The Beginners Guide to Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands

Schiphol Amsterdam Airport is by far the biggest airport in the country. Its also the only airport with intercontinental flights and well-known as a transfer-hub for international passengers. To be honest, I like to visit the airport to do a bit of shopping duty free.

The intercontinental airport Schiphol in the Netherlands

Schiphol Airport is the largest airport in the Netherlands and its known as an internation hub for transfer between flights worldwide. The airport is located just outside of Amsterdam in the municipality ‘Haarlemmermeer’  and approximately 20 kilometers from the capital Amsterdam. You will able to reach Amsterdam without traffic within 30 minutes by car or public transportation.

The airport is open 24 hours a day, but do keep in mind that most stores are closed during the night hours.

Schiphol Airport is also internationally known as Schiphol Amsterdam Airport, eventhough it is actually not in Amsterdam. You can easily reach the airport by train, bus, (rental) car and taxi within the Netherlands. And yes, you can even reach it by bicycle. However, that doesn’t happen often because of the luggage.

The fact that the airport is located just outside of the related city is quite common. For example: Newark Airport in the United States is located in New Jersey instead of New York and Brussels Airport in Belgium is actually located in Zaventem, next to Brussels.

YouTube video about Schiphol Airport

Its the third largest airport in Europa and an important hub for intercontinental flights. More than 60 million travellers visit Schiphol per year. 

Schiphol is below sea level just like most places in The Netherlands. Schip refers towards ‘ship’ and ‘hol’ refers towards graves. It used to place where a lot of naval battles took place.

The biggest benefit of the located is that its near all the major cities in the West of The Netherlands. The four largest cities: Amsterdam, Utrecht, Den Haag (‘The Hague’) and Rotterdam, are easily reachable within an hour. On top of that, the airport even has its own train station below the airport.

How to arrive or depart at Schiphol Airport

Most people in the Netherlands either use the train or let someone drop them off at the ‘kiss-and-ride’ spots. If that is not an option, parking the car or using a taxi are often popular alternatives. Schiphol is well-organized and you can reach the airport by several options.

Reaching Schiphol during daytime versus nightime

Keep in mind that most options are available during the daytime. However, do notice that most trains and busses will not depart between 0:00 hours and 06:00 hours. Please check out the website 9292 travel planner in English to see the options with public transportation.

By car (free kiss-and-ride options or park at the one of the short-term or long-term parking garages)

The airport has a kiss-and-ride option to drop off passengers for free per terminal. The signs at the terminal show which airlines are located per terminal.

It is also possible to park for short-term parking. This is quite expensive, because it was 1 euro per 11 minutes in 2023 till a maximum per day. P3 is used for long-term parking and available 24/7. The airport also offers a shuttle bus between P3 and the airport. Prices fluctuate and depend on the amount of days and timing within a year.

By train

Schiphol Airport has a train station under the airport. You are able to travel towards other train station in The Netherlands between approximately 06.00 hours and 24.00 hours. Trains usually do not arrive in the early morning till six o’ clock.

The ‘Nationale Spoorwegen’  (The Dutch Railway Company) offers a Travel Planner on their website in English. The website has services to buy an E-ticket in advance. The NS also has customer service point at Schiphol just in case you have any questions.

By bus

Schiphol Airport has a busstop outside Schiphol Plaza. The busses operate mainly between 06.00 hours and 24.00 hours. However, the bus company also offers a nightbus to certain destinations, such as Amsterdam City Center. You need an ‘OV-chipkaart’ (the Dutch public transport card) to travel by bus. Some routes are exempt for this and an E-ticket is also possible. The bus operator Connexxion has an overview of the busroutes with an E-ticket on their website in English.

By taxi

A taxi is almost always possible at airports. However, the price is way more expensive than other methods of transports. If money is not a issue, the official taxi stands are outside Schiphol Plaza next to the bus stop.

By bicycle

The airport has bicycle paths towards the terminals. You can park your bicycle for free up to 4 weeks. This is sustainable, free and the bicycle is part of Dutch culture. However, its not convenient with luggage. On top of that, Schiphol is not within short bike distance of larger cities such as Amsterdam. But I will be honest, I have never heard of someone using their bicycle to reach Schiphol Airport. Maybe it has to do with the inconvenience with the luggage, I don’t know.

How early should you arrive at Schiphol Airport for departing flights

When it comes to catching a flight from Schiphol Airport, arriving on time is of utmost importance. Schiphol, located in Amsterdam, is one of Europe’s busiest airports, serving as a major international hub for travelers from around the world. Whether you’re embarking on an intercontinental journey or flying across Europe, it’s essential to understand the differences in timing and procedures.

For intercontinental flights, it’s generally recommended to arrive at the airport at least three and a half hours before the scheduled departure time. This ample time allows for various necessary procedures such as check-in, security checks, and immigration formalities, which tend to take longer for international travel.

Additionally, larger aircraft and higher passenger volumes require additional time for boarding and pre-flight preparations. It’s always wise to check with your airline for any specific requirements or recommendations regarding arrival time.

On the other hand, for flights across Europe, the recommended arrival time is typically at least two and a half hours before departure. The processes involved in European flights are generally quicker and less complex compared to intercontinental journeys.

