Overview
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is located 17 kilometers southwest of the city center and operates as a single-terminal hub.
Schiphol is a large hub. Gates in the E, F, and G piers can take up to 20 minutes to reach once you have cleared passport control.
Amsterdam Centraal is the city’s primary railway hub, serving as a major gateway for domestic Dutch Railways (NS) and international train services.
Amsterdam Centraal is a large hub. Ensure you check the “Time to Platform” on digital boards, as some tracks require a significant walk through the tunnels.
Transfer Options
The following transport options are available from/to Schiphol Airport:
NS railway workers staged several strikes in 2025, at times halting all trains between Schiphol and Amsterdam Centraal. Check the NS service status before you travel. If trains are suspended, take an Uber/Bolt or the Airport Taxi.
The following transport options are available from/to Amsterdam Centraal:
GVB trams and metros are sometimes rerouted due to construction or incidents. Check GVB diversions before your journey. Uber/Bolt is the reliable fallback for hotel transfers.
Luggage Storage
Located at Level -1 (basement) between Arrivals 1 and 2. Staffed depot and self-service lockers available 24/7.
Amsterdam is one of Europe’s best layover cities — the train takes 15–20 min to Centraal (€5.60 each way, every 10 min).
- Under 4h — stay airside. Too tight once you factor check-in back in.
- 4–6h — Walk the canal ring and the Jordaan neighbourhood. Free, flat, and walkable from Centraal.
- 7h+ — Add the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum (advance booking required). Anne Frank House sells out weeks ahead — skip unless already booked.
Western side of the main building, open 24 hours.
Just outside the station at Prins Hendrikkade 20A (inside the Q-Park garage, level -2).
Station and airport lockers are “pay-per-use” (payment required to re-lock if opened).
If the station lockers are full, several “Luggage Storage” shops are located just across the street from the main station entrance.
Payment
Both locations are cashless. You must pay using a contactless credit/debit card or mobile wallet.
Visitor Cards & Passes
For visitors staying several days, these all-in-one passes offer convenience and savings.
You can purchase them at the I amsterdam Store (Schiphol Arrivals 2) or NS Service Desks (Schiphol Plaza).
You can purchase them at the GVB Service & Tickets offices at Centraal Station (IJ-hal or Stationsplein).
I amsterdam City Card
Includes entry to 70+ museums (like the Rijksmuseum), a canal cruise, and unlimited GVB city transit. Note: Trains between Schiphol and the city are not included.
Source: I amsterdam Official| Duration | Price |
|---|---|
| 24h | €60 |
| 48h | €85 |
| 72h | €100 |
| 96h | €115 |
| 120h | €125 |
Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket (ARTT)
Covers all regional transit, including trains from Schiphol to the city and travel to Keukenhof or Zaanse Schans. Prices: €21 (1 day), €31.50 (2 days), €40.50 (3 days).
Source: I amsterdam OfficialAmsterdam Travel Ticket
Includes a return train journey between Schiphol and any station in Amsterdam, plus all GVB trams, buses, and metros. Prices: €18 (1 day), €24 (2 days), €30 (3 days).
Source: NS OfficialGVB Day Tickets (24h–168h)
Best for those already in the city. Unlimited travel on all GVB trams, buses, and metros. Prices range from €9.00 (24h) up to €41.00 (7 days).
Source: GVB Multi-day ticketsContactless (OVpay)
Amsterdam uses OVpay, allowing you to tap in and out of all trains, trams, and buses using your contactless debit/credit card or phone. There is no longer a need to buy separate paper tickets for most visitors.
Source: OVpay OfficialYou must tap your card or phone against the readers both when entering and leaving the vehicle or station. Failure to tap out will result in a higher default fare being charged.
Paper Tickets
If you prefer paper tickets, use the yellow-and-blue automated kiosks. Note that paper tickets carry a €1.00 surcharge. You must still tap these against the yellow/white readers for every journey.
Children’s Fares
Under 4 travel free on all NS trains and GVB trams, buses, and metros — no ticket needed.
Ages 4-11 on NS trains (e.g. Schiphol↔Centraal): Buy a Railrunner for €2.50 per day at station machines or online. Up to 3 children per accompanying adult.
Ages 4-11 on GVB (trams, metro, buses): The GVB Day ticket child costs €5.00 per 24 hours. Buy it at GVB Service & Tickets desks (IJ-hal or Stationsplein at Centraal) — it is not sold at tram stops or ticket vending machines.
