How Long is the Flight to Amsterdam?
“Amsterdam how long is the flight” is a question many travelers ask when planning their journey to the capital of the Netherlands. Whether you're visiting for its famous canals, world-class museums, or vibrant nightlife, knowing how long it takes to get to Amsterdam is crucial for planning your trip. In this guide, we’ll break down typical flight durations from various parts of the world, offer travel tips, and help you make the most of your flight experience.
Flight Time to Amsterdam from Major Cities
The duration of your flight to Amsterdam’s main airport, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), depends heavily on your departure city. Below are average direct flight times from popular global hubs:
- London to Amsterdam: Around 1 hour 15 minutes
- Paris to Amsterdam: Around 1 hour 20 minutes
- New York (JFK) to Amsterdam: Around 7 hours 15 minutes
- Los Angeles (LAX) to Amsterdam: Around 10 hours 30 minutes
- Toronto to Amsterdam: Around 7 hours 30 minutes
- Dubai to Amsterdam: Around 7 hours
- Singapore to Amsterdam: Around 13 hours
- Tokyo to Amsterdam: Around 11 hours 30 minutes
- Sydney to Amsterdam: Around 23 hours (with layovers)
What Affects Flight Time to Amsterdam?
Several factors can influence the actual time it takes to reach Amsterdam:
- Direct vs. Layover Flights: Non-stop flights are faster, while layovers can add hours depending on the connection time and airport.
- Jet Streams: Tailwinds or headwinds can affect travel time, especially on transatlantic routes.
- Departure Airport Location: Proximity to Amsterdam matters. Flights from Europe are generally under 3 hours, while intercontinental flights are longer.
Tips for Long-Haul Flights to Amsterdam
If you're coming from a far distance, here are some useful tips to stay comfortable and make your journey smoother:
- Choose an overnight flight so you can sleep and adjust to Amsterdam’s local time.
- Stay hydrated throughout the flight, and avoid too much caffeine or alcohol.
- Stretch and walk periodically to prevent stiffness, especially on flights longer than 8 hours.
- Use a travel pillow and noise-canceling headphones to make rest more comfortable.
Arriving at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Schiphol is one of Europe’s busiest airports but also one of the most efficient and traveler-friendly. It’s located just 20 minutes from Amsterdam’s city center by train or taxi. Once you land, expect short queues at passport control and plenty of signage in English.
To make your arrival smoother:
- Pre-book your airport transfer or public transport ticket.
- Use Schiphol’s free Wi-Fi to access travel apps or contact your hotel.
- Pick up a SIM card or travel pass at the airport if you’ll be staying longer.
Popular Airlines Flying to Amsterdam
Many major carriers operate direct and connecting flights to Amsterdam. These include:
- KLM (the Dutch national airline)
- Delta Airlines
- British Airways
- Lufthansa
- Air France
- Emirates
- United Airlines
Flying with KLM gives you the benefit of landing at their home base in Schiphol, often with seamless connections to other Dutch or European cities.
Flight Duration Comparison Table
Departure City | Average Direct Flight Time |
---|---|
London | 1h 15m |
New York | 7h 15m |
Los Angeles | 10h 30m |
Dubai | 7h |
Tokyo | 11h 30m |
Toronto | 7h 30m |
Singapore | 13h |
Sydney | 23h (with layovers) |
Summary: Flight Times to Amsterdam
So, “Amsterdam how long is the flight?” really depends on where you're coming from. Flights from Europe are quick and convenient, often under two hours. From North America, expect around 7–11 hours. And from Asia or Oceania, prepare for a long-haul journey of 13–23 hours, often with layovers.
Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, understanding how long it takes to fly to Amsterdam helps you better plan your adventure. With world-class amenities at Schiphol and excellent global connections, your trip to Amsterdam is off to a good start the moment you take off.
FAQ: Amsterdam Flight Time
-
How long is the flight from New York to Amsterdam?
About 7 hours and 15 minutes direct. -
Is there a direct flight from the US to Amsterdam?
Yes, from major cities like New York, Chicago, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. -
How far is Amsterdam by air?
It depends on your origin. From New York, it’s around 3,650 miles (5,875 km). -
What’s the fastest flight to Amsterdam?
Short hops from London, Brussels, or Paris usually take under 90 minutes.