Public transport
Amsterdam boasts an impressive public transport network including metros, buses, trams, ferries and trains to help you get around the capital. Save money on travel with the I amsterdam City Card, which offers unlimited use of the GVB public transport system for 24, 48 or 72 hours.
The countdown for the City Card only starts after the card's activation, which means you can buy your card in advance for your future trip. The City Card is valid for a year from purchase. The card gives you access to all major highlights and more than 70 museums as well.
The I amsterdam City Card is available in two formats: a physical & digital City Card.
How to use the City Card
1. Get your card
Order your physical City Card online or buy it in our I amsterdam Store in Amsterdam directly.
2. Activate your card
3. Use your card
Discover Amsterdam by bike
Amsterdam is one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world, and it's a perfect destination for families with children. Many locals have been cycling since they were toddlers, and with over 400 kilometers of dedicated bike paths throughout the city and surrounding areas, it's easy to explore Amsterdam on two wheels – whether you're on your own or joining a family-friendly guided bike tour.
The charming, narrow streets of Amsterdam's historic 17th-century city center are best explored by bike, especially with kids. The city’s well-organized bike lanes make cycling safe and enjoyable, even for beginners. Renting a bike or joining a guided tour is a great way to see the sights – and it can be a real adventure for the whole family. Don’t worry if you or your children are new to cycling in a busy city; expert guides and rental shops are available to provide advice, and they often have bikes specially designed for families, including child seats and cargo bikes.
Bikes are available for rent all around the city, with many rental shops near popular spots like Central Station, Leidseplein, and most hotels. Rental periods typically start from 3 hours, and the average cost is about €10 per day. To ensure a smooth and fun ride, make sure to follow the simple (but important) bike rules that locals follow – keeping your family safe and happy on the road.
So grab your helmets and get ready to explore Amsterdam on two wheels – it's an unforgettable way for families to see the city!
Almost all local bike shops also offer bike rentals. Rent through a local bike shop or through the hotel.
Healthcare
Amsterdam is equipped with a well-developed emergency response system and medical services to ensure the well-being of both residents and visitors.
Emergency situations
Call 112. In life-threatening situations, call the emergency helpline by dialing 112. An ambulance, fire department or police will be dispatched to help you. 112 is a Europe-wide emergency helpline, equivalent of 911 in the United States or 999 in the United Kingdom.
Besides Dutch, operators speak English and are able to offer services in French or German. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can send a text equivalent via 0800 8112.
Hospitals and A&E
The accident and emergency (A&E - in Dutch: spoedeisende hulp) department of a hospital is meant for life-threatening situations requiring immediate specialist medical treatment. In all non-life threatening situations, first contact your GP or the tourist doctor (Read medical assistence below) . They will determine if you need treatment in A&E and inform you which hospital or location to go to.
Medical assistance in hotels
For emergency visits to your hotel room, telephone consultation and consultations on location, contact the hotel reception or call the tourist doctor on +31 (0)20 427 5011. Fees are determined by the national GP association and are covered by most travel and medical insurance.
For less serious issues – such as minor falls, forgotten medication or unexpected/recurring minor conditions – you can contact HotelDoc by calling +31 202 624 282. HotelDoc's medical professionals provide comprehensive in-room medical care for Amsterdam's visitors who want to bypass the inconvenience of hospital visits. For information on fees, visit the HotelDoc website.
Dental assistance
Amsterdam's 24-hour dental clinic, Dental 365, treats patients experiencing chronic pain and other dental emergencies on a walk-in basis. The practice is open from 8:00 until 23:00, and a dentist is on call 24/7 for emergencies after these hours. You can reach them by phone on +31 205 558 282.