Amsterdam Taxi: an Overview

Amsterdam taxis may not be the most popular transit option in the city. The Dutch capital is a bike city after all, while its public transit system is considered very effective. Still, taxis remain the top choice for journeys with heavy luggage or late-night rides. Overall, taxis in Amsterdam provide quality services, though at relatively high prices.

How to Distinguish a Taxi in Amsterdam

Amsterdam taxis don’t have a unique color. Most of them are black or metallic. However, you can easily recognize an official taxi by its blue license plates and the illuminated “Taxi” roof sign, which also displays the company’s logo and taxi number.

Licensed taxis must:

  • Have blue license plates
  • Display a “Taxi” sign on the roof
  • Show their price list inside and outside the vehicle
  • Display their license number inside the cab

Unofficial or unlicensed taxis should always be avoided, as they often lead to overcharging.

Amsterdam Taxi Fares

Amsterdam taxis are metered. However, some taxi companies offer fixed prices, and drivers may agree on a set fare for long-distance rides. Even in such cases, the taximeter must remain on throughout the journey. At the end of the ride, passengers pay whichever price is lower.

The Dutch government regulates the maximum taxi fares. For a standard taxi (up to 4 passengers), the maximum charges are:

  • Initial fee: 3.60€ / 3.84$
  • Price per minute: 0.44€ / 0.47$
  • Price per kilometer: 2.65€ / 2.82$
  • Waiting time: 49.64€ / 52.91$ per hour

Payments are accepted in cash and via debit or credit cards.

How to Hire a Taxi in Amsterdam

Hailing a taxi from the street is possible but not common in Amsterdam, as taxis are not allowed to stop everywhere. Simply raising your arm may not work.

Instead, you can:

  • Use one of the official taxi ranks (taxisstandplaats)
  • Call a taxi company directly
  • Order a taxi via a mobile app

There are more than 50 official taxi ranks scattered across the city, making it easy to find a licensed cab.

Our Tip: Since government-regulated fares define only the maximum limits, each taxi company sets its own prices. At a taxi rank, you are free to choose any taxi after checking its tariff list — not necessarily the first one in line.

Amsterdam Taxis to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

Despite the efficiency of Amsterdam’s public transport, taxis are often the most convenient option when traveling with luggage. As a result, Amsterdam taxis are a popular choice for transfers to Schiphol Airport.

Available 24/7, taxis can be taken from city taxi ranks or booked in advance to ensure timely arrival at the airport. Most companies offer fixed fares for airport transfers.

On average, a taxi ride to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport costs around 45€–55€ / 48$–59$.

Useful Tips about Amsterdam Taxis

  • Taxi drivers must reset and activate the taximeter at the start of the ride.
  • Drivers are required to take the shortest possible route.
  • Taxi drivers are not allowed to refuse rides, even for short distances.
  • Always ask for a receipt at the end of the ride.
  • All taxi drivers must be registered with a licensed Amsterdam taxi company.
  • Most taxi vehicles are monitored via GPS.
  • Taxi Centre Amsterdam (TCA) is the city’s largest taxi operator.
  • Metered fares depend on traffic conditions, though congestion is relatively mild.
  • Even with fixed fares, the taximeter must be on; you pay the lower amount.
  • Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare is customary.
  • Some licensed drivers are allowed to use bus and tram lanes.
  • Ride-sharing services are available in Amsterdam.
  • Bike taxis also operate in certain areas of the city.