Public Transit

Amsterdam's public transportation system is quite organized and highly integrated with that of the Netherlands as a whole. The nationwide fare system is based on zones, and the pre-paid fare cards can be used on the subway, trams, and buses. Public transit is widely used in Amsterdam, and one can easily get within a few blocks of anywhere one could wish to go.

Amsterdam began the construction of its 4-line Metro subway system in the 1970s. The system connects the outer developments to the Centrum, and is used primarily by commuters. Only 4 of the stops lie within the city center, making the line all but useless for most tourists. The original construction of the Metro was very controversial, as it was necessary to destroy a swath of buildings in the historic Centrum in order for the tunnel to be dug.

Metronet map

The tram and bus system is used for surface travel, with trams playing a primary role in the Centrum and immediate surroundings, and buses used for service in outer developments. After trams and buses stop for the night, a separate system of night buses provides more limited service between 12 and 5 am.

Tram map

Bicycles

On account of the flat landscape and compact development, conditions for bicycle travel are optimal in Amsterdam. Bikes (or "fietsen") are used for commuting, recreation, shopping, and even going out for entertainment. Accomodations for bicycles are a part of the city's infrastructure: Bicycle lanes and traffic signals can be found on all major streets, and several bicycle racks are placed on every block, with larger concentrations at train and subway stations.

Bicycles are truly seen as vehicles in the Netherlands, and are treated accordingly. Every Dutch national worth his or her salt can patch a tube with ease, and bicycle shops can be found every few blocks in Amsterdam.

Roads and Cars

A ring road surrounds most of Amsterdam, connecting it to the Dutch national highway system. Within in the ring road, most surface streets are fewer than 4 lanes; in the Centrum the streets narrow to 1 or 2 lanes. The streets are designed for multiple uses, often with bike lanes, car lanes, tram lines, and car parking all on the same street. Within the Centrum, the use of cars is discouraged due to the narrow streets and high density. Parking costs in the Centrum are prohibitive, and remain high elsewhere within the ring road.

Rail Travel

Amsterdam is very well connected by rail to other cities in the Netherlands as well as to Europe as a whole. Centraal Station is the Amsterdam's international hub, and several smaller suburban stations (including one at Schipol airport) are a part of the national rail system.