Make the most of your layover in
Amsterdam
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol | AMS
by Chiara GiustiLast Edit: April 2025
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) operates as a single-terminal concept, divided into three departure halls and several piers. As the home base for KLM, it serves as a major hub for the airline and its partners, alongside numerous other international carriers. For passengers with layovers, Schiphol offers a wide array of activities within the terminal. These include extensive duty-free shopping, diverse dining options, the unique Rijksmuseum Schiphol annex showcasing Dutch art, a library, a casino, and various comfortable lounges for relaxation. The compact design makes navigating between facilities relatively easy.
Link to Airport's Official Website: https://www.schiphol.nl/
Transportation from Airport
Train
Bus
Taxi / Uber
Airport Transfer Services
Luggage Storage Options
Schiphol Baggage Storage Area
Bounce / LuggageHero
Must-See Attractions
Filter by:
Category
Price Level
Layover Duration
Showing 5 of 5 attractions:
Distance from Airport:20 km
Canal Tour
A quintessential Amsterdam experience, offering a unique perspective of the city's UNESCO World Heritage canals and architecture.
Our Tip: Boats depart near Amsterdam Centraal Station, easily accessible by direct train from Schiphol
Opening Hours:Various operators, typically 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
Distance from Airport:22 km
Anne Frank House
The hiding place of Anne Frank during WWII, now a poignant museum dedicated to her life and legacy.
Our Tip: Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues
Opening Hours:Daily 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM (April-October), 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (November-March)
Distance from Airport:15 km
Keukenhof Gardens
World-famous flower gardens showcasing millions of tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers.
Our Tip: Take the Keukenhof Express Bus 858 directly from Schiphol Airport
Opening Hours:Open mid-March to mid-May, 8:00 AM - 7:30 PM daily
Distance from Airport:18 km
Vondelpark
Amsterdam's most popular park, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic among locals.
Our Tip: Rent a bike near the park for a true Dutch experience
Opening Hours:Open 24/7
Distance from Airport:25 km
Zaanse Schans
Open-air museum featuring historic windmills, traditional Dutch houses, and artisan workshops.
Our Tip: Reachable by public transport (train + bus), offering a glimpse into traditional Dutch life
Opening Hours:The area is always accessible, individual attractions vary
Local Cuisine
Bitterballen
Deep-fried crispy balls, a classic Dutch pub snack traditionally served with mustard for dipping.
Frietjes
Dutch-style thick-cut fries often served with traditional toppings like peanut satay sauce, mayo, and onions.
Stroopwafels
Iconic Dutch sweet treat consisting of two thin waffles stuck together with a layer of sweet syrup.
Haring
Raw herring served in a small sandwich with pickles and onions, considered a Dutch specialty.
Kaas
World-renowned Dutch cheeses including varieties like Gouda, Geitenkaas, and Maasdammer.