How do you pay for the bus or train in Amsterdam?

Check in and out with your contactless debit card, credit card or mobile to travel by bus, tram, metro or train. No registration is necessary. You pay the same travel fares you would if you were using an OV-chipkaart.



By 2026, paying for transit in Amsterdam has become almost entirely contactless through the OVpay system. The easiest method for visitors is to simply tap your contactless debit card, credit card, or smartphone (Apple/Google Pay) directly on the readers when entering and exiting every bus, tram, metro, or train. You no longer need to buy a physical ticket or an "OV-chipkaart" unless you are staying for several months and want a personalized subscription. It is a crucial 2026 supportive tip to remember to check out with the same device you used to check in; otherwise, the system will charge a default "correction fee" of up to €20. For those preferring digital apps, the GVB app allows you to purchase "Barcode Tickets" (1-day to 5-day passes) which you scan at the gates. Cash is no longer accepted on any public transport vehicles in Amsterdam as of 2026.

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In Amsterdam and throughout the Netherlands, the public transport chip card (OV-Chipkaart) is a rechargeable card used for travel on trams, buses, metros and trains. Residents typically own a personalised card that can be loaded up with credit.

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Bus routes and tickets Payment by debit or credit card is possible, as well as your public transport chip card. The Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket is also excellent value if you plan to explore the region.

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You can now check in and out on the train, bus, tram and metro throughout the Netherlands with your debit card, credit card or mobile phone. Pay for your trip just as easily as your groceries in the store. Handy, because: you no longer need a separate OV-chipkaart.

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The average daily budget for a trip to Amsterdam can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. However, a rough estimate for a budget traveler would be around €60-80 per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around €100-150 per day.

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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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Train travel from the airport Train travel is not included with the City Card, such as the journey from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Amsterdam Central Station.

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The Netherlands is a very modern country. You can pay with cash or a debit card, and often with your phone via NFC, Apple Pay, or Google Wallet. Not to mention the latest phenomenon, 'Tikkie', which is also being used more and more. We'll go through the options one by one.

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Amsterdam, Netherlands With speed limits of just 30 km/h, Amsterdam prioritises people and active transport, making it one of the most walkable cities in the world.

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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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