kings day

Getting Around Amsterdam and Info on Kings Day

By Dom Bewley

Visiting Amsterdam and looking for more info about this "Kings Day" you keep reading about? You've come to the right place. Here, we'll give you all info about Kings Day you'll ever need, as well as a quick guide to getting around Amsterdam on this most celebrated of days. Read on, learn things, and be merry.

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Getting Around Amsterdam

So, let's look at the most common ways people get around Amsterdam. Cars are out of the question, because many of the streets become car-free party zones.

Bikes

Bicycles are a huge part of Dutch culture, with much of the country's travel infrastructure designed around our two-wheeled friends. This is precisely true for Amsterdam, too, with countless cycle lanes and cycle-friendly zones prevalent across the city.

While bringing or buying one might be out of the question for a short stay, why not rent a bike? That way, you get all the benefits without any of the hassle!

Just make sure you lock it up securely, as Amsterdam has prevalent bike theft problems. Plus, if you haven't ridden in a while, maybe take it for a practice spin before braving the cycle lanes. Riders won't appreciate the proverbial training wheels - they've got places to be!

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Trams

Many overground tram and bus routes are also closed off during the celebrations. A few routes tend to be available from Centraal Station, but do check before you plan your trip.

If you do luck out and find a route that suits you, you can buy a one-hour, 24-hour, or 48-hour ticket on any tram, and they work on buses and the subway too.

Or pick up an OV Chipcard. These travel cards can be picked up from Centraal Station, let you swipe in and out of stations, trams, and buses, and can be topped up at machines at many pickup spots or stations.

Buses

Similar to trams, Amsterdam's great bus coverage is heavily diminished on Kings Day. So plan your route and see what's available before you head out.

You can't buy tickets on the bus itself, but many stops have ticket machines near them. You can also use your 1, 24, or 48-hour ticket one them, as well as your OV Chipcard.

Air-conditioned with plenty of space and tinted windows to block the sun, they're a great way to get around the city.

Metro

Given Amsterdam's size, the subway doesn't operate in a similar vein to larger cities. There are only a handful of stations in the city center, so unless you want to travel further or somewhere specific like the trendy De Pijp district, you may not need them.

You can use a 1, 24, or 48-hour ticket one them, as well as your OV Chipcard top tap in and out of the station gates.

Boats

Yep, you can even use boats to get about the city. Amsterdam's many waterways emanate from Centraal Station, and you can hire a boat to take you around the scenic canals.

And, if you want to visit the urban-industrial paradise in Amsterdam Noord, you can hop on a free ferry at the back of Centraal Station to cross the river.

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Legs

Walking is definitely one of the best ways to get around Amsterdam on Kings Day. Most people will be walking or cycling, so why not join them on their two-footed adventure?

So, now you're all caught up with traveling in Amsterdam! So, let's provide you with some info on Kings Day.

What is Kings Day?

Kings Day is a public holiday celebrating a very special birthday. Who's, you ask? Why, the King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander, of course! Yes, the Dutch have a national holiday to celebrate a king's birthday. And yes, it's awesome.

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When is Kings Day?

King Willem-Alexander was born on April 27th, so that's when Kings Day is every year. And yes, that means it can end up right in the middle of the week. And yes, when the monarch is a woman, the name changes to Queens Day, and will fall on her birthday.

What happens on Kings Day?

As a public holiday, you can expect a lot of activity on Kings Day.

It's customary to wear orange when you leave the house, and this could be a hat, a t-shirt, or even a bandana. But why not go one step further and buy an all-orange outfit to really show your appreciation?

Then, you're wearing the appropriate attire, go and find where the fun's at.

Kings Day markets

Markets are big in the Netherlands, so it's no surprise that they make an appearance on Kings Day too.

In fact, people take it upon themselves to put up their own markets outside their front doors! It's called the 'Free Market', and it tends to be rather lighthearted. Don't expect to find any gems, because you're more likely to find jokey offerings.

On top of that, you'll find a huge market across three streets in South Amsterdam around Beethovenstraat, Stadionweg, and Apollolaan. This is a more traditional market, where you can buy things you might actually need!

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Kings Day parades, parties, and other festivities

While the whole city is akin to one big party, you will find other fun things in the city on Kings Day.

The night before the big day is called Kings Night, when the heaviest partying takes place - followed by a chilled, recovery-filled Kings Day.

You'll also find a massive Kings Day Boat Parade that makes its way along the Prinsengracht canals in the afternoon. Alongside the accompanying boats, you'll find groups gathered on the bridges above celebrating alongside them.

You'll even find live music all over the place. Museumplein is well known for impromptu concerts and the like on days like this.

So now you know everything you need about getting around Amsterdam on Kings Day and info on the day too! If you're spending a few days in the city either side of Kings Day and you want to see everything the city has to offer, why not check out Go City? With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Amsterdam's best bits when and how you want.

