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Things to Know Before Arriving in Amsterdam: From City Route Planning to Currency Exchange
If you’re planning to travel around the Netherlands with Amsterdam as your base, this post will provide you with step-by-step, applicable information for your itinerary. We’ve gathered practical tips such as city walking routes, how to use public transportation (OVpay), airport transfers, accommodation selection points, daily budgeting, and currency exchange in the Netherlands—a frequent topic of inquiry. We’ll focus on content you can use right on-site, without any exaggerated advertising.
What You’ll Gain from This Post
- Amsterdam Major Itinerary: Central Station–Dam Square–Jordaan–Museum District–Canal Cruise–Nearby Day Trips
- Transport: OVpay, trains, trams, buses, bicycle safety guidelines
- Currency Exchange in the Netherlands: Tips and precautions for using cards, cash, ATMs, and exchange offices
- Local experience bookings and ticket itinerary optimization
- Practical information on budgeting, accommodations, dining, and discount links
Preparation
Before your trip, the key is to be ‘light and accurate’. In the Netherlands, card payment is very common, and contactless payment is widely supported for public transport. Check your passport validity, travel insurance, universal charger, 230V voltage (socket type C/F), and data usage plan (eSIM, etc.).
Preparing travel essentials (multi-adaptor, compression bags, sling bag, waterproof pouch, etc.) in advance will save you time on-site. Check the link below if needed.
Tip
Pre-activate the overseas use function of your debit/credit card via the app and verify your PIN (usually 4 digits) for smoother transactions locally. If you plan to minimize currency exchange in the Netherlands, using a card is key, so it’s advisable to divide at least two main cards separately as a precaution against theft/loss.
Getting Around
Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) is one of Europe’s major hub airports, accessible via both direct flights and layovers from Korea. The price difference between peak and off-peak seasons for flights can be significant, so utilize comparison and alert features as soon as your itinerary is confirmed.
To get from Schiphol to the city center (Amsterdam Central Station), you can take a train (NS) from the train station located in the airport’s lower level. The signages are clear, and the languages (Dutch and English) are well covered, making it easy to navigate transfers. By using OVpay (contactless cards like Visa/Master), you can tap in/out at the gates, and you must use the same card for both tap-in and tap-out to apply the correct fare.
If you have a lot of baggage or are arriving at night or traveling with family, booking an airport pickup in advance can reduce first-day fatigue.
Note
When using trains or trams, be sure to both tap in when boarding and tap out when disembarking. Failing to tag at either end could result in additional charges or fines. Sharing one card among several people is also not allowed, so please prepare separate payment methods for each person.
Currency Exchange in the Netherlands
The strategy for currency exchange in the Netherlands is simple. Cards are widely accepted locally, making it easy to make contactless payments with Visa/Mastercards in most transport systems, museums, shops, and restaurants, with cash only occasionally needed in small markets or some retail shops. Therefore, it’s more efficient to prepare a small amount of cash in euros from Korea and then rely mainly on cards and withdraw cash from ATMs as needed.
- Card Payments: Contactless and PIN payments are common. Be sure to unlock the overseas usage of your Korean cards, and verify the 4-digit PIN.
- Cash Usage: Cash may be required in small market stalls, shops with outdated payment machines, or some public restrooms.
- Cash Withdrawals (ATM): There are many ATMs in airports and city areas, but bank-affiliated machines (like ABN AMRO, ING, Rabobank) are generally better than independent ones when it comes to fees and exchange rates.
Tip
When presented with an option to pay by KRW (Korean won) or EUR at an ATM or card terminal, it’s generally advantageous to choose EUR to avoid DCC (dynamic currency conversion) fees. The same applies when using local ATMs to supplement currency exchange.
If you plan to use local exchange offices in the city, such as in the Damrak street area near Amsterdam Central to Dam Square, you can easily compare various exchange rates and commissions. If you must prepare cash due to your itinerary (such as market tours or visiting cash-only small shops), remember to check and compare the buying and selling rates and commissions in different offices before making a transaction.
Recommendation
If you wish to minimize currency exchange in the Netherlands, the following combination is convenient: exchange a small amount in Korea (for emergencies like public restrooms or stalls) → use card payments locally → withdraw small amounts from bank-affiliated ATMs as needed. This approach can help reduce unnecessary currency exchange costs and the burden of carrying cash.
Note
Some supermarkets or unmanned checkout stations may be optimized for specific card networks (e.g., local debit cards). While international card acceptance is becoming more widespread, it’s advisable to carry at least two types of debit/credit cards to ensure usability from a traveler’s perspective. Additionally, converting any leftover foreign currency back to Korean won will incur a reconversion fee, so try to minimize leftover cash towards the end of your trip, while keeping enough for transport or small expenses in transit.
