Amsterdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Routes, Stops & Passes

How the Hop On Hop Off Bus Works in Amsterdam

The hop on hop off bus service in Amsterdam operates on well-planned circular routes covering the city’s main attractions, museum districts, and scenic canal areas. Typically running from 9:30 AM to around 6:00 PM, buses arrive every 20 to 30 minutes, giving you the freedom to create your own itinerary. Most routes start from Central Station, branching out toward the Museumplein, Jordaan district, and historic canal belt. The upper deck provides panoramic views of the narrow streets, bridges, and colourful houseboats that make Amsterdam so distinctive. Many tickets also include the option to combine your bus tour with a canal cruise, offering a complete perspective of the city both by road and water.

Top Stops and Attractions

• Rijksmuseum – Home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, this world-renowned museum sits at the heart of the Museumplein and is a must for art lovers.
• Anne Frank House – Step into the poignant history of World War II and see where Anne Frank and her family hid during the Nazi occupation.
• Heineken Experience – Discover the story behind the famous Dutch beer brand through interactive exhibits and tasting sessions inside the original brewery.
• Vondelpark – A peaceful green escape from the city buzz, perfect for a short stroll or coffee break between sightseeing stops.
• Dam Square – The city’s historic and political centre, framed by the Royal Palace, lively shops, and street performers.

Why It’s Worth Taking

Amsterdam’s hop on hop off buses provide a relaxed and scenic introduction to one of Europe’s most compact yet culturally rich capitals. Unlike many cities, much of Amsterdam’s beauty lies in its streetscape — the elegant 17th-century canal houses, lively outdoor cafes, and iconic bridges. The bus route complements this perfectly, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the city’s layout before you explore its smaller lanes on foot or by bike. The ability to jump between neighbourhoods like De Pijp, Jordaan, and the Nine Streets without worrying about trams or maps adds to the sense of ease. Combined with optional canal tours, it offers a complete, low-stress sightseeing experience — ideal for travellers wanting both comfort and cultural immersion.

Planning Tips

• Start your day early to make full use of your 24-hour or 48-hour ticket, especially during summer when attractions get busier in the afternoon.
• Plan to combine the bus tour with a canal cruise — many combo tickets are available and show two sides of Amsterdam’s charm in one day.
• For the best photos, sit on the top deck during dry weather, particularly around the canals near the Jordaan and Museumplein areas.
• Use the hop on hop off as a base to explore on foot — districts like De Pijp and the Nine Streets are best enjoyed by wandering their boutique-filled lanes.

Tickets and Access

Tickets for Amsterdam’s hop on hop off buses are available as 24-hour or 48-hour passes, offering unlimited travel during the validity period. You can board at any stop along the route, with popular starting points at Central Station and near the Rijksmuseum. Onboard audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, German, Spanish, and Italian, providing insightful commentary about Amsterdam’s architecture and history. Buses are designed with accessibility in mind, with low-floor entry and space for wheelchairs on most vehicles. Purchasing tickets online or via mobile apps often comes with small discounts and allows for quicker boarding on the day of your visit.

The hop on hop off bus in Amsterdam offers a relaxed way to explore major landmarks at your own pace, combining comfort, flexibility, and scenic views — ideal for first-time visitors who want to make the most of their time in Amsterdam.