Amsterdam Centraal Station: Gateway to the Canals
Experience the architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Amsterdam Centraal Station, your gateway to exploring the city's iconic canals and attractions.
Amsterdam Centraal Station is not just a bustling hub of transport; it is a magnificent architectural wonder and a cultural landmark in the heart of Amsterdam. Tourists flock here to experience the vibrant atmosphere, admire the stunning Gothic and Renaissance design, and use it as a starting point for exploring the city's iconic canals and attractions.
A brief summary to Amsterdam, Centraal Station
- Amsterdam, Amsterdam-Centrum, NL
- +319008011
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful moment on the station's platforms.
- Take time to explore the shops and cafes inside the station; they offer a great selection of local treats and souvenirs.
- Use the station as a starting point for a canal tour; many popular boat tours depart from nearby docks.
- Don't forget to take photos of the station's exterior, especially at sunset when the lights illuminate the façade.
- Keep your ticket handy when using public transport, as it may be checked frequently.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car from Zaanse Schans to Amsterdam Centraal Station, start by heading southeast on the N516 road. Follow the N516 for about 7 kilometers (approximately 10 minutes) until you reach the A8 motorway. Merge onto the A8 towards Amsterdam. Stay on the A8 for about 7 kilometers before merging onto the A10 ring road (signs for A10/Zaanstad/Amsterdam). Take the exit for A10 towards Amsterdam, and then follow the signs for S100. Continue onto S100, which leads you directly into the city center. Follow the signs towards Centraal Station, where there are parking options available nearby, but be aware that parking can be expensive, usually around €4-€6 per hour.
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Train
To reach Amsterdam Centraal Station by train, first, go to the Koog-Zaandijk train station near Zaanse Schans. From the Zaanse Schans area, it's a short walk to the station. Once at Koog-Zaandijk, purchase a ticket to Amsterdam Centraal Station from the ticket machine or the service desk. The train ride takes about 17 minutes. Trains run frequently, typically every 15-30 minutes. When you arrive at Amsterdam Centraal, you will find yourself in the heart of the city, with easy access to various attractions.
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Bus
If you prefer to travel by bus, catch bus line 391 from Zaanse Schans towards Amsterdam. Buses run about every 30 minutes. The journey will take approximately 30 minutes, and you will need to get off at Amsterdam Centraal Station. Be sure to purchase a ticket beforehand, either from a ticket machine or via the GVB app, as a single trip typically costs around €3.20.
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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