Getting to Amsterdam
By airplane
Amsterdam Schiphol airport is located close to the city centre and is served by a multitude of airlines. Direct train connections will take you in 14 minutes to the RAI Congress Centre and in 17 minutes to Amsterdam Central Station. You can plan your travel on the NS website, or download the NS App for train schedules and buying train tickets.
Taxis unfortunately are very expensive, but you can find the taxi stand at the bus station in front of the airport. Uber can be used as well, but it is advised to book in advance.
By train
Amsterdam is served by direct international train connections to London, Paris, Brussels, Frankfurt and Berlin. You can plan your travel and buy tickets on the NS International website, but of course you can also use websites of other international train ticket providers.
By car
Travelling by car into Amsterdam is discouraged. Parking places are expensive and navigating the city centre can be challenging. However, the RAI Congress Centre is easily reached from the A10 ring road and has ample parking space. If you are coming by car you can use one of the P+R parkings to continue your trip into town by public transport.
Travelling in Amsterdam and to the conference venue
Public transport
Using public transport (metro, tram and bus) is the most convenient way to get around in Amsterdam. The easiest way to buy tickets is using the GVB Travel App, allowing you to buy tickets for multiple days as well (which are also valid on night buses). However, be aware that in order to use the P+R discount you still need to buy a physical ticket. Also, GVB tickets are only valid within the city limits of Amsterdam, for regional bus transport you need to buy separate tickets on the buses.
The RAI congress centre is served by metro lines 50 and 51, tram line 4 and bus line 62.
Cycling
Cycling in Amsterdam is a nice way to get around, especially when the sun is out. There are many places where you can rent a bike. Prices will range between 15 and 20 euros per day and special bike parkings are found close to all train stations. The RAI Congress Centre has lots of bike parking space, but take care to lock your bike properly. If you are not a regular cyclist, bike traffic in Amsterdam can be a bit daunting.
Walking
The Amsterdam city centre can also be walked quite comfortably. Getting from Central Station to the RAI Congress Centre is 4.5 km, or about one hour walking.
Driving
As stated earlier, using the car in the Amsterdam city centre is discouraged. Traffic is slow and it is difficult to reach the centre of town because of one-way streets and pedestrianized sections.
Taxis
As mentioned, taxis are expensive, but may be a good option for night transport.
Visa information
If you need a visa for visiting the Netherlands, and require help: please email caa2023@caaconference.org