How Many Airports Does Amsterdam Have?

Wondering how many airports Amsterdam has ? Whether you're planning a first-time trip to the Netherlands or you're a seasoned traveler looking for flight options, it's helpful to know your way around the city's air transport infrastructure. Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most visited cities, and while most people associate it with a single major airport, there are actually a few nearby options you should be aware of.

Amsterdam's Main Airport: Schiphol (AMS)

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the primary and by far the busiest airport in the Netherlands. Located just 17 kilometers southwest of the city center, Schiphol is one of Europe’s top five busiest airports. It serves as the main hub for both international and domestic flights in and out of Amsterdam.

Key facts about Schiphol:

• IATA Code: AMS
• Distance from city center: ~20 minutes by train
• Main airline hubs: KLM, Transavia, EasyJet
• Facilities: Shopping, lounges, hotels, car rentals, e-gates

From Schiphol, you can easily get into Amsterdam by train, bus, taxi, or rideshare. It's well integrated into Dutch infrastructure and offers excellent passenger services. Most travelers flying to or from Amsterdam will use this airport.

Secondary Airports Near Amsterdam

While Schiphol is the main airport, there are a few secondary airports within driving distance of Amsterdam that can also serve as entry points, especially for budget travelers or those visiting other Dutch cities.

1. Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)

Located about 60 km south of Amsterdam, Rotterdam The Hague Airport is a smaller regional airport. It mostly handles European flights and is used by budget carriers like Transavia.

• IATA Code: RTM
• Travel time to Amsterdam: ~1 hour by car or train
• Best for: Cheap flights within Europe, quick entry with fewer crowds

2. Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

Eindhoven is about 125 km from Amsterdam and is mainly a hub for low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air. While farther away, it’s popular with those seeking cheaper flight deals.

• IATA Code: EIN
• Travel time to Amsterdam: ~1.5 hours by train or car
• Best for: Budget flights, especially to Eastern and Southern Europe

3. Lelystad Airport (LEL) – Future Expansion

Lelystad Airport, located around 55 km from Amsterdam, is expected to begin commercial operations in the near future as a secondary airport to relieve pressure from Schiphol. As of now, it's not yet open for regular passenger traffic, but it may be an important player in the coming years.

Tips for Choosing the Right Airport

Here are some quick tips to help you choose the best airport for your needs:

• Flying internationally? Schiphol is your best (and often only) choice.
• Looking for cheap European flights? Check Eindhoven and Rotterdam The Hague Airport.
• Staying in central Amsterdam? Schiphol offers the fastest transfer time.
• Need flexible travel dates? Compare prices from multiple airports; sometimes it’s cheaper to fly into one and leave from another.

How to Get from These Airports to Amsterdam

Schiphol to Amsterdam:

• Train: Direct trains every 10 minutes, ~20-minute ride
• Bus: Several lines operate to Amsterdam and nearby towns
• Taxi/Rideshare: ~€40–€60 depending on location and time

Rotterdam The Hague to Amsterdam:

• Train: Requires transfer in Rotterdam or The Hague; ~1 hour total
• Car: ~1 hour drive via A4

Eindhoven to Amsterdam:

• Bus + Train combo: Shuttle bus to Eindhoven Station + train to Amsterdam; ~1.5 hours
• Car: ~1.5–2 hours via A2

Summary: So, How Many Airports Does Amsterdam Really Have?

To put it simply:

• Amsterdam itself has one major airport — Schiphol (AMS).
• Two additional nearby airports — Rotterdam The Hague (RTM) and Eindhoven (EIN) — serve Amsterdam with budget and regional flights.
• A future fourth option , Lelystad (LEL), may open soon.

So technically, Amsterdam is directly served by one airport, but including nearby alternatives, you have 3 to 4 viable options depending on your route, budget, and convenience.

FAQ

Is Schiphol the only airport in Amsterdam?

Yes, Schiphol is the only airport located in Amsterdam. However, other airports within 1–2 hours can also serve your trip.

Which airport is best to fly into for visiting Amsterdam?

Schiphol (AMS) is the best and most convenient. It offers the most flights and fastest access to the city.

Are budget flights available to Amsterdam?

Yes, budget carriers often fly into Eindhoven or Rotterdam The Hague. These airports offer cheaper options but require more travel time to reach the city.

Is Lelystad Airport open?

No, as of now Lelystad Airport is not open for regular commercial flights, but plans for expansion continue.