Getting Around Amsterdam - Amsterdam Transport

Getting around Amsterdam is easy. The Amsterdam transport system is fantastic. Let's first assume that you're arriving by plane. Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport is one of the world's busiest and is located only about 15 km away from the city center. In my opinion it's one of the easiest airports in the world to get around. After you get off your plane just follow the signs that say baggage reclaim. Just before the baggage turnstiles you'll have to go through customs. There will be 2 separate lines, one for those with EU passports and another line for everyone else. Getting through customs in Amsterdam is easy and painless. On the other side of customs is the baggage claim area. Click here for a Schiphol airport map.

If you intend on taking the train from the airport to central station you can buy your tickets from the yellow vending machines located in the baggage reclaim area. The direct train from the airport to Amsterdam Central Station cost €3.70 and it takes about 20 min. to get to the train station at the airport you must go through the doors at the end of the baggage reclaim where you'll find yourself in the main shopping area of the airport follow the signs to the train station which is located underground. There are usually 4 to 5 trains per hour leave for Amsterdam and they run 24 hours a day with reduced service in the early morning hours. Once you arrive at central station there are 2 ways you can exit, make sure you follow the signs that guide you to the city center, the sign should say Centrum.

You also have the option of taking the bus from the airport to Amsterdam. The bus will take you to areas known as the Museumplein and the Leidseplein. The bus costs approximately €2.50 and the bus runs every 15 min. until midnight.

If you decide to take a taxi be prepared to pay anywhere from €40-€60. A taxi usually takes about 25 min.

There is also a hotel shuttle that serves many of the hotels in the city which cost between €15 and €25.

If you are arriving in Amsterdam by train you'll find that you're already in the heart of the city. Once you leave the train station you'll have plenty of options for getting around Amsterdam. First you'll notice plenty of trams in front of the building. These trams will get you to most of the areas in the old city center and beyond.

An important thing to remember is the general street plan of Amsterdam. Most of the roads follow the canals which make up a semicircular pattern which all lead to the train station. It is very difficult to get lost in the city. If you keep walking you'll eventually see something familiar.

Amsterdam is a great walking city especially if you're located in the old city center or close by. Don't be afraid of walking, this is how you experience the most that Amsterdam has to offer. Get yourself a good map and you should have no problem finding your way to all of Amsterdam's attractions.

Another option for getting around Amsterdam is to rent a bike. You'll see that bike travel is the most popular form in Amsterdam. Everyone in the city rides a bike. It's a great way to travel around the city and get to see a little bit more than you would if you were walking. Bike rentals can cost anywhere from €9-€20 for the day and you can arrange an even better price if you plan on keeping the bike for longer.

If you are going to use Amsterdam public transport your best bet is to buy a daily pass. They started €7 for 24 hours and are valid for unlimited journeys on the tram Metro and bus.

Within Amsterdam you can also travel by taxi but they are relatively expensive. Count on paying between 10 and €15 for a single trip within the city center.

Read my lips, do not rent a car in Amsterdam. Unless you are staying in the outskirts of the city car is not necessary to get around Amsterdam. As a matter of fact, you are just asking for trouble. With all the bikes and the people walking through the streets an accident is bound to happen.

You can also travel around Amsterdam on canal cruises, canal busses and canal bikes. You'll find stations and rental areas located throughout the city, but they are most common around the train station. Traveling the canals is one of the best ways to get to see this beautiful city. On a guided tour you get to learn some of the history and learn a little bit about the architecture of the city of Amsterdam.

Don't be afraid, getting around Amsterdam is easy. From Amsterdam public transport to private companies, you shouldn't have a problem finding an affordable way to travel.

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