January 15, 2025

When traveling to Amsterdam, the Netherlands, there are several airports to choose from. The most popular and convenient airport to fly into is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), which is located just 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) southwest of the city center. Schiphol is a major international airport with direct flights to over 300 destinations worldwide. It is also a hub for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Delta Air Lines and offers a wide range of amenities and services, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, and currency exchange.

Another option for flying into Amsterdam is Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM), which is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of the city center. RTM is a smaller airport with a more limited number of flights, but it may be a more convenient option for those who are staying in the southern part of the Netherlands.

Ultimately, the best airport to fly into Amsterdam depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for the most convenient and well-connected airport, Schiphol is the best choice. However, if you are looking for a smaller and less crowded airport, RTM may be a better option.

What is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam?

When choosing the best airport to fly into Amsterdam, there are several key aspects to consider:

  • Location: Schiphol Airport (AMS) is the closest airport to Amsterdam, located just 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) southwest of the city center.
  • Size: Schiphol Airport is a major international airport with direct flights to over 300 destinations worldwide.
  • Convenience: Schiphol Airport offers a wide range of amenities and services, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, and currency exchange.
  • Connections: Schiphol Airport is a hub for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Delta Air Lines, making it easy to connect to other destinations in Europe and beyond.
  • Cost: The cost of flying into Schiphol Airport can vary depending on the airline and time of year.
  • Ground transportation: Schiphol Airport is well-connected to Amsterdam city center by train, bus, and taxi.
  • Alternative airports: Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) is a smaller airport located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of Amsterdam city center.

Ultimately, the best airport to fly into Amsterdam depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for the most convenient and well-connected airport, Schiphol Airport is the best choice. However, if you are looking for a smaller and less crowded airport, RTM may be a better option.

Location

The location of Schiphol Airport is one of the key reasons why it is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam. Its proximity to the city center makes it easy and convenient for travelers to get to and from the airport. There are several different transportation options available, including train, bus, and taxi. The train is the fastest and most convenient option, taking just 15 minutes to reach Amsterdam Centraal Station. The bus is a more affordable option, taking about 30 minutes to reach the city center. Taxis are also available, but they are more expensive than the train or bus.

In addition to its convenient location, Schiphol Airport is also a major international airport with direct flights to over 300 destinations worldwide. This makes it easy for travelers to connect to other destinations in Europe and beyond. Schiphol Airport is also a hub for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Delta Air Lines, which offer a wide range of flights to destinations around the world.

Overall, the location of Schiphol Airport is one of the key reasons why it is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam. Its proximity to the city center and its extensive network of flights make it a convenient and easy option for travelers.

Size

The size of Schiphol Airport is one of the key reasons why it is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam. Its large size means that it has a wide range of direct flights to destinations all over the world. This makes it easy for travelers to find a flight that meets their needs, regardless of where they are coming from or going to.

  • Extensive network of direct flights: Schiphol Airport has direct flights to over 300 destinations worldwide, making it easy for travelers to find a flight that meets their needs.
  • Hub for major airlines: Schiphol Airport is a hub for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Delta Air Lines, which offer a wide range of flights to destinations around the world.
  • Convenient connections: Schiphol Airport’s extensive network of direct flights and its status as a hub for major airlines make it easy for travelers to connect to other destinations in Europe and beyond.

Overall, the size of Schiphol Airport is one of the key reasons why it is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam. Its large size means that it has a wide range of direct flights to destinations all over the world, making it easy for travelers to find a flight that meets their needs.

Convenience

In addition to its convenient location and extensive network of flights, Schiphol Airport also offers a wide range of amenities and services, making it a convenient and comfortable place to travel through. These amenities and services include:

  • Duty-free shopping: Schiphol Airport has a wide range of duty-free shops, where travelers can purchase items such as perfume, cosmetics, alcohol, and tobacco without paying taxes or duties.
  • Restaurants: Schiphol Airport has a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a range of cuisines from around the world.
  • Currency exchange: Schiphol Airport has several currency exchange bureaus, where travelers can exchange their currency for euros or other currencies.

These amenities and services make Schiphol Airport a convenient and comfortable place to travel through. Travelers can easily find everything they need, from food and drinks to duty-free shopping and currency exchange.

Connections

Schiphol Airport’s extensive network of connections is one of the key reasons why it is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam. As a hub for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Delta Air Lines, Schiphol Airport offers a wide range of flights to destinations all over the world. This makes it easy for travelers to connect to other destinations in Europe and beyond, whether they are traveling for business or leisure.

