Layover Guide

Amsterdam

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the primary international gateway to the Netherlands and one of the most efficient aviation hubs in Europe. Located just 9 kilometers southwest of the city, it offers unparalleled access to Amsterdam's iconic canals and cultural heritage. Whether you are staying within the terminal or venturing into the heart of the /netherlands, this guide will help you navigate your stopover with ease, even with a single airport serving the region.

By James Windsor|Reviewed August 18, 2026

32,000+ layovers planned

10 curated experiences for Amsterdam

Avg itinerary: 23s

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Home to These Airports

Airports in Amsterdam

AMS

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Schiphol is known for its 'one-terminal' concept. Utilize the luggage lockers in the basement of the terminal or near the gates to explore the city hands-free. Don't miss the Rijksmuseum annex located past security for a touch of Dutch art.

Where to sleepDay-use & overnight

Day-use & overnight hotels in AmsterdamFor long or overnight layovers when sleep is the plan — many airport hotels sell rooms by the hour.Find hotels →

Getting There

Find your flights through Amsterdam

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* Fares are compared live across airlines and agencies for your Amsterdam connection.

Flights to Amsterdam

Explore the City

Top Activities for an Amsterdam Layover

10 experiences to discover

0145 Minutes

Rijksmuseum Schiphol

Located between Lounge 2 and 3, this annex of the world-famous museum features rotating exhibitions of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces.

0 km (Inside Terminal) from airport

021-2 Hours

Canal Cruise

Take the train to Centraal Station and hop on a boat right outside. It's the most efficient way to see the city's historic architecture and UNESCO-listed waterways.

15 km from airport

032 Hours

Anne Frank House

A deeply moving historical site. Note: Tickets must be booked online months in advance; only suitable for long layovers.

16 km from airport

041 Hour

Dam Square & Royal Palace

The historical center of the city, featuring the Royal Palace, the New Church, and the National Monument.

15 km from airport

052 Hours

Van Gogh Museum

Home to the world's largest collection of paintings by Vincent van Gogh. Located at Museumplein, easily reachable by bus 397 from AMS.

14 km from airport

061 Hour

Schiphol Panorama Terrace

A must-see for aviation enthusiasts, offering incredible views of the runways and a real Fokker 100 aircraft you can board.

0 km (Airport) from airport

071 Hour

Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market)

The world's only floating flower market. A great place to see Dutch tulips and buy souvenirs (check customs regulations for seeds).

16 km from airport

081.5 Hours

A’DAM Lookout

Located across the water from Centraal Station (free ferry ride). Offers 360-degree views of the city and a 'swing' over the edge for thrill-seekers.

17 km from airport

091 Hour

Vondelpark

Amsterdam's largest city park. Perfect for a quick stroll or bike ride to stretch your legs between flights.

12 km from airport

102 Hours

Heineken Experience

An interactive tour through the history and brewing process of the world-famous Dutch pilsner.

14 km from airport

Viator selectionLive recommendations

Amsterdam Free tour World War II and Anne Frank

View on Viator

Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Amsterdam Free tour World War II and Anne Frank

Walk this Spanish tour through the period that made the pillars of civilization tremble and created one of the most moving stories of the 20th century. The greatest war conflict of the modern era.

Duration

1h 45m

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 3.8h total

Admission

Check on Viator

What you'll see

Attraction stop (10 mins)

The tour begins with the National Holocaust Monument and an introduction to the theme

Attraction stop (10 mins)

Stepping into Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter we will pay tribute to the memorial to the deaf Jewish victims at the hands of the Nazis

Attraction stop (10 mins)

In one of the secret parks of the city we will understand how Adolf Hitler won an election and his first years in office

Attraction stop (10 mins)

Already in one of the nerve points of the Jodenbuurt we will hear the emotional story behind the tram that crossed the neighborhood

+6 more stops

Ready to book for your Amsterdam layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator

Amsterdam Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour with Fun Guide

View on Viator

Fits your layover5+ hours layover

Amsterdam Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour with Fun Guide

Take a fascinating walk with me, an enthusiastic and knowledgeable expert, who brings to life the best Amsterdam highlights, hidden gems and historical sights through entertaining storytelling. You'll see the most interesting parts of the city within a sensible timeframe and at a relaxed, non-rushed pace. Not only will you learn about the things and the people that make the city famous, like the canals, coffeeshops, Rembrandt and Anne Frank; but you’ll also discover places only known to locals that are not found in tourist guides. My goal with this tour is to make you feel like you are part of the city instead of an outsider traveling through it. In other words, you’ll feel less like a tourist and more like a local. • 15 years of experience from exploring and filming Amsterdam • Get a very personal view, as I tell you stories about my life in Amsterdam as they relate to points of interest * Small groups, almost like a private tour * Take breaks along the way

Duration

3 hours

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 5h total

Admission

Check on Viator

What you'll see

Attraction stop (15 mins)

Royal Palace, Nieuwe Kerk, National Monument

Attraction stop (30 mins)

Discover secret places in the Old Harbor area.

