Schiphol Airport Transfers | Getting to Amsterdam

Arriving at Schiphol Airport? Here’s everything you need to know to get into Amsterdam quickly, safely, and affordably using public transport or other transfer options.

Options for getting from Schiphol to Amsterdam City

1. Train (Fastest & Most Convenient)

• Duration: 15–20 minutes to Amsterdam Centraal
• Operator: NS Dutch Railways
• Frequency: Every 10–15 minutes during the day
• Tickets: OVpay, NS ticket, or printed ticket
• Tip: Trains run from the Schiphol train station, located directly under the airport terminal.

Pros: Fast, frequent, affordable
Cons: May be crowded during peak hours

2. Airport Shuttle / Bus

• Local buses: Connect Schiphol to nearby suburbs and parts of Amsterdam not directly served by trains
• Examples: Bus 197 to Amsterdam Zuid, Bus 397 to Sloterdijk
• Tickets: OVpay, GVB day pass, or single bus ticket

Pros: Covers areas outside central Amsterdam
Cons: Slower than trains, fewer options late at night

3. Taxi / Rideshare

• Duration: 20–30 minutes to city center (traffic-dependent)
• Cost: ~€40–50 for a standard taxi
• Rideshare: Uber and Bolt available at Schiphol
• Tip: Only use official taxi stands outside arrival halls. Avoid unlicensed drivers.

Pros: Direct, door-to-door
Cons: Expensive, traffic can delay travel

Tips for Schiphol transfers

Check your terminal

Schiphol has one main terminal, but train station and bus stops are clearly signed.

Peak travel hours

Trains may be crowded 07:30–09:30 and 16:30–18:30. Consider earlier/later departures if possible.

OVpay works on buses & trains

Tap with your card or phone for seamless payment.

Luggage storage

Schiphol has lockers if you want to explore briefly before heading into Amsterdam.