Amsterdam has the most amazing Tram/Bus and Metro system; it is very simple to use and it will take you everywhere you want to go. The Tram, buses, and metro start the service at 6 am and runs through to midnight. Here are some handy hints on Using the Amsterdam Trams.

Getting from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam City Center

Schiphol airport is about 20 mins or 17 kilometers away from the city center of Amsterdam; it is quite simple, you have 3 main options

You could take the train

There is a train that connects the airport directly with Amsterdam Central Station; it usually departs from platforms 1 and 2 and will cost you € 5, 50 one way (In 2020). At the station, you will see big bright yellow ticket machines; which you can purchase your ticket with a credit card or coins.

Or a bus

The bus will take you to either Leidseplein or Museum Square in about 30mins; it is line 397 and will cost € 6,50 one-way (In 2020) you can purchase the ticket from the driver, but keep in mind they do not accept cash only credit card or contactless.

Or the expensive option a Taxi

The most expensive yet comfortable way to get from the airport to Amsterdam in about 25mins; The best part about a Taxi is you are dropped off exactly where you want to be. The taxi should cost anywhere between €45 to €60 no more; be sure to negotiate the price before getting in the Taxi. That goes for catching a taxi around the city; always negotiate the price before you get in.

Central Station

Central station is not just the central for the city of Amsterdam; it is the central hub for transport around the Netherlands and to Europe.

Using the Amsterdam Trams handy hints

• You can buy the Tram, Metro, or Bus tickets from the vending machines; or onboard the Train, Bus, or Tram. Look for the staff member in the little bubble. They are usually at the front, middle, and back of the Trams. The driver does not accept cash anymore so payments have to be made by credit card
• Local Buses and Trams around the city are sold as a single, day or multi-day ticket
• The single ticket that is valid for an hour is € 3,20
• 1 day (24 hour) is € 8,00
• 2 day (48 Hour) is € 13,50
• You can buy tickets 3-7 days depending on how long you are spending in Amsterdam
• You have to make sure you check-in and check out from your journey; the ticket becomes valid from the first time you check-in

Interested in Amsterdam? have a read about the unique city in our post-Amsterdam A City Like No Other; or if you are looking for suggestions on what to do and see in the city?