Amsterdam Transport Guide
Getting to and around Amsterdam — Schiphol Airport, public transport, taxis, cycling and intercity trains.
Schiphol Airport Guide
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is one of Europe's busiest and most well-organised airports, located just 18 km southwest of Amsterdam city centre. It has four passenger terminals, extensive shopping and dining, and exceptional transport connections into the city.
Key Facts
- IATA code: AMS
- Distance from city: 18 km / 25 min by train
- Main terminal: Single terminal building (four piers)
- Currency exchange: Available airside and landside
- Left luggage: Available in arrivals
Train (Intercity Direct)
€5.70⏱ 17 min
Direct trains run every 15 minutes between Schiphol and Amsterdam Centraal — the fastest, cheapest and most popular option.
Taxi
€40–60⏱ 25–45 min
Licensed taxis from the official taxi rank outside arrivals. Metered fare. Prices vary with traffic.
Private Transfer
€45–75⏱ 25–40 min
Pre-booked private driver meets you in arrivals. Ideal for families, luggage-heavy travellers or late-night arrivals.
Amsterdam Public Transport
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Tram
Amsterdam's tram network is excellent — 15 lines covering the city centre. Fast, frequent and easy to navigate. The 2, 12 and 14 serve most tourist areas.
Tap your card or use a day ticket. Most trams run until 12:30am.
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Metro
Four metro lines — most useful for Noord (52) and the Eastern Docklands. The North-South Line (52) connects Centraal Station to the Zuid business district.
Useful for longer journeys but trams are generally better for tourist areas.
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Bus
Supplements the tram and metro network. Useful for areas not covered by trams and for night services (Nachtbus) after the regular network closes.
Night buses run from midnight to 7am when the tram network is closed.
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Free Ferry
Free IJ ferries run 24/7 between Amsterdam Centraal and Amsterdam Noord. The NDSM ferry is especially popular for the creative district.
Free, frequent and one of Amsterdam's best views — across the IJ waterfront.
Tickets & Payment
- OV-chipkaart: The standard Dutch public transport chip card. Load credit and tap in/out on all modes. Purchase at Central Station or Schiphol arrivals.
- GVB Day Ticket: Unlimited GVB (tram/bus/metro) travel for 1–7 days. A 1-day ticket costs around €9. Available at ticket machines and GVB service points.
- Contactless payment: Many trams and buses accept contactless card payment directly — no OV-chipkaart needed.
Cycling In Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the cycling capital of the world. There are more bicycles than people, dedicated cycle lanes on almost every street, and a culture built around two wheels. For visitors, renting a bike is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the city.
Bike Rental
- City bikes from €12–18 per day
- Rental shops at Central Station, Leidseplein and throughout the city
- MacBike, Orangebike and Rent a Bike are popular operators
Cycling Rules
- Always use designated cycle lanes (the red-paved paths)
- Pedestrians — look both ways before crossing a cycle lane
- Helmets are not required but are recommended for children
- Lock your bike securely — bike theft is common
⚠️ A Warning for Visitors
Amsterdam's cycle lanes can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Cyclists move fast, ride confidently, and have priority over pedestrians on bike lanes. Before renting a bike, be aware:
- › Stay on the correct side of the cycle lane
- › Signal before turning (extend your arm)
- › Never cycle on the pavement (sidewalk)
- › Be aware of tram tracks — they can catch your wheel
Train Travel From Amsterdam
Amsterdam Centraal is the hub for NS (Dutch Railways) intercity services. The Netherlands has one of Europe's most efficient rail networks.
Haarlem
Great half-day trip — medieval city, Frans Hals Museum.
Utrecht
Wonderful canal city, Dom Tower, great restaurants.
Rotterdam
Architecture capital — Cube Houses, Markthal.
Delft
Vermeer's birthplace, Delftware pottery, beautiful centre.
The Hague
Dutch parliament, Mauritshuis (Girl with a Pearl Earring).
Schiphol Airport
Direct Intercity service — the standard airport link.