Amsterdam Airport to Amsterdam Central
Last Updated on March 4, 2025 by Lauren Allen
If you’re heading to the Dutch capital any time soon, you may be wondering how to get from Amsterdam Airport to Amsterdam Central. Is it a long journey? What methods of transportation can you use? How much does it cost?
After successfully navigating the same journey several times as a frequent traveller to Amsterdam, I’m here to give you the complete low-down.
How to get from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central
As a quick summary, in this post, I will cover:
- The easiest way to get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam city centre
- Getting the bus from Amsterdam Airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station
- Catching a taxi or Uber into Amsterdam city centre
- Options for luxury transfers
- How much each method of transportation will cost
- FAQs about getting to Amsterdam city centre from the airport
The fastest way to get to Amsterdam city centre from the airport
Looking for the quickest and most convenient way to get into the centre of Amsterdam? If so, you should opt to travel by train.
Once you arrive at the train station, you’ll find a departure board displaying schedules and platforms. Look for trains heading to Amsterdam Central Station. This is the main train station in Amsterdam located in the heart of the city.
As well as being the fastest option, it’s also the most popular. As one of the most visited cities in Europe, train services into the city are super regular to keep up with demand.
With trains running throughout the night, you’re pretty much covered no matter what time you arrive. However, it’s worth noting that the later it gets, there are fewer trains. For example, here’s an approximate timetable:
| 05.55am – 08.00am | Every 10 – 20 minutes |
| 08.00am – 23.30pm | Every 5 – 10 minutes |
| 23.30pm – 00.00am | Every 10 – 20 minutes |
| 00.00am – 01.00am | Every 30 minutes |
| 01.05am – 05.55am | Every hour or so |
A quick note: Timetables can change at any time. While I aim to keep this post up to date, you should double-check for yourself.
Where is the train station at Schiphol Airport?
As one of the largest airports in Europe, it’s no surprise that Amsterdam Airport is HUGE. With three departure halls, it can take quite a while to exit the airport upon arrival. In fact, I always forget quite how long it takes to even exit the terminal.
To get to Schiphol Plaza, make your through the terminal, pass through passport control then catch the escalator or lift downstairs. Follow the yellow signs and after a couple of minutes, you’ll be at the train station. It’s as easy as that!
Thanks to its location inside the airport, it’s easy to travel to anywhere in the Netherlands from Amsterdam Airport.
How do I buy train tickets at Amsterdam Airport?
Before boarding the train, you need to purchase a ticket. While you can buy tickets from the ticket counters, using the ticket machines is much easier (and quicker). You can find lots of ticket machines near the entrance to the train station. The ticket machines accept both card and cash payments.
How much is a train ticket from Schiphol Airport to the city?
A one-way journey from Amsterdam Airport to Central Station costs €6. You can use it immediately upon purchase. Remember to keep your ticket handy just in case you’re asked to present it during the journey.
How long is the train ride from Amsterdam airport to the city centre?
The journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes, getting you into the city in no time at all. Trains from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central are operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), the national railway of The Netherlands.
Where is Amsterdam Central Station?
Central Station is located right in the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam. Once you exit the station, you’ll find yourself within walking distance of many hotels, restaurants and popular attractions. Plus, the building itself is a work of art so it’s well worth checking out as you jump off the train!
Travelling from Amsterdam Airport to the city centre by bus
Although catching the bus isn’t the most popular public transport method, there are still options if you’re not a fan of trains. Something to keep in mind is that the journey takes much longer compared to travelling by train.
For example, the train takes around 20 minutes, while travelling by bus takes almost an hour. You will also need to make a change halfway through the journey. Furthermore, the buses run less often, making this option way less convenient.
If you do opt to catch the bus, the bus station is located just outside of the airport terminal. All you need to do is follow the well-marked signs along the designated paths to reach the departure point.
In terms of the journey, you need to catch the number 369 to Plein ’40 – ’45 then either the 21 or 22 bus towards Central Station.
How do I pay for the bus from Amsterdam Airport?
Buying bus tickets is easy. You can either purchase one using the ticket machines at the bus station or buy one on board with the driver.
How much does a bus ticket cost from Amsterdam Airport to the city centre?
The ticket costs €5, making it slightly cheaper than travelling by train.
Getting a taxi from Schiphol Airport Amsterdam to the city
If you prefer a door-to-door service, you may want to get a taxi (or Uber) into the city instead. Although this is much more expensive, it’s the most hassle-free option when compared to other routes. It may be worth it if you’ve had a long journey or if you’re travelling in the early hours.
As you leave the airport, you’ll find the taxi stands just outside of the terminal building. Follow the signs directing you to the designated taxi area, where an array of taxis await to drive you to your destination.
To ensure a smooth journey, I recommend having the address of your hotel (or hostel) ready. Before jumping in, ask your driver for an estimated fare so that you’re not hit with any nasty surprises.
Opting for a taxi from Amsterdam Airport gives you a seamless and direct transfer to your destination. You won’t need to navigate public transport with heavy luggage. While it may be more expensive compared to other methods of transport, the convenience and comfort are worth it.
How much is a taxi from Amsterdam airport to the city centre?
Since this will depend entirely on where you are going in the city, it’s hard to say. However, you can expect to pay around €45 – €65 for a taxi from Amsterdam Airport to the city centre. Told ya… It’s not cheap!
How much is an Uber from Amsterdam airport to the city centre?
Again, this will vary. However, as standard, the journey will set you back €30 – €40 (making it cheaper than a standard taxi).
Luxury transfers from Amsterdam Airport into the city centre
For the fanciest option, you can opt for an airport transfer or luxury taxi from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.
Schiphol Business Taxi
Offering a luxury experience, Schiphol Business Taxis do everything they can to ensure a pleasant experience. Tea and coffee enthusiasts will be in their element as free tea and coffee are available if you’re travelling from the airport. Furthermore, each car (or minibus) is of a high standard and offers privacy glass and free wifi.
With prices starting from €62, you may find it’s cheaper to book a Schiphol Business Taxi than a standard taxi. Upon arrival, it’s worth doing a bit of digging as you could end up paying less for a nicer transfer experience. Just ask around!
A quick note: Although these luxury options are aimed at businessmen and women, you can opt to use their service if you wish. It’s completely up to you!
Should I buy an Amsterdam and Region Travel Ticket?
Offering a convenient solution for exploring beyond the city centre, the tourism board sells Amsterdam & Region Travel Tickets. These tickets grant you unlimited access to public transport outside of the bustling city centre (including the airport).
The prices of the travel tickets are as follows:
- One day: €21
- Two days: €31.50
- Three days: €40.50
If you have your sights set on destinations like Keukenhof Gardens, Zaanse Schans, or Amsterdam Beach, these tickets are worth considering. However, it’s essential to do some research and factor in the rest of your itinerary before deciding as it may be cheaper to buy train tickets separately.
This pass is different to the Iamsterdam City Card which offers free and discounted entry into many attractions across the Dutch capital. However, unlike the city card, the Amsterdam and Region travel ticket DOES include transportation between the city and the airport.
FAQs about getting to Amsterdam city centre from the airport
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is just over 11 miles away from the city centre.
Ultimately, you can either travel by train, bus, taxi, Uber or luxury transfer. Depending on your chosen option, you may need to walk for a short period of time to where you are staying in Amsterdam.
Conclusion
There we have it! A complete guide to travelling between Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and the city centre. While there are many transportation methods, I personally recommend travelling by train as it’s often the most convenient option.
I hope this guide on travelling from Amsterdam Airport to Amsterdam Central has been helpful!