Although security checks and check-in procedures are still in place, the reduced distances and shorter flight durations contribute to a streamlined experience. However, it’s important to keep in mind that during peak travel seasons or busy periods, there may be queues and longer waiting times, so arriving earlier is advisable.

Schiphol Airport offers a wide range of facilities and services to enhance the passenger experience. From efficient check-in counters and self-service kiosks to automated security checks and convenient immigration procedures, the airport strives to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Additionally, the airport boasts numerous shopping outlets, dining options, and relaxation areas, allowing travelers to make the most of their time before boarding.

To avoid any last-minute rushes or potential delays, it’s recommended to plan your journey to Schiphol Airport carefully. The airport had major delayes in the summer of 2022 due to different circumstances. Consider factors such as traffic conditions, public transportation schedules, and potential delays to ensure a stress-free arrival. Checking the airline’s website or contacting their customer service can provide valuable information regarding specific requirements and any updates or changes to the flight schedule.

In conclusion, arriving on time at Schiphol Airport is crucial for both intercontinental and European flights. While intercontinental journeys generally require a longer lead time, European flights tend to have a slightly shorter recommended arrival time. By following these guidelines and staying informed about your specific flight requirements, you can ensure a smooth start to your travel experience and embark on your journey with ease.

The best time to visit Schiphol Airport

Schiphol Airport is the least busy during the morning compared to day time and the evening hours. The airport is usually busy during the summer time. It is recommended to arrive at the airport a bit earlier than expected. The waiting times at security and the border customs can be a bit longer during the summer times. The queue at the security could be very long at busy periods and its does not matter what holiday destination you have.

Also please keep in mind that trains and cars can have delays, Traffic jams on the roads are most of the time between 06:00 – 09:00 and 15:00 – 19:00. This is also the peak time for the trains, but train delays are unexpected. I always try to take the morning flights so it will be less busy at the airport and you will arrive a bit more earlier at your destination so you can have the day for yourself. My experience with evening flights is that I think about all day and it ruins a bit of my travel experience.

What to do at Schiphol Airport

Schiphol Airport has a lot of shops to stop by. The airport is like a shopping mall. It is divided between Schiphol Plaza and after security.

Schiphol Plaza before security

Schiphol Plaza is accessible for everyone and its a place to eat something with everyone, even without a boarding pass. Schiphol Plaza is located one level below the check-ins and above the train station. If you arrive by train, car or bus, you will walk through Schiphol Plaza.

Keep in mind that once you have checked-in, you can’t go back towards Schiphol Plaza. This also applies to checking-in your luggage. In most cases you will have to walk towards customs.

Schiphol Plaza has a food court with mostly fast food, bars and sandwich shops. It has a small supermarkt and household shops.

Schiphol after security

the shops after security are only possible for people with a boarding pass. Once you pass through customs, you can start with duty free shopping. The shopping center after security has a very modern look.

  1. Shop duty-free: Schiphol Airport offers an extensive range of shops and boutiques, allowing you to indulge in some retail therapy. From high-end fashion brands to luxury chocolates and souvenirs, you’ll find something to suit your taste. Don’t forget to explore the duty-free shops for tax-free deals on cosmetics, alcohol, and more.
  2. Visit the Airport Library: Schiphol boasts the world’s first airport library, where you can immerse yourself in literature, browse through books on art, history, and travel, or enjoy a quiet reading corner. It’s a perfect place to relax and unwind during a layover.
  3. Relax in the Airport Spa: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of travel by pampering yourself at one of the airport spas. Indulge in a rejuvenating massage, facial, or other spa treatments to relieve stress and ensure you’re refreshed for your onward journey.
  4. Explore the exhibitions showcasing Dutch art, design and innovation: Schiphol Airport offers a unique opportunity to experience Dutch art and culture before or after your flight. The museum houses a diverse collection of masterpieces. These exhibits can be found in the Holland Boulevard area between Departure Lounges 2 and 3.
  5. Taste Dutch Cuisine: Take the opportunity to savor some delicious Dutch food while at Schiphol. Visit one of the airport’s many restaurants, cafes, or bars to sample traditional Dutch snacks like stroopwafels or bitterballen. You can also enjoy a meal at one of the airport’s international cuisine restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the transportation options from Schiphol Amsterdam Airport towards Amsterdam Central?
By bus, taxi, train and (rental) car

How far is Schiphol Amsterdam Airport from Amsterdam Central?
Approximately 15 minutes by train, 30 minutes by bus, taxi or car without any delays

Are there luggage storage facilities at Schiphol Airport?
Yes, luggage storage is available before security. Click here for more information.

Are there any hotels inside Schiphol Airport?
Yes, before the customs. On top of that, plenty of hotels are available outside in the area of Schiphol.

Is Schiphol Airport open 24/7?
Yes and no, a lot of shops will be closed during night time. You also may be asked what you purpose is of the visit. For instance, picking up someone who has just arrived or the other way around.

How many terminals does Schiphol Airport have?
As of 2024, Schiphol Airport has 4 terminals.

Can you walk between those terminals or do you need to take public transportation?
You can walk between the terminals without having to go outside, but keep in mind that this might take a while.