Public transport in Amsterdam – complete guide for visitors
Amsterdam has an excellent public transport system that makes it easy to get around the city and travel to nearby destinations. Trams, buses, metro lines, trains and ferries connect the city centre with neighbourhoods, suburbs and the airport.
This guide explains how public transport works in Amsterdam, how to pay for it, and what the easiest options are for visitors.
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How public transport works in Amsterdam
Public transport in Amsterdam consists of:
- Trams – the main way to travel through the city centre
- Metro – the fastest way to travel longer distances in the city
- Buses – connect areas without tram or metro
- Trains – connect Amsterdam with the airport and other cities
- Ferries – free ferries across the IJ river behind Central Station
Most public transport in the city is operated by GVB, while trains are operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
To travel, you must check in when you start your journey and check out when you leave.
The easiest way to pay for public transport
The easiest way to travel in Amsterdam is using contactless payment.
You can check in and out using:
- Contactless debit card
- Credit card
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
This system is called OVpay.
How it works
- Hold your card or phone against the card reader.
- Check in when entering the tram, metro, bus or train.
- Check out when leaving.
Important: Always use the same card when checking out.
Do you need an OV-chipkaart?
The OV-chipkaart used to be the standard public transport card in the Netherlands.
Today it is mainly used by:
- Residents
- Frequent travellers
- Commuters
Visitors usually do not need one, because contactless payment works on most public transport.
Public transport tickets for tourists
If you plan to travel frequently within the city, a GVB day pass can be convenient.
Available options include:
- 24-hour pass
- 48-hour pass
- 72-hour pass
- Multi-day passes up to 7 days
These passes allow unlimited travel on GVB trams, buses and metro.
They do not include trains or regional buses.
Free ferries behind Central Station
One of Amsterdam’s best travel tips: the ferries behind Amsterdam Central Station are completely free.
They connect the city centre with Amsterdam Noord across the IJ river.
You can bring:
- Bicycles
- Luggage
- Scooters
No ticket or check-in required.
How to travel from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam
The fastest way to travel from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to the city centre is by train.
- Travel time: about 15–20 minutes
- Frequent trains to Amsterdam Central Station
You can check in using:
- Contactless payment
- OV-chipkaart
- Train ticket
Night transport in Amsterdam
Public transport runs late in Amsterdam.
- Trams and metro lines run until around midnight
- After midnight, night buses operate throughout the city
Most night buses depart from Amsterdam Central Station.
Best apps for planning public transport
- 9292 – the most accurate Dutch public transport planner
- Google Maps – useful for navigation and walking directions
- GVB app Gappie – live departure times for Amsterdam transport
Common tourist mistakes
- Forgetting to check out – this may result in the maximum fare being charged.
- Using different cards to check in and out.
- Using a GVB day pass on trains – these passes are only valid on trams, buses and metro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is public transport good in Amsterdam?
Yes. The city has a reliable and extensive transport network.
Is it better to cycle or use public transport?
For short distances cycling is often faster, but public transport is convenient for longer trips.
Can I pay cash on trams or buses?
No. Cash is not accepted.
Do children travel free?
Children under 4 travel free on public transport.