Amsterdam City Card: Free Museums, Attractions & Unlimited Public Transport

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Introduction to the Amsterdam City Card

The I amsterdam City Card is one of the most popular tourist passes in the Netherlands. It gives visitors free entry to more than 70 museums and attractions, unlimited public transport, a canal cruise, and several discounts across the city.

If you plan to visit major attractions like the Rijksmuseum, NEMO Science Museum, or ARTIS Royal Zoo, the card can quickly pay for itself.

In this guide, we’ll explain what’s included, which attractions are free, how the transport works, and whether the Amsterdam City Card is worth it for your trip. The I amsterdam City Card gives visitors access to 70+ museums and attractions, unlimited public transport, a canal cruise, and several discounts across the city.

Quick Navigation

• Introduction to the Amsterdam City Card

• Quick Facts About the Amsterdam City Card

• What’s Included in the Amsterdam City Card

• Unlimited Access to Public Transport

• Additional Perks: Canal Cruise and Bike Rental

• Skip the Queue: Hassle Free Entry to Major Attractions

• Museums Included

• Attractions Included

• Popular Attractions NOT Included

• Is the Amsterdam Card Worth it?

• Summary, included, practical information

• FAQ

• Tips for Using the Amsterdam City Card

• Who Should Buy Amsterdam the City Card

• Useful Links for Travel in Amsterdam

Amsterdam City Card – Quick Facts

• 🎟 Free entry to 70+ museums & attractions

• 🚋 Unlimited GVB public transport (tram, bus, metro)

• 🚲 Free 24-hour bike rental

• 🚤 1 free canal cruise

• ⏱ Valid for 24 / 48 / 72 / 96 / 120 hours

• 📱 Available as mobile card via app

Unlimited Access to Public Transportation

One of the standout features of the Amsterdam City Card is its provision for unlimited travel on GVB public transportation, which includes buses, trams, and metro services throughout the city. This convenience allows visitors to navigate Amsterdam with unparalleled ease and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the city's attractions without the hassle of driving and parking. With the extensive public transport network, tourists can effortlessly reach well-known destinations such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House.

Planning to visit several museums and attractions in Amsterdam?
👉 Check the latest prices and availability for the Amsterdam City Card and see if it’s the right option for your trip.

The GVB public transport system operates many tram lines and bus routes, covering a wide area of Amsterdam, ensuring that even less central neighborhoods aren't out of reach. For instance, tram line 5 connects key areas from the Museumplein to the popular Leidseplein, while metro lines extend to the suburbs, providing access to attractions like Amsterdam North or the picturesque Zaanse Schans. With just a quick glance at the handy GVB app or maps available at stations, visitors can find the most efficient routes to their desired locations.

Utilizing public transport not only saves money but also time, as it helps tourists bypass traffic congestion and parking limitations that often accompany city exploration. The Amsterdam City Card encourages visitors to try different modes of transport, such as taking a tram from one landmark to the next, experiencing the charm of the city along the way. Additionally, the Card provides information on various transport schedules and the best connections, which is particularly useful during busy travel periods. By capitalizing on this unlimited access, tourists can enrich their experience without the stress of logistical concerns.

Additional Perks: Canal Cruise and Bike Rental

The Amsterdam City Card not only grants visitors free entry to a multitude of museums but also includes exciting extras that enhance the overall travel experience. One of the most appealing features of this card is the inclusion of a complimentary canal cruise, a quintessential activity in Amsterdam. As you glide through the city's iconic waterways, you will be treated to stunning views of historic architecture, picturesque bridges, and vibrant houseboats. This leisurely cruise offers a unique perspective of the city, allowing visitors to appreciate its rich history and beautiful scenery. It is an excellent way to unwind, learn about Amsterdam's landmarks, and capture memorable photographs.

