Ultimate Guide to Public Transport in Amsterdam (2025): Navigate Like a Pro!

Public transport in Amsterdam is your key to exploring one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Struggling to navigate its trams, buses, and metros efficiently?

Don’t worry—you’re not alone! With updated systems and seamless connections, offers smarter, greener travel.

In this guide, we show you everything you need to know to make your Amsterdam journey smooth and stress-free.

The public transport in Amsterdam is something which you’ll certainly like. Amsterdam isn’t a big city, so it’s pretty easy to get around. By bike, by foot and by public transport.

Discover the best tips and tricks for using the public transport in Amsterdam.

Overview of Public Transport Options

Amsterdam boasts a highly efficient and well-connected public transport system, making it easy to navigate the city without a car. The key modes of transport include trams, buses, metro lines, and ferries.

The tram network is the most popular and covers most of the city’s central areas, offering a scenic and convenient way to explore.

For destinations further out, buses and metro lines provide reliable connections. Amsterdam also has a unique ferry system that operates across the IJ River, offering free crossings for pedestrians and cyclists.

In addition to these options, cycling is integral to Amsterdam’s culture. While not strictly public transport, the city’s extensive bike lanes and rental services complement traditional transport options.

For eco-conscious and budget-friendly travelers, Amsterdam’s public transport is a seamless and sustainable choice.

Amsterdam Public Transport Prices in 2025

Amsterdam’s public transport system offers affordable options for all travelers. Whether you’re staying for a day or longer, there’s a ticket or pass to suit your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the prices:

• One-hour ticket: €3.40 (valid for unlimited travel within one hour).
• Day pass (24 hours): €9.00 (ideal for tourists exploring the city).
• Two-day pass (48 hours): €15.50 (great for short stays).
• Three-day pass (72 hours): €22.00 (popular with weekend visitors).
• Seven-day pass (168 hours): €47.50 (best for extended stays).
• Single-use ferry trips: Free (across the IJ River for pedestrians and cyclists).
• Monthly subscription (residents): Starting at €97.00 for unlimited travel.

Children under 4 travel free, while kids aged 4-11 can use a discounted €4.50 day pass.

Prices are subject to updates, so always check official transport websites for the latest rates.

How to Use the OV-chipkaart?

The OV–chipkaart is the key to accessing Amsterdam’s public transport system. This rechargeable smart card can be used across all modes of transport, including trams, buses, metro, and ferries.

There are two types of cards: the anonymous card, which is ideal for tourists, and the personalized card for long-term residents.

To use the OV-chipkaart, simply tap it on the card reader when boarding and alighting.

Make sure to have enough credit on your card; the minimum balance required is typically €4 for trams and buses and €20 for metro services.

Cards can be recharged at stations, supermarkets, or via the OV-chipkaart app. Tourists can also consider purchasing a day or multi-day pass for unlimited travel within the city.

Popular Destinations with Public Transport

Amsterdam’s public transport network efficiently connects visitors to its iconic attractions.

De #2 tram route, for example, is renowned as one of the most scenic tram rides in the world, passing landmarks like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank Huis in Amsterdam.

For nature lovers, buses or free ferries to Amsterdam Noord open access to parks and waterfront areas.

De metro lines, particularly the North-South line (Line 52), are ideal for quick travel between Amsterdam Central Station and the city’s southern neighborhoods.

If you’re planning a day trip to nearby towns like Haarlem or Zaanse Schans, regional buses and trains provide direct and hassle-free options.

For smooth navigation, use Amsterdam apps like 9292, NS, Transdev or Google Maps to plan your routes in real time.

Timetables and Frequency

Amsterdam’s public transport operates with impressive frequency, especially in the city center. Trams and buses typically run from 6:00 AM to midnight, with night buses taking over after hours.

The metro services also follow a similar schedule, making them a reliable option for daily commuting and evening outings.

During peak hours, trams and buses run every 5–10 minutes, while metro trains operate at intervals of 3–6 minutes.

Off-peak hours see slightly reduced frequency, but the network remains robust. Ferries, especially the popular IJ River routes, run regularly throughout the day, with some services available 24/7.

Always check the latest timetables online or via transport apps to avoid unnecessary waiting times.

Public Transport Amsterdam Tips for Tourists & Locals

For an enjoyable and stress-free experience, follow these insider tips:

• Avoid rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM) to travel comfortably, as trams and metro lines can get crowded.
• Use apps like 9292 and Google Maps to get real-time updates on routes, schedules, and delays.
• Keep your OV-chipkaart topped up, and don’t forget to check out when you exit to avoid extra charges.
• If you’re cycling, combine your bike rides with ferries for free and picturesque crossings of the IJ River.
• Consider purchasing a City Card or multi-day transport pass if you plan extensive travel. These often include discounts for attractions.

By following these tips, you can navigate Amsterdam like a local while saving time and money.

6 Most Popular FAQs About Public Transport in Amsterdam

1. What is the best way to get around Amsterdam?

The best way to get around Amsterdam is by tram, especially if you’re visiting the city center. Trams are frequent, scenic, and cover key attractions like the Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House.

In our opinion, the #2 tram route offers the best sightseeing experience. For areas further out, the metro or buses are great options.

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2. How does the OV-chipkaart work?

The OV-chipkaart is a rechargeable travel card used for trams, buses, metro, and ferries. Simply tap it on the card reader when boarding and exiting.

