Is the Amsterdam City Card Worth It? 

Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Europe, attracting millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, the I Amsterdam City Card is a popular option for tourists looking to save money and maximize their experience. But is it really worth it? In this guide, we’ll break down the costs, benefits, and considerations to help you decide if the Amsterdam City Card is a smart investment for your trip.

What is the I Amsterdam City Card?

The I Amsterdam City Card is a tourist pass that grants access to a variety of museums, attractions, and public transportation in Amsterdam. It comes in different durations (24, 48, 72, 96, or 120 hours) and includes perks such as:

  • Free admission to over 70 museums and attractions

  • Unlimited use of public transportation (trams, buses, and metro within Amsterdam)

  • Discounts on bike rentals, canal cruises, and restaurants

  • A free canal cruise, a must-do experience in Amsterdam

How Much Does the I Amsterdam City Card Cost?

The 2024 pricing for the I Amsterdam City Card is as follows:

  • 24 hours – €60

  • 48 hours – €85

  • 72 hours – €100

  • 96 hours – €115

  • 120 hours – €125

What Attractions Are Included?

The I Amsterdam City Card provides free entry to some of the city's top attractions, including:

  • Rijksmuseum (Dutch Masters, Rembrandt, and Vermeer)

  • Van Gogh Museum (Note: No longer included in 2024)

  • Stedelijk Museum (Modern and contemporary art)

  • NEMO Science Museum (Interactive science exhibits, great for families)

  • ARTIS Royal Zoo

  • Moco Museum (Banksy & modern street art)

  • Amsterdam Castle Muiderslot

  • Amsterdam Museum

  • Rembrandt House Museum

Additionally, a one-hour canal cruise is included, which is a fantastic way to see Amsterdam from the water.

Is the I Amsterdam City Card Worth It? Cost vs. Savings

To determine if the card is worth the price, let’s compare a sample itinerary:

Without the I Amsterdam City Card:

  • Rijksmuseum – €22.50

  • Stedelijk Museum – €20

  • ARTIS Royal Zoo – €25

  • Canal Cruise – €18

  • Public Transport (3-day pass) – €21

  • Rembrandt House – €17.50
    Total Cost: €124 (for a 3-day visit)

With the 72-hour I Amsterdam City Card (€100), you would save €24, plus you’d have access to additional attractions and discounts.

Who Should Buy the I Amsterdam City Card?

The Card is Worth It If:

✅ You plan to visit multiple museums and attractions daily. ✅ You want unlimited public transport access. ✅ You enjoy discounts on restaurants and bike rentals. ✅ You want a hassle-free experience without buying multiple tickets.

The Card is NOT Worth It If:

❌ You plan to visit only a couple of museums. ❌ You prefer walking or biking instead of public transport. ❌ You are primarily interested in attractions not included in the card (e.g., Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum).

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the I Amsterdam City Card?

The I Amsterdam City Card is worth it if you’re an active traveler planning to explore multiple museums and attractions, use public transport frequently, and take advantage of discounts. However, if your itinerary is light, or you’re only interested in specific attractions not covered by the card, you may be better off paying as you go.

Pro Tip: Before purchasing, list the attractions you want to visit and compare their individual costs against the card’s price to see if it offers good value for your trip.

If you’re ready to buy, you can purchase the I Amsterdam City Card online for easy access upon arrival.