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Parking in Amsterdam – charges, rules, where to park

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If you are driving to Amsterdam for a holiday, you should know a few things about parking in the city. 

Amsterdam’s downtown parking is difficult and expensive. 

Please keep the following things in mind during your trip:

Limited parking: City center parking spots fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season or on weekends.

High parking charges: Parking in Amsterdam is expensive, especially downtown. Some garages charge more than €7 per hour.

Parking restrictions: Amsterdam has resident-only zones and parking restrictions during certain hours. Pay attention to parking meters and signs indicating how long you can park.

Parking rules: If you drive in Amsterdam, know the parking rules. There may be differences between what you are used to in your country.

Alternatives to driving: Amsterdam has an extensive public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains, which can be a convenient alternative to driving.

Parking garages are safer and more convenient than street parking.

Amsterdam has many bicycle rental shops because cycling is popular.

Instead of driving around in the city, you can park at your hotel’s parking and rent out cycles to explore the city. 

GVB Amsterdam is the best way to navigate the city quickly, easily, and cost-effectively. If you are in the city for over two days, we recommend buying GVB Public Transport Ticket.

FAQs about parking in Amsterdam

Here are a few questions tourists driving to Amsterdam ask. 

What are the parking rates in Amsterdam?

The charges for parking the vehicles depend on the time during which you park and the location. The price for parking in the city center is usually higher, while the hourly rates are between €5 to €8. So, checking the cheaper parking options outside the city is advised.

Where can I find parking garages or lots in Amsterdam?

Yes, there are many parking garages and lots available in Amsterdam. Some popular parking garages include Q-ParkAPCOA, and Interparking. It’s recommended to book parking in advance to ensure availability.

Can I park on the street in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam streets are available for parking. But, finding a spot in busy areas is quite difficult. Moreover, street parking is expensive.

What are the Amsterdam parking rules?

Amsterdam’s parking rules differ. Parking time and days are usually limited. Some automobiles may have parking restrictions.

How can I pay to park my car in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has parking meters, mobile apps, and parking garage ticket machines. Avoid parking tickets by paying.

Is the parking free in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has free parking outside the city center. Check local signs to avoid parking in a restricted location.

Is it safe to park vehicles in Amsterdam parking spaces?

Amsterdam is secure for parking your car, but take steps to avoid theft or damage. Parking in a garage or lot is safer than on the street.

What should I do with the Amsterdam parking tickets?

To avoid fines, pay Amsterdam parking tickets immediately. The ticket has payment instructions.

Are there any specific considerations for Amsterdam rental car parking?

Check with the rental provider before parking a car in Amsterdam. To avoid theft or damage, rent a car with insurance.

Is there any vehicle size restriction at Amsterdam parking?

Amsterdam’s narrow city center limits vehicle size. To guarantee parking facilities can accept larger vehicles, check ahead.

Planning a holiday in Amsterdam? Read about the city’s weather, coffee shops, Foodhallen, taxis, restaurants, pancakes, Museumplein, and the light festival.

Tips for driving in Amsterdam

Avoid driving in Amsterdam’s tight, twisting city core – it isn’t easy.

Construction and expensive parking make it worse.

If you drive, these techniques will make your visit less stressful:

Look out for bicycles: Amsterdam has a lot of cyclists, so drive safely. When turning or changing lanes, check your mirrors and blind zones and allow bicycle room.

Follow the traffic rules: Amsterdam has traffic laws like every other city. Speed limits and traffic signs should be familiarised and followed.

Be patient: Amsterdam is packed, so drive slowly. Allow extra time for traffic and delays.

Avoid driving in the city center: It might be busy and hard to manage. Instead, park your car outside the city and use public transportation or bikes.

Beware of the parking rules: Parking in Amsterdam is difficult and expensive. Therefore, it’s crucial to know the rules. Pay attention to parking meters and signage showing how long you can park.

Recommended Reading
Couple things to do in Amsterdam
Kids activities in Amsterdam
Free things to do in Amsterdam

If you are planning a vacation to the Dutch capital, check out our itinerary recommendation for a 1-day2-day3-day, and 5-day visit to Amsterdam.

Sources
# Amsterdamsights.com
# Amsterdam.nl
# Amsterdam.info

The travel specialists at TheBetterVacation.com use only high-quality sources while researching & writing their articles. We make every attempt to keep our content current, reliable and trustworthy.

Popular attractions in Amsterdam

RijksmuseumVan Gogh Museum
Anne Frank HouseAmsterdam Canal Cruise
Keukenhof GardensARTIS Amsterdam Zoo
Heineken ExperienceA’dam Lookout
Stedelijk MuseumMadame Tussauds
Body Worlds AmsterdamRembrandt House Museum
Ice Bar AmsterdamJohan Cruyff Arena Stadium
Red Light SecretsNEMO Science Museum
The Upside DownAmsterdam Dungeon
Moco MuseumAmsterdam Royal Palace
National Maritime MuseumHouse of Bols
Hemp MuseumAmaze Amsterdam
Wondr ExperienceHolland Experience
Dutch Resistance MuseumStraat Museum
Fabrique des LumieresRipley’s Believe it or not!
Micropia AmsterdamThe Cat Cabinet
Eye Film MuseumDiamond Museum

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Check out all the things to do in Amsterdam

This article was researched & written by

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

1 thought on “Parking in Amsterdam – charges, rules, where to park”

  1. Need pictures of the parking signs and what they mean. My car was towed because the sign seemed to allow night time parking , like in the uk, and not during the day.

    Reply

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