When we tested it, the OV-chipkaart was straightforward and saved time compared to buying individual tickets.

Tip: Load enough credit to avoid disruptions mid-journey.

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3. Are there any free public transport options in Amsterdam?

Yes! Ferries across the IJ River, like the one from Amsterdam Central to Amsterdam Noord, are free for pedestrians and cyclists.

When our local guide last tested the ferry, they found it a convenient and scenic way to explore.

For budget travelers, this is a fantastic option.

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4. Is public transport in Amsterdam tourist-friendly?

Absolutely. In our opinion, Amsterdam’s public transport system is one of the easiest to use in Europe.

Signs and announcements are available in English, and apps like 9292 offer real-time navigation.

Tourists can also buy multi-day passes for unlimited travel, which we found highly convenient during our test.

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5. What are the peak and off-peak travel times?

Peak times are typically 7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM on weekdays, when locals commute.

Off-peak times are quieter and ideal for sightseeing. When we traveled off-peak, we enjoyed less crowded trams and buses.

If possible, plan your trips outside peak hours for a smoother experience.

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6. What’s the most scenic tram ride in Amsterdam?

The #2 tram route is widely considered the most scenic, passing iconic landmarks like the Museumplein and canals. When we last tested this ride, it lived up to its reputation, offering stunning views of the city.

We believe every visitor should experience this route—it’s like a mini tour of Amsterdam on rails.

Public Transport Cards

Travelling with metro, bus or tram requires one and the same public transport card.

There ar two options: A disposable or non-disponsable public transport card (in dutch: OV-chipkaart).

1. Disposable public transport card

You can travel anywhere in the city centre for one hour for 2,60 euro. These disposable public transport tickets are available in tram, busses and machines from GVB.

With this card, you can travel with any bus, tram or metro from the moment you check in till one hour later. This card is the best option if you’re in Amsterdam for a couple of days.

Note that the disposable public transport card is not valid in trains. Check the info below for train ticket options.

2. Non-disposable public transport card

If you’re in Amsterdam for more than a couple of days, it’s best to buy a card which you can use several times and longer than one hour.

Rates for public transport are reduced with almost 50% compared to the disposable public transport card.

You can choose between a perzonalized of anymonous card. Both cards are also valid in trains.

Anonymous public transport chipcard

An anonymous card  is recommended if you are visiting Amsterdam or The Netherlands for holiday. It’s also more convenient to use this card if you want to share the card with others.

However,  several people cannot travel at one and the same time using the same card. You can only load the card with an e-purse and with train tickets.

You cannot load season tickets onto this card. There is a one-time charge of € 7.50 for this card, which is valid for 5 years. The card cannot be blocked.

Personalized public transport chipcard

The personalized OV-chipkaart offers you the most advantages if you’re in the Netherlands permenantly or for a couple of months/years.

You can reload the e-purse on the card as often as you want, either with a balance in euros or with a travel product (with, for example, a season ticket or with train tickets).

You can also decide to have the e-purse on your card automatically reloaded: If the amount on your e-purse goes below 5 euros, then a fixed amount of 10 or 20 euros is automatically transferred from your bank or giro account to your OV-chipkaart.

You will also need a personalized OV-chipkaart if you want to benefit from an age-related reduction. Just like the anonymous card, there is a one-time charge of € 7.50 for the anonymous card, which is valid for 5 years as well.

In case of loss or theft you can get this card blocked.

Public transport in Amsterdam

Public transport in Amsterdam’s Red Light District

The best way to go to the Red Light District is by foot from Amsterdam’s Central Station. It’s just a 5 minute walk.

There are many narrow alleys and streets in the Red Light District, therefor there aren’t any busses of trams in the area.

If you take one of the metros towards Central Station, you should get out at Nieuwmarkt (New Market Square).

From there, it’s just a 2 minute walk to the Red Light District.

Metros in Amsterdam

It’s important that you check in your valid OV-chip card at the station or on the platform. Buy your ticket from the GVB machines provided or the ticket office.

Regular checks take place to ensure that all passengers have a valid ticket. When getting on or off a train, press the button on or next to the doors to open them.

Do not get on or off after you hear the signal that the doors are closing. All metro trains call at all stations on their route, so there is no need to alert the driver to stop.

Where to buy Amsterdam’s public transport tickets for bus, tram and metro?

GVB Tickets & Info Stationsplein
(opposite Central Station)
Open: Monday to Friday, 7am – 9pm and
Saturday and Sunday, 10am – 6pm.

GVB Tickets & Info metrostation Central Station:
Open: Monday to Friday, 7am – 6pm.

Trains from and to Amsterdam

Amsterdam contains of 12 trainstations. Amsterdam Central Station is the biggest station and is itself an impressive building. To travel by train, you can buy a disposable chip card in a NS machine (note these cards are not the same as the disposable chip cards for bus, tram and metro, which are available in a GVB machine) or at the box offfice at the train station or use your non-disposable public transport chip card.  It’s also possible to buy a train-ticket online by clicking here.

Where to plan your journey in Amsterdam or beyond?

To plan your yourney with every kind of public transport, click here. This is a very convenient website for planning your journey inside and outside of Amsterdam! If you fill in your departure address and your destinantion address, this site will tell you exactly which trams, metros, busses or trains you need to take to get from door to door in the fastest way! You can find another website to plan your train journey here.

Do you have a question about the public transport in Amsterdam? Please do not hesitate to contact us! We are here to help you out.