General Airport Information

Amsterdam International Airport (Schiphol) is the main airport in the Netherlands and one of the world’s leading hubs for international passenger traffic. Located around 21 km (13 miles) from the center of Amsterdam, it is known for being easy to navigate compared to other major European airports because it operates as a single-terminal complex. Even so, Schiphol is huge, modern, and packed with facilities, retail, dining, and tech-forward services that make travel smoother.

Serving flights from across Europe and long-haul destinations worldwide, AMS hosts virtually all major airlines, along with a strong presence of low-cost carriers. Whether you’re arriving, departing, or transferring, Schiphol is designed to work as a highly connected “airport city” where everything is concentrated under one roof.

Terminals

Many travelers call Schiphol’s departure halls “terminals”, but in reality, Amsterdam Airport is built as one integrated terminal building. The airport is divided into multiple Departure Halls and Piers, and most areas are connected, meaning you can move across the complex without leaving the terminal.

That said, there are a couple of exceptions: Piers H and M are not connected airside to the rest of the terminal in the same way as the other piers, so depending on your flight, you may need to follow specific signage and allow extra time to reach your gate.

Hotels

If you want maximum convenience, Schiphol offers airport hotels located inside the terminal, which are ideal for early departures, late arrivals, short stays, or long layovers. In addition, several hotels are within walking distance of the airport complex, and many more options can be found in the nearby areas for travelers looking for better value or specific amenities.

Staying in Amsterdam city center is also a popular choice, since Schiphol is well connected to the city by fast rail and road links.

Parking

Amsterdam Airport provides a wide selection of parking solutions designed for every travel style, including short-stay parking for quick drop-offs or pick-ups, long-stay parking for extended trips, and additional premium services for travelers who want a smoother experience.

Parking options range from covered parking garages to open-air lots, as well as valet-style services and dedicated areas for passenger pick-up and drop-off. The variety of choices makes it easy to select the best option based on budget, duration, and walking distance to the terminal.

Layover at the Airport

A layover at Schiphol can actually be a great part of your trip. The airport is well known for offering more than just the basics, with plenty of shopping, dining, relaxation spaces, and traveler services available throughout the terminal.

And if you have a longer stopover, you can take advantage of Schiphol’s excellent connectivity: Amsterdam city center is only about a 20–25 minute trip away under normal conditions. That makes it realistic to leave the airport, explore the Dutch capital for a few hours, and return in time for your next flight—depending on your schedule and security procedures.