What Amsterdam Airport: Everything You Need to Know About Schiphol

Whether you're traveling to Amsterdam for the first time or you're a seasoned visitor, you've probably searched “what Amsterdam airport” to figure out what to expect. The answer is simple yet packed with details: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (IATA code: AMS) is the Netherlands’ main international gateway and one of Europe’s busiest airports.

Located just 9 kilometers southwest of the city center, Schiphol is renowned for its efficient design, modern facilities, and extensive connections. But what makes Amsterdam Airport unique? Let’s dive into everything from transport tips and terminal details to local insights and hidden gems.

1. What Is Amsterdam Airport Called?

Amsterdam Airport is officially known as Amsterdam Airport Schiphol , often referred to simply as Schiphol . It’s pronounced “Skip-hol” in Dutch. Schiphol is not just the largest airport in the Netherlands but also one of the top five busiest airports in Europe, serving over 70 million passengers in pre-pandemic years.

It’s a hub for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Transavia, and many international carriers, making it a crucial stop for flights across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa.

2. Location and Transport to the City

Schiphol is located about 20-30 minutes from Amsterdam city center by public transport. The airport is well-connected and incredibly easy to navigate:

• Train: Direct trains from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central Station run every 10–15 minutes, taking around 15–20 minutes.
• Bus: Bus 397 (Amsterdam Airport Express) runs between Schiphol and Museumplein, Leidseplein, and more.
• Taxi: A taxi to the city center costs around €40–€60, depending on traffic.
• Ride-shares: Uber and Bolt are both available at designated pickup zones.

Tip: Use the NS app or Google Maps for real-time transit info.

3. Airport Terminals and Layout

Schiphol operates with a single-terminal concept , which means all gates and services are housed under one roof, divided into three main departure halls (1, 2, and 3). This makes connections easier and minimizes the need for long-distance transfers between terminals.

• Departure Hall 1: Mainly Schengen flights
• Departure Hall 2: Mixed-use, both Schengen and non-Schengen
• Departure Hall 3: Mostly long-haul and non-Schengen flights

Tip: Gates and services are clearly marked. If you have a short layover, you’ll appreciate how centralized everything is.

4. Airport Facilities and Services

Schiphol is more than just a transit point — it’s practically a city. Some top features include:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
• Lounges: KLM Crown Lounges, Aspire Lounges, Privium Club
• Shops: Duty-free stores, Dutch souvenirs, luxury brands, and local chocolate
• Restaurants: From Starbucks to Dutch pancakes and sushi
• Rijksmuseum Art Exhibit: A mini-museum in the terminal!

For families, there are baby care lounges, playgrounds, and family-friendly restaurants. Business travelers can enjoy fast-track lanes and dedicated workspaces.

5. Tips for First-Time Visitors

Here are a few practical tips to make your experience smooth:

• Arrive early: At least 2 hours for European flights, 3 hours for intercontinental.
• Use e-gates: For EU passport holders, these speed up the immigration process.
• Pack liquids wisely: Follow the 100ml rule for carry-ons.
• Currency: ATMs and currency exchange desks are available, but using a card is easier.

Bonus tip: Schiphol has some of the cleanest and most accessible restrooms in major European airports!

6. Layover Ideas at Schiphol

If you have a layover of 4+ hours, consider exploring:

• Inside the airport: Relax at a lounge, watch planes from the Panorama Terrace, or browse Dutch shops.
• Outside the airport: Take a quick train into Amsterdam for a canal walk or a meal in the Jordaan district.

Tip: The airport offers luggage storage, so you don’t have to carry your bags into the city.

7. Future Developments

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is undergoing several upgrades to improve sustainability and capacity. New terminals and a revamped baggage system are planned to handle increasing passenger numbers more efficiently and reduce wait times. This means future visits will only get smoother!

Summary and FAQ

Q: What is the name of Amsterdam Airport?
A: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS).

Q: How far is Schiphol from the city center?
A: About 9 km, or a 15–20 minute train ride.

Q: Is there just one terminal at Amsterdam Airport?
A: Yes, Schiphol uses a single-terminal layout divided into three departure halls.

Q: Can I leave the airport during a layover?
A: Yes, if you have enough time (at least 4–6 hours), trains to the city are fast and frequent.

Q: What makes Schiphol unique?
A: Its efficiency, central layout, art exhibits, and seamless transport options into Amsterdam.

Whether you're just passing through or using Schiphol as your starting point for a Dutch adventure, Amsterdam Airport is designed to make your journey easy and enjoyable.