English (United States)

Amsterdam City Centre

Explore the charm of Amsterdam and beyond with a convenient car rental from Amsterdam City Centre. Whether you’re wandering through the city's iconic canals, visiting world-renowned museums, or planning a scenic drive to the picturesque Dutch countryside, our reliable fleet offers the perfect vehicle for your journey. Enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace, paired with seamless service and competitive rates. From business trips to leisurely getaways, discover Amsterdam and the surrounding treasures with unmatched ease and flexibility.

Tips for renting a car in Amsterdam City Centre

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

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Amsterdam city centre

Good to know about car rental in Amsterdam City Centre

 

Amsterdam's central area is historically preserved and highly regulated, with pedestrian zones, limited-access streets, and a heavy presence of bicycles, trams, and scooters. Parking is scarce and expensive, with many streets reserved for residents only or operating under tight paid-parking regulations. If you must drive into the center, plan your route carefully, book accommodation with parking, or use one of the Park & Ride (P+R) garages on the outskirts, which offer discounted parking with tram access to downtown.

Driving culture in Amsterdam is cautious and structured. However, cyclists always have priority, and they often move fast and silently. Intersections can be complex, with separate signals for bikes, trams, cars, and pedestrians. The most important rule: watch for cyclists and never stop in a crosswalk or on a bike path.

If you're renting a car to explore the countryside, it's wise to pick it up just before departure to avoid unnecessary time spent navigating the city itself. Highways leading out of Amsterdam are fast, direct, and well-signposted, offering a smooth exit toward other Dutch destinations.

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Things to do in Amsterdam

 

Amsterdam offers an exceptional mix of cultural treasures, historic landmarks, creative energy, and relaxed canalside charm. While it’s known for its famous museums and vibrant nightlife, the city rewards those who take their time to wander — whether on foot, by bike, or along its peaceful waterways. Start your visit in the Museumplein, home to the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum, where you can admire works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and the Dutch Masters. Nearby, Vondelpark provides a green escape for picnics or a morning stroll.

In the heart of the old city, explore the Anne Frank House, stroll through the historic Jordaan district, and lose yourself in the cozy cafés, boutique shops, and canal bridges that define Amsterdam’s atmosphere. Take a canal cruise — daytime or evening — to see the city from its iconic waters. For something more contemporary, visit NDSM Wharf, a former shipyard turned creative hub, or the A’DAM Lookout for panoramic views over the IJ River.

Food lovers will enjoy sampling local bites like stroopwafels, bitterballen, and Indonesian rijsttafel, while shoppers can browse everything from luxury brands in the 9 Streets (De 9 Straatjes) to fresh blooms at the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market.

Whether you're in town for a weekend or using Amsterdam as a starting point for your Dutch road trip, the city’s mix of culture, history, and contemporary edge ensures every moment feels meaningful — and often, magical.

Useful Information about renting a car in Amsterdam

Where do you pick up your car?

Our shuttle service will pick you up at and bring you to our office. Green Motion Amsterdam City Centre is located at Jacob Obrechtplein 13-15 1071 KS Amsterdam. If you require further assistance please call 0031 20 577 1200.

Side of road

Drive on the right side of the road

Local currency

Euro (€ EUR)

Average temperatures

1°C (34°F) – 22°C (72°F)

FAQs about car hire in Amsterdam

Is it easy to drive in Amsterdam's city center?

It depends on what you're used to. The center is crowded, full of bikes and trams, and not designed for cars. It’s better to walk, bike, or use public transport.

Are the highways well signposted in English?

Road signs are primarily in Dutch, but they use international symbols and are very easy to follow, especially with GPS.

Where can I park in central Amsterdam?

Paid street parking is limited and expensive. Use P+R facilities, hotel garages, or public parking decks, and check the rules carefully before leaving your car.

Are rental cars allowed in the environmental zone (low-emission zone)?

Yes, but check that your vehicle complies with emission standards. Most modern rentals do, but diesel cars older than 2005 are banned from the inner city. We will inform you about this.