Public transport

Amsterdam has a well-developed public transport network that you can use easily with the I amsterdam City Card. It serves as your ticket for bus, tram and metro, so you can reach every corner of the city in comfort.

The I amsterdam City Card as a public transport ticket

With the City Card you can use all GVB lines as often as you like (tram, bus, metro and IJ ferries). The card is not valid with other operators, such as on NS trains or regional buses. It is activated on first use and then valid for 24 to 120 hours consecutively, depending on the option (not by calendar day).

Using it in practice

Activation: The physical City Card is activated automatically the first time you check in. You can activate the digital City Card in the City Card app before your first journey.

Checking in and out: When you board a tram, bus or metro, hold the card (or the QR code on your phone) against the check-in scanner. When you get off, you have to check out again by holding the card against the scanner once more.

Inspections: During a ticket inspection, simply show the City Card (or the QR code). Staff scan the card and see immediately whether your ticket is valid.

Timetable and transport app

Public transport runs from 6:00 to 0:30; after that, night buses run until around 7:00 (free with the City Card).

For planning, the free GVB app is a good choice (download: iOS, Android). It offers timetables, routes and real-time information on departures and disruptions, and is also available in English.

Key lines and connections for visitors

• Schiphol Airport: The City Card is not valid for the airport. The fastest way from the airport to the centre is the NS train (15 min) or express bus 397 (30 min).

• Amsterdam Centraal (main station): The most important hub, with many tram lines to all districts and connections to every metro line (another tram hub is Leidseplein).

• Sights: Tram 2 runs to the Museum Quarter (Rijksmuseum). You reach the Anne Frank House with tram 13/17, and ARTIS Zoo with tram 14.

• Recommended routes: Tram 2 (Centraal to Museumplein) is especially scenic. Tram 13 through the Jordaan district also gives you a feel for local life.