Amsterdam Layover - Amsterdam Airport Schiphol AMS

Make the most of your Amsterdam layover with expert advice on navigating Schiphol Airport and reaching the city center.

To Amsterdam
30 min by train
Best transit
Schiphol Train Station to Amsterdam Centraal
Money
Skip airport FX (8-15%) and use a 0.2% FX option like Portability
Must-do
Explore the Rijksmuseum
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Where Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is on the map

What to do — by time you have

2 hours
Morning Rush

Catch the train to Amsterdam Centraal and grab a coffee at the famous Café Papeneiland in the Jordaan neighborhood.

4 hours
Afternoon Delight

Visit the Anne Frank House and explore the charming Nine Streets shopping district.

6 hours
Full Day Adventure

Take a stroll through the beautiful Vondelpark, visit the Van Gogh Museum, and enjoy lunch at a local café.

12+ hours
Full Day in Amsterdam

Visit the Rijksmuseum, explore the city's canals by boat, and enjoy dinner at a traditional Dutch restaurant like De Kas.

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Per-city YouTube short embed slot

Where to eat near Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Café Papeneiland
Jordaan

This cozy café serves delicious coffee and pastries in a charming setting.

De Kas
Oost

This former greenhouse turned restaurant offers seasonal Dutch cuisine in a beautiful setting.

Bocca Coffee
Centrum

This specialty coffee shop serves high-quality coffee and delicious sandwiches.

Haesje Claes
Centrum

This historic restaurant serves traditional Dutch cuisine in a cozy setting.

Foodhallen
Overamstel

This food market offers a variety of food stalls serving everything from burgers to sushi.

Lagkagehuset
Centrum

This Danish bakery serves delicious pastries and sandwiches in a cozy setting.

Money & FX tips

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Quick answers

How do I get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Centraal Station?

Take the train from Schiphol Train Station to Amsterdam Centraal Station, which takes approximately 30 minutes.

What are the best things to do in Amsterdam during a layover?

Visit the Rijksmuseum, explore the Anne Frank House, and take a stroll through the beautiful Vondelpark.

Can I use my credit card at Amsterdam's many coffee shops?

Yes, most coffee shops accept major credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

How much time do I need for a layover in Amsterdam?

At least 4 hours is recommended to see the city's main attractions.

Are there any free museums in Amsterdam?

Yes, the Rijksmuseum offers free admission on the first Friday of every month.

Can I take a day trip from Amsterdam to other cities in the Netherlands?

Yes, consider visiting Haarlem, Leiden, or Utrecht for a day trip.

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