How To Get Around in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of my favorite cities in the world. Part of its appeal is that getting around is relatively easy, and you don’t need a car to experience the city.

Walking lets you experience Amsterdam at street level, but it isn’t the only way to get around.The city has excellent public transportation, bicycles are everywhere, and taxis and Uber are available when you need them.

Each has its place, but some choices make more sense for visitors than others. Here’s what I recommend—and what you should know before deciding how you’ll get around Amsterdam.

Walking Around Amsterdam

One of the best ways to get around Amsterdam is simply to walk. Walking is a wonderful way to discover little out-of-the-way places you might otherwise miss. Walk down a passageway, and you might find a small park with a band playing music on a beautiful afternoon.

Take time to enjoy the canals, architecture, sidewalk cafés and all the little details you notice when you’re on foot. Walking is my favorite way to explore a city and one of the best ways to experience Amsterdam.

Amsterdam does require you to pay attention while you’re walking. Bicycles move quickly, and bike lanes can be easy to mistake for pedestrian areas if you’re unfamiliar with the city. Watch for cyclists, trams and traffic, particularly when crossing streets.

Cycling

Cycling is part of everyday life in Amsterdam, and you’ll see bicycles everywhere. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you should rent one.

If you’re not an experienced cyclist—or you don’t know the city—I would think twice. Amsterdam’s bike lanes are busy, local cyclists move quickly, and you also have pedestrians, trams, cars and other cyclists to watch for.

For most visitors, I think walking and public transportation are easier and more enjoyable ways to get around. If you are comfortable on a bike and confident navigating an unfamiliar city, however, cycling can be a wonderful way to experience Amsterdam.

Getting Around Amsterdam by Public Transportation

Amsterdam has an excellent public transportation system that includes trams, buses, the Metro and ferries operated by GVB. For visitors, the trams are particularly convenient for getting around the central part of the city.

Paying for public transportation has also become much easier. You can use a contactless debit or credit card to check in when you board and check out when you leave. Just remember to use the same card for both.

If you plan to use public transportation frequently, there are also day and multi-day passes available.

I amsterdam City Card

Another option is the I amsterdam City Card. It includes unlimited travel on GVB buses, trams, Metro and ferries and is available for 24, 48, 72, 96 or 120 hours.

One important thing to know: the City Card does not include train travel, including the train between Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam Centraal.

The card also includes admission to many museums and attractions, including the Dutch Resistance Museum, as well as other benefits. Whether it is a good value depends on how much you plan to see and how often you expect to use public transportation.

Taxis

Taxis are available throughout Amsterdam, but they would not be my first choice for getting around the city. Between traffic, canals and narrow streets, walking or public transportation is often an easier—and less expensive—way to get from one place to another.

There are times when a taxi makes sense, particularly if you have luggage, mobility concerns or simply need the convenience. You can find taxis at designated taxi stands, hail an official taxi on the street or have your hotel arrange one for you.

Uber

Uber is another option in Amsterdam and can be convenient when walking or public transportation isn’t practical. One advantage is that you can see the estimated fare before requesting your ride.

If you plan to use Uber while traveling, set up your account and payment method before leaving home. It’s one less thing to deal with once you’re there.

How to Get Around in Amsterdam

Getting around Amsterdam doesn’t have to be complicated. Walk when you can—you’ll see much more of the city that way—and use the excellent public transportation system when you need it. Cycling can be fun for experienced riders who are comfortable navigating an unfamiliar city, while taxis and Uber are there when convenience matters more.

However you choose to get around, give yourself time to enjoy the journey. In Amsterdam, getting from one place to another can be part of the experience.

If London is also part of your plans, you may find my guide to getting around London helpful.