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Top attractions you can visit with the Amsterdam GVB Pass

What is the GVB Amsterdam Pass

GVB is the primary public transport operator in Amsterdam, managing all trams, buses, and metros. GVB tourist tickets provide unlimited access to this entire city-wide network for visitors. You can choose a GVB pass ranging from 24 to 168 hours. This pass is different from others because it focuses purely on seamless city travel. This guide highlights the best attractions you can reach easily using your GVB travel ticket.

Why choose a GVB Pass when visiting Amsterdam?

Public transport makes exploring Amsterdam easy and efficient for every traveller. Buying individual tickets for every tram or bus ride gets expensive quickly. A GVB Amsterdam Pass offers a simple solution for unlimited travel across the city. You can hop on and off as much as you like without stress. These GVB tourist tickets save you money while providing total freedom to explore.

Top attractions you can visit with the GVB Pass

Museums & galleries

Rijksmuseum

Home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, the Rijksmuseum is a Dutch national treasure. Its impressive architecture and world-famous ‘Gallery of Honour’ make it a must-visit. You can reach it easily by taking Tram 2, 5, or 12 to the Museumplein stop.

Suggested time: 2–3 hours

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Van Gogh Museum

This museum houses the world’s largest collection of artworks by Vincent van Gogh. You will see iconic paintings like Sunflowers and Almond Blossom across three floors. The museum is located right next to the Rijksmuseum in the heart of the Museum District.

Suggested time: 2 hours

About Van Gogh Museum

Moco Museum

For fans of modern and contemporary art, Moco Museum is an essential stop. It features works by Banksy, KAWS, and Jeff Koons in a beautiful historic villa. It offers a playful and immersive experience that contrasts with the traditional museums nearby.

Suggested time: 1.5 hours

Book Moco Museum tickets

Historic landmarks & palaces

Royal Palace Amsterdam

Located on Dam Square, this 17th-century palace is still used by the Dutch Royal House. You can admire the massive Citizens’ Hall and the intricate marble sculptures inside. Most major tram lines from Central Station will drop you off right at the Palace doors.

Suggested time: 1 hour

Anne Frank House

This moving museum tells the story of Anne Frank and her life in hiding. It is one of the city's most visited sites and requires advanced planning. Take Tram 13 or 17 to the Westermarkt stop for a short walk to the entrance.

Suggested time: 1.5 hours

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National Maritime Museum

Explore the Netherlands' rich seafaring history and step aboard a replica of the famous ship 'Amsterdam'. This museum is located in a 17th-century naval storehouse. You can reach it by taking Bus 22 or 43 from Central Station to the Kattenburgerplein stop.

Suggested time: 2 hours

Unique experiences

A'DAM Lookout

For the best panoramic views of the city, head to the A’DAM Tower. You can even try ‘Over the Edge’, Europe’s highest swing, for an extra thrill. Simply take the free GVB ferry behind Central Station to reach the Buiksloterweg terminal.

Suggested time: 1.5 hours

Book A'DAM Lookout tickets

Heineken Experience

This interactive tour takes you through the history of the world’s most famous beer. You will learn about the brewing process and enjoy two chilled drinks at the end. Take Metro 52 to the Vijzelgracht station for a quick 5-minute walk to the brewery.

Suggested time: 1.5–2 hours

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This Is Holland

Experience a 5D flight simulation over the Netherlands' most beautiful landscapes. You will feel the wind and smell the tulips as you fly over the Dutch countryside. This attraction is conveniently located right next to the A’DAM Lookout in Amsterdam North.

Suggested time: 1 hour

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Family-friendly attractions

NEMO Science Museum

This giant green building is a paradise for curious kids. It offers five floors of hands-on science experiments and interactive workshops. It is a 10-minute walk from Central Station or reachable via Bus 22.

Suggested time: 3 hours

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ARTIS Royal Zoo

As one of the oldest zoos in Europe, ARTIS combines a beautiful park setting with exotic animals. You can visit the Planetarium and the butterfly pavilion, all within the same grounds. Take Tram 14 from Dam Square to the ARTIS stop.

