Train from Amsterdam Airport to City Centre
Train from Amsterdam Airport to City Centre – Fast and Frequent Connection. Travel time: 20 min. from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central. Price: € 16 p.p. roundtrip. Availability: daytime (6 AM – 12 AM): 4–6 times per hour; nighttime (12 AM – 6 AM): once per hour.
Roundtrip Train Ticket — Airport – City Centre – Airport: € 16 p.p., including roundtrip transfer, online ticket and a free City Guide App with 100+ highlights.
Book your train ticketPros
- Fastest option to Amsterdam Central
- Economical
- Eco-friendly
- Frequent service between 6 AM and 12 AM
Cons
- Walk or transfer to reach final destination
- Not ideal with substantial luggage
- Rush hours can be busy
- Beware of pickpockets and luggage thieves
Amsterdam Airport Train
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport boasts excellent train connections to the City of Amsterdam. All trains are operated by NS (Dutch Railways), who maintain international standards for cleanliness, safety, reliability and punctuality.
Amsterdam Airport Train – Book your Tickets Online
Tickets are available at Schiphol Plaza from vending machines or the NS counter, but purchasing online is much more convenient and provides your tickets via email plus the City Guide App.
NS offers two classes: 1st class and 2nd class. Most travelers are satisfied with 2nd class for this 10–20 minute journey.
Getting from Gate to Train Station
Arrivals are on the ground floor. Follow the yellow “Trains” signs to reach the station within minutes. The train station entrance is in the middle of the covered Schiphol Plaza, with access to the underground train platforms via moving walkway or elevator. Note: train terminal access is only with a valid ticket.
Combining Train with Other Transport
- Bike Rental from Central Station — from €17.50 per day, including a wide range of bikes, online ticket, locks, anti-puncture tires, safety lights and excellent reviews.
- All-in Public Transport Pass — 1-day pass €18 p.p., 2-day pass €24 p.p., 3-day pass €30 p.p., including airport transfer, all GVB transport and free cancellation (24 hours).
Boarding the Right Train
Trains typically depart from tracks 1, 2 or 3. Amsterdam has approximately a dozen train stations, most directly accessible from Schiphol without transfers.
The vast majority of travelers head from the airport to the city’s main train station: “Amsterdam Centraal”. From there, you can easily walk into the old city center. And there are numerous connections to other modes of public transportation for the final leg of your journey: local buses, trams, metros, and also ferries to the North of Amsterdam.
- Western part: Amsterdam Lelylaan or Amsterdam Sloterdijk
- Southern part: Amsterdam Zuid or Amsterdam RAI
- Eastern part: Amsterdam Amstel, Amsterdam Muiderpoort or Amsterdam Science Park
- South-eastern area: Duivendrecht, Amsterdam Bijlmer ArenA, Amsterdam Holendrecht or Weesp
train
€16 RTFrequently asked questions
Planning Your Trip
How long does the train from Amsterdam Airport to the city centre take?
Around 20 minutes to Amsterdam Central Station — the fastest way to get to the city centre.
How often does the train from Schiphol to Amsterdam run?
Every 10–15 minutes from early morning until late at night, ensuring minimal wait times.
How long does it take to get from the gate to the Schiphol train platform?
Walking to the luggage belt and customs takes 5–20 minutes; luggage arrival 15–45 minutes; and from the luggage belt to the train platforms only a few minutes.
What time does the first train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central depart?
Around 5:30 AM, convenient for early arrivals.
What time does the last train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central depart?
Around 12:30 AM, with hourly night trains ensuring 24/7 service.
How do I get from Schiphol to Amsterdam by train if my flight arrives at night?
Night trains run hourly between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM after midnight.
Price Information & Purchasing
How much is a train ticket from Amsterdam Airport to city centre?
A return ticket from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central costs €16, including a free Amsterdam City Guide App.
Can I buy Amsterdam airport train tickets in advance?
Yes. Buying online avoids queues and saves time upon arrival.
Can I buy a return ticket for the Amsterdam airport train online?
