How to Get From Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam

The airport is about 15 km from central Amsterdam, and there are several good ways to cover it.

The short answer

Schiphol is about 15 km southwest of central Amsterdam. By train the journey to Amsterdam Centraal typically takes 15–20 minutes. By taxi or private transfer it usually takes 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic and where in the city you are going.

None of the options is wrong. The best one depends on your luggage, your address and the time of day.

By train

The railway station sits directly beneath the airport, a short walk from the arrivals hall. Trains to Amsterdam run frequently and also serve stations such as Amsterdam Zuid and Amsterdam Sloterdijk, which can be closer to your hotel than Centraal.

Ticket types and payment methods change, so check the Dutch Railways (NS) website or app for the current options before you travel.

The train is hard to beat for speed and cost if you have light luggage and an address near a station, tram or metro line. It is less comfortable with several large suitcases, because you will use escalators, lifts and platforms.

By bus

Some bus routes serve parts of Amsterdam and the surrounding region from the airport. They can suit addresses that the railway does not reach, but they are slower and busier with luggage. Routes and stops change, so check the current timetable and the airport’s transport information.

By private transfer or taxi

A private transfer takes you from the airport to your address without changes. It is the simplest option for heavy luggage, children, older travellers, groups and late arrivals.

Two practical points apply in central Amsterdam. First, many streets beside the canals are narrow or closed to cars, so ask your hotel where cars can stop. Second, traffic around the A10 ring road is heavier at commuter times, so journey times vary.

You can see the route details on our Schiphol to Amsterdam taxi page.

Which should you choose?

• Light luggage, central Amsterdam, daytime: the train is usually the best value.
• Heavy bags, children or limited mobility: a private transfer removes the hard parts.
• Late arrival after a long flight: a direct ride is often easier than finding the last suitable train.
• Group of three or more with luggage: compare the total cost of tickets with a single transfer.

Related pages

• Schiphol to Amsterdam taxi
• Taxi vs Train From Schiphol