Getting Around
Public Transport
Amsterdam has an excellent public transport network including trams, buses, metro and ferry, making it very easy to navigate the city.
A single journey by tram costs EUR 2.60 in cash but it’s cheaper to travel using a ‘OV chip card’ (public transportation card). An OV chip card can be bought from the GVB Tickets & Info office or GVB Ticket Vending Machines. More information about OV chip cards.
Taxis
Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Note that taxis cannot stop anywhere, so you may pointed to the nearest taxi stand. Taxis in Amsterdam run on a meter.
Schiphol Travel Taxi
(with online booking service)
Telephone: +31 (0) 20 653 1000
Taxicentrale Amsterdam (TCA)
(with online booking service)
Telephone: +31 (0) 20 777 7777
For something different, you can book a bicycle taxi or tuk-tuk.
More information about taxis in Amsterdam
Bicycles
Bicycling is an excellent way of getting around Amsterdam, with dedicated bike lanes on most streets. Okura hotel rents out bicycles.
More information about renting a bicyle
Bicycle day rent prices are on average EUR 15 + deposit.
Visa Information
We will provide you with an invitation letter upon request after you have registered. We will include details on how to apply for the invitation letter in your registration confirmation email.
Currency and Banking
Currency Exchange
The Dutch currency is the Euro. You can change money in most banks. The GWK Exchange Bureau at Central Station offers a good exchange rate. Changing your money at hotels and some other foreign exchange shops is more expensive. Online Currency Converter Banks are open on weekdays from 09:00 – 17:00. A small number of banks are also open on Saturday from 10:00 – 16:00, and Thursday evening from 17:00 – 20:00.
Credit Cards
All major credit cards are accepted widely, but not everywhere. Some shops and restaurants do not accept credit cards. If in doubt, ask in advance. Cash-on-card services are available from selected American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa Card addresses. These cards are also accepted by all GWK currency exchange outlets and change express offices. You will find the GWK offices at Central Station and Schiphol Airport.
Business Hours
Most shops and banks are open Monday-Friday from 10:00 until 17:00, although on Monday many places remain closed until after lunch. On Thursday evening, many shops in the city centre stay open later.
Electricity
EU standard: Netherlands 220V 50 Hz – round two pin plugs.
Weather
In September, the average temperature is around 17 degrees Celcius. There is always a chance of rain though, so bring an umbrella.
Emergency Telephone Numbers
- Police/Fire/Ambulance: 112
- Police (non-emergency): +31 (0) 20 55 99 111
- Free legal advice: +31 (0) 20 54 82 611 or +31 (0) 20 62 64 477
- Doctor services: +31 (0) 20 66 42 111
- Dental emergencies: +31 (0) 20 68 61 109