Yes. Return tickets save time and effort.
Navigation & Train Station
Where do I catch the train at Schiphol Airport?
The train station is directly underneath Schiphol Plaza. Follow the yellow signs for “Trains”.
Is it easy to navigate the train station at Schiphol?
Yes. The station is relatively small, with just six tracks, and well-signposted in both English and Dutch.
How do I find the right train platform at Schiphol Airport?
Digital displays show destinations and departure times at the Schiphol Plaza entrance and on the underground platforms. Trains for Amsterdam usually depart from platforms 1, 2 or 3.
Popular Destinations
Can I take a train directly to other parts of Amsterdam besides Central Station?
Yes. Direct trains stop at Amsterdam Zuid, Amsterdam RAI and Amsterdam Sloterdijk. An online return ticket is valid for all Amsterdam train stations.
How long is the journey from Schiphol to Amsterdam Zuid or RAI?
Just 6–10 minutes.
How long is the journey from Schiphol to Amsterdam Sloterdijk?
Very quick and efficient, taking just 10 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Schiphol to the Amsterdam RAI Convention Center?
Yes. The journey takes about 10 minutes, then only a few minutes on foot to the entrance.
Can I take the train to Amsterdam Central Station if I’m heading to a cruise terminal?
Yes. Amsterdam Central is close to both the PTA (Passenger Terminal Amsterdam) and the river cruise docks. You can walk from the station or take a short taxi ride.
Travelling with a Disability
How accessible are the trains for people with disabilities?
Train platforms at Schiphol are equipped with ramps and elevators. Mobility aids are allowed for free if they meet NS standards. Professional assistance is available by advance booking (free) via the NS App or phone (+31 30 235 7822). A Travel Companion Card lets you bring your own travel companion for free.
Facilities
Is there space for luggage on the train?
Yes. Most trains have dedicated areas near the doors for larger suitcases. Keep an eye on your luggage.
What should I do if I lose something on the train?
Report it to the NS Lost & Found service via their online form.
Is Wi-Fi available on the trains?
Intercity trains have free Wi-Fi (select “Connections”, then “WiFi in the train”). Sprinter trains are not standardly equipped with Wi-Fi.
Is there a toilet on the train?
Intercity trains always have a toilet; most Sprinter trains do not. There are free toilets at Schiphol Plaza; Amsterdam Central has toilets for a small fee.
Do the trains have air conditioning?
Yes. The trains are modern and come equipped with air conditioning.
Can I get food or drinks on the train?
Trains do not have food or drink services onboard. Options are available at Schiphol Plaza or at Amsterdam Central Station.
Can I withdraw or change money at Schiphol before boarding the train?
Yes. There is a currency exchange desk and several ATMs available.
Safety & Reliability
Is the train from Schiphol to Amsterdam affected by weather, incidents, or maintenance work?
It is generally reliable. Rare and extreme weather conditions, such as heavy snow or storms, may cause delays. NS provides alternative transport by bus with valid ticket acceptance.
Is it safe to take the train from Schiphol to Amsterdam at night?
It is generally very safe at all hours. Trains are monitored by security personnel and cameras. Keep a good eye on your luggage.
Access to Information
How do I find my exact train time from Schiphol?
Trains run very frequently, reducing concern about specific departure times. Download the NS App for up-to-date departure times and platform information.
What’s the best way to get train updates in real time?
Digital boards at Schiphol Plaza and on the platforms provide live updates. Alternatively, download the NS App.
Terms & Conditions
Do I need to validate my train ticket before boarding?
Online-purchased tickets don’t require validation. Just show it on your phone when needed.
What happens if I go on the train without a ticket?
You will have to pay a hefty fine on top of the ticket price.
What should I do if I miss my train? Is my ticket still valid?
Don’t worry — your ticket is valid for the full day. The next train is usually within 10–15 minutes.
Is this a flexible ticket? Can I change or cancel it?
The ticket is valid for the full day of your reservation, allowing use despite delayed flights. Once booked, you cannot cancel it.