MAIN AIRPORTS IN AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam, as a major international gateway, boasts several airports that serve the city and its surrounding regions. This chapter provides an overview of the main airports in and around Amsterdam, each with its unique characteristics and functions.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS):

  • Location: Schiphol is situated approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) southwest of Amsterdam’s city center.
  • Overview: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the largest and busiest airport in the Netherlands and one of the primary international airports in Europe. It serves as a crucial hub for both domestic and international flights. Schiphol features extensive passenger services, shopping, dining, and various transportation options to the city center.
  • Facilities: The airport offers an array of facilities, including lounges, duty-free shops, restaurants, and business services.
  • Transport to City Center: The airport is well-connected to the city by train, bus, and taxi. A direct train service from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central Station takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM):

  • Location: Rotterdam The Hague Airport is approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Amsterdam’s city center.
  • Overview: While smaller than Schiphol, this regional airport is a convenient alternative for travelers heading to Amsterdam, especially those from the south of the Netherlands and Belgium. It offers scheduled flights to various European destinations.
  • Facilities: The airport provides essential services, including restaurants, car rental, and taxi services.
  • Transport to City Center: A direct train from Rotterdam Central Station to Amsterdam Central Station takes around 40-50 minutes, offering an efficient way to reach the Dutch capital.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN):

  • Location: Eindhoven Airport is situated approximately 123 kilometers (76 miles) south of Amsterdam.
  • Overview: Eindhoven Airport primarily serves as a regional airport, with a focus on low-cost and leisure travel. It connects to a range of European destinations.
  • Facilities: The airport offers services like car rental, dining, and shopping.
  • Transport to City Center: Travelers can take a direct train from Eindhoven Central Station to Amsterdam Central Station, with the journey lasting around 90-100 minutes.

Lelystad Airport (LEY):

  • Location: Lelystad Airport is located approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) east of Amsterdam.
  • Overview: Although primarily a general aviation and pilot training airport, Lelystad Airport is set to expand its operations to include commercial flights in the future.
  • Facilities: As of the expansion, the airport will likely provide standard passenger services, car rental, and dining options.
  • Transport to City Center: Once commercial operations commence, travelers will have transportation options to reach Amsterdam.

Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ):

  • Location: Groningen Airport Eelde is situated approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) northeast of Amsterdam.
  • Overview: This regional airport serves the northern part of the Netherlands, providing connections to a few European destinations.
  • Facilities: The airport features basic services, including car rental and dining.
  • Transport to City Center: Travelers can take a train from nearby Groningen Central Station to Amsterdam Central Station, a journey that takes approximately 2.5-3 hours.