Where to Buy Tram Tickets in Amsterdam
Introduction
In the case of travelling in and around the Netherlands especially in Amsterdam, one of the most efficient means of transport is the tram. The facilities with trams spanning around the entire city make mobility and moving from one point of interest to the other quite comfortable. But since you want to ride a tram you will need to know where to obtain the tickets. In this article, I have outlined some steps to follow in case you want to purchase the tickets so that you don’t struggle when using the trams.
1. GVB Ticket Vending Machines
GVB is the main public transportation organization of Amsterdam with providing the tram, bus and Metro service. It is important to note that there are GVB ticket vending machines at nearly all the tram stops in the city. These machines are user-friendly; using instructional information, which is usually provided in various languages. Just choose from the type of tickets that you require; either cash payment or through a credit card, and off you go. Remember that some terminals do not accept banknotes so it wise to make sure to have a coin or a card with you.
2. GVB Tickets & Info Counters
If purchased directly from the GVB, other convenient purchase spots are the Tickets stands available at Central Station or Schiphol Airport. The friendly staff also helps the passengers in selecting the proper ticket type for their ride and also provide information on the tram system if any is required. What is important to note however is that these counters may be busier mainly during the peak travel seasons for tourists.
3. GVB App
Now there is a smartphone app, which is called GVB and it would suit those who cannot or do not wish to travel by bike for whatever reason. A currently provided for both iOS and Android devices, while using it you can buy the tram tickets. All that is required is to download the app, register for an account, and choose the ticket of one’s choice. You can then choose to pay with credit card options or iDEAL which is actually a common local online payment method in Netherlands. Thus once you make the ticket purchase it will be activated instantly and you can be ready to start using the ticket.
4. I amsterdam Visitor Centre
For those travellers will be arriving in Amsterdam from another country they can purchase their tram ticket at the I amsterdam Visitor Centre website in advance. Here you will be able to get various type of travel tickets depending on your visit for one single trip or several days. The tickets can either be taken as printouts or picked from outlets in the city upon arrival of the buyer.
5. OV-Chipkaart
If you intend to move around the city extensively by public transport, it will be beneficial for you to take the OV-Chipkaart card. This can be used in trams, train, bus, metros and more numerous modes of public transportation in the Netherlands. You can obtain one at the GVB Tickets & Info centres or at some tobacco selling shops (Tabakspeciaalzaken). However, it is expected that the card balance should be financed before it is used and this is done through credit.
Conclusion
It is easy to buy tram tickets in Amsterdam as there are several ways to get this from the comfort of your choice. Basically, there is no dearth of ticket sources – vending machines, GVB Tickets & Info counters, GVB app, online, or through OV-Chipkaart to name a few. I do hope you will enjoy as many moments as possible across this fantastic city using a tram.
Table of Contents