Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Free ferries depart for northern Amsterdam from docks behind Centraal Station.
Taxi
Taxis are expensive and not very speedy given Amsterdam's maze of streets. Fares are
€1.95 per km; the meter starts at €2.65.
For more information, see Survival Guide (
Click here
)
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
Dutch and English
Visas
Generally not required for stays up to three months. Some nationalities require a Schengen visa.
Money
ATMs widely available. Credit cards accepted in most hotels but not all restaurants. Non-European credit cards
are sometimes rejected.
Mobile Phones
Local SIM cards can be used in European and Australian phones. Standard North American GSM 1900 phones
will not work.
Time
Central European Time (GMT/UTC plus one hour).
Plugs & Adaptors
Plugs have two round pins; electrical current is 220V. North American visitors will require an adaptor and a trans-
former.
Tipping
Tip 5% to 10% in restaurants and taxis, or just round up to the next euro. Give hotel porters a few euros.