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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breakfast amsterdam
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Best Breakfasts in Amsterdam - Public Transport

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And when you're vacationing in a new city and plan to do a heap of exploring, they might be onto something. So if you're visiting Amsterdam and want to know the best breakfasts available, how do you get to them using the city's brilliant public transport system? Read on, and find out! Including: Omelegg Ted's Coffee & Coconuts G's Brunch Boat The Breakfast Club Getting around Amsterdam Let's start things off by giving you a quick guide to public transport in Amsterdam. You have a number of options available to you that we've talked about in greater detail here. But for the most part, as you'll find the best breakfasts in the city, you'll only be using buses, trams, the metro, bikes, or your own two feet to reach them. For trams, buses, and the metro, you can buy 1-hour, 24-hour, and 48-hour travel tickets at every Metro station, on the tram when you board, or at one of the many ticket machines you'll find at bus stops, tram stops, or at Centraal Station. Alternatively, if you're going to be traveling for longer than 48 hours, you might want to pick up an OV Chipcard. This travel card lets you any amount of money you want, and then you simply swipe when you board and alight, and top it up when you're running low. An omelet oasis If you like your eggs folded over a host of delicious fillings and toppings, then you'll love Omelegg; they specialize in the stuff. They offer quality omelets from 7AM on weekdays and 8AM on weekends, so you can definitely get your belly filled before your day truly begins. You'll discover their menu is filled with choices inspired by cuisines from all over the world. The Nordic-inspired Viking Fisherman sits aside the nationally-minded Dutchie. And if their savory offerings don't tempt you, then go for the Banana Peanutbutter - a sugary delight featuring honey, cinnamon, and egg cake. How to get there on public transport You'll find a handful of Omelegg locations all over the city. Their De Pijp location is just down the street from the De Pijp Metro station, as well as the De Pijp and Amsterdam, 2e v.d.Helststraat tram stops . And their City Center location is a five-minute walk from Centraal Station. Theodore, you spoil us If you want an all-day breakfast and brunch spot with some meatier meals to fuel your exploring, head to Ted's. Their bright and burgeoning menu offers all the breakfast treats you'd expect from a top spot. You've got an entire menu dedicated to eggs, featuring the usual affair of Eggs Benny and Eggs Florentine alongside more creative offerings like a bacon, egg, and fried chicken burrito, as well as the magnificent Triple Omega, which sounds like a Transformer but with more eggs, salmon, and sourdough. But, if your stomach is looking for something more substantial, go for one of the french toast varieties, or dip into their fantastic sandwich menu. How to get there on public transport You'll find two Ted's locations in Amsterdam. The Jordaan spot is a short walk from the Anne Frank House, and a 3-minute walk from the Westermarkt tram and bus stops. The Oud-West spot is equidistant from both the Kinkerstraat tram and bus stops and the Overtoom tram and bus stops. Either will leave you with a 3-minute walk. Beans and bigger beans If you're looking for one of the city's coolest spots to be your breakfast backdrop, start your day at Coffee & Coconuts. With a wealth of coffees, teas, juices, and even stronger drinks on offer, you can have your beverage your way. They roast and squeeze everything on-site, so you can be sure you're getting nothing but the freshest morning brew. As for food, they offer breakfast all day, with burritos, pancakes, french toast, coconut bowls, and scambled eggs just some of the things available. Or, from midday, you can dip into their fantastic Deli menu and chomp on some unique sandwich combinations. How to get there on public transport C&C's only spot is located in De Pijp. It's right across the street from the De Pijp Metro stop and a minute's walk from the De Pijp tram stop. Krunk Boat A seaside breakfast is one thing. A seafaring breakfast is another entirely. That's what you get at G's Brunch Boat, and while it might not exactly be sailing the seven seas, it does make its way along Amsterdam's beautiful canals. Oh, and did we mention that you can opt into a bottomless brunch? That's right, party animals. Who said breakfast needed to be boring, or on dry land? Hop onto the party boat and let the good times roll. Choose from one of their many tasty menu dishes - chicken and waffles, eggs benny, breakfast burrito, or even oysters, and then either pair it with a drink, or go for the bottomless choice and have at it. Bloody Mary's, Mimosas, Prosecco, beer, or wine are all on offer. And, for 75 minutes, you'll have your fill. Considering the spectacle of it all, it's easily one of the best breakfasts in Amsterdam! How to get there on public transport Once you've booked your ticket, head to the pickup point near the Anne Frank House. It's a 5-minute walk from the Westermarkt tram and bus stops. Don't you forget about me And finally, we end on a franchise that's taken the world by storm. Named after the eponymous 80s high school film, you'll find Breakfast Clubs in plenty of cities these days. They have a load of breakfast types, burgers, pancakes, eggs, sandwiches, and smaller bites on offer, as well as an envious sweet selection. Couple that with a delightful coffee, tea, or other beverage, and you've got yourself a guaranteed good time. How to get there on public transport With six locations all around the city, rather than bore you with all the details here, we'll simply leave a link to their website that gives you every address and shows you which stops are near it! And that's our list of the best breakfasts in Amsterdam, and how to get there by public transport!
Dom Bewley
amsterdam public transport
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Getting Around Amsterdam - Public transport