Central–Dam Square–Jordaan
Start your city stroll from Amsterdam Central Station, heading to Dam Square and onwards to the Jordaan district. Central Station is a Dutch railway hub opened in the late 19th century, where you can explore the canals and shopping streets by heading south with the station at your back.
- Dam Square: Home to the Royal Palace and the New Church (De Nieuwe Kerk), it’s the heart of the city center. It’s a great spot for planning your itinerary thanks to its concentration of large stores and restaurants.
- Kalverstraat: This pedestrian shopping street is convenient for light shopping and grabbing snacks.
- Jordaan & Nine Streets (De 9 Straatjes): Lined with independent bookstores, vintage shops, and cafes, this is a charming walk. Cross the canal bridges to take in everyday Amsterdam life.
Tip
Most cafes and bakeries in the Jordaan area accept card payments, making them easy to use even if you haven’t done much currency exchange in the Netherlands. However, popular bakeries tend to sell out early in the morning, so consider visiting a little earlier.
Museum District
The Museumplein area is home to museums with national treasures. Tram is a convenient means of getting around, and if you plan to visit more than one place in one day, reserving time slots and adjusting your itinerary is crucial.
- Rijksmuseum: Filled with Dutch Golden Age paintings, famous pieces often have queues, so aim for times just after opening or before closing when it’s less crowded.
- Van Gogh Museum: Popular time slots sell out quickly. Advanced reservation is encouraged.
Pre-booking local experiences or admission tickets can help reduce waiting times.
Note
Even if museums offer on-site sales, ticket quantities may be limited, and specific time entry may be difficult, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, so advance booking is recommended.
Canal Cruise
A canal (gracht) cruise is a great way to appreciate Amsterdam’s spatial layout. The main docks are conveniently located in front of Central Station and around Prins Hendrikkade. Audio guides are offered by many companies, making it a recommended activity for acclimating to the city on your first day.
Tip
Photos taken during the golden hour around sunset come out beautifully. However, if it’s windy and cold, the perceived temperature can drop substantially, so bring a windbreaker or light sweater in your bag. Since card payments are widely accepted, many places allow you to purchase tickets without engaging in currency exchange in the Netherlands.
Nearby Day Trips
- Zaanse Schans: Take a train from Central Station to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station and walk from there. It’s a great spot to experience Dutch traditions like windmills, cheese, and clog workshops in one place. While some activities are better prepared with small cash, there are ample places that accept card payments, making it unnecessary to exchange large amounts of currency in the Netherlands.
- Haarlem: A quaint city accessible by a short train ride from Central Station. Recommended for its cathedral square, alley strolls, and café visits.
- Delft: Known for its blue Delft pottery, this university town offers pleasant half-day tours around its canals, squares, and workshops.
Recommendation
If choosing only one nearby itinerary, pick based on your travel preferences. For traditional scenery and experiences, Zaanse Schans is a good choice; for serene city walks and café culture, Haarlem fits well; and for crafts and historical ambiance, Delft is ideal.
Using Public Transport
Amsterdam’s trams, buses, and subways are well-organized for transfers and signs. With OVpay, you can use contactless cards like Visa/Master to tap-in/out without needing a separate travel card. While occasional tickets (day passes) can be considered if using public transport frequently within the city, it’s best to organize your routes and stay duration first to determine what suits you best.
- Trams: Ideal for tourist routes (Centrum–Museum District–De Pijp).
- Subways/Buses: Good for accessing outer areas and supplementing night travel.
- Bicycles: The cycle roads are well equipped, but local biking speeds and precedence rules are clear. Beginners should gradually adapt in crowded downtown areas.
Note
Many areas have separate bike lanes and walkways, so avoid walking on designated pink/red bike paths to prevent accidents. Jaywalking is very dangerous.
Food
Popular snacks include Stroopwafel, Bitterballen, and Herring Sandwiches, which can be enjoyed at markets, cafes, and pubs. Most places allow card payments, so there is little inconvenience in food and drink purchases even with minimal currency exchange in the Netherlands.
Tip
While tipping culture isn’t strong, it’s sufficient to show appreciation by selecting the “small extra” option on the card terminal at the counter. Rather than meticulously counting cash, it’s easier to settle amounts via card.
Budget and Tips
Daily budgets fluctuate based on travel style, exchange rates, seasons, and special exhibitions. In terms of Korean won, a simple day involving light dining, café visits, and public transport could be in the mid-high range of tens of thousands, while including 1–2 museums, a canal cruise, and a delightful dinner may require more. Accommodation varies greatly based on area and peak-season availability; consult the accommodation section below for guidance.
