Amsterdam is one of the most card-forward cities in the world and has a very strong preference for digital payments over cash. In 2026, it is common to see "Pin Only" signs in cafes, supermarkets, and boutiques, meaning they do not accept cash at all. The local "Debit" system is universal, but major international credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are now accepted almost everywhere. Even the city's famous street markets and small flower stalls typically have "tap-to-pay" terminals. Cash is increasingly rare; in fact, the national Dutch railway (NS) and many city bus lines do not accept cash for tickets on board. While it is always smart to carry a small amount of Euros for absolute emergencies or very small "mom-and-pop" shops in rural areas, you can easily navigate 99% of Amsterdam with just a smartphone or a contactless card. If you are an American traveler, ensure your card has a "Chip and PIN" capability, as some older "signature-only" cards can still occasionally cause minor issues at automated kiosks.
In Amsterdam, card payments are widely preferred and accepted, especially contactless payments using debit or credit cards. The Netherlands has embraced cashless transactions, and most establishments—including shops, restaurants, cafes, and public transport—accept cards, particularly Maestro or Visa/Mastercard.
However, it’s still a good idea to carry some cash (Euros) for smaller purchases, at markets, or in case you encounter places that don’t accept cards (though this is increasingly rare). Some smaller businesses or older establishments may have a minimum spend for card payments or prefer cash.
Additionally, be aware that American Express is less commonly accepted, so it’s better to rely on Visa or Mastercard. Always inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid issues with card transactions abroad.