City Guide: Amsterdam (skyteam.com)

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Local Knowledge

Telephone

Dialing Codes

Country code for the Netherlands: +31

Area code for Amsterdam: 020 (drop the first zero when calling from abroad)

Emergency Numbers

Police: 112

Ambulance: 112

Fire: 112

Tipping

Bills rarely include a gratuity, so leave a tip. Around 10% is acceptable.

VAT & Taxes

Value-added tax (VAT) is 19% on apparel and luxury goods, and 6% on basic goods. Hotels charge 6% VAT and 5% tourist tax. The tourist tax in the area of Schiphol is 6%.

Getting Around

Taxis

Taxis in Amsterdam have blue license plates. The driver must display a price list inside as well as outside the vehicle, and a driver pass on the dashboard. Official taxi stands around the city include those at Schiphol Airport, Central Station and the Dam. You can hail cabs as well. Note that cabs are not allowed to stop in many places, especially tram and bus lanes.

Buses & trams

National strippenkaarten (bus and tram cards) are available on every bus and tram in the city. To save money, buy your strippenkaart in advance at the Amsterdam Tourism and Convention Board, newsstands, some GVB (public transport company) offices and train stations.

Bicycles

Cycling is Amsterdam's favorite mode of transportation. Everyone cycles, including businesspeople. Bicycle rentals are available across the city, including Central Station, Leidseplein and Dam Square. The rental price includes a lock.