Discover Amsterdam Like a Local: Why the Iamsterdam City Pass is the Ultimate Travel Hack

Amsterdam is one of the most popular cities in Europe. If you’ve ever travelled there before then you know why. With its stunning canals, rich history, world class museums, and vibrant cultural experiences there is just so much to see and do. Planning an efficient and cost effective trip can feel overwhelming so this is where the Iamsterdam City Pass comes in. This all in one city pass unlocks the very best of Amsterdam. Offering free entry to top attractions, unlimited public transportation. As well as a range of discounts to both save you money and make the most out of your trip to Amsterdam.

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and want to get the most out of your time and money, the Iamsterdam City Pass might just be the perfect solution for you. In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about the pass, from the benefits to the top places you can visit using it. So lets get into it…

What is the Iamsterdam City Pass?

The Iamsterdam City Pass is a travel card designed specifically for anyone visiting Amsterdam. It offers a combination of free entry to museums, attractions, unlimited public transportation, and discounts at shops and restaurants. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or simply want to explore the city’s famous canals, this pass gives you access to some of the most iconic experiences in Amsterdam.

The Iamsterdam City Pass comes in several options 24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours. This means that whether you’re in Amsterdam for a weekend or a full week, you can choose the pass duration that best fits your itinerary.

Why the Iamsterdam City Pass is the Best Way to Explore the City

One of the biggest perks of the Iamsterdam City Pass is its ability to save you time and money. With so many must-see attractions included, you’ll avoid paying separate entrance fees for each museum or landmark. Plus, having a single pass makes planning easier, removing the need to purchase tickets or navigate unfamiliar ticketing systems.

Here are some reasons why the Iamsterdam City Pass is the ideal way to experience the city:

1. Unlimited Access to Public Transportation

Amsterdam has a great system of trams, buses, and metro lines that make getting around simple and fast but it can be a little pricy at times. With the Iamsterdam City Pass, you get unlimited access to public transportation, including all trams, buses, and metros operated by GVB.

This is perfect for anyone who wants to explore different neighbourhoods and attractions without constantly worrying about buying separate tickets. Whether you’re visiting museums in the city center or wandering through neighbourhoods like Jordaan or De Pijp, hopping on public transport is easy with your pass you just need to scan on and off.

2. Discounts on Food, Shopping, and More

The Iamsterdam City Pass offers exclusive discounts at selected restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues throughout the city. You can save on meals at top-rated restaurants, get deals on souvenirs, and even score discounts on Amsterdam’s nightlife.

3. Free Entry to Top Museums and Attractions

Amsterdam is known for its incredible selection of museums and cultural landmarks, and the Iamsterdam City Pass gives you free access to more than 70 of the city’s most popular attractions. Here’s a rundown of some of the top museums and attractions you’ll want to check out:

Where to stay In Amsterdam…

Top Museums to Visit with the Iamsterdam City Pass

Rijksmuseum

Arguably the most famous museum in the Netherlands, the Rijksmuseum houses over 8,000 artworks, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. Its collection spans several centuries, offering a deep dive into Dutch art and history. The museum’s architecture alone is worth visiting, and with the Iamsterdam City Pass, your entry is completely free!! Just make sure to book in advance as it can get very busy.

Van Gogh Museum

Another one of Amsterdams top museums, the Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh. This museum boasts the world’s largest collection of his art. You’ll be able to see some of Van Gogh’s most famous pieces, such as “Sunflowers” and “The Bedroom,” while also learning about his personal struggles and unique artistic vision. Unfortunately the Iamsterdam City Pass only offers a small discount on the entry fee but it definitely worth visiting.

Moco Museum

The Moco Museum is perfect for anyone interested in modern, street, and contemporary art. With works from Banksy, Warhol, and other avant-garde artists. It’s also one of the more Instagram-friendly museums in Amsterdam, with installations that encourage interaction and incredible diamond room. With the Iamsterdam pass you can get access to the Moco Museum for free.

Hermitage Amsterdam

An extension of Russia’s Hermitage Museum, the Hermitage Amsterdam presents rotating exhibitions from the vast collection in St. Petersburg. The exhibits range from ancient history to the golden age of the Russian Empire, and many of them are large-scale, immersive experiences. Entry is free with the Iamsterdam City Pass.

