Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is about 11 km from Amsterdam city centre in a straight line.
Arriving at the airport and finding your way out of arrivals
After landing, follow the signs for passport control, baggage reclaim and the arrivals area. Keep your accommodation details and transfer information ready, as you may need them when arranging your onward journey. Once you reach arrivals, look for the official signs directing you towards taxis, public transport, car hire and pre-arranged pickups.
If someone is meeting you, confirm the agreed meeting point before leaving the restricted area. Airport arrivals can be busy, so check names, vehicle details and contact instructions carefully. If your baggage is delayed or damaged, speak to the airport’s baggage service before continuing into town.
Getting into town
A private transfer is useful if you want a driver waiting for you and direct transport to your accommodation. Confirm the pickup instructions and whether the service includes help with luggage before you travel.
Taxis are available from the official rank. Use the designated rank rather than accepting offers inside or outside the building, and check the accepted payment methods before setting off. Public transport is often a practical choice for central Amsterdam. Follow airport signs to the relevant platforms or stops, then check current routes, departures and ticket requirements with the airport or transport operator.
Hire car can suit travellers continuing beyond Amsterdam or staying in places with limited public transport. Compare the collection arrangements, driving conditions and return instructions in advance. Amsterdam’s central streets can be busy, and parking may be limited, so a car is not always the easiest option for a city stay.
Popular transfers from the airport
Central Amsterdam is about 10 km from the airport in a straight line, while Amsterdam-Zuid is about 9 km. Jordaan and Grachtengordel are each about 11 km in a straight line. Other popular destinations include Zaandam, Amsterdam-Centrum, Plantage and Nieuwmarkt. These distances are not road distances, so check the current route and traffic conditions before choosing your transfer.
Flying home
For your return journey, allow generous time to travel from your accommodation to the airport. Consider traffic, public transport changes, luggage, security and any vehicle return process. Check your flight information and the airport’s current guidance before leaving, particularly if you are travelling during a busy period or from outside Amsterdam.