Quick Info:
- IATA Code: AMS
- ICAO Code: EHAM
- Distance from city centre: approx. 17 km southwest
- Travel time to city centre: 15–20 minutes by train, approx. 40 min by bus
- Main Airlines: KLM, Transavia, Corendon, easyJet, Delta
- Number of Terminals: 1 terminal (divided into 3 departure halls)
- Transport Options: NS Train, bus 397, taxi, Uber/Bolt
- Transport Cost (train): approx. 5.00 – 6.00 EUR for a one-way ticket
Planning a trip to the land of tulips or facing a layover at one of Europe's busiest transport hubs? Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is not just an ordinary place for departures and arrivals, but a real small city offering top-notch services, art, and relaxation. Whether your destination is Amsterdam itself, you're planning to explore the Netherlands, or continuing further afield, this guide will provide you with all the practical information to feel right at home at the airport.
Contents:
- Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: Basic Identification and Significance
- Geographical Data and Infrastructure
- Key Airlines, Tickets, and Air Traffic
- History and Interesting Facts about Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
- Transport from the Airport: How to Get to the City Centre
- Services, Transfers, and Waiting for Your Flight
- Comfort for Passengers with Children and Specific Needs
- Accommodation Nearby
- Final Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: Basic Identification and Significance
Schiphol is the main international airport in the Netherlands and one of the most important air hubs in the world. Thanks to its strategic location and excellent infrastructure, it serves as a key gateway to Western Europe.
- Location: The largest Dutch airport, located approximately 17 km from the centre of Amsterdam in the municipality of Haarlemmermeer.
- Significance: It is the main hub for KLM and Corendon Dutch Airlines and also an important European hub for Delta Air Lines.
- The Airport in Numbers: It handles tens of millions of passengers annually (often ranking in the TOP 5 in Europe) and offers flights to hundreds of destinations worldwide.
Geographical Data and Infrastructure
Despite its enormous size, Schiphol is unique in its layout. Unlike other large airports with several separate buildings, Schiphol uses a single-terminal concept. This means that all departure and arrival halls are under one roof, which significantly simplifies navigation.
- Terminals: The airport has one main terminal building divided into three departure halls (Departure Halls 1, 2 and 3). These further branch into piers for boarding aircraft.
- Division: The area is divided into zones for Schengen flights and non-Schengen flights.
- Runways: The airport has a total of six runways, one of which is primarily reserved for general aviation (private, business, and recreational flights by small aircraft).
Did you know that… in 2025, the airport had to temporarily restrict landings on the Polderbaan runway due to reflections from a solar park. In sunny weather, flashes could briefly dazzle pilots on approach. The situation was also resolved legally – part of the panels were to be removed and the rest fitted with an anti-reflective solution.
Key Airlines, Tickets, and Air Traffic
Schiphol is home to the national carrier and hosts many other major airlines. This favourably impacts connection availability, making flights to Amsterdam very easy to find. Thanks to its dense network of routes, you can get virtually anywhere on the planet from here.
- Home Airlines (Hub): KLM, Transavia, Martinair, and Corendon Dutch Airlines have their main base here. easyJet also has significant operations.
- Alliances: The airport is a key hub for the SkyTeam alliance (thanks to KLM), but Star Alliance and Oneworld also have a presence here.
- Air Traffic: Due to its location, the airport is a popular transfer point for intercontinental flights, especially to North America and Asia.
History and Interesting Facts about Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
The airport's history dates back to 1916, when it began operating as a military base. The name "Schiphol" has several interpretations, one of which refers to "ship's hell" (Scheeps-hel), as the site of today's airport was once a stormy lake where many ships sank.
- Origin: From its original polder (reclaimed seabed), it became one of the lowest-lying airports in the world (several metres below sea level).
- Architecture: The airport's design is functional and modern, with an emphasis on natural light and easy navigation.
