A street sign pointing to Adelaide Airport and the Interstate

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Guide

Tulips by the river and old colourful building in Asmterdam

About Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is a major international aviation hub, connecting the Netherlands to multiple continents from its location in northwest Europe. It is located approximately 20km to the southwest of Amsterdam.

Schiphol Airport has one terminal, split into three zones:

  • Zone 1: Piers B, C and D
  • Zone 2: Piers D & E, with two levels separating Schengen (upper level) and non-Schengen (lower level) flights. Pier E mostly serves SkyTeam airlines
  • Zone 3: Piers F, G, H/M, serving non-Schengen flights, SkyTeam alliance members and low-cost airlines

Transport information

Parking

Schiphol has a dedicated pickup and drop-off zone, as well as covered parking options within walking distance from the terminal. There are also 11 electric vehicle charging points available.

Public transport

Schiphol is served by frequent local railway and bus services connecting to Amsterdam and nearby cities.

Taxi & rideshare

Authorised taxis, Uber and ridesharing companies operate from Schiphol. Chauffeur services are also available from private companies.

KLM shuttle service

Passengers with KLM bookings can use the KLM bus, free of charge, from Maastricht and Eindhoven. Onward connections to neighbouring countries is also available from the airport.

A line of buses by the airport with a plane in the sky in the background

Airport facilities

Bars and restaurants

Passengers at Schiphol Airport can choose from casual dining, cafes, restaurants and fast food outlets, as well as sit-down restaurants and buffet options in one of the airport’s multiple lounges.

Travel enhancements

Passengers can enhance their experience at Schiphol Airport by booking a short pre-flight hotel stay or by using the airport’s spa, meditation centre or massage pods. There are also facilities for parents to take their children, including a kid's playground and a baby care lounge.

Personal services

Schiphol Airport provides passengers with a range of personal services, including luggage storage and locker facilities, currency exchange, baggage wrapping, VAT returns, first aid, medical centres and more.

List of airport facilities avaialble:

  • Toilets
  • Bars and restaurants
  • Duty free shopping
  • Hotels are security
  • Baby care lounge
  • Currency exchange
  • Luggage storage and lockers
  • Lost and found
  • Children's playground
  • Pharmacy + health centres
  • Wellness centres
  • Meeting rooms
A mother and daughter looking at a plane flying above the runway from the airport

marhaba services at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

Take advantage of various marhaba services available at the airport, designed to make your journey streamlined, comfortable and stress-free. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is Amsterdam's main airport?

Schiphol Airport is Amsterdam’s main airport. It is also the largest airport in the Netherlands, and one of western Europe’s biggest and busiest travel hubs.

Which airport stands for AMS?

AMS is the official airport code for Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

How do I get from Amsterdam airport to city Centre?

Bus, trains and taxis connect passengers easily from the airport to Amsterdam city centre.

Is 1 hour enough to transfer in Amsterdam airport?

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport has good processes to facilitate transfers. However, please be mindful that 1 hour does not leave a lot of room for potential delays during your journey.

How early should I get to Amsterdam airport for a flight?

Airlines typically recommend arriving to the airport at least 3 hours before your flight. It is worth bearing in mind that Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is a vast international airport with over 150 gates, so you should factor in more time than usual.

How much time do you need at the Amsterdam airport?

It is typically recommended to arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight. As the airport is so big and has a wealth of retail and dining options, you will have plenty of ways to spend your time if you arrive early.

How easy is it to get from Amsterdam airport to city centre?

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is served by multiple public transport routes, including frequent bus and train connections. This makes getting to Amsterdam city centre very easy.