Driving in Amsterdam
Driving in the city center is strongly discouraged due Amsterdam’s narrow, winding streets, constant construction and high parking rates. However, if you must, here are a few tips to make your visit a little less hectic:
Look out for bikers and pedestrians. They are everywhere in Amsterdam. They always have the right of way and they know it.- Always drive on the right side of the canal. All streets in the canal ring are one-way on the right side.
- Use caution when approaching intersections, especially at canal bridges where there may not be any traffic signs whatsoever. Treat them as a four-way stop.
- Be prepared to wait behind unloading trucks. You should not have to wait longer than 10 minutes, and this is the way it works in Amsterdam.
Driving an electric car in Amsterdam
Amsterdam Municipality supports driving electric in Amsterdam. For a limited period of time electric cars are allowed to charge batteries as well as to park for free in the city.
However, to use these facilities you will need a special chip card. It will make sense for you if you plan to stay longer in the city, and you drive electric. Hybrid cars do not qualify for this convenience.
Amsterdam parking
Part of driving a car is parking it and you can read about the options on our dedicated Amsterdam parking webpage.