Amsterdam - Getting Around
Airport Transfers
There are a number of ways of getting from Schiphol Airport (Amsterdam’s main airport located 20km south of the city) into town. The fastest is the Connexxion Amsterdam Tourist Ticket, a regular bus service costing only €10 for a round trip. Schiphol train station is located underneath the airport with regular services into the city’s train stations. Many hotels offer a free shuttle service for their guests with the Connexxion Schiphol Hotel Shuttle.
top ↑Bike
One of the best ways to see the beautiful city is by bike and there are a large number of companies offering reasonably priced bike rental. It is advised not to cycle like the locals and for safety stick to the rules of the road.
top ↑Bus
Like the tram network, Amsterdam’s bus network is comprehensive and covers most of the city. The strippenkaarten (see tickets below) can be used on the busses and trams.
top ↑I Amsterdam Card
With the purchase of an I Amsterdam Card visitors are offered free entry to 40 and discounts on a further 50 tourist attractions and restaurants. Valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours the card also gives the holder free public transport (GVB) on the city’s busses, trams and metro. The card is not valid on trains or on transfers to Schiphol Airport.
top ↑Metro
The underground metro in Amsterdam is currently quite restricted with lines travelling out of the city centre rather than within. There is currently a massive building project, due to be completed in 2015, being undertaken to construct a line linking the north and south of the city.
top ↑Taxi
Taxis are plentiful in Amsterdam, mostly due to the fact that few residents drive. By law taxis must be metered, however they can charge a “pick-up” fee of anything up to €7.50 and it is advised to check that the meter is running before leaving. There are around 50 official taxi ranks around the city and taxi’s can be hailed in the street, although there are some restrictions on where they can stop so look out for these.
top ↑Tickets
The easiest and cheapest way to travel on public transport if not buying an I Amsterdam Card is to purchase a strippenkaarten from a GVB info desk, machines in the metro or from various shops and newsagents. The number of coupons on the strippenkaarten used is determined by the distance travelled. Single tickets can also be purchased from bus and tram drivers but may be more expensive. Since an overhaul of the ticketing system, strippenkaarten are not valid on the metro, in this case a disposable OV chip card must be purchased.
top ↑Tram
By far the most popular form of public transport in the city, Amsterdam’s tram network is ideal for visitors only wishing to travel short distances as well as those looking to visit any of the outlying districts. Travelling overland is a great way to see the city and get your bearings.
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