Amsterdam is one of the most sustainable and livable cities in the world, thanks to a well-organized transportation system and a deeply ingrained bicycle culture.
Getting around the Dutch capital without a car is not only easy, but also the best way to respect the environment and enjoy the city.
In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know to make the most of public transportation, bicycles, and boats.
Public transport in Amsterdam
Amsterdam boasts an efficient public transport system primarily managed by the company GVB, which includes trams, buses, metros, and ferries.
Here is an overview of each available option:
Tram
The tram is the most convenient means of transport in the city center.
With 15 lines covering most of Amsterdam, it is possible to reach the main points of interest quickly and ecologically.
- Schedule: trams run from 6:00 AM to midnight, with high frequencies throughout the day.
- Tickets: you can buy a single ticket, but daily or multi-day passes offer great value for tourists.
- Useful yip: the tram is particularly useful for traveling between Central Station, the Rijksmuseum, and the Jordaan district.
Metro
The Amsterdam metro is ideal for those traveling to outlying districts or outside the center, such as Bijlmer and Amstelveen.
- Lines: the network includes 4 main lines, including the modern Line 52, known as the Noord/Zuidlijn, which connects the north and south of the city.
- Schedule: the metro operates from 6:00 AM to midnight.
- Tickets: tickets are also valid for trams and buses, making the integrated system very convenient.
Bus
Buses cover areas not reached by trams and metros, such as some suburban areas and night links.
- Hours: Night services are active from 12:30 AM to 7:00 AM, ensuring transportation even outside regular hours.
- Connexxion Airport Express: Line 397 connects Schiphol Airport to the city center in about 30 minutes.
Ferries
GVB's free ferries cross the IJ river and connect Central Station to the northern part of the city, a growing area that hosts attractions such as the A'DAM Lookout and NDSM Wharf.
- Hours: Ferries operate 24 hours a day, with high frequencies during the day.
- Tip: Using the ferry is a pleasant experience and allows you to see the city from a different perspective.
Tickets and passes
GVB offers various ticket and pass options to suit the needs of residents and tourists:
- Single ticket: valid for 1 hour on all public transport.
- Daily passes: ideal for tourists, with options from 1 to 7 days.
- OV-chipkaart: a rechargeable card for those who plan to use public transport frequently.
You can purchase tickets at GVB ticket offices, vending machines, and through the official GVB app.
For more details visit the official GVB website.
The bicycle: the symbol of Amsterdam
Amsterdam is famous for being the bicycle capital of the world.
With over 800,000 bicycles and 500 km of bike lanes, it is the most practical and sustainable way to explore the city.
Renting a bicycle
There are numerous bike rental companies scattered throughout the city.
Prices vary, but a standard bicycle costs about 10-15 euros per day.
- Rental tips: choose a bicycle with a sturdy lock and ask for information about the safest bike paths.
- Where to rent: some of the most popular rentals include MacBike and Rent-A-Bike.
Rules for cyclists
To cycle safely, follow these simple rules:
- Always use the bike lanes.
- Obey traffic lights and signs.
- Be aware of pedestrians and other cyclists.
Exploring the city by bike
Riding a bike allows you to discover picturesque neighborhoods like De Pijp and Oud-West, or reach green areas like Vondelpark and Amsterdamse Bos.
Boats and water mobility
Amsterdam is crossed by a network of canals that offers another transportation option: boats.
Although they are more touristic than practical, they provide a unique and relaxing way to see the city.
- Canal tours: available in various forms, from hop-on-hop-off boats to evening tours.
- Local alternatives: some boats offer regular services for those who prefer to avoid road traffic.
- Useful info: for canal tours, check websites like I amsterdam.
Practical tips for sustainable mobility
- Plan your trips: use apps like 9292 and Google Maps to find the best schedules and connections.
- Walk as much as possible: the city center is compact and easily explored on foot.
- Respect the environment: avoid buying paper tickets and prefer digital options.
- Use public transport during off-peak hours: this simple choice helps reduce pressure on the transport system.
- No need for an umbrella: rains in Amsterdam are often light and accompanied by wind, which makes the umbrella impractical.
Choose a waterproof jacket for freedom of movement, especially if you are biking.
Amsterdam offers endless possibilities for moving sustainably and experiencing an authentic visit.
Whether you choose to use public transport, bike through the canals, or navigate aboard a boat, the city will captivate you with its unique style and commitment to the environment.
Plan ahead and enjoy every moment of this low environmental impact journey.