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Exclusive lounges for Privium members near the check-in area as well as in secure zones, providing a quiet space to work, relax, and enjoy refreshments.
CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Gateway to Dutch and European adventures
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport serves as a major gateway to the Netherlands and Western Europe. Located about 15 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam city center, it connects travelers worldwide with direct flights to hundreds of destinations. The airport operates around the clock, handling millions of passengers each year through its modern terminals designed for efficiency and comfort. Known for its clean facilities and frequent train links to central Amsterdam, Schiphol functions as both a transport hub and an entry point to Dutch culture, history and daily life.
Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Amsterdam Airport Summary
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is an airport near Amsterdam in Netherlands. It currently offers regular passenger service to 258 destinations operated by 79 airlines.
Top airlines
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
(KL)
2592 flights per week
Transavia
(HV)
411 flights per week
easyJet
(U2)
291 flights per week
Top destinations
Cheapest destinations
Best destinations
Netherlands – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Euro (EUR) £1 ≈ €1.19 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
The Netherlands is highly cashless, with almost all businesses accepting card payments. Contactless payments and mobile apps are widely used, and cash is not always necessary.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory in the Netherlands. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is standard. Taxi drivers usually expect a small tip or rounding up, and hotel staff appreciate small tips. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in most places in the Netherlands, including parks and on the streets. However, there are some restrictions in specific areas or during festivals. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned indoors in public spaces, including bars, restaurants, and public transport. Smoking areas are designated in many public places. |
| King's Day (April) |
A national holiday with celebrations, parades, and festivals. Expect large crowds, especially in cities like Amsterdam. |
|---|---|
| Christmas (December) |
Festivities are widespread, but cities can be crowded, and prices for accommodation may rise. |
| Sinterklaas (December) |
Celebrations for the Dutch Christmas tradition, expect family-oriented events and high demand for accommodation. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber, Bolt, Ola |
| Other: | The Netherlands has a well-developed infrastructure and public transport system. Be prepared for high bike usage in cities like Amsterdam, and expect occasional rain throughout the year. |
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is the main international airport for the Netherlands and one of the busiest in Europe, welcoming over 62 million travelers annually. Situated just 18 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam’s city center, it offers travelers smooth access to vibrant Dutch culture and beyond.
Its compact but efficient terminal design means you can get almost anywhere within the airport quickly. The atmosphere balances modern convenience with touches of Dutch charm – like art and local culinary options. While the airport boasts many great amenities including extensive shops and eateries, travelers should note ongoing runway maintenance during some months of the year, which can occasionally cause delays or rearranged flight schedules.
Be mindful that Schiphol is a large and busy international hub, which means security checks can be lengthy during peak hours. It’s smart to allow extra time and be prepared for crowds, especially in transfer areas. Noise regulations also restrict nighttime flights, meaning less airport noise late at night but also some limitations on flight schedules.
Despite these minor challenges, Schiphol remains highly rated for its excellent public transport links, multiple premium lounges and overall traveler convenience. It's much more than just a point of arrival or departure – it's an interesting place to experience Dutch efficiency and hospitality.
Helpful tips for Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
- Arrive two hours early for security and customs clearance.
- Use the free Wi‑Fi to check flight status, but verify updates on the airline’s app before heading to gates.
- Take advantage of Schiphol’s extensive duty‑free shops; many offer tax‑free prices only available within the airport premises.
- Explore the airport’s art installations and rooftop garden for unique photo opportunities, especially during sunset when lighting is optimal.
Available airport lounges
Privium ClubLounge
KLM Crown Lounge Schengen
A calm, private lounge located on the second floor near Pier D, perfect for travellers flying within the Schengen area. Facilities include workspaces, WiFi, showers, and a buffet station. Access is generally for KLM business and frequent flyers.
KLM Crown Lounge Non-Schengen
This lounge offers more extensive facilities including sleep cabins, entertainment areas, an outside terrace, showers, and lockers. It's designed for travellers heading to destinations outside Schengen. Some facilities like showers and sleep cabins require booking and fees.
Aspire Lounge 26
Situated on the second floor of Lounge 1 after security, it offers food, drinks, free WiFi, and shower facilities. It’s accessible via lounge membership cards or pay-at-door.
Aspire Lounge 41
Located on the top floor of Lounge 2 at the E-Pier, featuring comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, WiFi, and showers. Entry is available through lounge memberships or fees at the door.
Where to stay near Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
The area around Schiphol and nearby Amsterdam offers a wide range of accommodations from mid-range to luxurious hotels. Many travelers choose to stay in Amsterdam city center for a vibrant experience, while convenient airport hotels cater well to short stays and early flights.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Hotel2Stay
ibis Amsterdam Airport
Ramada by Wyndham Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Mercure Hotel Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station
Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport
Van der Valk Hotel Schiphol
NH Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Hotel De Hallen
Olympic Hotel Amsterdam
Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam - Sloterdijk Station By IHG
How to get from Amsterdam Airport to popular destinations
To Amsterdam city centre:
Travelling from Schiphol to Amsterdam city centre is straightforward and fast. The train station is located directly below the terminal, and trains to Amsterdam Centraal run about eight times an hour with a journey time of 16-18 minutes costing around €12.40 (£10.41) return. Alternatively, there are express buses costing about €11.75 (£9.87) one-way, taking 30-40 minutes. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are available 24/7, costing between €35 (£29.39) and €55 (£46.18) with variations depending on traffic and time.
To Haarlem:
Accessible by train from Schiphol, Haarlem is about a 15-minute ride. Regular trains run frequently with easy ticket purchases at the station. Buses and taxis also serve this direction but trains are usually preferred for their speed and frequency.
To Amsterdam Zuid:
Four Intercity Direct trains connect Schiphol with Amsterdam Zuid station offering quick regional connections. Travel time is approximately 7 minutes, with frequent services throughout the day making it very convenient for business travellers and commuters.
Top destinations from Amsterdam Airport
Destination
Duration/Price
Weekdays
Airlines
Info
BCN
Barcelona
2 h 14 min.
£55 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
+2
CPH
Copenhagen
1 h 22 min.
£41 (avg.)
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
+3
Top airlines operating at Amsterdam Airport
Airline
Rating
Skytrax rank
Statistics
Top destinations from here
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