Taxis in Amsterdam
Taxis are a popular form of transport in a city where many residents don't own a car. Amsterdam recently launched a campaign to improve taxi services.
Taxis vs tram/train travel
Taxis can be handy when travelling to and from the airport, late at night when the trams have stopped running or when you're running late. Depending on the traffic during peak times, however, public transport may get you there even quicker.
New taxi regulations
Because the cost of a taxi ride in and around Amsterdam has not always been transparent to visitors and residents alike, the City of Amsterdam circulated a flyer in English with basic information on rates to various destinations around town. By means of supervision and checks, the City is clamping down on irregularities, such as demands by taxi chaffeurs for exorbitant off-meter fares and refusing short trips.
Dissatisfied customers may lodge complaints provided they have noted the number plate, the date and the time of the journey. A receipt in this situation may prove useful. Complaint forms can be requested from the driver or downloaded online.
Regulated taxi stands
In addition, the municipality is working on the introduction of regulated taxi stands (kwaliteitstaxisstandplatsen) that can only be used by taxis with a seal of approval, known as kwaliteitstaxi's (quality taxis). To be eligible for this, chaffeurs need to demonstrate professionality, street knowledge and understanding of vehicle safety.
The first regulated taxi stand was introduced at Amsterdam Central Station in March 2008 and a second was later introduced at Leidseplein. As of 2011, all taxis will need to be equipped with an onboard computer which will automatically print a receipt for the customer.
Alternative taxis
It wouldn't be Amsterdam if there wasn't a few quirky alternatives on offer. Going out for the evening with a few friends wearing warm jackets? Try a Tuk Tuk or Bike Taxi.
Going out and want the transportation to be just as fun as the rest of the evening? Book a Disco Taxi. Or to make an impression on visiting in-laws, why not book a horse & carriage taxi.
Check the City of Amterdam website for more information on taxis in Amsterdam.
Helpful contacts
Schiphol Travel Taxi
(with online booking service)
Telephone: 020-653 1000
Taxicentrale Amsterdam (TCA)
(with on-line booking service)
Telephone: 020-777 7777
BTC Limousine and Chauffeur Service
(with online booking service)
Telephone: 020-262 2916
Tuk Tuk Amsterdam (Dutch)
Telephone: 020-686 8888
Wieler taxi(bike taxi)
Telephone: 06-1859 5153
Disco Taxi (Maroni Sonelli)
Telephone: 06-5469 8187
Karo's Koetstaxi (horse & carriage taxi) (in Dutch)
Telephone: 020-691 3478
- Tell a friend
You can also reach us by phone:
+31 (0)20 254 79 99