Amsterdam’s Airport: Schiphol & Future Alternatives

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is one of Europe’s largest airports and often serves as a transfer hub for intercontinental travelers from Germany. But how many airports does Amsterdam actually have? Is it worth taking a trip into the city center if you have a longer layover? And how well connected is the airport if you're flying out of Amsterdam? Find the answers and more helpful information about the Netherlands' largest city in the following article.

Contents:

1. Overview of Amsterdam’s Airports

2. Among Europe’s Largest: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

3. Potential Relief: Lelystad Airport

4. Things to See in Amsterdam

Overview of Amsterdam’s Airports

Currently, Schiphol Airport is the only commercial airport serving the Dutch capital. Due to high traffic volumes and increasing regulations aimed at reducing noise and environmental impact, alternative solutions to ease congestion have been under discussion for some time. Lelystad Airport, located about 50 km from the city center, has been in talks for over a decade as a potential relief airport. There is also a shuttle train connection between Schiphol and Rotterdam The Hague Airport (70 km away), but the latter is not officially considered one of Amsterdam’s airports.

By the way: According to the Dutch constitution, Amsterdam is the official capital of the Netherlands. However, the government and royal family are based in The Hague, which is why that city is also sometimes referred to as the capital.

Among Europe’s Largest: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Officially named Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, this airport ranks among the largest in Europe and is also one of the busiest in the world. In 2024, only London Heathrow, Istanbul Airport, and Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris saw more passengers. When counting only international travelers, Schiphol ranks just behind Heathrow—highlighting its importance as a hub for connecting flights. In terms of aircraft movements, Schiphol is actually Europe’s busiest airport.

Layout & Special Features

Despite its size, Schiphol has only one terminal, which is divided into three departure halls. At the center is Schiphol Plaza, from which all parts of the airport can be accessed. Only section M, used by low-cost carriers, lacks direct access to other parts of the terminal. Planespotting enthusiasts will enjoy the large rooftop terrace, which is freely accessible even without a boarding pass. Passengers with a ticket can also access a small exhibition from the famous Rijksmuseum free of charge. When it was built in 1991, the airport’s control tower was the tallest in the world at 101 meters.

Transport Connections

Technically located in the municipality of Haarlemmermeer, Schiphol is only about 20 km from Amsterdam’s city center—very central by international standards. The airport is extremely well connected: trains run every few minutes during the day between the city and airport, and the ride takes no more than 15 minutes depending on your starting point. Around-the-clock service also includes connections to Utrecht, The Hague, and Rotterdam. The Eurostar stops at Schiphol as well, linking it to other major European cities. Regular bus connections from the city center are also available, and the airport is accessible via the Dutch motorway network by car.

Future Outlook

Except for a brief pandemic-related dip, Schiphol has been growing steadily for years. In 2024 alone, it recorded an 8% increase in passenger numbers and an 8.2% rise in cargo traffic. As a result, many expansion and renovation projects are underway or being planned. At the same time, legal regulations have already capped aircraft movements below actual demand levels. This is one of the reasons why Lelystad Airport is intended to provide relief.

Planned Relief: Lelystad Airport

Plans for relieving Schiphol Airport via Lelystad Airport have been in the works for some time. During peak travel seasons, smaller airlines and low-cost carriers could operate flights from there. In general, many intra-European flights could be shifted to Lelystad. Runways have already been extended for this purpose, but a final decision by parliament is still pending—primarily due to concerns from local residents about noise.

For German travelers, Lelystad Airport could become an appealing alternative to Schiphol. It is located significantly closer to the German border, making it much easier to reach by car.

Things to See in Amsterdam

Whether you're traveling from Amsterdam Airport to the city center or planning a longer stay, the city has plenty to offer. While the political center has moved to The Hague, Amsterdam remains one of Europe’s most culturally and historically significant cities. Highlights include:

Museums

Amsterdam is home to numerous outstanding museums. The Rijksmuseum specializes in classic Dutch art and displays famous works by artists like Johannes Vermeer and Rembrandt—his iconic Night Watch hangs here, among others. There's also a dedicated Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum for modern art.

Canals

Amsterdam is often referred to as the “Venice of the North” for good reason. The city’s center is crisscrossed by a vast network of canals, giving it a unique charm. Even aimless wandering becomes an experience here.

Cycling Tours

Despite having over 900,000 residents, Amsterdam is a cyclist’s paradise. Bike highways, dedicated lanes, and shared roads make it easy to explore the city on two wheels. The surrounding area is also easily accessible by bike—for example, a summer trip to the beach in the nearby coastal town of Haarlem is highly recommended and can even be combined with a visit to Schiphol’s panoramic terrace.

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