Amsterdam Currency Guide 2026
Euro (EUR) · €
€1 = $1.08 (approx.)
Amsterdam Travel Guides
Cash is Useful in Amsterdam
Cards work well but cash is handy for markets and small vendors
Daily Budget Guide
🎒
Budget
€80–120 (hostel, supermarket meals, OV-chipkaart transit)
🏨
Mid-Range
€160–250 (hotel, restaurants, museum entry)
✨
Luxury
€400+ (canal house hotel, fine dining, private boat hire)
ATM Tips for Amsterdam
ING and Rabobank ATMs are most reliable for international cards
Many Dutch ATMs give you a choice of currency — always choose to pay in Euros (not your home currency) to avoid dynamic currency conversion fees
ATM withdrawal limits are typically €250–500 per transaction
Some smaller ATMs in tourist areas charge a €3–5 fee — bank ATMs are always free for the withdrawal itself (your bank may charge)
Card Payment Tips
The Netherlands is card-friendly but not universally so — some Dutch cafes and small shops are cash only (a Dutch quirk)
OV-chipkaart (transit card) requires €7.50 deposit and is available at station ticket machines — or tap contactless bank cards on GVB trams and buses
Supermarkets (Albert Heijn, Jumbo) all accept cards — use the self-checkout machines for the fastest experience
Contactless payment (NFC) works everywhere that accepts cards — bring a contactless Visa or Mastercard
Currency Exchange Tips
✓ Best method
GWK Travelex at Schiphol and central Amsterdam is the official exchange. ING and ABN AMRO ATMs give competitive rates. Wise and Revolut are excellent for daily spending — better rates than any cash exchange.
✗ Avoid exchanging at
- ×Tourist-area exchange bureaux near Dam Square (rates 5–10% worse)
- ×Private "Change" offices on busy streets — always check the rate before handing over money
Tipping in Amsterdam
Not obligatory but appreciated. Round up or add 10% at sit-down restaurants for good service. No obligation at cafes or bars. Taxi: round up to nearest euro. Never expected the way it is in the US.
Useful Denominations
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need cash in Amsterdam?
Bring some — Amsterdam has a quirky Dutch habit of some independent cafes and restaurants being card-only or cash-only. It's not consistent, so keep €50–100 on hand at all times.
What is the currency in Amsterdam?
The Euro (€). The Netherlands uses the Euro as its national currency. €1 is approximately $1.08.
Is Amsterdam expensive?
Amsterdam is moderately expensive by European standards — cheaper than London or Zurich, comparable to Paris. A canal-side lunch: €15–25. Beer at a brown cafe: €4–6. Museum entry: €20–25 (or free with the I Amsterdam City Card).
Can I use my credit card on Amsterdam public transport?
Yes — GVB trams and metro accept contactless bank cards and OV-chipkaart. Tap in and tap out. The daily cap is lower than a day pass in most cases.
Before you go to Amsterdam
Amsterdam Packing List
Everything else you need for your Amsterdam trip