Amsterdam airport transfers from Schiphol
Schiphol is Amsterdam's main airport, but the quickest transfer depends on where you are staying. A train to Centraal suits the old center and northern Canal Ring, while the airport bus serves the Museum Quarter more directly. Check your accommodation's nearest stop before choosing. For late arrivals, look up the actual service available after landing and leave extra time for baggage collection.
The airports
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
- about 15 km south-west, roughly 15 to 20 minutes by train to Centraal
Every way from the airport to Amsterdam
| How | Airport | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| TrainNS train to Amsterdam Centraal | AMS | about 15 to 20 minutes to Amsterdam Centraal | The old center and northern Canal Ring |
| Train and metroNS train to Amsterdam Zuid, then metro | AMS | about 25 to 40 minutes to De Pijp, including a change | De Pijp and accommodation near metro stops |
| BusAmsterdam Airport Express | AMS | about 30 to 45 minutes to Museumplein or Leidseplein | Museum Quarter and the southern Canal Ring |
| TaxiOfficial airport taxi | AMS | about 25 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic | Door-to-door travel with luggage |
How each one works
Train: NS train to Amsterdam Centraal
Follow signs to the railway station beneath Schiphol Plaza. Check the departure board for Amsterdam Centraal, since other trains serve different Amsterdam stations. Buy a rail ticket or check in with a supported contactless card, then check out at your destination.
Train and metro: NS train to Amsterdam Zuid, then metro
Take a train shown as stopping at Amsterdam Zuid, then follow the metro signs and use the northbound service toward De Pijp. Check out of the railway and check into the metro separately. Use a supported contactless card or buy tickets for both parts.
Bus: Amsterdam Airport Express
Follow signs from Schiphol Plaza to the airport bus stops and find the Amsterdam Airport Express departure. It serves Museumplein and Leidseplein. Buy a ticket through the operator or use supported contactless payment, checking the current stop list before traveling.
Taxi: Official airport taxi
Follow the airport signs to the official taxi rank and join the queue. Give the driver your accommodation's full address and confirm the payment method before departure. Avoid accepting rides from people approaching you inside the terminal.
Arriving late or leaving early
Night trains provide a link between Schiphol and Amsterdam Centraal, but departures are less frequent than during the day. Check the railway planner for your arrival time. For very early flights, compare the first usable connection with check-in requirements and arrange a taxi if necessary.
Before you land
- Check your accommodation's nearest station or bus stop before choosing Centraal, since it can add an unnecessary journey across Amsterdam.
- Use the same card or device to check in and out, and keep each traveler's payment method separate.
- Allow for passport checks and baggage collection before booking any onward activity in the city.
- Check railway disruption notices before leaving the terminal, especially if you need to change trains or connect with the metro.
Amsterdam airport transfers from Schiphol
Is there a direct train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal?
Yes, direct trains connect the airport station with Amsterdam Centraal. Check the departure board carefully, since not every train serves that station.
Which transfer is best for the Museum Quarter?
The Amsterdam Airport Express serves Museumplein and can avoid a journey back from Centraal. Compare its stops with your accommodation's exact address.
Can I use contactless payment for the train?
Supported contactless cards and devices can be used to check in and out. Use the same payment method at both ends and check current acceptance details with the operator.
How much time should I leave for the airport journey?
Add the transfer, the walk to your stop and a buffer for disruption to your airline's recommended arrival time. The train ride alone is not the full journey.