Boutique Stays in Amsterdam You’ll Wish You Found Sooner

In addition to the canal cruise, the Amsterdam City Card also provides access to a 24-hour bike rental service, making it convenient for tourists to explore the city on two wheels. Biking is an integral part of Dutch culture, and there is no better way to navigate Amsterdam's charming streets and picturesque parks. With dedicated bike paths, the city is incredibly bike-friendly, allowing visitors to effortlessly reach various attractions. This mode of transport not only promotes an active lifestyle but also allows for more intimate encounters with the local atmosphere.

Planning to visit several museums and attractions in Amsterdam?
👉 Check the latest prices and availability for the Amsterdam City Card and see if it’s the right option for your trip.

For those looking to maximize their biking experience, several recommended routes can be followed. One notably scenic path is the journey from Vondelpark to the Rijksmuseum, where cyclists can enjoy centuries-old trees and vibrant flowerbeds while witnessing some of Amsterdam's most famous landmarks. Another option includes the ride along the Amstel River, providing picturesque riverside views and a chance to discover hidden cafes and boutiques. These additional perks included in the Amsterdam City Card make it an invaluable tool for visitors seeking to immerse themselves fully in the local culture and landscape.

Skip the Queue: Hassle-Free Entry to Major Attractions

One of the most significant advantages of the Amsterdam City Card is that it provides visitors with the ability to bypass long ticket lines at major attractions. This convenience greatly enhances the overall experience, allowing tourists to spend more time enjoying the cultural offerings of the city rather than waiting in queues. Popular sites such as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum are often crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, with the Amsterdam City Card in hand, visitors can enjoy seamless access to these iconic venues, making their exploration of the rich artistic heritage of Amsterdam much more enjoyable.

In addition to facilitating quick entry, the card eliminates the need for individual ticket purchases, which can be both time-consuming and costly. By opting for the Amsterdam City Card, travelers streamline their itinerary, maximizing their sightseeing opportunities. The card includes access not only to museums but also to a variety of public transportation options throughout the city, further enhancing the ease with which tourists can navigate Amsterdam’s attractions. With the card, visitors can hop on buses, trams, and ferries without the added stress of purchasing separate tickets each time.

To take full advantage of what the Amsterdam City Card has to offer, it is advisable to plan visits strategically. Tourists can check online for the best times to visit popular attractions, avoiding the busiest hours to ensure a more relaxed experience. Early morning or late afternoon slots are typically less congested, allowing for a contemplative visit to museums and other sites. By using the Amsterdam City Card, travelers not only enjoy the cost savings that come with the package but also gain the invaluable benefits of prioritized access and the ability to enjoy Amsterdam without the stress of long lines.

Museums Included in the Amsterdam City Card

Many of the museums and attractions included in the Amsterdam City Card are covered in our detailed visitor guides. Museums with a blue link below will take you directly to our full guide with tips, ticket advice, and what to see inside. For other museums like Het Rembrandthuis,, Amsterdam Museum, Eyefilmuseum you can still learn more about it in our complete Amsterdam travel guide, where we cover the best attractions, neighborhoods, and experiences across the city.

Moco Museum

The Moco Museum is one of Amsterdam’s most popular modern art museums, known for its accessible and contemporary exhibitions. Located in a historic villa on Museumplein, the museum features works by famous artists such as Banksy, Andy Warhol, and Keith Haring.

The museum focuses on modern, street, and digital art, making it a great stop for visitors interested in contemporary culture. Because of its compact size and rotating exhibitions, it’s easy to combine with other museums nearby like the Rijksmuseum or the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam.

👉 See our complete Moco Museum visitor guide for highlights, ticket tips, and what to expect during your visit.

NEMO Science Museum

The NEMO Science Museum is one of the most interactive museums in Amsterdam and a great attraction for families and curious travelers. Located in a striking green ship-shaped building near Central Station, the museum features hands-on exhibits about science, technology, energy, and the human body.

Visitors can experiment with interactive displays, watch live demonstrations, and enjoy one of the best rooftop terraces in Amsterdam with panoramic city views.

👉 See our complete NEMO Science Museum visitor guide for tips, highlights, and ticket information.

