Table of Contents
What Is Amsterdam’s P+R System?
Amsterdam’s Park and Ride system allows drivers to park outside the A10 ring road and continue their trip into the city using public transport at a reduced parking rate.
The system is intended for visitors and commuters who want to avoid driving into the historic centre while still reaching central districts efficiently.
Why Should You Use P+R Instead of Parking in the City Centre?
P+R offers a more predictable and affordable alternative to city-centre parking, where prices are high and availability is limited.
By leaving your car outside the inner city and switching to public transport, you reduce congestion and avoid time lost searching for parking.
How Does P+R Help Reduce Traffic and Pressure on the City?
P+R limits the number of private vehicles entering central neighbourhoods by shifting the final part of each trip to trams, metros, buses, or trains.
This helps protect residential areas, improves safety on narrow streets, and supports cleaner air in busy districts.
How Many P+R Locations Are There in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam operates eleven official P+R locations spread around the city, all positioned outside or close to the A10 ring road.
Some locations are large transfer hubs, while others are smaller sites designed to serve specific districts or travel directions.
Which P+R Locations Are Most Useful for Visitors?
While Amsterdam has eleven P+R sites, the locations below are the most commonly used by visitors because of their capacity and direct public transport connections.
Key P+R Locations Overview
| Location | Access Route | Best For | Public Transport Connections |
|---|---|---|---|
| P+R Arena | A9 or A2 | Events and concerts | Metro 50 and 54 |
| P+R Bos en Lommer | A10 S104 | Jordaan and Dam Square | Tram 14, buses 15, 21, 80, 82, 247, 315, 352, metro 50 |
| P+R Olympisch Stadion | A10 S108 | Museum Quarter | Tram 24, metro 50 |
| P+R Sloterdijk | A10 S102 | Transfers and Westerpark | Metro, tram, trains |
| P+R Zeeburg | A10 S114 | Eastern Docklands | Tram 26 |
How Do You Choose the Right P+R Location?
The best P+R location depends on your destination and arrival time.
For museums and the Museum Quarter, Olympisch Stadion offers direct connections.
For Dam Square and the Jordaan, Bos en Lommer provides multiple tram, bus, and metro options.
For major events, Arena offers the highest capacity.
How Do You Use Amsterdam’s P+R System Step by Step?
You must follow the P+R process exactly to qualify for the reduced parking rate.
- First, arrive at the P+R site and take a parking ticket or register your number plate if required.
- Second, travel into the city using public transport with an OV-chipkaart or a dedicated P+R GVB ticket.
- Your final public transport check-in must take place within the designated city zone.
- After your visit, return to the same P+R site using public transport.
- Finally, pay for parking within one hour of your last public transport check-in and exit the car park.
What Happens If You Miss a Step?
If any step is missed or completed incorrectly, the reduced P+R rate does not apply.
This includes failing to validate public transport, paying too late, leaving the site without using public transport, or using the wrong payment method.
What Are the Current P+R Parking Rates?
P+R pricing depends on the time and day of arrival.
Arrivals after 10:00 on weekdays and all weekend days qualify for the lower rate. Arrivals before 10:00 on weekdays are charged at a higher rate.
Most locations allow parking for up to four days, though some sites have shorter maximum stays.
How Do P+R Public Transport Tickets Actually Work?
P+R does not use one shared ticket for multiple people.
Instead, you can purchase up to five separate P+R GVB tickets per car, with one ticket required per person.
Each traveller must check in and out individually using their own ticket.
Can You Use Bank Cards or OVpay for P+R?
No. Travelling with a debit card, credit card, smartphone, or smartwatch using OVpay cannot be used at all for the P+R discount.
Only an OV-chipkaart or an official P+R GVB ticket qualifies. Using OVpay automatically disqualifies the parking discount.
When Is the Best Time to Use P+R?
Weekday arrivals earlier in the day offer better availability, while weekend arrivals benefit from the lower rate throughout the day.
On major event days, P+R locations near stadiums may fill quickly, so choosing an alternative site can save time.
Is P+R Suitable for Commuters?
P+R works well for commuters who prefer to avoid driving into the city.
Locations with strong train or metro connections are especially practical for regular travel into central business districts.
Does P+R Support Electric Vehicles?
Several P+R locations provide charging points, and more sites are being upgraded.
Availability varies, so electric vehicle drivers should check facilities before arrival.
Can You Combine P+R With Cycling?
Yes. Some P+R locations offer bicycle access or nearby rental options.
This allows you to park outside the city, use public transport in central areas, and continue short trips by bike.
FAQ’s
Q. Can I use P+R without taking public transport?
No. Public transport must be used both ways to qualify for the reduced rate.
Q. What happens if I forget to validate my public transport ticket?
The reduced P+R rate will not apply, and the standard parking rate will be charged.
Q. Are P+R sites open all day and night?
Most locations allow 24-hour exit, but entry hours may vary by site.
Q. How many people can travel with one car using P+R?
Up to five people per car can use P+R, but each person must have their own P+R GVB ticket or OV-chipkaart.
Q. Which P+R site reaches the city centre the fastest?
This depends on your destination, but sites with direct tram or metro connections, such as Bos en Lommer and Olympisch Stadion, offer quick access to central districts.
Q. Is P+R Worth Using When Visiting Amsterdam?
P+R offers a reliable balance of cost control, accessibility, and reduced traffic pressure.
By parking outside the centre and following the rules carefully, visitors and commuters can reach Amsterdam efficiently without driving into crowded inner-city areas.
Enjoy Your Journey: With Free Parking Spots
Cycling is the most popular and authentic way to experience Amsterdam. The city offers hundreds of bike rental options, from short-term e-bike services to local shops near train stations and major squares.
While a few free parking spots exist on the outskirts, spaces are limited, making designated bike racks and P+R facilities the smarter, more sustainable choice.