What is the best form of public transport in Amsterdam?

After walking or biking, the Amsterdam tram is the most scenic way to travel through the city. Fifteen tram routes crisscross the city, and visitors can use their GVB OV-chipkaart to take a ride on the 200-some trams offered.



The best form of public transport in Amsterdam in 2026 is undoubtedly the Electric Tram network, though the most "authentic" way to get around is by bicycle. Trams are the backbone of the city's transit, offering frequent, reliable service that connects the Central Station to almost every major museum and neighborhood. The system is entirely "cashless," requiring a contactless debit/credit card or a mobile phone to "tap-on and tap-off" at the doors. For longer distances to the suburbs or the airport, the "Sprinter" and "Intercity" trains are world-class. If you are staying for a few days, the "GVB Multi-Day Pass" is the best value, offering unlimited travel on all trams, buses, and the metro. While the Metro is efficient for reaching the North or Southeast districts, the Trams provide a scenic view of the canal ring that makes the journey part of the sightseeing experience. Always remember that Amsterdam's transit is highly integrated; one "tap" covers you across different modes, making it one of the most user-friendly systems in Europe for 2026 travelers.

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The cheapest way to travel around Amsterdam is walking, as the city is one of the most walkable in the world.

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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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As of 2023, all domestic trains, metros, trams, and buses in Amsterdam (and nationwide) accept payment from contactless methods including credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and more. As long as your card has an OV chip in it, you should be able to use it to pay for your fare.

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You can hop on a tram, bus, or metro train, all operated by the city's primary travel operator, Gemeentelijk Vervoerbedrijf (GVB). Or you can explore the city like the locals: on a bicycle. As the GVB covers three modes of public transport—metro, tram, and bus—you only need one ticket to access them all.

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As of 2023, all domestic trains, metros, trams, and buses in Amsterdam (and nationwide) accept payment from contactless methods including credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and more. As long as your card has an OV chip in it, you should be able to use it to pay for your fare.

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The train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station is the fastest and cheapest way to the city center. The train runs 24 hours a day, with departures scheduled for every 10–15 minutes between the hours of 6 a.m. and 1 a.m. (they depart every hour during other times).

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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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The Netherlands boasts an efficient and affordable public transport system. It is easy to travel throughout the Netherlands by train, bus, metro or ferry. What's more, it is incredibly sustainable.

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The Dutch capital's center is very walkable as it's so compact – perhaps a little too much as it tends to get very crowded.

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In the tram, bus or metro you simply check in and out with your debit card, credit card or mobile phone. You can check in and out with the following cards: contactless payment cards from ABN AMRO, ASN Bank, Bunq, Knab, ING, Rabobank, Regiobank or SNS; a Mastercard or Visa contactless credit card (a.o. issued by ICS);

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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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Personal information. A personal OV-chipkaart costs € 7,50 and is valid for five years. You will receive your new card within six working days. Please note: there is no mail delivery on Mondays.

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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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