Often dubbed one of the greatest of the world’s small cities, Amsterdam is not a particularly monstrous city. Indeed, with a footprint of just a little over three square miles, the city center could quite easily be covered in a day on foot alone. And yet, the city is often recognized for having some of the best transport infrastructure in Europe. From the emblematic canals delightfully splitting up the Dutch capital’s neighborhoods to its famous tram system covering just about all of the city, there’s a capable range of options for getting around Amsterdam to help you explore the city on your own terms. Public Transport Bus Amsterdam boasts an extensive network of buses servicing both the city center and the surrounding neighborhoods. Operated by three companies – GVB, Connexxion and EBS – Amsterdam’s buses offer a reliable means of getting across the city fast, with many routes servicing stops close to key social hubs and attractions. The city also operates twelve night bus routes to help you get around while exploring the city’s famous nightlife scene. Each of these routes helps to connect the city center with the surrounding suburbs, and buses typically depart every 30 minutes between midnight and 7AM. Tram Second only to bicycles, trams are perhaps the most recognizable mode of transport in Amsterdam. Connecting Amsterdam Central Station to the city’s many key areas and further neighborhoods, Lines 1, 2, 5, 9, 13 and 17 are typically your best bet for getting around the city. Depending on the day and time, the frequency of trams will vary, typically arriving every 5 – 10 minutes. Metro The Amsterdam Metro system offers an alternative means of traversing the central spine of the city and accessing the outer suburbs. Operating across five lines and servicing a total of 39 stops, the Metro offers the fastest and most efficient means of crossing through the city, passing through all major business and office districts alongside many train stations. Operating Times The three modes of public transport that make up the transport infrastructure of Amsterdam all operate on roughly the same schedule and ticketing service. The majority of services begin operations at 6AM and will typically continue until 12:30AM the following morning. Tickets & Passes Tickets and passes are wholly dependent on how long you intend to stay in Amsterdam and how often you plan to use public transport. For casual use, single and return tickets are available on all services on demand. You can also purchase passes which allow for unlimited travel for periods of 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours, offering slightly discounted rates as long as you get plenty of use from them. If you plan on staying in the Netherlands for more than three days, then your best bet would be to purchase and top-up an OV-chipkaart from any major transport hub. This pass is heavily used by locals and can simply be scanned whenever you hop on your transport of choice. On the Water Amsterdam’s canals are more than just an iconic photo op. Originally serving as means of water management, defense and facilitating trade, the labyrinth of canals accounts for 25% of the city’s surface area. Most of the traffic on the canals now consists of pleasure sailing, both private and commercial. If you’re looking for a unique means of getting around the city, there’s a plethora of boat tours available at your convenience to get you from A to B with a little local insight thrown into the mix. Alternatively, it’s also fairly simple to rent a boat for yourself, whether it be a manual pedal-boat, a small capacity electric boat or a full-sized barge for you and your friends. Cycling You may have heard it said that Amsterdam is home to more bicycles than people, and that’s no simple exaggeration. With roughly 1.1 bikes to each resident, it’s plain to see that the locals readily uphold the age-old image of the Dutch cycling nation. With over half of Amsterdam’s 800,000 residents relying on their bicycles as their daily mode of transport, it should come as no surprise that the city caters heavily to their preferences. In fact, with over 470 miles of cycle lanes making up the Amsterdam Bicycle Network, cycling can often be the easiest means of getting around. To capitalize on this trend, there is now a huge selection of bike rental stores dotted throughout the city. You should expect to pay somewhere in the range of €10/day for rentals. If you intend to stay in the Netherlands for more than a month, then purchasing a second-hand bike is a much more cost-effective option, with many going for between €50 and €200. Avoid buying bicycles on the street from unverified vendors, as these are likely to have been stolen and can land you in a lot of trouble. Cycling Safety Be sure to exercise some basic cycling safety and etiquette if you choose to ride in Amsterdam. Stick to roads and dedicated cycle lanes. Keep to the right-hand side and leave space for other cyclists. Make sure you have working front and rear lights when riding at night. Observe other cyclists’ body language to anticipate their actions and signal your own. If you intend to use your phone for directions, make sure to use a legal handlebar mount. Cyclists should overtake each other on the left, but can overtake other vehicles on the right. Only ring your bell when necessary. Always stow your bike in dedicated spaces and ensure you use a reliable lock. Taxi While road traffic is fairly minimal in Amsterdam, that can be quite the boon for those who need to get themselves across the city fast. Whether you’re looking for airport transfers or need to make it to an event quickly, taxis can be your best friend. Most taxis are regulated by the municipality to charge pre-set rates, so you should never have to face a surprise fee for your journey. Like in most cities, you'll find taxi ranks at the airport and most major transport hubs. Taxis can also be ordered at your convenience by calling up your chosen taxi firm, or you can make a booking via the TCA app. Alternatively, the likes of Uber and Bolt also operate in Amsterdam.
Anne Delorean
Amsterdam canals by night
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Things to do in Amsterdam at Night

Sure, Amsterdam comes with a slightly, shall we say, seedy reputation, but there’s so much more to this city’s vibrant nightlife than just red lights and cannabis cafés. Join us on our journey through all the best things to do in Amsterdam at night.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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