What is the Best Way to Get Around Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a city known for its winding canals and picturesque architecture. But to really get the most out of your time in Amsterdam, it helps to be able to get around quickly and efficiently. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at all of the best ways to get around Amsterdam and beyond, from walking and cycling to public transport and private services.

Walking

The best way to explore Amsterdam is on foot. The city is relatively flat and it’s easy to walk from one attraction to the next. The city center is full of pedestrian-friendly roads, making it easy to reach the major attractions. There are a few quirks you should keep in mind when walking around Amsterdam that makes it different from other European cities.

For starters, bicycles have right of way over pedestrians. You should always look both ways before crossing any street and always look out for cyclists. Just like London, cars will typically yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, but that isn’t always the case, so be aware and alert when crossing any street.

Cycling

The Netherlands is sometimes called one of the most bicycle-friendly countries in the world and there’s no better way to see Amsterdam than on two wheels. Everywhere you look, people are riding their bikes on dedicated biking streets and over 400 kilometers of cycling lanes connect the city.

Renting a bike is perhaps the easiest way to explore the city by bike. There are many rental companies, such as Amsterdam Bike Rental, that offer top-quality bikes for an affordable price. Amsterdam is also part of the OV-Fiets (Public Bicycle Rental program) that lets you rent bicycles directly at various train stations around the city, plus they are available to use 24 hours every day.

Public Transportation

Amsterdam has an extensive public transportation system made up of trams, Metro and buses. The transport network is run by GVB (Gemeentelijk Vervoerbedrijf), and it covers most of the city and its suburbs.

You can buy tickets from ticket machines at bus stops or inside metro stations, or from the driver on board buses or trams (cash only). For shorter visits, it might be better value to purchase the daily GVB day ticket or the 24, 48 or 72-hour tickets that allow unlimited travel on all public transportation modes. Those tickets can be purchased online here.

It also pays off to consider getting an Iamsterdam card, which gives you free access to the transport network as well as discounts to many of the city’s museums and attractions.

Private Services: Taxis and Uber

Amsterdam has numerous taxis available and they’re typically quite easy to find throughout the city center. The taxis are modern and there’s a flat rate for riding in them; however, traffic can quickly add to this amount, so it could end up costing more than you bargained for. Uber also operates in Amsterdam and customers can choose from several car categories that range from economy class to luxury class services. Uber is typically more expensive than regular taxi services but it can be useful if you need a ride quickly.

Conclusion

No matter what your travel style is when visiting Amsterdam, there are several options available to get around the city efficiently and easily. For those looking to get a taste of how the locals move around town, walking and cycling should be your first choice of transport modes; however, if you’re looking for something more convenient or reaching further places in town such as Schiphol airport, then taking public transportation or private services will suit you better.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city filled with vibrant energy, intricate canals, and historical beauty. Although the city is well-known for its iconic attractions such as the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, and the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam has so much more to offer. In this insider’s guide, we will explore some hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, fascinating history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your visit to Amsterdam unforgettable.

Local Attractions

Amsterdam has a lot more to offer than the well-known tourist spots. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, visit the Begijnhof, a hidden courtyard of traditional Dutch houses surrounded by a serene garden that has remained unchanged since the 14th century. Another breathtaking attraction is the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, filled with rare plants and stunning greenhouses.

For a unique experience, visit the Tropenmuseum, which displays the cultural artifacts of Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Oceania. The museum also has interactive exhibits that provide visitors with the opportunity to experience different cultures and traditions firsthand.

Dining Spots

Amsterdam has a rich food culture that is sometimes overlooked. Try the savory poffertjes, the bite-size pancakes that come topped with butter and powdered sugar, at Poffertjes Salon De 9 Straatjes. For a more filling meal, head to The Pantry, where you can indulge in traditional Dutch cuisine like stamppot (potatoes mashed with vegetables) or bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs).

Amsterdam’s food culture also reflects its Jewish history. For the best Jewish delicatessen experience, head to Sal Meyer in the Vondelpark area, where you can enjoy freshly baked challah bread, matzo ball soup, and pastrami sandwiches.

Cultural Experiences

Amsterdam is a hub of culture and creativity. Every year, the city hosts the Amsterdam Light Festival, an outdoor art exhibition that showcases works of light artists from all over the world. Additionally, the city is home to some of the best-music festivals in Europe, such as the Amsterdam Dance Event, or ADE, which attracts the world’s top DJs.

For an even deeper cultural experience, visit the Dutch National Opera & Ballet, where you can enjoy classical performances in a stunning venue. You can also visit the Museum Van Loon, a historic canal house that serves as a museum of art and a window into the lives of Amsterdam’s elite in the 17th century.

Local History

Amsterdam has a rich and dramatic history, filled with espionage, political conflict, and social upheaval. One of the most captivating stories is that of Anne Frank and her family, who spent two years hiding in a secret attic during the Nazi occupation. Visit the Anne Frank House to learn more about their experiences and the hidden room where they lived.

Another fascinating attraction is the Zaanse Schans, a historic open-air museum where you can travel back in time to the 18th century. The museum has windmills, traditional wooden houses, and workshops where you can watch craftsmen make clogs, cheese, and other traditional Dutch items.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique and unforgettable Amsterdam experience, consider taking a canal tour at night when the city is lit up and reflected in the water. You can also hire a bike, the most popular mode of transportation in the city, and ride through the Vondelpark for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon.

For even more excitement, visit the Electric Ladyland Museum of Fluorescent Art, a glowing and stunning display in the heart of the city. If you’re feeling brave, visit the Red Light District, Amsterdam’s most notorious area, where you can get a glimpse of the city’s more explicit side.

In conclusion, Amsterdam is a city that is best explored through its hidden gems, local food, and unique culture. By following this insider’s guide, you’ll discover a side of Amsterdam that is often missed by tourists, and leave with unforgettable memories of this one-of-a-kind city.