Option 1: Train Schiphol → Amsterdam Centraal
The train is the most popular option for travellers without much baggage.
- Journey time: around 17–20 minutes to Amsterdam Centraal
- Cost: a few euros per person; check the NS app for the current fare
- Frequency: 4–6 trains per hour during the day, less often at night (Nachtnet)
- Advantage: fast, cheap, no traffic jams
- Disadvantage: the railway station is beneath Schiphol Plaza — with heavy suitcases it is a hassle. And you are not yet at your final destination afterwards.
Good to know
The train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Fewer trains run at night, but there is always a connection (Nachtnet).
Option 2: Taxi from Schiphol to Amsterdam
A taxi takes you directly to your final destination — no changes, no lugging suitcases around.
- Journey time: 20–35 minutes depending on traffic and destination
- Cost (fixed price): a fixed-price taxi from Schiphol to Amsterdam costs €72.50 for the whole car (1–4 people)
- Advantage: door to door, even with large baggage, a child seat, a folded wheelchair
- Disadvantage: more expensive than the train, especially if you travel alone
With more people you share the fixed price, so the difference per person becomes smaller. And the comfort is incomparable — especially after a long flight.
Good to know
A fixed-price taxi from Schiphol to Amsterdam city centre costs €72.50 for the whole car (1–4 people). With 4 people that is about €18 per person — with a door-to-door service.
Option 3: Connexxion Bus (Airport Express 397)
Connexxion bus 397 runs from Schiphol to Amsterdam city centre (Museumplein, Leidseplein and Amsterdam Centraal).
- Journey time: around 30–40 minutes
- Cost: €6.50 single when bought online (checked in October 2026)
- Frequency: around every 10–15 minutes during the day
- Advantage: stops at popular tourist spots (Rijksmuseum, Vondelpark)
- Disadvantage: slower than the train, no guaranteed seat with baggage
Option 4: Uber from Schiphol
Uber is available at Schiphol, but bear the following in mind:
- Cost of UberX: variable; at busy times the price can rise sharply (surge pricing). You see the price in the app beforehand
- Pick-up point: Uber has a special pick-up zone at Schiphol (not right by the exit)
- Advantage: app-based, familiar interface
- Disadvantage: no fixed price, surge pricing when busy, less personal than a local taxi company
Which option is best for you?
Our recommendation per situation:
- Solo traveller with hand luggage: train — fast and cheap
- Couple or family with suitcases: taxi — door to door, no changes
- Arriving after midnight: taxi or Nachtnet train
- Group of 3–4 people: taxi — slightly more expensive per person than the train, but door to door
- Tourist heading for the Rijksmuseum: bus 397 — stops at Museumplein
For travellers with baggage, children or a late arrival, a taxi from Schiphol is almost always the most comfortable choice.
Good to know
After a long intercontinental flight of 10+ hours, 7 out of 10 travellers choose a taxi — even if they would normally take the train. When tiredness sets in, comfort wins.
Return journey: from Amsterdam to Schiphol
Are you staying in Amsterdam and need to get back to Schiphol for your departure? AMS Taxi Schiphol picks you up at your hotel or address in Amsterdam — at a fixed price, including pick-up at the door.
Book your ride online or call +31 85 400 5400. You will receive a confirmation email with your pick-up time and the driver's name.