- Interesting Fact: In 2002, a branch of the Rijksmuseum opened at Schiphol – the very first museum directly at an airport. In recent years, the exhibition has undergone various changes and occasional closures, so we recommend checking the current status on the airport or museum website before your trip.
Transport from the Airport: How to Get to the City Centre
Getting from the airport to Amsterdam city centre is very easy and quick. You have several options, from train to bus to taxi. Airport transport is perfectly integrated into the public transport system.
Distance and Time
The airport is located approximately 17 kilometres from the city centre. The journey by train takes about 15–20 minutes, while by bus it's around 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Public Transport
The most popular and often fastest option is the train. However, if you are heading to the museum district or hotels in the southwestern part of the centre, the bus might be more convenient.
- Train: The train platform is located directly beneath the main Schiphol Plaza hall. Trains run very frequently (every few minutes) and connect Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam Centraal main station. A one-way ticket costs around 5–6 EUR.
- Bus: The Amsterdam Airport Express bus (line 397) is very popular. It will take you to Leidseplein square and Museumplein. Bus stops can be found directly in front of the arrivals hall.
Tip: A return ticket is more cost-effective than two one-way tickets. - Night Transport: At night, line N97 operates, replacing the daytime service 397.
- Tickets: For tourists, the Amsterdam Travel Ticket and Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket are worthwhile. These include travel from the airport and unlimited travel within the city (GVB, NS trains, regional buses). Individual bus tickets can be bought from the driver (card only) or online.
Tip: On most services in the Netherlands, you can also travel without buying a ticket: simply tap the same contactless card or mobile (OVpay) on the reader when boarding and alighting, and the fare will be deducted automatically.
Private Transport: Taxi, Uber, and Car Rentals
If you prefer privacy or have a lot of luggage, you can use a taxi or ride-sharing services.
- Taxi: The taxi stand is directly outside the exit from Schiphol Plaza. A taxi from the airport to the city centre costs a fixed or metered rate, usually between 45–60 EUR. Be wary of unofficial drivers who may approach you inside the hall – always go to the official taxi stand.
- Uber/Bolt: These services operate commonly here and can be slightly cheaper than traditional taxis. The pick-up location is usually specifically marked.
- Car Rental: All major car rental companies are located at the airport. However, due to expensive parking and narrow streets in Amsterdam city centre, we recommend a car more for trips throughout the Netherlands.
Tip: At Bagalio, we are experts in luggage. Whether you need carry-on luggage in the form of a travel backpack or a cabin suitcase, or you're looking for a large checked suitcase, you're sure to find something in our wide range. We've also prepared guides to help you choose. Find out what to consider when choosing a suitcase and what benefits a carry-on backpack for the plane offers!
Parking
For those arriving at the airport by car, Schiphol offers a wide range of parking options.
- P1 (Short Parking): For short-term parking, picking up and dropping off passengers (a few minutes' walk to the terminal).
- P3 (Long Parking): For long-term parking, a cheaper option with shuttle transport to the terminal.
- Valet Parking: For maximum convenience, you hand over your keys directly at the terminal, and staff will park the car for you.
- Pick-up & Drop-off (Kiss & Ride): For quick drop-offs or pick-ups, use the designated zones at departures/arrivals (follow "Kiss & Ride" signs). For longer waits, it's more practical to use short-term parking (e.g., P1).
Services, Transfers, and Waiting for Your Flight
You can truly enjoy waiting for your flight at Schiphol. The airport is known for its high level of services and wide range of activities. Schiphol Plaza is a publicly accessible shopping area before security control, where you'll find supermarkets, shops, and restaurants.
- Transfer Potential: Thanks to the single-building concept, transfers are relatively efficient. If you have a connecting flight, simply follow the signs to your next gate. There are also relaxation zones at the airport for longer layovers.
- Lounges: Lounges are available for business class passengers, status card holders (SkyTeam etc.), and members of programmes like Priority Pass. The most well-known are the KLM Crown Lounges (Schengen and Non-Schengen).