Our Lord in the Attic Museum

The Our Lord in the Attic Museum (Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder) is one of Amsterdam’s most fascinating hidden historical sites. Inside a typical 17th-century canal house, visitors discover a fully preserved secret Catholic church built in the attic during a time when public Catholic worship was forbidden in the Protestant Dutch Republic.

The museum allows visitors to explore beautifully restored living quarters, narrow staircases, and the remarkable hidden church space at the top of the house. It’s a unique way to experience Amsterdam’s religious history and life during the Golden Age.

👉 See our complete Our Lord in the Attic Museum visitor guide for highlights, history, and visiting tips.

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the most famous museum in the Netherlands and one of the top cultural attractions in Amsterdam. Located on Museumplein, the museum houses an extraordinary collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals.

The highlight for many visitors is Rembrandt’s iconic painting The Night Watch, but the museum also features thousands of artworks, historical artifacts, and beautifully restored galleries that tell the story of Dutch art and history.

👉 See our complete Rijksmuseum visitor guide for highlights, ticket tips, and how to plan your visit.

Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam

The Stedelijk Museum is one of the best places in Amsterdam to explore modern and contemporary art. The collection features works from artists such as Mondrian, Warhol, and Kandinsky.

👉 See our complete visitor guide to the Stedelijk Museum for highlights, tickets, and visiting tips.

STRAAT Museum

The STRAAT Museum is one of the most unique art museums in Amsterdam and is entirely dedicated to street art and graffiti. Located in the creative NDSM Wharf area in Amsterdam-Noord, the museum is housed inside a massive industrial warehouse filled with large-scale murals and installations created by international street artists.

Visitors can walk through enormous artworks that were created directly on site, making the museum feel more like an urban art gallery than a traditional museum. The constantly evolving exhibitions make every visit slightly different.

👉 See our complete STRAAT Museum visitor guide for highlights, visiting tips, and how to reach the NDSM Wharf area.

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Attractions Included in the Amsterdam City Card

Many of the museums and attractions included in the Amsterdam City Card are covered in our detailed visitor guides. Museums with a blue link will take you directly to our full guide with tips, ticket advice, and what to see inside. For attractions like A'DAM Lookout or a Canal Cruise you can still learn more about it in our complete Amsterdam travel guide, where we cover the best attractions, neighborhoods, and experiences across the city.

ARTIS Royal Zoo

ARTIS Royal Zoo is Amsterdam’s oldest zoo, located in the heart of the city. It’s home to a wide range of animals, from lions and giraffes to penguins and tropical fish, making it a great family-friendly attraction.

Beyond the animals, ARTIS also features a beautiful 19th-century aquarium, a planetarium, and botanical gardens, offering both education and entertainment. Visitors can easily spend a few hours exploring the grounds and learning about wildlife conservation.

👉 See our complete ARTIS Royal Zoo visitor guide for tips, best times to visit, and ticket information.

Fabrique des Lumières

Fabrique des Lumières is Amsterdam’s immersive digital art center, housed in a former industrial factory. Visitors are surrounded by large-scale projections of artworks, accompanied by music and light effects, creating a unique, multi-sensory experience.

The exhibitions often feature famous artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Klimt, and rotate regularly, giving each visit a fresh experience. It’s perfect for art lovers and anyone looking for an interactive cultural activity in Amsterdam.

👉 See our complete Fabrique des Lumières visitor guide for highlights, ticket tips, and visiting information.

Popular Attractions NOT Included in the Amsterdam City Card

Some of Amsterdam’s most famous museums and attractions are not included in the I amsterdam City Card and require separate tickets. Some are with a discount. Many of them are covered in our detailed visitor guides. Museums or attractions with a blue link will take you directly to our full guide with tips, ticket advice, and what to see inside.

If a museum doesn’t have a link yet, you can still learn more about it in our complete Amsterdam travel guide, where we cover the best attractions, neighborhoods, and experiences across the city.

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is one of Amsterdam’s most visited historical sites, offering a moving and educational experience. Located on Prinsengracht, the museum preserves the secret annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II.

