King’s Day in Amsterdam: how to get there and back in a smart way?
King’s Day in Amsterdam is one big celebration. The canals turn orange, music plays on every corner and the city buzzes like nowhere else. But if you’ve been before, you also know: it can get very busy. Really busy.
That’s exactly why it’s smart to think about your transport in advance. How do you get there? And maybe even more importantly: how do you get back home?
In this blog, we help you arrange that without hassle.
Why transport during King’s Day requires extra attention
On King’s Day, Amsterdam basically turns into one large event location. Streets are closed, public transport runs differently than usual and parking spots are scarce.
In 2026, additional measures will be in place to better manage the crowds. For example, Science Park station will be closed and some areas will be actively controlled in terms of visitor flow.
That means:
More people heading in the same direction at the same time
Unpredictable travel times
Less flexibility if you try to arrange things last minute
If you go out without a plan, you usually notice that when it’s already too late.
Getting to Amsterdam smartly on King’s Day
The journey into the city often seems the easiest, but it can quickly become crowded. Especially if you leave later in the morning.
What helps:
Leave early, before peak crowds begin
Choose a clear drop-off location just outside the busiest areas
Going with a group? Arrange transport together, it saves hassle
Good to know: within the city, walking is often the best way to get around. There are special pedestrian routes to guide the crowds.
A pre-planned ride gives you peace of mind. You know what to expect and don’t have to figure things out on the spot.
For many people, that’s exactly why they choose to plan their ride in advance, for example with Staxi. That way, you avoid having to arrange something in the middle of the crowds.
The return journey is often the most difficult moment
At the end of King’s Day, almost everyone wants to go home at the same time. That’s when you really notice how important preparation is. Stations are full, waiting times increase and it becomes difficult to arrange something spontaneously on the street.
Planning ahead gives peace of mind
King’s Day is busy and unpredictable. That’s part of the experience. But that’s exactly why clarity works so well. When you arrange your transport in advance, you have less to deal with on the day itself. You know what to expect and that makes the whole day more relaxed.
This is especially true if you’re going with a group. You don’t want to be figuring out on the street who leaves when and how everyone gets home. A pre-booked ride simply makes things more structured.
With Staxi, you book in advance and travel at a fixed price. That’s especially helpful on a day when the rest of the city is anything but predictable. Especially if you’re tired, with friends or leaving late, you won’t feel like searching for the best option. That’s when it’s nice if your return journey is not a question mark. If you already have a plan, you avoid spending the last hours waiting and improvising.
Take closures and updates into account
During King’s Day, not all parts of Amsterdam are easily accessible. Some streets are closed and in certain areas you’ll be guided to continue on foot. That’s why it’s smart to check the latest updates before you leave.
In 2026, additional measures apply and, for example, Science Park station will be closed. Some busy areas are also less suitable for families with children. The most up-to-date information about accessibility and rules can be found on the website of the municipality of Amsterdam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get to King’s Day in Amsterdam in a smart way?
By thinking in advance about your journey into the city, your drop-off point and your return trip. On King’s Day, improvising is usually less effective than on a regular day.
Is it smart to arrange your return trip in advance?
Yes, especially if you want to go home late, are travelling with a group or live outside Amsterdam. The end of the day is when it gets the busiest.
Which areas are usually the busiest during King’s Day?
Mainly the Jordaan, Westerstraat and parts of the city centre. These areas are lively, but also less accessible and more crowded.
Why can booking a taxi in advance be helpful?
Because you have less to arrange on the day itself. You know what to expect and avoid extra stress in the crowds.
Where can I check the latest accessibility updates?
On the website of the municipality of Amsterdam, where you can find information about closures, measures and crowds during King’s Day.