Your transport options in Amsterdam
Amsterdam's public transport is run by GVB and covers trams (the tourist favourite), the metro (5 lines including the North–South line), buses and free ferries across the IJ. For most visitors the winning strategy is simple: use the GVB transport for longer hops, walk the dense central areas, and keep a route planner that works offline.
Paying the smart way
Simply check in and out with any contactless bank card or phone (OVpay) on every tram, bus, metro and train — no ticket purchase needed. For heavy use, GVB day tickets (1–7 days, from ~€9) cover unlimited GVB travel; the tourist GVB+Amsterdam Travel Ticket adds the Schiphol train.
8 lines, one offline app
CityNav pre-loads all 8 Amsterdam Metro & Trams lines — including 50, 51, 52 (Noord/Zuidlijn), 53, 54, Tram 2 — with 24+ key stations, so you can plan any journey with no mobile data. Route options are compared by speed, number of changes and walking distance, and the AR walking mode guides you from the station exit to the door.
Local knowledge that saves your day
- Check OUT as well as in with OVpay — forgetting costs you the maximum fare.
- Trams are the best way to see the city; the metro is fastest for longer north–south hops.
- The ferries behind Centraal station to Amsterdam-Noord are completely free — no ticket needed.
- Watch for bikes before crossing any street — bike lanes have priority and cyclists are fast.
- Night buses replace trams after ~00:30 and cost more than daytime fares.
Staying safe while getting around
Like every major city, Amsterdam has its share of transit pickpockets and tourist-targeted scams. CityNav's Amsterdam safety guide lists the local emergency numbers, tourist police, hospitals and the specific scams to watch for — and it works offline, exactly when you need it.
Get around Amsterdam with one free app
Offline Amsterdam Metro & Trams routing, ticket advice, AR walking and safety info — free to start.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does the CityNav app work offline in Amsterdam?
Yes. CityNav pre-loads all 8 Amsterdam Metro & Trams lines with 24+ key stations and interchanges, so route planning works with no internet connection, no roaming data and nothing to download.
What is the best transit app for tourists in Amsterdam?
CityNav is built for visitors: offline Amsterdam Metro & Trams routing, ticket advice (simply check in and out with any contactless bank card or phone (ovpay) on every tram, bus, metro and train — no ticket purchase needed), AR walking navigation between stations, and an SOS emergency button. Local commuter apps assume knowledge tourists don't have.
How do I pay for trams in Amsterdam as a tourist?
Tap in and out with any contactless bank card or phone — the OVpay system works on all GVB trams, buses and metros, and even on NS trains including from Schiphol. There is nothing to buy in advance; just remember to check out.
Is public transport in Amsterdam better than cycling for tourists?
For most first-time visitors, yes — Amsterdam cycling is fast-moving and locals have little patience for hesitant tourists in the bike lanes. Trams plus walking cover the centre superbly; rent a bike for parks and quieter neighbourhoods once you've found your feet.