  • Convenient connections: Schiphol Airport’s extensive network of direct flights and its status as a hub for major airlines make it easy for travelers to connect to other destinations in Europe and beyond.
  • One-stop connections: Schiphol Airport offers one-stop connections to over 300 destinations worldwide, making it easy for travelers to reach their final destination without having to change planes multiple times.
  • Short layover times: Schiphol Airport’s efficient design and short walking distances make it easy for travelers to connect to their next flight, even if they have a short layover time.
  • Global reach: Schiphol Airport’s extensive network of connections and its status as a hub for major airlines give travelers access to destinations all over the world.

Overall, Schiphol Airport’s extensive network of connections is one of the key reasons why it is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam. Travelers can easily connect to other destinations in Europe and beyond, making it a convenient and efficient choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Cost

The cost of flying into Schiphol Airport can vary depending on the airline and time of year. This is an important factor to consider when choosing the best airport to fly into Amsterdam, as it can have a significant impact on your travel budget. In general, the cost of flying into Schiphol Airport is higher during peak season (April-October) and lower during off-season (November-March). The cost of flying into Schiphol Airport can also vary depending on the airline you choose. Some airlines, such as budget airlines, offer lower fares than traditional airlines. However, it is important to compare the total cost of your flight, including baggage fees and other charges, before making a decision.

Here are some tips for saving money on your flight to Schiphol Airport:

  • Book your flight in advance. The earlier you book your flight, the more likely you are to get a good deal.
  • Travel during off-season. The cost of flying into Schiphol Airport is typically lower during off-season (November-March).
  • Choose a budget airline. Budget airlines, such as EasyJet and Ryanair, offer lower fares than traditional airlines.
  • Compare the total cost of your flight. When comparing flights, be sure to compare the total cost of your flight, including baggage fees and other charges.

By following these tips, you can save money on your flight to Schiphol Airport and get the best possible value for your money.

Ground transportation

One of the many reasons why Schiphol Airport is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam is its excellent ground transportation network. Schiphol Airport is well-connected to Amsterdam city center by train, bus, and taxi, making it easy for travelers to get to and from the airport. This is a major advantage, especially for travelers who are unfamiliar with the city and do not want to deal with the hassle of renting a car.

  • Convenience: The train is the fastest and most convenient option for getting to and from Schiphol Airport. The train station is located directly beneath the airport, and trains depart for Amsterdam Centraal Station every 15 minutes. The journey takes just 15 minutes, and tickets cost around 5.
  • Affordability: The bus is a more affordable option for getting to and from Schiphol Airport. The bus station is located outside the airport, and buses depart for Amsterdam Centraal Station every 30 minutes. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and tickets cost around 5.
  • Flexibility: Taxis are the most flexible option for getting to and from Schiphol Airport. Taxis are available 24 hours a day, and they can take you to any destination in Amsterdam. However, taxis are also the most expensive option, and fares can vary depending on the time of day and the distance of your journey.

Overall, Schiphol Airport’s excellent ground transportation network is one of the many reasons why it is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam. Travelers can easily get to and from the airport by train, bus, or taxi, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience.

Alternative airports

While Schiphol Airport is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam for most travelers, there are a few alternative airports that may be a better option for some travelers. Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) is a smaller airport located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of Amsterdam city center. RTM is a good option for travelers who are staying in the southern part of the Netherlands or who are looking for a smaller and less crowded airport. RTM has a limited number of flights compared to Schiphol Airport, but it does offer flights to several major European cities, including London, Paris, and Frankfurt.

One of the main advantages of flying into RTM is that it is a smaller and less crowded airport than Schiphol. This can be a major advantage for travelers who are looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of a large airport. RTM is also a good option for travelers who are on a tight budget, as flights into RTM are often cheaper than flights into Schiphol. However, it is important to note that RTM is not as well-connected as Schiphol Airport, and there are fewer flights to choose from. Additionally, RTM is located further from Amsterdam city center than Schiphol Airport, so travelers will need to factor in the cost and time of transportation when making their decision.

Overall, Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) is a good alternative to Schiphol Airport for travelers who are staying in the southern part of the Netherlands or who are looking for a smaller and less crowded airport. However, travelers should be aware that RTM has a limited number of flights and is located further from Amsterdam city center than Schiphol Airport.

FAQs about the best airport to fly into Amsterdam

When planning a trip to Amsterdam, one of the first things you’ll need to do is decide which airport to fly into. The Netherlands has several airports, but the best airport to fly into Amsterdam is Schiphol Airport (AMS). Here are some frequently asked questions about Schiphol Airport to help you plan your trip:

Question 1: Where is Schiphol Airport located?

