Getting Around
Public Transport
Amsterdam has an excellent public transport network that includes trams, buses, a metro and ferries, making it very easy to navigate the city.
Trams are generally the easiest way to get around the city. A single journey by tram costs EUR 2.90 in cash but it’s cheaper to travel using an “OV-chipkaart” (public transportation card). An OV-chipkaart can be bought from the GVB Tickets & Info office or GVB Ticket Vending Machines. More information about the OV-chipkaart
You can also buy an OV-chipkaart from shops near the Okura Hotel. Bruna, on Schelderstraat, and Albert Heijn, on Cornelis Troostplein, are both about a 5 minute walk away from the hotel.
Taxis
Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Note that taxis are restricted in where they can stop, so you may be pointed to the nearest taxi stand. Taxis in Amsterdam run on a meter.
Schiphol Travel Taxi
(with online booking service)
Telephone: +31 (0) 20 653 1000
Taxicentrale Amsterdam (TCA)
(with online booking service)
Telephone: +31 (0) 20 777 7777
Taxi Electric Amsterdam
(with online booking service)
Telephone: +31 (0) 88 100 4444
For something different, you can book a bicycle taxi or tuk-tuk.
More information about taxis in Amsterdam
Bicycles
Cycling is an excellent way of getting around Amsterdam, with dedicated bike lanes on most streets. Hotel Okura Amsterdam rents out bicycles.
Bicycle rent prices are, on average, EUR 15 per day + deposit.
More information about renting a bicycle
Get a Free Public Transportation Card
We have 100 public transportation passes available for RIPE 70 attendees who are not staying at the Okura Hotel. The passes are available at the Registration Desk on a first come, first served basis.
Get a Free Canal Cruise Around Amsterdam
The City of Amsterdam is sponsoring 250 canal cruise vouchers valid from 9-17 May 2015. The passes are also available at the Registration Desk on a first come, first served basis.
Visa Information
We will provide you with an invitation letter upon request after you have registered. We will include details on how to apply for the invitation letter in your registration confirmation email.
Currency and Banking
Currency Exchange
The Dutch currency is the Euro. You can change money in most banks. The GWK Travelex exchange Bureau at Central Station offers a good exchange rate. Changing your money at hotels and some other foreign exchange shops is more expensive. Online currency converter banks are open on weekdays from 09:00 – 17:00. Some banks are also open on Saturdays from 10:00 – 16:00, and on Thursday evenings from 17:00 – 20:00.
Credit Cards
All major credit cards are accepted widely, but not everywhere. Some shops and restaurants do not accept credit cards. If in doubt, ask in advance. Cash-on-card services are available from selected American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa addresses. These cards are also accepted by all GWK Travelex locations and other exchange bureaus. You will find the GWK Travelex locations at Central Station and Schiphol Airport.
Business Hours
Most shops and banks are open Monday-Friday from 10:00 – 17:00, although many places remain closed until after lunch on Mondays. On Thursday evening, many shops in the city centre stay open later.
Electricity
EU standard: 220V 50 Hz – round two-pin plugs.
Weather
In May, the average temperature is around 13 degrees Celsius. There is always a chance of rain though, so bring an umbrella.
Emergency Telephone Numbers
- Police/Fire/Ambulance: 112
- Police (non-emergency): +31 (0) 20 55 99 111
- Free legal advice: +31 (0) 20 54 82 611 or +31 (0) 20 62 64 477
- Doctor services: +31 (0) 20 66 42 111
- Dental emergencies: +31 (0) 20 68 61 109
