Cycling from the Airport to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a cyclist’s paradise. Therefore, we highly recommend booking a bike rental in Amsterdam. You can easily navigate most parts of the city on two wheels. Or you could join a guided bike tour in the city of Amsterdam or to the surrounding countryside and charming nearby villages.

However, when it comes to cycling from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam, there’s a minor hiccup. Presently, there is no bike rental at the airport. As it stands, the sole option for cycling from the airport to the city is bringing your own bike on the plane.

Rent a Bicycle in Amsterdam
Cycling time approximately one hour from the airport to the city center
Amsterdam Bike Rental from € 17,50 per day
Amsterdam Bike Tours from € 34,50 p.p.
Rental locations Central Station, Vondelpark, Rembrandtplein, Leidseplein, near Dam Square
Tour departures Central Station and Vondelpark

Pros

  • Amsterdam is a cyclist’s paradise — you can easily navigate most parts of the city on two wheels
  • Guided bike tours in the city or to the surrounding countryside and charming nearby villages
  • Bike rental includes a wide range of bikes, locks, anti-puncture tires and safety lights

Cons

  • There is no bike rental at the airport
  • Classic Dutch headwinds, occasional rain showers and a fair share of traffic lights

Beware of bicycle theft, a serious problem in Amsterdam. It’s advisable to store your bike indoors when not in use. If kept outdoors, ensure you double-lock (or even better: triple-lock) it with high quality locks and have comprehensive theft insurance.

Cycling from the Airport to Amsterdam

The bike ride from the airport to the city center takes approximately one hour. The first part of the route is on quiet, dedicated and signposted bike lanes. After a while you will have to choose between two bike lanes, one going to the south and one going to the west of Amsterdam. Once you reach the city borders, you will have to mingle with all the other traffic.

Make sure to brace yourself for some classic Dutch headwinds, occasional rain showers and a fair share of traffic lights. And last but not least, beware of bicycle theft, a serious problem in Amsterdam. It’s advisable to store your bike indoors when not in use. If kept outdoors, ensure you double-lock (or even better: triple-lock) it with high quality locks and have comprehensive theft insurance.

Amsterdam Bike Rental

Price: from € 17,50 per day. Different locations: Central Station, Vondelpark, Rembrandtplein, Leidseplein, near Dam Square.

  • wide range of bikes
  • locks
  • anti-puncture tires
  • safety lights
  • excellent customer reviews

Amsterdam Bike Tours

Price: from € 34,50 p.p. From Central Station and Vondelpark.

  • quality bikes
  • knowledgable, English speaking guide
  • small groups
  • flexible conditions
  • excellent customer reviews

bike

from €17.50/day
  • Travel time: ~1 hour
Book online

Frequently asked questions

What is the fastest way to get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam city center?

The fastest way to travel from Schiphol Airport to the Amsterdam city center is by train. Trains depart every 10-15 minutes from the platform located directly under Schiphol Plaza. The journey to Central Station takes about 20 minutes, and a roundtrip costs €16 including a free Amsterdam Audio Guide App.
👉 Find out more about the train or book your train ticket here

What is the cheapest way to get from Amsterdam Airport to the city centre?

The cheapest way to travel from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam is by bus. A return ticket to the southwestern city center costs €15 including a free Amsterdam Audio Guide App. Another economic -and faster- option is the train connection to the middle of the city at €16 for a return ticket (also including free Amsterdam Guide App).
👉 Find out more about the Amsterdam Airport Express Bus or book your bus ticket
👉 Find out more about the train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam or book your train ticket

How much does a taxi cost from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam city center?

A taxi from Schiphol Airport to central Amsterdam typically costs between €40 and €60, depending on traffic and your destination. The journey takes 20-30 minutes in off-peak hours, but it could take up to an hour during rush hour. For a hassle-free experience, make sure to use the Official Taxi Stand at Schiphol. Alternatively, you can book a safe and convenient private transfer at roughly the same price.
👉 Learn more about taxis at the airport
👉 Learn more about a private transfer from the airport

How often do trains run from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central Station?

