If you are planning a work assignment or temporary stay in Amsterdam or Amstelveen for one to six months, one of the most practical questions you will face is: How will I get around?Both cities are known for their excellent transportation infrastructure, but if you are new to the Netherlands, the system can feel overwhelming at first. The good news is that once you understand the basics, navigating Amsterdam and Amstelveen is simple, efficient, and often enjoyable.
This guide covers all the essential transport options and practical tips for short-term residents, so you can get where you need to go from day one.
Amsterdam and Amstelveen are well-connected by a network of trams, buses, metro lines, and trains. Public transport is usually the easiest and most reliable way to move around, especially for daily commuting.
The OV-chipkaart is a rechargeable travel card used for nearly all public transport in the Netherlands, including trams, buses, metro services, and trains. You can buy one at train stations, GVB ticket offices, or selected shops.
Once you have the card, simply tap in when boarding and tap out when leaving. You can top up the card online or at ticket machines.
Tip: If you are staying for a few months, consider buying a personal OV-chipkaart linked to your bank account for automatic top-ups and monthly travel subscriptions.
If you plan to use public transport frequently, monthly subscriptions can save you money and make commuting easier.
Most subscriptions require a personal OV-chipkaart, so plan ahead if you want to use this option.
Cycling is an essential part of life in Amsterdam and Amstelveen and often the fastest and most flexible way to travel. The cities have extensive bike lanes and safe cycling infrastructure, and almost everyone uses a bicycle daily.
Cycling is not only convenient but also a great way to explore both cities and enjoy Dutch culture up close.
If your work or weekend plans take you beyond Amsterdam and Amstelveen, the Dutch rail network makes it easy to reach other cities. The main train company, NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen), connects Amsterdam to Rotterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, and many more destinations in under an hour.
You can pay for train journeys with your OV-chipkaart or buy single tickets online and through the NS app.
Taxis are widely available but are relatively expensive compared to public transport or cycling. Popular ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt operate in Amsterdam and Amstelveen and can be convenient for late-night journeys or airport transfers.
For business travelers, many companies also offer corporate taxi accounts or pre-arranged transfers, which can be helpful if you travel frequently for meetings.
While most short-term residents don’t need a car, renting or sharing one can be useful if you need to travel outside the city or transport equipment. Services like Greenwheels, ShareNow, and MyWheels offer flexible short-term car-sharing options without the need for long-term contracts.
If you plan to rent a car, check whether your driver’s license is valid in the Netherlands or if you need an International Driving Permit.
At Htel Serviced Apartments, we help short-term residents settle into Amsterdam and Amstelveen with ease. Our centrally located apartments are well-connected to public transport, business districts, and cycling routes, so you can spend less time commuting and more time enjoying your stay.
Whether you need help understanding transport options, renting a bicycle, or finding the best route to work, our team is here to support you.
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