Updated: Major road works are again taking place at the Amsterdam RAI during IBC due to the construction of a new subway line. Earlier this year, work on the line was halted due to some serious problems with buildings in the old city. Please check back on this page for updates on the situation.
For the past two years, the ongoing construction work in front of the RAI posed some problems, especially for people wanting to reach the various tram and bus stops in front of the building. This year will (again) be no different, with construction going on in front of the complex.
The various restaurants and snack bars across the RAI complex will also be a bit more difficult to reach.
Free Airport Shuttle
IBC will be providing a free shuttle service between Schipol Airport and the RAI centre this year. At the airport, shuttles will leave every 20-30 minutes from lane C (third lane) outside the terminal building.
Due to the work on the new subway line, the shuttle buses from the RAI to the airport will now depart from Entrance C, next to Hall 11. Yo can download the shuttle bus schedule from here.
Alternately, trains will run directly to the RAI railway station, with tickets being available from vending machines at the airport.
Transport around town
Trams are the most popular and easiest way to get around Amsterdam, although at times they tend to get very crowded, especially after the show closes. Most of the time, they are frequent, regular and run until after midnight. After the trams stop running there is a half hourly night bus service.
IBC will once again provide a free shuttle bus service between the RAI and the hotels not easily reached by tram. A map and schedule of tram times is available to download from the IBC website. This year, the hotel shuttles will be leaving from the RAI from entrance D in front of Hall 12 (the new Elicium building).
As in previous years, all delegates will be entitled to a free public transport pass for the duration of the show. Be sure to pick one up for free travel within Amsterdam city limits on all trams, buses and subway lines.
This year, all IBC attendees will be given a special chip card, which they must use every time they board and exit a tram. The tram schedule can be downloaded here.
Trains
Alternatively, they will be able to take a train directly from Schiphol railway station, which is two stops from RAI.
Trains to and from Amsterdam are a fast, comfortable and affordable method of transport. There are four an hour (:07, :21, :37: 51) leaving from platform 1/2 or 3, and the journey is 11 minutes.
Should you wish to go to Amsterdam Central Station first, there will be trains leaving four or five times an hour, also from platform 1/2 or 3.
You have to buy a ticket before you get on the train, either by using machines (“automats”) or from counters where available. Tickets (for RAI €2.60 Single; €4.50 first class; for Central Sation €3.80 Single; €6.90 first class) are available from vending machines in the baggage reclaim part of Schiphol airport (before customs) or at machines near the escalator to the platforms. Machines accept credit cards or loose change.
Taxis
Taxis are taken from taxi ranks rather that hailed and cost approximately €1.50 per km day and night. Should you need one at night, you can hail them on the street without a problem. Alternatively, you can call TCA cabs (tel: + 31(20)777 7777).
Although most taxi drivers are courteous and know their way around town, this is definitely not always the case. And beware of the costs – you pay €7.50 to step into a taxi, but that includes the first 2km of travel.
Taxis from the RAI are available from the taxi point located by the entrance to the Exhibition by Hall 11. But be prepared to wait in line.
