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I amsterdam City Card
I amsterdam City Card
If you’re planning a visit to Amsterdam, the I amsterdam City Card is your ticket to saving money while exploring the city’s top attractions. Offering access to over 70 museums and attractions, free public transport, and even canal cruises, it’s designed to make your trip smoother and more affordable.
- Free entry to 70+ attractions
- Unlimited public transport access
- Bonus canal cruise and discounts
From € 54,- per person
What is the I amsterdam City Card
he I amsterdam City Card is a digital or physical card that grants you access to many of Amsterdam’s best experiences for one flat fee. Available for 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours, it allows you to explore at your own pace while keeping your budget intact. With free entry to iconic spots like the Rijksmuseum and Artis Zoo, plus unlimited public transport, it’s the easiest way to see everything Amsterdam has to offer without worrying about individual ticket costs.
What’s Included?
The I amsterdam City Card covers all the essentials for a comprehensive Amsterdam experience. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:
Free Entry to Top Attractions: Gain access to over 70 museums and attractions. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Rijksmuseum: Dive into Dutch art and history with a visit to this world-class museum, featuring works like Rembrandt’s The Night Watch.
- Stedelijk Museum: Explore Amsterdam’s contemporary art scene.
- NEMO Science Museum: Perfect for families, this interactive museum makes learning about science a blast.
- Artis Royal Zoo: Get up close with animals in one of the oldest zoos in Europe.
- A’DAM Lookout: Soar above the city with a panoramic view of Amsterdam’s skyline.
- Micropia: Discover the world of microorganisms in a museum like no other.
- Canal Cruise: See Amsterdam from its most famous viewpoint—the canals. The card includes a free canal cruise, an absolute must for first-timers.
- Public Transport: Forget the hassle of buying tickets for the tram, bus, or metro. With the City Card, all public transport within the city is covered—unlimited travel for the duration of your card.
- Bike Rental: Want to explore Amsterdam like a local? A 24-hour bike rental is included with the card. Pedal through the city’s famous canals and vibrant neighborhoods at your own pace.
- Discounts at Restaurants and Shops: The card offers exclusive discounts at various restaurants, cafes, and shops, letting you save on dining and souvenirs during your stay.
Attractions That Are NOT Included
While the I amsterdam City Card covers a lot, there are a few key places you’ll need to budget for separately:
- Van Gogh Museum: This world-renowned museum isn’t included in the card, so you’ll need to book tickets separately.
- Public Transport Outside Amsterdam: The card doesn’t cover transport to areas outside Amsterdam, such as Zaanse Schans or Haarlem.
- National Train Service (NS): Any trips involving the national train service require a separate ticket.
Prices for the I amsterdam City Card
The card comes in five different durations, so you can pick the one that best fits your stay:
- 24-hour card: €60
- 48-hour card: €85
- 72-hour card: €100
- 96-hour card: €115
- 120-hour card: €125
It’s an upfront cost, but when you start adding up the entrance fees for individual attractions and transport tickets, you’ll quickly see the value.
Is the I amsterdam City Card Worth It?
If you’re planning to visit at least a handful of museums and take advantage of the city’s public transport, the I amsterdam City Card is definitely worth the investment. For example, without the card, a single canal cruise costs around €19, and a trip to the Rijksmuseum is another €20. Factor in transport and other activities, and the card almost always pays for itself—especially if you’re here for more than a day or two.
The convenience of skipping lines at many attractions is also a big perk, especially during peak tourist season when queues can be long.
How to Use and Activate Your Card
Activating the I amsterdam City Card is a breeze:
- Order Online: Purchase your card online and either download the digital version via the official I amsterdam app or collect a physical card upon arrival. Get yours here
- Activate: The card becomes active the moment you use it at your first museum, attraction, or public transport stop. Your time starts ticking from then—so make sure you plan your visit to maximize its use.
- Show & Go: At every attraction, simply scan your card for free entry. For public transport, tap it on the reader as you board trams, buses, or metros.
Extra Tips for Using the I amsterdam City Card
- Plan Ahead: Although the card includes a lot of attractions, some popular places (like the Anne Frank House) still require advance reservations. Always check beforehand to avoid disappointment.
- Start Early: The card works in hours, so make sure you start using it early in the day to get the most out of it.
- Perfect for Families: The card is also great for families traveling with kids. With free entry to places like Artis Zoo and NEMO Science Museum, it’s an easy way to keep everyone entertained without constant ticket purchases.
How to get the most out of it
To get the most out of your I amsterdam City Card, aim to visit two to three attractions per day and take advantage of the public transport. The more you see, the more you save, making the card an excellent value for those looking to fully explore Amsterdam.
Checklist trip to amsterdam
Be fully prepared for your next Amsterdam holiday
- Find the cheapest flights to Amsterdam
- Book your hotel in Amsterdam
- Book your parking in Amsterdam
- Book your Amsterdam transport tickets
- Book a canal cruise in Amsterdam
- Book your airport transfer from Schiphol
- I amsterdam City Card for free museums, transport, and more!
- Order a prepaid creditcard to avoid fees
