Amsterdam City Card: What’s Included, Prices & Is It Worth It?

Amsterdam is compact, museum-rich, and famously busy. If you’re planning to visit more than one museum, take a canal cruise, and use public transport, the Amsterdam City Card can save you serious time and money, but only if you use it right.

This guide breaks down what’s included, what’s not, who it’s best for, and how to decide if the Amsterdam City Card is worth it for your trip.

What Is the Amsterdam City Card?

The I amsterdam City Card is an all-inclusive sightseeing pass that gives you:

• Free entry to 70+ museums and attractions

• Unlimited public transport (GVB buses, trams, metro)

• A free canal cruise

• Discounts at attractions, rentals, and restaurants

It’s available for 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours, starting from first use.

What’s Included with the Amsterdam City Card

Free Museums & Attractions

The biggest value comes from museum access. Highlights include:

• Rijksmuseum

• Stedelijk Museum

• Moco Museum

• NEMO Science Museum

• H’ART Museum

Museum tickets in Amsterdam average €18–€25 each, so visiting just 2–3 already covers much of the card’s cost.

Free Canal Cruise

One Amsterdam canal cruise is included, a must-do experience and normally €16–€22 on its own. Cruises depart from multiple locations and give you a relaxed introduction to the city.

Unlimited Public Transport

You get unlimited access to:

• Trams

• Buses

• Metro

Operated by GVB, this alone can save €8–€10 per day if you move around frequently.

Extra Discounts

The card also includes 25%–50% discounts on:

• Bike rentals

• Heineken Experience

• House of Bols

• A’DAM Lookout

What’s NOT Included (Important)

The Amsterdam City Card does not include:

• ❌ Anne Frank House (must be booked separately)

• ❌ Van Gogh Museum

• ❌ Airport trains (NS / Schiphol Express)

• ❌ Hop-on hop-off buses

These exclusions matter, especially if Anne Frank House or Van Gogh Museum are your top priorities.

Amsterdam City Card Prices (Overview)

Prices vary slightly by season, but roughly:

• 24 hours – €60

• 48 hours – €85

• 72 hours – €100

• 96 hours – €115

• 120 hours – €125

💡 Tip: The 48- and 72-hour cards offer the best value for first-time visitors.

Is the Amsterdam City Card Worth It?

✅ Worth It If You:

• Plan to visit 2+ museums per day

• Want unlimited public transport

• Love flexibility and spontaneous sightseeing

• Are visiting Amsterdam for 2–4 days

❌ Not Worth It If You:

• Only want Anne Frank House & Van Gogh Museum

• Prefer walking everywhere

• Are staying less than 24 hours

• Want a slow, café-focused trip

Where to Buy the Amsterdam City Card

For most travelers, buying the Amsterdam City Card online is the easiest option.
You receive a digital pass instantly and avoid ticket counters on arrival.

Sample Savings Breakdown (48 Hours)

48-hour card cost ≈ €85, plus extra museums & discounts → net gain in convenience + value

How to Use the Amsterdam City Card

• Available as a digital card on your phone

• Activate on first use (museum entry or transport)

• Time runs continuously (not calendar days)

👉 Start early on Day 1 to maximize value.

Amsterdam City Card vs Individual Tickets

City Card

• Best for museum lovers

• One purchase, no queues at many attractions

• Includes transport + cruise

Individual Tickets

• Better if only visiting 1–2 attractions

• Necessary for Anne Frank House & Van Gogh Museum

Many travelers combine both: City Card + separate must-see tickets.

FAQs Amsterdam City Card

Is the Amsterdam City Card skip-the-line?
At many museums, yes, but you may still need to reserve a time slot.

Does it include Anne Frank House?
No. Tickets must be booked separately weeks in advance.

Can I share one card?
No. Each card is valid for one person only.

Is it worth it for families?
Yes, especially with kids visiting NEMO and science museums.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Amsterdam City Card?

If you want to see a lot, move easily, and avoid buying multiple tickets, the Amsterdam City Card is one of the best city passes in Europe.

For first-time visitors staying 2–4 days, it’s usually worth it, especially when paired with pre-booked timed-entry tickets for Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum booked separately.