Can you use contactless on Amsterdam public transport?

Everyone using public transport must have a valid Ticket. If you check in with your contactless Debit or Credit Card, your Transport Ticket has been linked to your Debit or Credit Card via a registration in the GBO.



Yes, as of March 2026, Amsterdam's public transport system is fully integrated with OVpay, allowing you to use contactless debit cards, credit cards, smartphones, and smartwatches for all travel. This applies to GVB-operated trams, buses, and metros, as well as NS trains and regional buses (EBS/Connexxion). You simply tap your card or device on the yellow card reader when boarding and, crucially, tap out again when exiting. The system automatically calculates the best fare for your journey, typically charging the same rate as a standard anonymous OV-chipkaart without the need for a physical card or a €7.50 deposit. It is a "pay-as-you-go" model, meaning there is no need to top up a balance in advance. To avoid "card clash," ensure you take the specific card you wish to use out of your wallet rather than tapping your entire purse against the reader.

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How do you pay for public transport in Amsterdam? Public transport in Amsterdam is cashless. Simply check in with your Debit or Credit Card, or save money on travel with the I amsterdam City Card, which offers unlimited use of Amsterdam's public transport system for 24, 48 or 72 hours.

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OVpay is the new way to check-in and out of public transport with your debit or credit card. Simply hold your card against the card reader on the bus, tram and metro. The system will beep once you have checked in correctly. Be sure to check out with the same card at your destination.

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Dutch currency Many shops and restaurants in Amsterdam accept credit cards, but not all. It is therefore recommended to either ask before you order or ensure you have a sufficient amount in cash to cover the bill. Most shops and restaurants do not accept €200 or €500 notes.

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There are two main ways to pay while travelling by train in the Netherlands. You can either buy tickets online or from a ticket machine, or you can use your OV-chipkaart, or smartphone using OVPay. You can look up the NS Journey Planner to check timetables and plan your route.

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OV-chipcard or tickets Throughout the Netherlands, the public transport chip card (OV-chipkaart) is used to travel by public transport. If you're in Amsterdam for a longer period of time and use public transport regularly, buying an OV-chipkaart is the best way to go.

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The cheapest way to travel around Amsterdam is walking but if you need to get somewhere fast, the use of an OV chip card is the answer.

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The free GVB app (for iOS and Android) is the app for travelling by tram, bus, night bus, metro and ferry in Amsterdam and the rest of the Netherlands. It's your go-to travel app for frequent travellers or for just a visit.

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That's because, in the Netherlands, there is no social or written requirement to tip a restaurant worker. However, if you received good service or thoroughly enjoyed the food, it's customary to give a small tip — around 5-10% of the bill. If your service was just average, round up the bill or leave some change.

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Resist the urge to buy foreign currency before your trip. Some tourists feel like they just have to have euros or British pounds in their pockets when they step off the airplane, but they pay the price in bad stateside exchange rates. Wait until you arrive to withdraw money.

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