarily within Amsterdam), Connexxion(R-Net) andEBS, with many routes operating to and from Amsterdam Central Station. It is easy to check in and out with a public transport chip card (OV-Chipkaart) at the start and end of your journeys (including when you change buses). Alternatively, single-journey, 1, 24 or 48-hour tickets can be purchased at GVB Tickets & Info offices or GVB ticket machines.

Metro

Amsterdam's metro system radiates from Central Station to the city's outlying districts. Its four routes are often the fastest way to reach districts like Zuidoost, Amstelveen and Amsterdam Noord. Metro stations are gated by check-in and check-out ports, accessible only with a public transport chip card(OV-Chipkaart) or another valid travel card. If you do not have a personal chip card, you can purchase a 1-hour ticket or a rechargeable non-personalised public transport chip card at GVB service desks or ticket machines at the station.

Ferry

Amsterdam’s ferries provide essential, free connections for pedestrians, cyclists and mopeds across the River IJ towards Amsterdam Noord. The most popular and best-served ferry route is from Amsterdam Central Station to Buiksloterweg. Several ferries operate on this short route, meaning you rarely have to wait more than a few minutes to step aboard. This route is also served throughout the night.

The other main routes served from Central Station are to NDSM Wharf and to IJplein (a little further east). In the wider Amsterdam Metropolitan Area, other ferry routes cross the North Sea Canal.

Click here for GVB's full, interactive map of Amsterdam ferry routes.

Please note:the North Sea Canal ferry services transport motorised vehicles for a small fee.

Train

Trains provide superb connections with Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, but also different parts of the city, other Dutch towns and cities, plus direct connections with Belgium, France and Germany. Amsterdam Central Station is the primary station, providing quick access to the city centre and public transport network. Tickets can be purchased from the yellow ticket machines or customer service desksat stations.

For Dutch train schedules, use the online planneror download the mobile apps NS Reisplannerand 9292.

How to travel from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central Station

Public transport in Amsterdam | I amsterdam (9)

Save money

There are several ways to travel cheaply (unlimited) in Amsterdam:

  • I amsterdam City Card: The I amsterdam City Card includes unlimited use of Amsterdam's public transport network for 24, 48, 72 or 96 hours. The card also gives you a discount on museums and attractions.
  • GVB day ticket: Multi-day tickets are available for 1 to 7 days, starting from €7.50 and are valid on all GVB trams, buses and metro services.
  • : Want to discover everything there is within the city and the wider Amsterdam Metropolitan Area? The Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket is an affordable public transport option. It gives you 1, 2 or 3 days of unlimited use of all tram, bus and metro lines of GVB, Connexxion, AllGo, R-net and EBS (including night lines) and NS in Amsterdam and the region.

Useful apps

Plan your trip in advance via 9292or using detailed interactive maps of the public transport network via the GVB website.

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Public transport in Amsterdam | I amsterdam (2024)

FAQs

How do you pay for public transport in Amsterdam? ›

Public transport in Amsterdam is cashless. Simply check in with your Debit or Credit Card, or save money on travel with the I amsterdam City Card, which offers unlimited use of Amsterdam's public transport system for 24, 48 or 72 hours.

How do tourists use public transport in Amsterdam? ›

Fifteen tram routes crisscross the city, and visitors can use their GVB OV-chipkaart to take a ride on the 200-some trams offered. As with the bus or the metro, the most convenient ticket option on the tram is either a one-hour ticket or the day card, which can be purchased for one day or up to seven days.

What is the cheapest way to get around Amsterdam? ›

Unless you're renting a pair of traditional Dutch clogs, walking is the cheapest way to get around Amsterdam. Trains, trams, boats, and buses also run throughout the city for relatively low prices considering the distance traveled.

What is the best option for public transport in Amsterdam? ›

OV-chipcard or tickets

If you're in Amsterdam for a longer period of time and use public transport regularly, buying an OV-chipkaart is the best way to go. If you are here for a short period and rarely use public transport, then it is better to use tickets.

What is the 3 day travel card in the Netherlands? ›

The HTM three day tickets allows you to travel at the hours of your own convenience without any limitation throughout The Hague, day and night, on the bus and tram. The day ticket is valid for 3 days (not 72 hours) after your first check in. Note: these tickets are only valid in HTM trams, and buses.

Can you use Apple Pay on Amsterdam public transport? ›

As of 2023, the public transport companies of the Netherlands have introduced a new way for commuters to check in and out while travelling. You can now check in and check out of public transport the way you prefer with your contactless debit card, credit card or mobile phone (including Apple Pay or Google Wallet).

Can you use your credit card on public transport in Amsterdam? ›

For visitors to the Netherlands, OVpay is the best way to check in and out when travelling by public transport. You only need your debit or credit card to easily travel throughout the country by train, tram, bus or metro.

Is the I Amsterdam card worth it? ›

If you fancy crafting a jam-packed Amsterdam itinerary, this card could save you a lot of money. With many attractions priced over €20 or more, you'll generally get your money's worth if you hit up three attractions per day. However, you could easily do more if you wake up early and plan your time well.

Can you drink tap water in Amsterdam? ›

Is the Tap Water in Amsterdam Safe to Drink? Yes, the tap water in Amsterdam is safe to drink according to international standards. According to many Dutch people it's among the best in Europe. The local water provider Waternet continuously monitors water quality to ensure it meets high safety standards.

What is the best transport from Amsterdam airport to city Centre? ›

The following means of transportation are the best ways to get to Amsterdam city center:
  • Train: It is the quickest and cheapest way to get to the city center of Amsterdam. ...
  • Buses: There are several lines that connect the airport and Amsterdam, but these are more expensive and take longer.

How much is a train ticket from Amsterdam airport to city centre? ›

Overview: Train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) to Amsterdam Centraal
Distance7 miles
Average train duration13 min
Average train ticket price£4 (€5)
Direct trainNo
Train companiesSprinter, NS International | IC Direct, PKP Intercity or BSB

Is Uber cheap in Amsterdam? ›

Taxis in Amsterdam can be more expensive than using ride-sharing apps like Uber. However, it ultimately depends on your specific journey and the current surge pricing of Uber at the time.

Where to buy tickets for Amsterdam public transport? ›

You can select from various types. From a card for 1 hour to a night bus trip or a card for one or more days. You purchase a paper card at GVB card vending machines at stops or in metro stations, GVB Service Points, GVB Service & Ticket locations and various shops such as tobacco and convenience shops.

Is there an app for public transport in Amsterdam? ›

With the GVB app, you can easily plan your entire trip on public transport. Fill in the planner manually or use the unique Touch Swipe (under the Map tab). While filling in the trip planner, indicate your travel preferences so the app will take account of them.

How to buy public transport ticket in Netherlands? ›

There are two main ways to pay while travelling by train in the Netherlands. You can either buy tickets online or from a ticket machine, or you can use your OV-chipkaart, or smartphone using OVPay. You can look up the NS Journey Planner to check timetables and plan your route.

Do I need cash or card for Amsterdam? ›

The Netherlands is a very modern country. You can pay with cash or a debit card, and often with your phone via NFC, Apple Pay, or Google Wallet. Not to mention the latest phenomenon, 'Tikkie', which is also being used more and more.

Can I use my debit card on Amsterdam metro? ›

OVpay  ⟩ Check in and out with your contactless debit card, credit card or mobile to travel by bus, tram, metro or train. No registration is necessary. You pay the same travel fares you would if you were using an OV-chipkaart. When you check into a bus, tram or metro, you always pay a boarding fee of €1,08.

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