Money & payments in Amsterdam

Tap-to-pay works almost everywhere. One catch: Dutch shops often take debit cards only, not credit cards.

• Supermarkets (Albert Heijn) and budget chains (HEMA) often refuse Visa/Mastercard credit.
• A debit card (Visa Debit / Mastercard Debit) or Apple/Google Pay works everywhere.
• American Express: limited — fine at hotels, often refused elsewhere.

Use the yellow Geldmaat machines — bank-neutral, fair rates, usually no fee for Visa/Mastercard.

• Avoid the blue Euronet ATMs around Centraal, Dam and the Red Light District.
• Always choose euros if a terminal offers your home currency — DCC hides a heavy markup.

Service is included. Round up or leave 5–10% for good service. A euro for a taxi or café is plenty. Never feel pressured.

Amsterdam has the highest tourist tax in Europe. Per night, you pay:

• 12.5% city tourist tax on the room price (before VAT).
• Hotel VAT rose from 9% to 21% on 1 January 2026.

That's roughly 33.5% in tax. Check your booking total already includes it. Cruise passengers pay a separate per-person day tax.

If you live outside the EU, claim back the 21% VAT. Look for "Tax Free Shopping" signs, ask for the form, then have it validated at Schiphol customs before you leave. Doesn't apply to hotels, meals or transport.