The Golden Rule: Amsterdam is small. The city center is very walkable (30 min from Central to Vondelpark). Don't over-rely on public transport!
From Schiphol Airport
| Option | Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 Train | 15-20 min | €5.50 | Most travelers (runs 24/7) |
| 🚕 Taxi | 25-40 min | €40-50 | Groups, late night with luggage |
| 📱 Uber/Bolt | 25-40 min | €25-35 | Cheaper than taxi, app-based |
| 🚌 Bus 397 | 30-45 min | €6.50 | If hotel is near Rijksmuseum |
Pro tip: Train tickets can be bought at yellow machines or with contactless card directly at gates. Don't wait in line at ticket counters!
Public Transport (GVB)
🚃 Tram
The backbone of Amsterdam transport. 15 lines covering the city. Most useful: lines 2, 5, 13, 17 connect major attractions.
Tip: Enter through any door, tap your card at the reader. Don't forget to check out when leaving!
🚇 Metro
4 lines, mostly useful for Noord (52) and Southeast (50, 51, 54). Not essential for tourists staying central.
⛴️ Ferry
FREE! Connects Central Station to Noord. Great for NDSM, A'DAM Lookout, EYE Film Museum. Bikes allowed.
GVB Pass Options
| Pass | Price | Worth It If... |
|---|---|---|
| Single trip | €3.40 | 1-2 trips only |
| 24-hour | €9.00 | 3+ trips in one day |
| 48-hour | €15.00 | Exploring far neighborhoods |
| 72-hour | €21.00 | Best value for active tourists |
Biking in Amsterdam
Local's Choice
🚲 Bike Rental
Price: €12-15/day | Deposit: €50-100 or ID
The Dutch way to travel. Faster than tram for short distances. Rental shops everywhere — avoid tourist-trap prices near Central Station.
⚠️ Bike Safety Rules:
- Stay in bike lanes (red pavement)
- Use hand signals when turning
- Never stop suddenly in traffic
- Lock your bike ALWAYS (theft is common)
- Don't walk in bike lanes — locals will NOT slow down
Transport Apps
- 9292: Official Dutch public transport planner. Best for routes and times.
- GVB: Buy tickets, see real-time arrivals. Essential for tram/metro.
- NS: Dutch railways. For trains to Schiphol, day trips.
- Uber/Bolt: Ride-hailing. Cheaper than taxis.
- Donkey Republic: Bike sharing. Unlock via app, return at any station.
Common Transport Mistakes
- Not checking out: Tap card when entering AND leaving. Fines are €50+.
- Walking in bike lanes: Red pavement = bikes only. Locals won't stop!
- Buying single tickets: Day passes are cheaper if taking 3+ trips.
- Taxis at Central Station: Often overcharge tourists. Use apps instead.
- Renting bikes at tourist traps: Walk 5 minutes from Central for better prices.