Public Transit
NS Train
This is the most efficient link between Schiphol Airport and the city center, costing €4.90 for a 14–17 minute ride from/to Amsterdam Centraal.
Source: NS Journey PlannerBoarding the Train (Arrival): The station is located directly underneath Schiphol Airport. Check the overhead digital boards in the Plaza for “Intercity” or “Sprinter” trains heading to Amsterdam Centraal.
Source: Schiphol Train StationConfirm the platform number (e.g., Platform 1 or 2). Ensure you validate your ticket or tap your card at the yellow posts before descending the escalator to the platform.
Local Transport (GVB)
The Metro or Tram are the most efficient ways from/to Centraal Station, typically costing €1.60–€3.40 for a 5–15 minute ride. Walking is often viable for hotels in the historic core directly in front of the station.
Source: GVB Journey PlannerTram platforms are located directly outside the main station exits on the Centrum (City) side. Check the digital signs at the stops for line numbers and final destinations.
Official Taxi
Locations and Rates
Follow “Taxi” signs to the queue outside the Plaza. Costs €50–€75 and takes 25–45 minutes.
Source: Schiphol Airport TaxiLocations and Rates
Follow signs to the rank on the IJ-zijde (water side). Costs €15–€30 to city hotels. Note that driving in the center is often slower than the tram due to narrow streets and heavy traffic.
Identification
Official taxis are legally identified by light blue license plates and a “TAXI” sign on the roof.
Source: City of Amsterdam Taxi InfoIgnore anyone inside the airport or station halls offering “cheap” transportation. These are unlicensed and often overcharge. Only use the official designated taxi ranks.
Rideshare
A 5-minute walk to the 'App Pickup' point at Koepelstraat (behind Café Rembrandt).
Located at the Kiss & Ride area on the IJ-zijde (north/water side).
ATMs and Currency
Local Currency
The official currency is the Euro (€). Amsterdam is highly cashless; most establishments prefer contactless payments.
ATMs
Use the yellow machines branded as Geldmaat located in Schiphol Plaza for the best rates.
Use the yellow machines branded as Geldmaat located in the Centraal Station main halls for the best rates.
Stay away from blue and yellow EuroNet machines. They charge high fees and aggressive exchange markups. Always choose “Continue without conversion” if any ATM offers to handle the exchange for you.
Accessibility & Safety
Accessibility
Every platform at Schiphol is accessible via elevators (lifts). Look for “Lift” signs near escalators to reach the train platforms on Level -1.
Schiphol Airport AssistanceAccessibility
Every platform at Amsterdam Centraal is accessible via elevators (lifts). Elevators are in the three main cross-tunnels (East, Middle, West).
Amsterdam Centraal AccessibilityBoarding: Newer Sprinter and ICNG trains offer level boarding. For older Intercity or international trains with steps, visitors with limited mobility should book NS Travel Assistance at least one hour in advance via the NS app or website.
Safety
Both hubs are generally safe, but remain vigilant:
- Pickpockets: Centraal Station is a primary target for professional pickpockets. Watch your belongings in crowded tunnels and while boarding.
- Fake ‘Official’ Staff: Only accept travel advice from staff in official yellow and blue NS uniforms or GVB uniforms.
Essential Services
Lost & Found
The Lost & Found office is located in Schiphol Plaza, near Arrivals 1. You can also report or search for lost items online.
Source: Schiphol Lost & FoundLost & Found
Lost items can be reported at the NS Service Desk or via the official NS website.
Source: NS Lost & FoundFirst Aid & Pharmacies
A First Aid Post is located in Schiphol Plaza near Arrivals 1. There are also several pharmacies located within the Plaza for non-emergency medical supplies.
Source: Schiphol Medical ServicesFirst Aid & Pharmacies
The NS Service Desk can assist with first aid. For pharmacies, there is a Centraal Apotheek located in the IJ-hal (north side) of the station.
Source: Centraal ApotheekOverview
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is located 17 kilometers southwest of the city center and operates as a single-terminal hub.
Schiphol is a large hub. Gates in the E, F, and G piers can take up to 20 minutes to reach once you have cleared passport control.
Amsterdam Centraal is the city’s primary railway hub, serving as a major gateway for domestic Dutch Railways (NS) and international train services.
Amsterdam Centraal is a large hub. Ensure you check the “Time to Platform” on digital boards, as some tracks require a significant walk through the tunnels.