Iconic Attractions Included in the Pass

Beyond museums, the Iamsterdam City Pass provides free entry or significant discounts to many of the city’s most famous attractions and landmarks. Here are some not-to-miss highlights:

The Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Located in Dam Square, the Royal Palace is a symbol of the Dutch Golden Age. Once the city hall, it’s now used for state functions by the Dutch royal family. This historic site is included in your Iamsterdam City Pass.

Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Amsterdam’s canal system is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the best ways to experience it is by boat. The Iamsterdam City Pass includes a free canal cruise, which offers a unique perspective of the city’s architecture, houseboats, and charming bridges. Many canal cruises also come with audio guides, giving you interesting facts about Amsterdam’s history and culture as you float through its waters.

A’DAM Lookout

For panoramic views of Amsterdam’s skyline, head to the A’DAM Lookout observation deck. This modern building offers an unparalleled 360-degree view of the city, and for thrill seekers, there’s even Europes tallest swing that lets you soar above the city. The Lookout is included with the Iamsterdam City Pass, making it an excellent stop for photographers and adventurers alike.

ARTIS Royal Zoo

Founded in 1838, ARTIS Royal Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Europe and a great family friendly attraction. The zoo features a wide variety of animals, beautiful gardens, and even a planetarium. It’s located in the heart of Amsterdam, so it’s easy to reach with your public transportation pass.

Rembrandt House Museum

For a deep dive into the life of one of the Netherlands’ greatest painters, visit the Rembrandt House Museum. This historic building was Rembrandt’s home for nearly 20 years, and today it’s a beautifully preserved space where you can see how the artist lived and worked. A visit to the Rembrandt House is free with your Iamsterdam pass.

Where to Buy the Iamsterdam City Pass

Purchasing the Iamsterdam City Pass is incredibly easy and can be done in a few different ways:

1. Online Purchase

The most convenient way to buy the Iamsterdam City Pass is online through the official Iamsterdam website. This allows you to choose the pass that fits the length of your stay (24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours) and have it ready before you even arrive in the city. When you purchase online, you receive a digital pass, which can be stored on your phone. This way, you can avoid the hassle of collecting a physical card upon arrival.

2. At the Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

If you prefer to wait until you arrive in Amsterdam, you can purchase the pass at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. There are several Iamsterdam kiosks and service desks where you can buy the pass right after landing, making it easy to start using the pass immediately for transport into the city.

3. Iamsterdam Visitor Centers

Another great option is to buy the pass at one of the Iamsterdam Visitor Centers. These centers are located in key tourist areas such as Amsterdam Central Station and Schiphol Airport. The staff at these centers can help answer any questions about how the pass works, provide maps, and help you plan your trip.

4. Partner Locations Around the City

In addition to the official Iamsterdam outlets, the City Pass is also available at various partner locations around the city. This includes selected hotels, travel agencies, and tourist offices. If you decide to buy the pass after arriving in the city, you can easily find one of these locations to purchase your pass on the spot.

How to Make the Most of the Iamsterdam City Pass

To make the most out of your trip and the value of your Iamsterdam City Pass, follow these helpful tips:

1. Plan Your Days Wisely

To get the most out of your pass, plan your itinerary in advance. Map out the museums and attractions you want to visit, grouping them by neighbourhood so you can minimise travel time. Use your unlimited access to public transport to move efficiently between sights and use the interactive map on the Iamsterdam app.

2. Start Early

The pass is activated the moment you use it for the first time, and it’s valid for consecutive hours (not full days). Therefore, to get the maximum benefit, start using your pass early in the morning and pack as many activities as possible into your schedule.

3. Take Advantage of Free Canal Cruises

A canal cruise is a great way to see the city, and since it’s included in the pass, it’s the perfect time to check off one of Amsterdam’s most popular experiences. Try to book your cruise during sunset for a magical view of the city.

4. Use the Digital Pass

The Iamsterdam City Pass is available digitally, which means you don’t have to worry about losing physical tickets. You can easily store the pass on your smartphone, making it super convenient to scan for entry at museums, attractions and public transport.

Conclusion

The Iamsterdam City Pass is one of the best ways to explore Amsterdam. Either it’s your first time visiting or your a local, you will save hundreds of euro on transport and entry to the cities top museums and attractions. The passes are activated as soon as you start using them so make sure you have your trip planned out ahead of times so you know where exactly you want to go and if your pass either gives you free entry or discounted entry.

I’ve visited Amsterdam a few times while living over in the Netherlands and of course the city is beautiful but like other major cities you can definitley spend a fair amount of money while there. So if you’re looking to save a few then this is definitley the best way to do so. I

If you’re looking for more information visit the Iamsterdam website.