- Gastronomy: The offering is huge – from fast food (Burger King, McDonald's) to coffee shops (Starbucks) and luxury restaurants. Don't forget to try local herring or stroopwafels.
- Shopping: In the zone after security, you'll find extensive Duty-Free shops. You can buy tulip bulbs, cheeses, Dutch design, and of course, cosmetics and alcohol here.
- Basic Amenities: Free Wi-Fi for 4 hours, then free again after re-logging in, showers (in the Mercure hotel or lounges), luggage storage (in the basement between Arrivals 1 and 2), pharmacy, and prayer rooms.
- Culture and Art: The airport boasts art installations. Even if the famous Rijksmuseum branch may be temporarily closed for renovation, you'll encounter sculptures and modern art within the airport premises.
Comfort for Passengers with Children and Specific Needs
The Dutch are known for their family-friendliness and hospitality towards passengers with reduced mobility. The airport is fully accessible and prepared for little travellers.
- Children's Play Areas: Beyond security control (in Holland Boulevard), you'll find the "Airport Park" and various play zones. A Baby Care Lounge (available for intercontinental passengers) with private nursing pods and cots is also available.
- Strollers: The airport often allows borrowing strollers for moving around the terminal if you have already checked yours in.
- PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility): Assistance service must be booked with your airline at least 48 hours before departure. Assistants will help you from arrival at the airport until you are seated on the plane.
Tip: Thanks to the wide range of suitcases for children, you can choose a companion for your little traveller that will make not only travelling but also packing fun! At the same time, in our advice section, you can read what to look out for when choosing a children's suitcase and what to consider.
Accommodation Nearby
If you have an early morning departure or a very late arrival, accommodation in the immediate vicinity can be useful.
- Directly at the airport (transit zone): YOTELAIR or Mercure Schiphol Terminal hotel is located directly in the transit zone (airside), so you don't need to go through security control if you are just transferring.
- Within walking distance: Hotels like Sheraton, CitizenM, or Hilton are connected to the terminal by a covered walkway.
- Shuttle Service: Other hotels like Ibis, Steigenberger, or Corendon Urban are located within a few kilometres and offer a free or low-cost shuttle bus.
Final Tips
- Download the app: The Schiphol App is great for tracking your flight, security control waiting times, and navigating the airport.
- Book a Security Slot: Schiphol allows you to book a free time slot for passing through security control, which will save you queuing.
- Free Water: Beyond security control, there are many water fountains where you can fill your own bottle.
- Buy tickets online: Buy your ticket for bus 397 or the train in advance online to save time at ticket machines.
- Beware of "taxi drivers": Ignore offers for rides inside the hall and always go to the official taxi stand outside.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to get from the airport to Amsterdam city centre fastest?
The fastest way is by train (NS Dutch Railways), which runs from the underground station directly to Amsterdam Centraal. The journey takes 15–17 minutes.
Where can I buy public transport tickets?
Train tickets can be bought at yellow ticket machines or at counters at Schiphol Plaza. Bus tickets (e.g., Amsterdam Airport Express) can be bought online, at ticket machines at the stop, or from the driver (card payment only). Using an OV-chipkaart or tourist tickets like the Amsterdam Travel Ticket can be advantageous.
How many terminals does Schiphol Airport have?
The airport uses a single-terminal concept, which is divided into three departure halls. Everything is connected under one roof.
Is there luggage storage at the airport?
Yes, luggage storage (Baggage Depot) is located in the basement between Arrivals Halls 1 and 2. Self-service lockers are also available in the secure zone after check-in.
Does transport run from the airport at night?
Yes, trains to the main station run all night (with reduced frequency, approximately once an hour). Additionally, the night bus line N97 operates, following the route of the daytime line 397.
Bagalio wishes you a happy journey to Amsterdam!