Suggested time: 3–4 hours

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Madame Tussauds

Rub shoulders with celebrities, world leaders, and sports stars at this iconic wax museum. It’s located in the heart of Dam Square, making it one of the easiest spots to reach. Every major tram heading to the centre stops just a minute away.

Suggested time: 1.5 hours

Book Madame Tussauds tickets

Parks & gardens

Vondelpark

The most famous park in the Netherlands is the perfect place for a picnic or a leisurely bike ride. It features open-air theatres, playgrounds, and cosy cafes scattered throughout the greenery. Trams 1, 2, and 12 all have stops that lead directly into the park.

Suggested time: 2 hours

Hortus Botanicus

Founded in 1638, this is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. Its glass-domed palm house and medicinal herb garden offer a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Take Metro 51, 53, or 54 to Waterlooplein station.

Suggested time: 1.5 hours

Amstelpark

This expansive park in South Amsterdam features a mini-train, a petting zoo, and a maze for children. It is much quieter than Vondelpark and perfect for families. Take Metro 52 to the Europaplein station for a quick connection.

Suggested time: 2 hours

Tips to maximise your GVB Amsterdam Pass

  • Always check in and out at the yellow scanners every time you enter or exit.
  • Download the GVB app to track live departure times and plan your routes easily.
  • Ride Tram 2 for a scenic journey past the Royal Palace and Museumplein.
  • Use your GVB day pass on night buses if you are staying out late.
  • Take Bus 369 from Sloterdijk Station to reach Schiphol Airport using your GVB Pass.
  • Remember that GVB tourist tickets do not work on NS regional trains.
  • The free ferries behind Central Station are included in your GVB travel ticket network.
  • Start your first journey in the morning to get the most hours from your pass.
  • Keep your digital GVB tourist tickets ready on your phone to scan quickly.
  • Avoid using the pass on regional EBS or Connexxion buses to prevent extra charges.

Frequently asked questions about GVB tourist tickets

Does the GVB Pass include entry to museums or attractions?

No, your GVB Pass only covers unlimited travel on GVB-operated public transport. You must purchase separate entry tickets for attractions like the Rijksmuseum or the Heineken Experience. Think of this as your "travel key" to reach every major landmark in the city efficiently.

What is the best way to see the city landmarks without a guided tour?

Many savvy travellers use their GVB tourist tickets on Tram 2. This route is world-famous for its views, passing the Royal Palace, the Canal Belt, and the Museum District. It effectively serves as a low-cost, self-guided Hop-on Hop-off tour for the price of a GVB Pass.

Can I use GVB tourist tickets to travel from Schiphol Airport?

Yes, but only on GVB Bus 369, which runs between Schiphol and Sloterdijk Station. Your GVB travel ticket is not valid on the NS trains or the 397 Airport Express bus. Bus 369 is a great budget-friendly way to enter the city with your pass.

Is the ferry to Amsterdam North included in the GVB day pass?

The GVB ferries behind Central Station are actually free for all passengers. However, they are a vital part of the GVB network. You can use them to reach the A'DAM Lookout and NDSM Wharf without needing any other ticket or reservation.

Can I use the GVB travel ticket on the Amsterdam canal boats?

The GVB Pass is for public transport only and does not include commercial canal boat tours. However, many major cruise departure points are located right next to GVB tram and metro stops. Use your pass to get to the docks at Central Station or Leidseplein.

Can I use my GVB travel ticket to visit Keukenhof?

No, the GVB pass does not cover the regional buses or trains required to reach Keukenhof. The gardens are located outside the GVB city zone.

Does the GVB day pass work on night buses?

Yes, your GVB day pass is fully valid on all GVB night bus lines. This makes it a very cost-effective choice if you plan to enjoy Amsterdam’s nightlife. You won't have to worry about higher night-time fares or finding a separate ticket machine.

Do I need to tap my GVB tourist tickets every time I board?

Yes, you must check in and check out every time you enter or exit a vehicle. This applies to every tram, bus, and metro trip. Checking out ensures your GVB travel ticket remains valid and helps the gates at metro stations open correctly.