The 1-hour ticket and 24-hour ticket are available in the tram and bus, or from Ticket Vending Machines ? at all metro stations. All other travel cards - like multi-day tickets, the child ticket, and OV-chipkaart - can only be purchased at: GVB Service Points ? GVB Tickets & Info ?

Yes, you can still buy a basic 1-hour ticket on most Amsterdam (GVB) buses, but as of early 2026, cash is strictly not accepted. You must pay using a contactless method, such as a debit card, credit card, or mobile wallet (Apple Pay/Google Pay). However, for most travelers, buying a ticket from the driver is the least efficient option. The best way to travel in 2026 is via OVpay, which allows you to simply "tap in" and "tap out" with your own bank card at the readers; there is no need to interact with the driver or buy a paper ticket at all. If you plan on taking multiple trips, a GVB Day Pass (available for 24 to 168 hours) is significantly cheaper than buying individual 1-hour tickets. These passes can be bought at vending machines in metro stations or via the GVB app, offering unlimited travel for a fixed price.

Yes, you can buy Amsterdam bus tickets directly on the bus, but with important limitations.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. The Main Option: Contactless Payment (Debit/Credit Card or Phone)

This is the primary and easiest way to pay on the bus. How it works: Simply tap your contactless debit/credit card (Maestro, VISA, Mastercard) or your smartphone/watch (Apple Pay, Google Pay) on the card reader when you board and again when you exit. Pricing: You will be charged a per-kilometer fare (with a daily cap). This is the same rate as using a public transport chip card (OV-chipkaart). Important: You must use the same card/device to check in and out. You cannot check in with one card and out with another.

2. Cash is NO LONGER Accepted

You cannot buy a paper ticket with cash from the bus driver anymore. This system was phased out years ago.

3. Alternatives to Buying On the Bus

For convenience and often better prices, consider these options bought before you board:

• GVB & NS Mobile App: Buy digital tickets (1-hour, 24-hour, multi-day passes) directly in the official GVB or NS app. Show the QR code to the driver.
• OV-chipkaart: The reusable Dutch public transport card. You must load credit (saldo) onto it at machines or shops before travel. Tap in and out on the bus.
• I amsterdam City Card: Includes unlimited public transport for its duration.
• Tram/Bus/Train Ticket Machines: Available at major tram stops, Metro stations, and train stations. They sell disposable OV-chipkaarts loaded with various time-based tickets (e.g., 1-hour, 24-hour).

Summary & Recommendation

• On the bus: Your only option is to tap a contactless bank card or phone.
• For best value: If you’ll be making multiple trips in a day or over several days, it’s almost always cheaper and easier to buy a 24-hour or multi-day ticket from a machine, ticket office, or app before you board.
• Always remember: