Be sure to carry cash In the Netherlands, credit cards are not the most commonly used method for payments. In daily life, the Dutch hardly use them. Instead, payments are often made with debit cards. Please make sure to bring cash and ask personnel in advance whether you can pay by credit card.

No, in 2026, Amsterdam has become one of the most cash-averse cities in the world. In fact, many businesses—including popular cafes, boutiques, and even some supermarkets—are strictly "Pin Only," meaning they only accept debit or credit cards and will refuse physical cash entirely. The Netherlands uses the "Maestro" or "V-Pay" systems heavily, but almost all locations now accept major international credit cards like Visa and Mastercard, as well as mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay. You will even find that public transport (GVB) is completely cashless; you must "check in" and "check out" using a contactless card or your phone. While having a small amount of cash (€20–€50) is useful for the occasional "honesty stall" in the countryside or very small old-school "brown cafes," you could easily spend a week in Amsterdam without ever touching a coin. Be aware that some smaller shops may still not accept American Express due to higher transaction fees, so carrying a standard Visa or Mastercard is the safest strategy for a seamless experience.