Schiphol Airport is located just 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) southwest of Amsterdam city center. This makes it easy to get to and from the airport, whether you’re taking a taxi, train, or bus.

Question 2: What airlines fly into Schiphol Airport?

Schiphol Airport is a major international airport with direct flights to over 300 destinations worldwide. Some of the major airlines that fly into Schiphol Airport include KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Delta Air Lines, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Air France.

Question 3: What amenities and services are available at Schiphol Airport?

Schiphol Airport offers a wide range of amenities and services to make your travel experience as comfortable and convenient as possible. These amenities and services include duty-free shopping, restaurants, bars, currency exchange, and free Wi-Fi.

Question 4: How do I get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam city center?

There are several ways to get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam city center. The most popular and convenient way is to take the train. The train station is located directly beneath the airport, and trains depart for Amsterdam Centraal Station every 15 minutes. The journey takes just 15 minutes, and tickets cost around 5 euros.

Question 5: What are some alternative airports to Schiphol Airport?

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) is a smaller airport located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of Amsterdam city center. RTM is a good option for travelers who are staying in the southern part of the Netherlands or who are looking for a smaller and less crowded airport. However, it is important to note that RTM has a limited number of flights and is located further from Amsterdam city center than Schiphol Airport.

Summary: Schiphol Airport is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam. It is a major international airport with direct flights to over 300 destinations worldwide. Schiphol Airport offers a wide range of amenities and services, and it is well-connected to Amsterdam city center by train, bus, and taxi.

Next steps: Once you have decided which airport to fly into, you can start planning your trip to Amsterdam. Be sure to book your flights and accommodations in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.

Tips for Choosing the Best Airport to Fly into Amsterdam

When planning a trip to Amsterdam, one of the first things you’ll need to do is decide which airport to fly into. The Netherlands has several airports, but the best airport to fly into Amsterdam is Schiphol Airport (AMS). Here are some tips to help you make the best decision for your travel needs:

Tip 1: Consider your destination. If you are staying in Amsterdam city center, Schiphol Airport is the most convenient option. It is located just 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) southwest of the city center and is well-connected by train, bus, and taxi.

Tip 2: Consider your airline. If you are flying on a major airline, such as KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Delta Air Lines, or British Airways, you are likely to fly into Schiphol Airport. However, if you are flying on a budget airline, such as EasyJet or Ryanair, you may fly into Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM).

Tip 3: Consider your budget. Flights into Schiphol Airport are typically more expensive than flights into Rotterdam The Hague Airport. However, it is important to factor in the cost of transportation from the airport to your hotel. In some cases, it may be cheaper to fly into Schiphol Airport and take a train or bus into the city center.

Tip 4: Consider your travel plans. If you are planning on doing a lot of day trips from Amsterdam, it may be more convenient to fly into Schiphol Airport. Schiphol Airport is well-connected to other major cities in the Netherlands, such as Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht. Rotterdam The Hague Airport is not as well-connected, so you may have to take a train or bus to get to your destination.

Tip 5: Consider your luggage. If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, it may be easier to fly into Schiphol Airport. Schiphol Airport has a large baggage claim area and plenty of luggage carts. Rotterdam The Hague Airport is a smaller airport, so it may be more difficult to find a luggage cart.

Summary: Schiphol Airport is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam for most travelers. It is a major international airport with direct flights to over 300 destinations worldwide. Schiphol Airport offers a wide range of amenities and services, and it is well-connected to Amsterdam city center by train, bus, and taxi. However, if you are on a tight budget or are staying in the southern part of the Netherlands, Rotterdam The Hague Airport may be a better option.

Next steps: Once you have decided which airport to fly into, you can start planning your trip to Amsterdam. Be sure to book your flights and accommodations in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.

Conclusion

Schiphol Airport (AMS) is the best airport to fly into Amsterdam. It is a major international airport with direct flights to over 300 destinations worldwide. Schiphol Airport offers a wide range of amenities and services, and it is well-connected to Amsterdam city center by train, bus, and taxi.

When choosing an airport to fly into Amsterdam, it is important to consider your destination, airline, budget, travel plans, and luggage. Schiphol Airport is the best option for most travelers, but Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) may be a better option for travelers who are on a tight budget or are staying in the southern part of the Netherlands.

No matter which airport you choose to fly into, Amsterdam is a great city to visit. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history and culture. There is something for everyone in Amsterdam, from world-class museums and art galleries to charming canals and historic architecture.


Fly Smart: Unveiling the Best Gateway to Amsterdam