How to transport yourself in Amsterdam..
- By Bus
It is recommended that short-term visitors to Amsterdam purchase one of the many paper tickets available. There are24-, 48-, 72-, 96-, 120-, 144- and 168- hour tickets, and they provide an economical way for visitors to explore the city.
The 24-hour OV card is €7.50 for all people over 12 and €2.50 for children aged 4-11. A one-hour OV card can be purchased on-board from GVB drivers and conductors, but this is not recommended due the premium charged for this ticket. It costs €2.90 and is only valid for one hour from the check-in time of your first journey. This card is not valid on another day or for longer than one hour, even if your actual journey has been very short.
Amsterdam Buses are primarily used to reach outlying suburbs during the day. Night buses are available after the trams have stopped running and are available from 12:30am until 7am, with routes connecting to Central Station, Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein. Those without a specific GVB day or multi-day ticket will have to purchase a separate ticket for €4.50. You may use this ticket to transfer to other GVB night buses.
- By Tram
It is recommended that short-term visitors to Amsterdam purchase one of the many paper tickets available. There are24-, 48-, 72-, 96-, 120-, 144- and 168- hour tickets, and they provide an economical way for visitors to explore the city.
The 24-hour OV card is €7.50 for all people over 12 and €2.50 for children aged 4-11. A one-hour OV card can be purchased on-board from GVB drivers and conductors, but this is not recommended due the premium charged for this ticket. It costs €2.90 and is only valid for one hour from the check-in time of your first journey. This card is not valid on another day or for longer than one hour, even if your actual journey has been very short.
Amsterdam Trams provide the best way to get around Amsterdam and run regularly until 12:15am.
- By Taxi
Taxi stands are available at most tourist hubs including Leidseplein, Dam Square and Central Station. Although more expensive, it serves as convenient Amsterdam transport. Hailing a taxi can be difficult, especially on weekends, but cab service is generally prompt if you call ahead. You can reach the city cab line on 0900 677 7777. Rides cost €1.80 per kilometre regardless of the time of day, with an optional 5% – 10% tip.
If you don’t want to take a regular Taxi, then you can always take an Uber.
- By Bicycle
Bicycling in Amsterdam is a way of life for most Dutch people and is the best choice of Amsterdam transport. Some would say that the only way to truly experience Amsterdam is by bike. There are dedicated bicycle paths throughout the city and very few hills to conquer. A number of companies offer bicycles for rent for around €8 per day, with discounts for longer rentals.
- By Car
Although driving in Amsterdam is not recommended, renting a car is definitely available at Schiphol Airport and in the city centre along Overtoom Straat, near Vondelpark. All major agencies are represented including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, National and Alamo. Driving and parking in the city can be very difficult, but may be worth the hassle for those who have chosen to travel through the Netherlands by car.