Transfer Options
The following transport options are available from/to Schiphol Airport:
NS railway workers staged several strikes in 2025, at times halting all trains between Schiphol and Amsterdam Centraal. Check the NS service status before you travel. If trains are suspended, take an Uber/Bolt or the Airport Taxi.
The following transport options are available from/to Amsterdam Centraal:
GVB trams and metros are sometimes rerouted due to construction or incidents. Check GVB diversions before your journey. Uber/Bolt is the reliable fallback for hotel transfers.
Luggage Storage
Located at Level -1 (basement) between Arrivals 1 and 2. Staffed depot and self-service lockers available 24/7.
Amsterdam is one of Europe’s best layover cities — the train takes 15–20 min to Centraal (€5.60 each way, every 10 min).
- Under 4h — stay airside. Too tight once you factor check-in back in.
- 4–6h — Walk the canal ring and the Jordaan neighbourhood. Free, flat, and walkable from Centraal.
- 7h+ — Add the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum (advance booking required). Anne Frank House sells out weeks ahead — skip unless already booked.
Western side of the main building, open 24 hours.
Just outside the station at Prins Hendrikkade 20A (inside the Q-Park garage, level -2).
Station and airport lockers are “pay-per-use” (payment required to re-lock if opened).
If the station lockers are full, several “Luggage Storage” shops are located just across the street from the main station entrance.
Payment
Both locations are cashless. You must pay using a contactless credit/debit card or mobile wallet.
Visitor Cards & Passes
For visitors staying several days, these all-in-one passes offer convenience and savings.
You can purchase them at the I amsterdam Store (Schiphol Arrivals 2) or NS Service Desks (Schiphol Plaza).
You can purchase them at the GVB Service & Tickets offices at Centraal Station (IJ-hal or Stationsplein).
I amsterdam City Card
Includes entry to 70+ museums (like the Rijksmuseum), a canal cruise, and unlimited GVB city transit. Note: Trains between Schiphol and the city are not included.
Source: I amsterdam Official| Duration | Price |
|---|---|
| 24h | €60 |
| 48h | €85 |
| 72h | €100 |
| 96h | €115 |
| 120h | €125 |
Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket (ARTT)
Covers all regional transit, including trains from Schiphol to the city and travel to Keukenhof or Zaanse Schans. Prices: €21 (1 day), €31.50 (2 days), €40.50 (3 days).
Source: I amsterdam OfficialAmsterdam Travel Ticket
Includes a return train journey between Schiphol and any station in Amsterdam, plus all GVB trams, buses, and metros. Prices: €18 (1 day), €24 (2 days), €30 (3 days).
Source: NS OfficialGVB Day Tickets (24h–168h)
Best for those already in the city. Unlimited travel on all GVB trams, buses, and metros. Prices range from €9.00 (24h) up to €41.00 (7 days).
Source: GVB Multi-day ticketsContactless (OVpay)
Amsterdam uses OVpay, allowing you to tap in and out of all trains, trams, and buses using your contactless debit/credit card or phone. There is no longer a need to buy separate paper tickets for most visitors.
Source: OVpay OfficialYou must tap your card or phone against the readers both when entering and leaving the vehicle or station. Failure to tap out will result in a higher default fare being charged.
Paper Tickets
If you prefer paper tickets, use the yellow-and-blue automated kiosks. Note that paper tickets carry a €1.00 surcharge. You must still tap these against the yellow/white readers for every journey.
Children’s Fares
Under 4 travel free on all NS trains and GVB trams, buses, and metros — no ticket needed.
Ages 4-11 on NS trains (e.g. Schiphol↔Centraal): Buy a Railrunner for €2.50 per day at station machines or online. Up to 3 children per accompanying adult.
Ages 4-11 on GVB (trams, metro, buses): The GVB Day ticket child costs €5.00 per 24 hours. Buy it at GVB Service & Tickets desks (IJ-hal or Stationsplein at Centraal) — it is not sold at tram stops or ticket vending machines.
Public Transit
NS Train
This is the most efficient link between Schiphol Airport and the city center, costing €4.90 for a 14–17 minute ride from/to Amsterdam Centraal.
Source: NS Journey PlannerBoarding the Train (Arrival): The station is located directly underneath Schiphol Airport. Check the overhead digital boards in the Plaza for “Intercity” or “Sprinter” trains heading to Amsterdam Centraal.
Source: Schiphol Train StationConfirm the platform number (e.g., Platform 1 or 2). Ensure you validate your ticket or tap your card at the yellow posts before descending the escalator to the platform.
