“Discover the advantages and disadvantages of renting a car in Amsterdam, and make your travel decisions easier with SimpleRentCar.”
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Should I Rent a Car in Amsterdam?
No, renting a car in Amsterdam is generally not recommended. The city’s compact size and excellent public transportation network make it unnecessary and even inconvenient to have a car. Here are some reasons why you should avoid renting a car in Amsterdam:
- Excellent Public Transportation: Amsterdam has a well-developed and efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and trains, making it easy to get around the city and nearby areas without a car.
- Bike-Friendly City: Amsterdam is known for being a bike-friendly city, and renting a bike is a popular and enjoyable way to explore the city and its attractions.
- Limited Parking: Parking can be expensive and challenging to find in the city center, making a car more of a hassle than a convenience.
- Environmental Considerations: Using public transport or bikes aligns better with Amsterdam’s sustainability efforts, contributing to a greener and more eco-friendly travel experience.
- Traffic and Narrow Streets: Amsterdam’s narrow streets and heavy traffic can be daunting for drivers, especially those unfamiliar with the city’s layout.
- Day Trips by Train: If you plan to visit nearby towns or attractions, many are easily accessible by train, further negating the need for a car in Amsterdam.
Before we delve into the specifics of Amsterdam, let’s brush up on some car rental basics. We recommend starting with our guide on What to Ask When Renting a Car.
Why Consider Renting a Car in Amsterdam?
One of the primary reasons to consider renting a car in Amsterdam is flexibility. A car allows you to control your itinerary and enables spontaneous side trips that public transportation or taxis may not accommodate. For a detailed look at how to save money on car rentals, check out our blog post: How to Save Money on Car Rentals.
Amsterdam, though compact and easy to navigate on foot, is surrounded by a wealth of day-trip destinations that are accessible by car. You could explore the windmills at Zaanse Schans, the stunning tulip fields of Keukenhof (in season), or the historic city of Utrecht.
Tip: If you’re planning on traveling extensively outside Amsterdam, you should definitely consider renting a car.
However, is renting a car the right choice for everyone? Let’s dive into the specifics to help you make the right decision.
The Pros and Cons of Renting a Car in Amsterdam
Pros
Flexibility and Freedom: As mentioned earlier, renting a car can offer you unparalleled freedom. You can change your plans on a whim and explore at your own pace. Need some inspiration? Our article on Does Insurance Cover Rental Cars? dives into some exciting road trip destinations you could consider.
Convenience for Families and Large Groups: If you’re traveling as a large group or with young children, a rental car might be more convenient. It’s easier to manage group dynamics in a private vehicle, and you can stow items like strollers or shopping bags more easily.
Cons
Costs: Renting a car is not the cheapest option. Beyond the rental fees, you also need to consider fuel costs, parking fees, and tolls. Plus, be aware of hidden fees when renting a car.
Navigation and Parking: Amsterdam is famous for its canals and narrow, one-way streets. It can be challenging to navigate if you’re unfamiliar with the city. Furthermore, parking in Amsterdam can be a nightmare. It’s expensive and spots are hard to find, especially in the city center.
For an easy guide on returning your rental car at the airport, be sure to read our post: How Do I Return My Rental Car at the Airport?.
Alternatives to Car Rentals in Amsterdam
If the cons seem to outweigh the pros, do not worry, there are many alternatives to renting a car in Amsterdam. In fact, the city’s transport system is highly developed and efficient, which makes exploring without a car a breeze.
Public Transportation
Amsterdam has an extensive and reliable public transportation system, including trams, buses, and metros operated by the GVB company. Trams are an iconic symbol of the city and are perfect for getting around the city center. Buses are great for reaching suburbs, and the metro is a fast way to get to outlying districts.
For those planning a longer stay, consider purchasing an OV-chipkaart, a rechargeable card used to pay for public transportation.
Bicycles
The Dutch capital is often referred to as the world’s most bicycle-friendly city. You will see cycle paths, parking racks, and even multi-story bicycle parking lots everywhere. You can rent a bike from numerous outlets throughout the city, and it’s a fantastic way to experience Amsterdam like a local.
Taxis and Ride Shares
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available in Amsterdam. They offer the convenience of car travel without the hassle of navigating or parking.
Canal Boats
Amsterdam is a city built around canals, and what better way to explore it than by boat? Several companies offer hop-on, hop-off services similar to the traditional city tour buses.
For more information about how to navigate Amsterdam without a car, check out our post: How to Drop off a Rental Car After Hours.
Useful Tips If You Decide to Rent a Car in Amsterdam
If you’ve weighed the pros and cons and decided to rent a car in Amsterdam, here are some tips to make your journey smoother:
1. Consider Renting Outside the City: Renting a car at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport can be less stressful than trying to find a rental agency in the city. You’ll also avoid driving in the city center.
2. Plan your Parking in Advance: Look for accommodations that offer parking, or research public parking facilities. Amsterdam’s P+R (Park and Ride) facilities are a cost-effective option.
3. Know the Driving Rules: Driving in a new country can be daunting. Ensure you are familiar with Dutch traffic rules and regulations before you start your journey. If you’re an international traveler, check our guide: What Countries Accept International Driving Permit?
4. Explore Beyond Amsterdam: As we’ve mentioned, a rental car is ideal for trips outside Amsterdam. Don’t miss exploring other parts of the Netherlands.
5. Choose the Right Car: Consider the size of the car when renting. Smaller cars are easier to handle in Amsterdam’s narrow lanes and can be parked more easily.
For more advice on renting cars, visit our guides on Can You Rent a Car With a Passport? and How to Rent a Car Without a Credit Card.
Final Thoughts
Renting a car in Amsterdam depends on your itinerary and preferences. Public transportation and biking are excellent options for city exploration. Consider a rental car for exploring the countryside or nearby towns. Safe travels!
