Amsterdam is one of Europe’s top destinations and can be reached easily by air, land or even sea. Cheap flights from within Europe and direct flights from outside Europe are readily available, serving Amsterdam airport Schiphol - Europe’s fourth largest and located just a few kilometers from the city center.

A Direct Rail Link connects Schiphol International Airport to Amsterdam central station and is the fastest and most convenient way to get to the city center. Trains run every 10 minutes ( airport train schedule ) from platforms 1 and 2 in the main arrival plaza and cost just € 3.40 for a single journey. Have change on hand to use the ticket machines to avoid the lines.

Airport Shuttles
run by Connexxion depart every 10 minutes with service to more than 100 hotels throughout the city. Tickets cost € 11 one way, € 17.50 for a return, and can be purchased inside the main arrival plaza. Guests of major hotels should first check the shuttle area to see if their hotel provides a complimentary service.

Taxis and Limousines
to the city center are readily available at the airport and start at € 40.

Amsterdam is a wonderfully walk able city with most major sites located in or near the city center. Public transportation is excellent and driving is strongly discouraged within the canal ring. Of course biking is the preferred Dutch way to travel and some would say the only way to truly experience the city.

Public Transportation - GVB (www.gvb.nl) is the public transport company of Amsterdam providing integrated metro, tram and bus service throughout Amsterdam and its surrounding areas. 24-, 48- and 72-hour GVB passes allow for unlimited travel on all trams, buses, metros and night buses for the duration of the pass and provide the most economical way for visitors to explore the city. Trams provide the best way to get around Amsterdam (map) and run regularly until 12:15am. City Buses are primarily used to reach outlying suburbs and after the trams have stopped running. Night buses run from midnight until 7am with routes connecting to Central Station, Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein.

The Metro (tube) is fast but is only useful if you need to travel far outside the city center or to the Amsterdam Arena.

Canal Boats (www.canal.nl) run every 40 minutes from 9:50 until 7:25 with 14 stops along three different routes throughout the city. Day passes cost €16 and are valid until 12:00 the next day. All of Amsterdam's major attractions are on the route and historical commentary is provided along the way.

Taxi
Taxi stands are available at most tourist hubs including Leidseplein , Dam Square and Central Station. Hailing a taxi is quite difficult and virtually impossible on weekends, but cab service is generally prompt if you call ahead (city cab: 0900.677.7777).

Rent a car
Although driving in Amsterdam is not recommended, car rental services are readily available at Schiphol Airport and in the city center along Overtoom Straat near Vondelpark . All major agencies are represented including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, National and Alamo. Driving and parking in the city can be a nightmare, but may be worth the hassle for those wish