Visitors can explore the hidden rooms, see Anne’s original diary, and learn about the history of the Holocaust through carefully curated exhibits. Guided and self-guided tours provide context about Amsterdam under occupation and the Frank family’s story.

👉 See our complete Anne Frank House visitor guide for ticket tips, visiting times, and how to avoid long queues.

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is one of Amsterdam’s most visited cultural attractions, housing the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s masterpieces. Located on Museumplein, the museum features iconic paintings like Sunflowers, The Potato Eaters, and Almond Blossoms, alongside sketches, letters, and other works.

Visitors can follow Van Gogh’s artistic journey, from his early career to his final years, and explore temporary exhibitions that showcase both historical and contemporary art influences.

👉 See our complete Van Gogh Museum visitor guide for ticket tips, highlights, and how to make the most of your visit.

Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience is a popular interactive brewery tour located in the historic Heineken brewery in Amsterdam’s city center. Visitors can explore the brewing process, learn about the brand’s history, and enjoy tasting sessions of the world-famous Heineken beer.

The experience combines multimedia exhibits, guided tours, and interactive activities, making it a fun attraction for both beer enthusiasts and casual visitors. It’s also a great way to learn about Dutch brewing heritage.

👉 See our complete Heineken Experience visitor guide for ticket tips, best visiting times, and insider advice.

Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

Madame Tussauds Amsterdam is the city’s famous wax museum, featuring life-like figures of celebrities, historical figures, and Dutch icons. Located on Dam Square, it’s a fun and interactive attraction for families, tourists, and fans of pop culture.

Visitors can pose for photos, explore themed zones, and even experience immersive setups like music and movie scenes. It’s a lighthearted way to enjoy a few hours while learning about famous personalities.

👉 See our complete Madame Tussauds Amsterdam visitor guide for ticket tips, best times to visit, and interactive highlights.

The Upside Down Amsterdam

The Upside Down Amsterdam is one of the city’s most colorful and interactive attractions, designed around immersive photo experiences and playful installations. Visitors can explore more than 25 themed rooms filled with optical illusions, vibrant sets, and creative spaces inspired by Dutch culture and modern design.

The attraction is especially popular with younger travelers and social media enthusiasts looking for unique photo opportunities in Amsterdam.

With the I amsterdam City Card, visitors receive around a 25% discount on admission tickets, making it a fun optional activity to add to your itinerary.

👉 See our complete Upside Down Amsterdam visitor guide for highlights, ticket tips, and visiting advice.

Is the Amsterdam City Card Worth It?

Whether the Amsterdam City Card is worth it depends on your travel plans and the attractions you want to visit.

The card offers free entry to over 70 museums and attractions, unlimited public transport, a free canal cruise, and discounts across the city. If you plan to visit multiple museums and use public transport extensively, the card can quickly pay for itself.

Here are some considerations:

• Multiple museum visits: If you plan to visit 3–4 major museums like the Stedelijk, NEMO, or Rijksmuseum (or their included alternatives), the card usually saves money.

• Unlimited public transport: Using trams, buses, and metro frequently adds up, especially if you want to explore neighborhoods outside the city center.

• Canal cruise & extras: The free canal cruise and discounts on restaurants or attractions can make the card even more valuable.

• Flexibility: The card is available in 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120-hour options, so you can pick the one that matches your trip length.

Tip: If you’re visiting only one or two attractions or prefer walking around the city, it might be cheaper to buy individual tickets.

Multiple museum visits: If you plan to visit 3–4 major museums like the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, NEMO Science Museum, or the Rijksmuseum (or their included alternatives), the card usually saves money.

Overall, the card is ideal for first-time visitors, museum lovers, and anyone who wants to explore Amsterdam efficiently without worrying about individual ticket costs.

Ready to explore Amsterdam’s museums, attractions, and canals?
👉 Check availability for the Amsterdam City Card and start planning your sightseeing itinerary.