Trains from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central Station run every 10-15 minutes throughout the day. The journey takes 20 minutes and a roundtrip ticket costs €16, including a free Amsterdam Audio Guide App.
👉 Learn more about the train from Amsterdam Airport to the city or buy your train ticket

How long does it take to travel from Schiphol to Amsterdam by train?

The train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central Station takes just 20 minutes and departs frequently, making it the quickest and most reliable way to reach the heart of the city.
👉 Find out more about the Amsterdam airport train or book your train ticket here.

Where do I catch the train to Amsterdam at Schiphol Airport?

The train platforms are located directly underneath Schiphol Plaza, a central area with shops and restaurants that you’ll encounter after passing through customs. Trains to Amsterdam typically depart from platforms 1, 2, or 3. Be sure to check the digital signs at the platform for “Amsterdam Centraal” if you’re heading to the Central Station.
👉 Find out more about the train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam or book your train ticket

Is there a direct bus connection from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam city center?

Yes, the Connexxion Bus 397 (Amsterdam Airport Express) is a direct service from the airport to the southwestern center of Amsterdam (Museumplein, Rijksmuseum, Leidseplein, Jordaan). Buses run frequently, and the journey takes 30-40 minutes. A roundtrip ticket costs €15 including a free Amsterdam Audio Guide App.
👉 Find out more about the Amsterdam Airport Express Bus or book your bus ticket

How far is it from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam city center?

Schiphol Airport is located about 15 kilometers (10 miles) from the heart of Amsterdam. You have several convenient transportation options to choose from, including public transport (trains and buses) or private services (taxis and private transfers). This website provides all the information you need to find and book the best option for your journey.

Is there a night bus or night train between Schiphol and Amsterdam?

Yes, there are both night trains and night buses for late arrivals or early departures. The N97 Niteliner bus and the night train to/from Amsterdam Central Station run every hour throughout the night.
👉 Check the specific Amsterdam Airport Train and Amsterdam Airport Bus sections for more info and tickets

What’s the best option for larger groups or travelers with heavy luggage?

For larger groups or those with heavy luggage, a private transfer is the most convenient option. It takes you directly to your destination and offers the highest level of comfort. Prices depend on your final destination, the number of passengers and the amount of luggage, and start at approximately €50.
👉 Learn more about a private transfer or book it here

Is there a shuttle bus service from Schiphol to my hotel?

Some hotels near Schiphol Airport offer free shuttle bus services, but Amsterdam city center hotels do not. The best alternatives are a comfortable private transfer, the fast train, and the economic Airport Express Bus.

Can I get a private transfer from the airport to Amsterdam?

Yes. For a private transfer from Amsterdam airport to the city, a fixed-price service is your best option in terms of reliability and price.
👉 Learn more about private transfer or book it here

Can I take an Uber from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam?

Yes, Uber is available at Schiphol Airport with several options including Uber Green, UberX, Uber Comfort, Uber Black, and Uber Van for larger groups. Prices can vary depending on demand and time of day, and usually range from €40 to €60. The journey takes 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours up to an hour during peak traffic. The ‘App Pick-up Point’, located outside Schiphol Plaza close to the Hotel Shuttles, is where Uber drivers await their passengers.

Can I rent a car at Schiphol Airport?

Yes, car rentals are available at Schiphol Airport, but renting a car is only recommended if you’re planning to explore multiple areas outside of Amsterdam. Parking in Amsterdam can be expensive and challenging. And inner city travel is more efficient by public transport, taxi or rental bike.

Is it possible to walk or cycle from Schiphol to the city center?

While technically possible, walking to the city center from Schiphol would take about 3.5 hours and is not recommended. Cycling (about 1 hour) is also an option, but only if you take your own bike, since there are no bike rentals at the airport. Renting a bike once you’re in the city is a very good idea.

What’s the best transport option from Schiphol to my conference in Amsterdam?

The best transport option depends on your conference location. If your event is at the RAI Convention Center, there’s a direct train from Schiphol Airport that takes only 10 minutes. For other venues, a private transfer takes you straight to the door — ideal when you’re carrying conference materials or luggage.
👉 Find out more about trains from the airport or book your train ticket here
👉 Learn more about a private transfer or book it here