Amsterdam is a wonderful city to visit, but parking can be a challenge. With narrow streets, heavy traffic, and high parking rates, it’s smart to plan your options in advance. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce costs and stress so you can fully enjoy everything the city has to offer. In this article, you’ll find helpful tips about the rules, affordable options like ParkBee, and places where you’d best avoid parking.
Parking in Amsterdam: The Rules
In Amsterdam, parking is almost always paid, except in a few neighborhoods on the city outskirts. Rates vary by area and range between €3.50 and €7.50 per hour. The highest rates apply in the city center. You must always pay for parking using a parking meter or a parking app such as Parkmobile or Yellowbrick. Don’t forget to enter your license plate number, as paper tickets are no longer used!
Affordable Parking in Amsterdam
Don’t want to pay top rates? There are ways to park affordably. On the city outskirts, you’ll find Park & Ride (P+R) locations, such as at Johan Cruijff ArenA or Sloterdijk. Here, you can park for €1 per 24 hours, provided you travel to the city center by public transport. It’s an ideal option for day-trippers and tourists.
ParkBee: Affordable and Smart Parking
Another smart solution is ParkBee. This parking app gives you access to hidden, cheaper parking garages and private parking spaces at places like businesses or hotels. Rates are often lower than regular parking options, and you can easily reserve a spot via the app.
Where You Should Definitely Avoid Parking
Although parking by the canals sounds romantic, it’s not always the best choice. Parking along the canals comes with risks, such as damage from heavy traffic or, in the worst case, a mishap involving the canals themselves. Additionally, parking spots in the city center are scarce and expensive, making it often not worth driving into the center.
You should also avoid parking in neighborhoods with resident parking permits. Without a permit, you’re guaranteed to get a fine, and that’s certainly not what you want.
Illegal Parking? Don’t Do It!
Amsterdam enforces strict rules when it comes to illegal parking. If you park in a loading and unloading zone, a permit-only area, or without paying, you can expect a hefty fine or even have your car towed.
Want to learn more about transportation in Amsterdam in addition to parking? Discover everything about getting around Amsterdam here.