General Information About Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol serves as the principal international airport of the Netherlands and serves as home for KLM and its regional affiliates such as Corendon Dutch Airlines, Martinair, Transavia and TUI Fly Netherlands.

EasyJet operates its main base here. Located 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) southwest of Amsterdam in Haarlemmermeer in North Holland Province, EasyJet calls this their European low-cost base home.

History of the Airport

The airport first began as a military airbase in 1916 and expanded after World War I. Civilian use began at this airfield in 1920 and over time its military use gradually faded away.

Name Origins: Schiphol's name derives from Fort Schiphol, part of Stelling van Amsterdam defense works. Before construction of an airport airfield on this location began, there was a lake on site where ships would often sink during violent storms.

Shopping: No matter your travel plans, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has plenty to offer visitors of all stripes. The shopping area located just before passport control features numerous shops and eateries to keep visitors entertained during their time at Schiphol.

At this stop you will be able to buy perfume, cosmetics, souvenirs, tobacco products, wine and liquor as well as chocolate; designer clothing handbags; as well as practical items from world-renowned Rijksmuseum which displays original works on display.

Transportation:

The airport can be reached via bus, and private and shared taxi services can also be reserved online. A typical journey into central Amsterdam should take 15-30 minutes depending on time of day and traffic conditions.

How to Get From Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Haarlemmermeer Center by Public Transport

If you want to avoid the hassle of renting a car and taxi prices, public transport offers a viable alternative between Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Haarlemmermeer center. With trains, buses and trams all offering service here in Amsterdam you should find your ideal route easily.

Train is the fastest and easiest way to travel between Schiphol airport and Amsterdam city centre, usually taking 17 minutes from start to finish and operating day and night. Tickets can be booked either online or at ticket machines at Schiphol, providing convenient round trip transport between Schiphol and Central Station (Amsterdam CS).

Or use an Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket for unlimited public transportation use within its territory - trains, buses and trams operated by GVB, Connexxion and EBS services as well as NS trains - throughout your stay in Amsterdam & Region.

To travel from Schiphol Plaza hall downstairs directly to one of the train stations, take either an escalator or lift and head directly towards one. Tickets can be purchased either online, or from yellow NS machines.

As soon as you arrive at a railway station, it is wise to inspect for planned maintenance work as this could delay your trip. Also ensure there is space on board the train for all bags you plan to bring with you and beneath its platform for them.

Bus travel may not always be cheaper than taking the train, but it often provides faster connections.

Connexxion public transportation offers convenient bus services from Amsterdam Airport to Haarlem that may be more efficient than taxi services; however, you will still have to transfer trains at Sloterdijk station before reaching your final destination.

Another option for traveling from the airport to city centre is taking a taxi, with fees between EUR50 and EUR70 depending on where you book it from. Taxis take approximately 30-40 minutes but you could save money if you book early!

If you prefer not to take public transportation, private shuttles and vans may also be available as alternatives; one-way rates begin from EUR46 with sedan cars.

Keukenhof Tulip Busses

There are various bus lines running to Keukenhof gardens and the tulip fields from various cities across Holland, such as Amsterdam, Haarlem and Leiden. Each bus departs several times each day from these locations and you can purchase a combined ticket that covers entrance to Keukenhof as well as return transportation back home.

For more information about Keukenhof shuttle buses, visit their website. You'll also find details on traveling to Keukenhof with bus timetables and attractions you should stop at along your route.

If you prefer an alternative mode of transport from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Haarlemmermeer, consider hiring a private transfer. This should cost between EUR46 and EUR60 but if you shop around you may find cheaper options available.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol Amenities & Services

As one of Europe's five busiest airports, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is always buzzing with activities and shopping opportunities. This large airport operates with one easily navigable terminal centered on an expansive shopping plaza filled with everything from local fresh foods to high-end fashion brands, electronics, and duty-free items - not forgetting duty free products too!

Dining: With so many restaurants to choose from ranging from fast food options like Kebaya and Leon to sit-down eateries such as Cafe Coco or La Place -- both offering quality fast-food offerings - there's sure to be something delicious here for every palate! For something traditional with an Amsterdam flair there is even Moods; serving comfort food with an artistic Dutch touch!

Shopping: There are an assortment of shops to explore, ranging from newsagents and tobacconists to florists and duty-free stores offering everything from perfumes and high fashion items to name-branded clothing and jewelry.

Lost & Found: For those who've left something at the airport during their travels, a 24-hour lost and found center with staff is available to them. Call 0900 0141 (EUR 0.40/min) to reach them directly, or visit Schiphol Plaza before security and lounges 1, 2, or 3.

Car Rental at Schiphol: At Schiphol there are various car rental agencies such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz and Sixt available that offer short and long term car rental solutions at Schiphol.