Local Transport (GVB)
The Metro or Tram are the most efficient ways from/to Centraal Station, typically costing €1.60–€3.40 for a 5–15 minute ride. Walking is often viable for hotels in the historic core directly in front of the station.
Source: GVB Journey PlannerTram platforms are located directly outside the main station exits on the Centrum (City) side. Check the digital signs at the stops for line numbers and final destinations.
Arrival & Check-In
Arrival Time
For long-haul international flights, arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. Schiphol often experiences long queues at security and passport control during peak morning and afternoon hours.
Source: Schiphol AirportArrival Time
For domestic and Schengen-area train travel, arriving 15 to 30 minutes before departure is sufficient to locate your platform and board comfortably.
Travelers taking the Eurostar to London should arrive at least 75 to 90 minutes early to complete mandatory security screening and passport control. Always check the official carrier app for real-time gate information, as platform assignments at this busy hub can change shortly before departure.
Source: Eurostar - Check-inCheck-in and Bag Drop
Check-in desks at Schiphol are located on the upper level (Departures 1, 2, and 3). Most major airlines provide self-service bag drop kiosks; follow the digital signs for your specific flight number to find the correct area.
Source: Schiphol Airport - Check-inCheck-in and Bag Drop
For rail travel, there is no formal bag drop; passengers are responsible for carrying their own luggage onto the train and placing it in designated racks.
Security Controls
Schiphol allows you to book a free 15-minute time slot for the security check in advance via the Schiphol website or app. This can significantly reduce your waiting time.
Security Screening
You typically do not need to remove liquids or electronics from your bag due to advanced 3D scanners, but follow the specific instructions provided by the security staff at your lane.
Source: Schiphol Airport - Packing your hand baggageSecurity Screening
While there is no mandatory luggage screening for domestic or Schengen-area rail travel, passengers on direct Eurostar services to London must pass through a dedicated security terminal for X-ray checks before boarding.
Source: Eurostar - Amsterdam Centraal InfoPassport Control
After security, you must pass through passport control to reach non-Schengen zones. Holders of EU passports can use the automated E-gates; non-EU citizens (including US, UK, and Canadian) usually require a manual check for an exit stamp.
Source: Schiphol Airport - PassportsPassport Control
At the dedicated Eurostar terminal, you must pass through passport control to reach non-Schengen zones. Holders of EU passports can use the automated E-gates; non-EU citizens (including US, UK, and Canadian) usually require a manual check for an exit stamp.
Source: Eurostar - Travel DocumentsVAT Refunds
If you have made tax-free purchases, the Global Blue and Customs desks are located in Schiphol Departures 3. You must have your receipts and unused goods ready for inspection before you check your luggage.
Source: Schiphol Airport - Tax refundNote that VAT refund services are generally not available at the train station; these should be processed at the airport if you are leaving the EU.
Accessibility & Safety
Accessibility
Every platform at Schiphol is accessible via elevators (lifts). Look for “Lift” signs near escalators to reach the train platforms on Level -1.
Schiphol Airport AssistanceAccessibility
Every platform at Amsterdam Centraal is accessible via elevators (lifts). Elevators are in the three main cross-tunnels (East, Middle, West).
Amsterdam Centraal AccessibilityBoarding: Newer Sprinter and ICNG trains offer level boarding. For older Intercity or international trains with steps, visitors with limited mobility should book NS Travel Assistance at least one hour in advance via the NS app or website.
Safety
Both hubs are generally safe, but remain vigilant:
- Pickpockets: Centraal Station is a primary target for professional pickpockets. Watch your belongings in crowded tunnels and while boarding.
- Fake ‘Official’ Staff: Only accept travel advice from staff in official yellow and blue NS uniforms or GVB uniforms.
Essential Services
Lost & Found
The Lost & Found office is located in Schiphol Plaza, near Arrivals 1. You can also report or search for lost items online.
Source: Schiphol Lost & FoundLost & Found
Lost items can be reported at the NS Service Desk or via the official NS website.
Source: NS Lost & FoundFirst Aid & Pharmacies
A First Aid Post is located in Schiphol Plaza near Arrivals 1. There are also several pharmacies located within the Plaza for non-emergency medical supplies.
Source: Schiphol Medical ServicesFirst Aid & Pharmacies
The NS Service Desk can assist with first aid. For pharmacies, there is a Centraal Apotheek located in the IJ-hal (north side) of the station.
Source: Centraal Apotheek