Can you use your credit card on public transport in Amsterdam?

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.



Yes, as of 2026, you can use your contactless credit card for almost all public transport in Amsterdam and throughout the Netherlands thanks to a system called OVpay. This technology allows you to "Tap and Go" on buses, trams, metros, and even national NS trains without needing a separate travel card. You simply tap your physical contactless credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or your mobile device (Apple Pay/Google Pay) against the yellow reader when boarding and, crucially, tap out when you exit. The system automatically calculates the correct fare based on the distance traveled and charges your bank account the following day. For international visitors, this is significantly more convenient than the old "anonymous OV-chipkaart," as it eliminates the need to pay a €7.50 card fee or maintain a minimum balance. However, ensure you use the same card for both the "in" and "out" taps to avoid being charged a maximum fare penalty. While most local transport is fully integrated, a few very small private boat or rural shuttle services may still require cash or a pre-purchased ticket, but for 99% of a tourist's journey in Amsterdam, a credit card is all you need.

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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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You can't tap on a bus with a credit card, but you can link a credit card to an online account or use it to buy a ticket at a pay station.

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You can use Apple Pay to pay as you go across all Transport for London services, including the Underground, buses and trams. Paying for journeys is easy using Apple Pay and works the same as using a contactless card.

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Pay with OVpay or your OV-chipkaart OVpay is the new and easy way of paying in public transport. In the tram, bus or metro you simply check in and out with your debit card, credit card or mobile phone.

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For visitors to the Netherlands, OVpay is the best way to check in and out when travelling by public transport. You only need your debit or credit card to easily travel throughout the country by train, tram, bus or metro.

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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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To perform a tap-out, you tap your co-player's arm or another convenient part of their body twice, and repeat this action as many times and as hard as you need to get their attention. (Typically, once and quite softly is enough).

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Children aged 0-3 travel free, children 12 or over must buy the standard adult ticket. Buying over-the-counter: The 24 hours and 48 hours tickets can also be purchased on board a tram; bus drivers only sell the 24 hours tickets. Note cash is not accepted on board public transport.

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The driver should give you a receipt at the end of the ride. Taxis usually accept the payment of the fare by credit card, but it's better to ask the driver before you get in. It's not common to give a tip to the taxi driver, but you can round the bill up if you're happy with the service.

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