To reduce wait times, pre-book entrance tickets and experiences, and regularly check bundles and promotions for reasonable prices.
Check Klook’s Monthly Discount Codes
Check MyRealTrip Discount Codes
Tip
To minimize currency exchange in the Netherlands while sticking to your budget, try: 1) Flexibly compare flights by date, 2) Select accommodations with convenient transit (saving on transport costs/time), 3) Only choose museum time slots for must-see places, 4) Opt for a main meal at lunch and lighter fare for dinner. Using cards predominantly makes post-trip accounting easier.
Accommodation
Amsterdam offers distinct accommodation features in different regions. Early booking is advised due to frequent sell-outs during peak seasons.
- Centrum (Dam Square and Central Station vicinity): Convenient for transport and vibrant until late, but can be noisy and costly.
- Jordaan/Nine Streets: Featuring canal views and an intimate atmosphere, it’s suitable for those preferring small boutique accommodations.
- Museum District/De Pijp: Convenient for museums, with good dining choices, ideal for quiet stays.
- Eastern/Western outskirts: Offers good transport links and attractive pricing. OVpay for tram/subway movement is easy to use.
Comparing multiple sites at once makes it easier to time your booking.
Note
Carefully check accommodation policies (check-in times, deposits, cancellation policies). If you plan to do minimal currency exchange, inquire beforehand if deposits or city taxes are payable by card, reducing hassle on-site.
Currency Exchange Checklist for the Netherlands
- Prepare at least two cards from different brands.
- Note overseas usage permissions, limits, and loss report phone numbers.
- Only carry small amounts of cash, use bank-affiliated ATMs if needed.
- Choose EUR over DCC (dynamic currency conversion) when offered.
- When using exchange offices, compare fees and rates for the final receipt amount.
- Minimize leftover cash on the last day to avoid reconversion costs.
The most frequently asked question is “How much currency exchange do I need in the Netherlands?” It depends on your itinerary and spending habits, but considering the card-centric payment environment, a ‘small cash + card main’ approach is recommended. Even if you exchange a lot, you could end up paying more when converting leftover cash back, so prepare as needed, progressively.
Sample Daily Itinerary
Here’s a suggested daily itinerary that’s manageable for first-time visitors.
- Morning: Arrive at Amsterdam Central Station → Tour Dam Square → Walk through Jordaan with café stops
- Lunch: Have a light plate in the Jordaan/Nine Streets area (card payment available)
- Afternoon: Take a tram to Museum District (choose one of the Rijks or Van Gogh)
- Dusk: Take a canal cruise (check docking stations in advance, bring e-voucher)
- Evening: Dine in De Pijp eatery district or near the Museum District
Tip
Popular restaurants often require reservation for dinner time. Check in advance whether they require card prepayment/guarantee, ensuring you can settle the bill without needing currency exchange in the Netherlands.
Local Practical FAQs
- Q. It asks for a tip on the card terminal. Is it necessary to tip?
A. It’s not compulsory. A small addition for good service is enough. - Q. My card won’t read at the unmanned turnstile.
A. Card non-recognition can occur if it’s stacked with cases/transport cards/other cards. Hold out only the one card you’re using for reading. - Q. Can I choose the amount shown in KRW at local ATMs?
A. It’s generally advantageous to select EUR for payment/withdrawals. DCC can include additional costs. - Q. Are there places that accept only cash?
A. Most places accept cards, but some market stalls/small facilities may require cash. Keep a small amount of cash for emergencies.
Conclusion: Get into Action
This guide curated key points around city routes, nearby selections, public transport, and most importantly, currency exchange considerations in the Netherlands. In conclusion, prepare for a card-centered payment environment, reduce waiting time with pre-booked transport and admission tickets, and balance your budget with accommodation selections based on location and budget.
- Flights: We recommend comparing flights to find cost-effective and convenient schedules, then setting up alerts.
Book the Lowest-Fare Flights - Airport Transfers: Particularly useful for night arrivals or family trips is booking a pickup.
Book an Airport Pickup - Experiences & Tickets: Popular time slots sell out quickly.
Book Activities For Your Trip - Discount Codes: Check updates frequently to save on your budget.
Check Klook’s Monthly Discount Codes · Check MyRealTrip Discount Codes - Accommodations: Compare for location, transport, noise, and budget.
Compare Hotel Prices and Book
It is recommended to confirm these options alongside a checklist close to departure, covering flights, accommodation, local experiences, and airport transfers. Please feel free to review the links below for convenience.