Amsterdam is a large city with a lot to see and do, so that means you need to get around fast and comfortable. In this informative article, we explain how public transportation works in the vibrant capital of The Netherlands.
Amsterdam is too big to do everything on foot, so we've made you this handy guide for public transport. First things first; the GVB company operates nearly all of Amsterdam's city transport. With the GVB you can take the metro, tram, bus, or ferry. But of course, you can also rent a bicycle like the Dutchies or go with the more expensive option; the taxi or Uber.
Transport by tram, bus or metro in Amsterdam
Tram
Amsterdam’s trams are recognizable by their blue and white colors, and you will hear frequent their famous bell that rings out to attract the attention of any pedestrians and cyclists in the vicinity. From Central Station to outlying neighborhoods, the tram is the quickest and most popular way to get into and around the city center of Amsterdam. You have to check-in en check-out with a public transport chip card. How to get this card is explained a little further on.
Bus
Just like the tram, the bus also goes through all of Amsterdam. And is, therefore, an easy means of transport for short and medium distances in Amsterdam. To enter and exit the bus you have to check-in and check-out, meaning that you can check in with a public transport chip card and check-out.
Metro
The metro in Amsterdam is especially used to travel to the edges of the city. You probably won't make much use of the metro as public transport in Amsterdam. For exploring the city center trams and buses are more convenient.
Where to stay in Amsterdam? We've curated the finest luxury hotels, but also the best hostels, hotels, and Airbnb rentals!
Where to get your tickets
It is no longer possible to buy tickets on the tram, bus, or metro with cash! You get your ticket in advance at a service point or ticket vending machine. Or you pay on the bus or tram with your card, this is not possible in the metro! You can only enter the metro with a ticket that has been obtained in advance. It is effortless to get a ticket from a ticket vending machine. Usually, these are at the tram station or you can look at the GVB site where these ticket vending machines are exactly.
At these ticket vending machines you buy your tickets that are valid per hour, 24 hours, or even several days up to 7. For a ticket that is valid for one hour, you pay € 3.30. For a day-ticket, you pay €8.00 and for a 7-day-ticket €37.00. Many different tickets are available with different validity periods. All prices you can find on the website of the GVB.
Pro-tip; This public transport journey planner will help you find out which kind of transportation is the best for you. You simply type your departure point and desired destination. The journey planner will show you the kind of transport, traveling time, and schedule. Therefore traveling within Amsterdam by public transport is easy and pretty straightforward!
Take the ferry for crossing the IJ
The best thing about taking the ferry is that it is FREE! It is the best service to cross the River IJ for pedestrians, cyclists, and mopeds. You can find these blue-and-white ferries directly behind Amsterdam Central Station. The ferries providing a frequent service across the water to and from Amsterdam Noord. You will never have to wait long for the next ferry to go.
Rent a bike
This means of transport is only for people who are experienced cyclists. Amsterdam is a busy city with many cyclists, trams going through traffic and taxis and cars everywhere. And then there are also many tourists walking everywhere who do not always pay attention. So it is a challenge that you have to be experienced in. But if you are an experienced cyclist, there is nothing better than experiencing Amsterdam like a real Dutchman… And that's by bike!
Bicycles are available for rent from € 6.00 per day. Often you have to pay a deposit and it is wise to take out insurance with it. Do not forget to bring your passport, otherwise, you cannot rent a bicycle. There are many bicycle rentals in Amsterdam. Nowadays there are also electric bicycles, making cycling no longer even an effort.
Pro-tip: First time trying Airbnb? Don't miss out: save $40 on your first reservation thanks to this bonus offer!
Taxi's and Ubers
Just like most big modern cities, there are plenty of taxis in Amsterdam. These can be found all over the city on the main streets, and will especially be waiting for you at the taxi ranks. Or you can order a taxi from the companies TCA or Staxi. Also, there is Uber in Amsterdam. These options are not the cheapest but are sometimes the easiest. Especially at night when the tram and metro stop running!
Happy travels!
Also, check out:
>> Top 7 best hostels in Amsterdam
>> Top 7 best hotels in Amsterdam
>> Top 7 best Airbnb rentals in Amsterdam
>> Top 7 best luxury hotels in Amsterdam
More cool fun activities, events, and bucket list locations in this amazing city with GetYourGuide.
More Travel Inspiration: Top 10 Things to do when in Amsterdam
