How do I get from the airport to Amsterdam center?

See our transit guide above for all options: train, bus, taxi, and private transfer with prices and journey times.

Airport to Amsterdam City Center — Transfer Options & Prices

By Flavia Voican · Updated 2026-04-10

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Getting from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) to the city center is straightforward. Here’s the no-nonsense breakdown for all travelers.

Train (NS Train)

Take the NS train from Schiphol Station (directly connected to the airport terminal). Trains run every 5-10 minutes, 24/7. Journey to Amsterdam Centraal (city center) takes 15-20 minutes. Price: €10.50 single ticket (book on NS app or buy at machine). If you’re flexible, get a "Flex" ticket for €16.50 (allows changes).

Pros: Fastest option, reliable, no traffic delays, frequent departures. Ideal for business travelers who need to arrive on time. Families love the ease of navigating the station with luggage.
Cons: Can be crowded during rush hours. You’ll need to buy a ticket upfront—no onboard sales.
Best for: Business travelers (speed), families (stress-free), and budget-conscious travelers who want the best value. Avoid if you have heavy luggage and want door-to-door service.

Bus (Airport Express Bus)

The Schiphol Airport Express Bus (line 397 or "Airport Express") runs 24/7, 15 minutes apart. It stops at Centraal Station (15 mins), Dam Square (20 mins), and other key spots. Price: €7.50 single ticket (buy at kiosk or app). Journey time: 20-30 minutes (traffic-dependent).

Pros: Cheapest option, direct route to central stops. Great for solo budget travelers or small groups.
Cons: Slower than the train (traffic), less frequent than trains. Can be packed during peak hours. No seat reservations.
Best for: Budget travelers (saves €3+ vs train), backpackers, or those heading to hotels near Dam Square. Not ideal for families with strollers or late-night arrivals (less frequent at night).

Taxi

Fixed fare to Amsterdam Centraal (city center) is €50-60 (includes traffic). You’ll find taxis at the official rank outside the terminal. Journey time: 20-40 minutes (traffic varies).

Pros: Door-to-door service, no walking, perfect for late-night arrivals or heavy luggage. Families with kids or elderly members appreciate the convenience.
Cons: Expensive—costs 3x more than the train. Traffic delays can make it slower than expected.
Best for: Families (no transit stress), business travelers needing to rush to a meeting, or groups arriving after 11 PM when trains are less frequent. Avoid if you’re on a tight budget.

Private Transfer

Pre-book online via companies like Welcome Pickups or Airport Transfers. Price: €65-80 for up to 4 people (standard sedan). Includes meet-and-greet at arrivals. Journey time: 25-35 minutes (varies with traffic).

Pros: Luxury experience—driver meets you at baggage claim, speaks English, handles luggage. Perfect for groups or those wanting to relax immediately.
Cons: Most expensive option (costs 6x more than the bus). Overkill for solo travelers or short stays.
Best for: Business travelers (impress clients), families with multiple bags, or special occasions (honeymoons). Skip if you’re budgeting for Amsterdam’s other costs.

Quick Comparison for Your Travel Style

Budget travelers: Bus (€7.50) or Train (€10.50). The bus saves €3, but the train is faster and less crowded. For a group of 2+, the train is still cheaper per person than taxi.

Families: Train (€10.50/person) wins. Easy to navigate with strollers, no traffic worries, and arrives at Centraal where hotels are clustered. Taxi is convenient but pricey for families.

Business travelers: Train (15-20 mins, €10.50) or Taxi (€50-60, 20-40 mins). The train is the smart choice for time efficiency and cost. Only choose taxi for urgent meetings or late-night flights.

Pro Tips

• Buy train tickets via the NS app (cheaper than machines) or at the station. Avoid "NS Flex" unless you need flexibility—it’s €6 extra for no real benefit on this route.

• The bus stops at Centraal (not the airport building), so follow signs for "Bus Stop" after clearing security.

• Taxi apps like Uber aren’t cheaper than fixed fares—stick to the rank. Never take unmarked taxis.

• For airport transfers, avoid "shuttle vans" selling €15 rides—they’re unreliable and often skip stops.

Bottom line: The train is your best all-rounder. It’s fast, affordable, and hassle-free. Skip the bus if you value time, and save the taxi/private transfer for when you’ve already spent €50 on a flight and want to relax.

Plan Your Trip

🚕 GetTransfer — fixed price airport transfer
🚕 Kiwitaxi — compare transfer prices
🚕 Welcome Pickups — meet & greet service
🚕 intui.travel — budget transfers
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Flavia's Personal Notes — Amsterdam

Rent a bike but be careful — the bike lanes have their own traffic rules and locals will yell at you. Vondelpark for a free afternoon. The Anne Frank House needs tickets weeks in advance. I love the Jordaan neighborhood for canal-side coffee. Don't bother with the Red Light District tour.

— Flavia Voican, who has actually visited Amsterdam

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