Attraction stop (10 mins)

Walk in Rembrandt's footsteps around one of the oldest historical places of the city,

Attraction stop (40 mins)

Walk over many bridges over the famous beautiful canals.

+1 more stops

Ready to book for your Amsterdam layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator

* Tours are scored against your layover length — availability and pricing confirmed on Viator.

GetYourGuide selectionLive recommendations

* Suggestions load dynamically based on seasonal availability and ratings in Amsterdam.

Where to Eat

Where to Eat During Your Layover

Bowery Restaurant

International/Dutch$$$Hilton Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Grand Café Het Paleis

European$$Schiphol Terminal (Lounge 1)

The Pancake Bakery

Traditional Dutch Pancakes$$Prinsengracht (City Center)

Foodhallen

International Street Food$$Bellamyplein (West)

Moeders

Traditional Dutch Homestyle$$Rozengracht

Vleminckx de Sausmeester

Dutch Fries$Voetboogstraat

Shop & Browse

Shopping Opportunities

Schiphol Plaza

A massive shopping mall located before security, offering everything from Dutch cheese and tulips to electronics and fashion.

0 km

The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes)

Charming cobblestone streets in the city center filled with independent boutiques, vintage stores, and specialty shops.

15 km

Kalverstraat

The main commercial shopping street in Amsterdam, featuring international brands and department stores.

15 km

P.C. Hooftstraat

Amsterdam's high-end luxury shopping street, home to designers like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton.

13 km

Navigate

Getting Around During Your Stopover

Transport from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is exceptionally convenient. The NS (Dutch Railways) train station is located directly beneath the airport terminal. Trains to Amsterdam Centraal run every 10–15 minutes and take approximately 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, the Amsterdam Airport Express (Bus 397) provides a direct link to Museumplein and Leidseplein. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available at the official taxi rank outside Schiphol Plaza, while the GVB public transport network (trams and buses) is the best way to navigate the city center.

Good to Know

Essential Tips for Amsterdam Layover Travelers

Check your visa requirements for the Netherlands (Schengen Area) before leaving the airport.

Use the NS Train app to check real-time departures from Schiphol to the city center.

Store your carry-on luggage in the lockers located at Schiphol Plaza or the transfer areas.

Keep a light rain jacket or umbrella handy, as Amsterdam weather can be unpredictable.

Amsterdam is a cash-free friendly city; most shops and transport only accept debit/credit cards.

Rent a bicycle near Centraal Station for a truly local experience if you have at least 6 hours.

Allow at least 2 hours for security and passport control when returning to AMS for your flight.

Download an offline map of Amsterdam to navigate the winding canal streets.

Look for 'See Buy Fly' deals at the airport for tax-free shopping on luxury items.

Open the airport and route guides you need next

Keep your planning flow on Borderly by opening the local airport and route pages connected to this stopover.

Ams Amsterdam Airport

Community Discussions

Real Traveler Advice

TravelBug992 days ago

Does anyone know if immigration is fast at this airport during morning hours? We only have a 4 hour layover and want to see the main square...

AeroExplorer5 days ago

Just did this exact layover last week! A few tips: definitely take the express train instead of cab, it saves about 45 mins. Also make sure...

Travel lightBag drop

Luggage storageDrop your bags near the airport or in the centre so you can explore Amsterdam hands-free.Find storage →

Make Every Minute Count

Layover Time Management Guide

For short layovers (2-4 hours), stay within Schiphol (AMS). Enjoy the Panorama Terrace, visit the airport Rijksmuseum, or relax in the meditation center. For medium layovers (4-8 hours), take the train to Amsterdam Centraal. You have enough time for a canal cruise, a walk around Dam Square, and a quick Dutch meal. For long layovers (8+ hours), you can explore Museumplein, visit the Anne Frank House (if pre-booked), and enjoy a leisurely dinner in the Jordaan district before heading back to the airport.

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Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for a layover in Amsterdam?

If you are from a non-Schengen country and wish to leave the airport, you may need a Schengen Visa. Always check current Dutch immigration rules based on your nationality.

How far is Amsterdam city center from Schiphol?

Schiphol (AMS) is about 9-15 km from the city center. The train ride to Amsterdam Centraal takes roughly 15-20 minutes.

Can I store my luggage at Schiphol Airport?

Yes, there are luggage lockers located throughout the terminal and a baggage storage desk at Schiphol Plaza available for up to 7 days.

Is there a hotel inside Schiphol Airport?

Yes, there are several options including YOTELAIR and Mercure Hotel (located after security) and the Hilton or Sheraton (connected via walkway at Schiphol Plaza).

Is the tap water safe to drink in Amsterdam?

Yes, tap water in the Netherlands is of excellent quality and perfectly safe to drink.

What is the best way to get to the city center?

The NS train is the fastest and most cost-effective method, running directly from the airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station.

Are there showers at Schiphol Airport?

Yes, showers are available at the Mercure Hotel (Lounge 3) and in some of the airline lounges for a fee.

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