How to get from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) to your hotel
Compare prices and travel times for the best transfer options to Amsterdam
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is located 9km southwest of the city center. It uses a 'One Terminal' concept, meaning all departure halls are under one roof. The NS train station is located directly below the main hall and connects to Amsterdam Centraal in 14-17 minutes.
Want the easiest arrival from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol?
Pre-booking a private airport transfer works best when you arrive late, have lots of luggage, or just want a driver waiting at arrivals instead of comparing taxis and rideshare lines.
NS Train (Sprinter / Intercity)
The train is the fastest connection to the city. Platforms are located directly below Schiphol Plaza. Trains to 'Amsterdam Centraal' run every 10-15 minutes (fewer at night). The journey takes 14-17 minutes. You can use a contactless debit/credit card to check in and out (OVpay) or buy a ticket at the yellow machines.
Pros
- Fastest option (15 mins to Center)
- Station is inside the terminal
- 24/7 service (hourly night trains)
Cons
- Crowded during rush hour
- Limited luggage space on Sprinters
- Night service is less frequent
Map of hotels near Amsterdam Airport Schiphol AMS
Compare nearby hotels if you want an easier airport base after a late arrival, before an early departure, or when transfer simplicity matters more than staying in the city.
Best airport hotel picks near AMS
Three stays worth checking when the smoothest terminal-to-bed plan matters as much as the room itself.
Amsterdam Airport Express (Bus 397)
Bus 397 departs from platform B15-19 outside Schiphol Plaza. It does NOT go to Central Station but stops at strategic tourist hubs: Museumplein, Rijksmuseum, and Leidseplein. It takes 30-40 minutes. This is often better than the train if your hotel is in the Museum Quarter.
Pros
- Direct to Museum Quarter/Leidseplein
- Scenic route
- Good for hotels in Amsterdam South
Cons
- Slower than the train
- Does not reach Central Station
- Traffic delays possible
Taxi / Uber
Official taxis wait at the designated rank outside Schiphol Plaza. Follow the floor signs; avoid solicitors in the hall. A ride to the city center is metered and typically costs €55-€75 depending on traffic and destination. Uber is available but pick-up is usually at a specific zone (Exit B) which requires a short walk.
Pros
- Door-to-door service
- Private and comfortable
- Fixed price available if pre-booked
Cons
- Expensive (€60+)
- Risk of traffic jams entering the city
- Uber pick-up zone can be confusing
Have a layover at Schiphol?
See whether you should stay airside, use Holland Boulevard, head into Amsterdam by train, or book a transit hotel instead.