Summary:

Discover over 70 top museums and attractions at no cost with your City Card.
Travel freely across the city with unlimited access to GVB buses, trams, and metro services.
Take advantage of a complimentary canal cruise and a 24-hour bike rental.
Avoid the hassle of purchasing tickets at major attractions.Make the most of your visit with the I amsterdam City Card, a convenient sightseeing pass that gives you access to many of the city’s top museums and attractions. With the card, you can enjoy free entry to popular highlights such as the Rijksmuseum, A'DAM Lookout, H'ART Museum, Moco Museum, and Rembrandt House Museum.

In addition to free museum access, the card also offers discounted entry to several popular attractions, including the Heineken Experience, Johan Cruijff ArenA, and the Amsterdam Dungeon.

The City Card is available in 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120-hour options, giving travelers flexibility depending on their itinerary. During the validity period, the card includes unlimited access to Amsterdam’s public transport system, making it easy to move around the city and visit multiple attractions in one day.

Cardholders also receive one free Amsterdam canal cruise from participating cruise companies at several locations across the city, as well as 24 hours of free bicycle rental, allowing you to explore Amsterdam like a local.

The I amsterdam City Card is fully digital and works on your smartphone through the official app. After purchasing the card, simply download the I amsterdam City Card app and add your pass to activate it. To get the most out of your pass, activate the card only when you are in Amsterdam and ready to start sightseeing.

Make sure your smartphone is fully charged during the day so you always have access to your digital card. The app also allows you to transfer cards to family members or friends and includes a helpful city map highlighting many of Amsterdam’s best attractions. Once a card has been transferred to another person, it cannot be transferred back.

Includes:

The I amsterdam City Card offers a wide range of benefits designed to help visitors explore the city’s top attractions while saving money and time.

Attraction Pass
Enjoy free entry to many of Amsterdam’s most popular museums and attractions, including the Rijksmuseum, Moco Museum, ARTIS Royal Zoo, Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, NEMO Science Museum, Rembrandt House Museum, Diamond Museum Amsterdam, H'ART Museum, Amsterdam Museum, Fun Forest Amsterdam, and THIS IS HOLLAND, along with many other attractions across the city.

Free Canal Cruise
The card includes one complimentary Amsterdam canal cruise, giving you the opportunity to experience the city’s famous canals from the water.

Unlimited Public Transport
Enjoy free and unlimited travel on Amsterdam’s GVB public transport system, including buses, trams, and the metro, for the entire duration of your card.

Free Bicycle Rental
Explore the city like a local with one free 24-hour bike rental included with the card.

Additional Discounts
The card also provides discounts on various attractions, tours, and experiences throughout Amsterdam and the surrounding region.

Price (Estimated!): From $ 78,00 per person.

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Blog created February 2025

Blog updated March 2026

FAQ: Amsterdam City Card

Does the Amsterdam City Card include public transport?
Yes. The card includes unlimited travel on GVB trams, buses, metro, and ferries within Amsterdam during its validity period.

Does the Amsterdam City Card include a canal cruise?
Yes. The card includes one free Amsterdam canal cruise, normally costing around €16–€22.

Planning to visit several museums and attractions in Amsterdam?
👉 Check the latest prices and availability for the Amsterdam City Card and see if it’s the right option for your trip.

Is the Van Gogh Museum included?
No. The Van Gogh Museum is currently not included in the Amsterdam City Card.

How long is the card valid?
You can choose between 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours, starting from the first use.

Tips for Using the Amsterdam City Card

• Plan ahead: Make a rough itinerary of the museums and attractions you want to visit to maximize the card’s value.

• Best times to visit: Early mornings or late afternoons help avoid the biggest crowds, especially at popular museums like the Rijksmuseum or Anne Frank House.

• Choose the right card duration: The card is available in 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120-hour options — pick one that matches your sightseeing pace.

• Combine attractions efficiently: Many museums are near each other on Museumplein, so you can visit multiple in one day without long travel times.

• Use public transport wisely: Trams, buses, and metro are included, so plan your route to save walking time and cover more attractions in a day.

Who Should Buy the Amsterdam City Card?

• First-time visitors to Amsterdam

• Travelers planning to visit several museums

• Visitors who plan to use trams or metro frequently

• People staying 2–4 days in the city