Amsterdam Transport Tickets & Passes [2026]
Amsterdam has one of the simplest public transport systems in Europe thanks to OVpay, the modern contactless payment system used across trams, buses and the metro.
But tourists often get confused because Amsterdam has multiple operators (GVB, NS, Connexxion) and several different passes.
This guide explains all ticket options clearly so you can choose the best one for your stay — whether you want to pay per ride, use a day pass, or include the airport train in your ticket.
Quick answer:
- Best for most visitors: OVpay (contactless)
- Best unlimited option: GVB 24–72h passes
- Best including airport train: Amsterdam Travel Ticket
- Best for day trips: Amsterdam Region Travel Ticket
How Amsterdam transport tickets work
Amsterdam uses a combination of modern contactless payments and traditional day passes.
The key thing to understand is that not all tickets work on all networks.
- GVB = trams, buses, metro inside Amsterdam
- NS = trains (including Schiphol → Amsterdam Central)
- Connexxion / EBS = regional buses
This is why some passes include the airport train and others don’t.
Below is the full breakdown.
OVpay: the simplest option for most visitors
OVpay is Amsterdam’s modern contactless system. You simply tap in and tap out with your bank card or phone.
- Valid on: tram, bus, metro
- Not valid on: train Schiphol → Amsterdam Central
- Best for: short stays, occasional rides
- Ease of use: excellent
If you only plan to use public transport a few times per day, OVpay is usually the easiest and cheapest option.
GVB Day Passes (1–7 days)
GVB day passes give you unlimited travel on trams, buses and the metro within Amsterdam.
- Durations: 24h, 48h, 72h, 96h, 120h, 144h, 168h
- Valid on: all GVB services
- Not valid on: trains, airport train
- Best for: visitors staying 2–3 days
These passes are ideal if you plan to move around the city frequently.
Amsterdam Travel Ticket (includes airport train)
The Amsterdam Travel Ticket (ATT) is the only simple pass that includes both:
- Train Schiphol ↔ Amsterdam Central
- Unlimited GVB transport
It is available for 1, 2 or 3 days and is perfect for short city breaks.
If you want a single ticket that covers your arrival, departure and all local transport, this is the one to choose.
Amsterdam Region Travel Ticket (for day trips)
The Amsterdam Region Travel Ticket (ARTT) covers a much larger area, including:
- Zaanse Schans
- Volendam
- Edam
- Haarlem
- Almere
- Keukenhof (seasonal)
If you plan to explore beyond Amsterdam, this pass is excellent value.
Which Amsterdam ticket should you choose?
Here is the simplest way to decide:
| Your situation | Best ticket |
|---|---|
| You use transport occasionally | OVpay |
| You stay 2–3 days and move around a lot | GVB 48–72h pass |
| You want airport train + unlimited transport | Amsterdam Travel Ticket |
| You plan day trips outside Amsterdam | Amsterdam Region Travel Ticket |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming GVB passes include the airport train — they don’t.
- Buying single tickets when OVpay is cheaper and easier.
- Choosing the Region Ticket when you only stay inside Amsterdam.
- Not tapping out when using OVpay (you will be charged incorrectly).
More Amsterdam transport guides
Conclusion
Amsterdam’s ticket system is modern and easy to use once you understand the difference between OVpay, GVB passes and the airport-inclusive tickets.
For most visitors, OVpay or a GVB day pass will be enough.
If you want a simple all‑in‑one solution including the airport train, choose the Amsterdam Travel Ticket.
👉 Choose the ticket that matches your itinerary and enjoy smooth travel across Amsterdam.