How to get from Amsterdam Airport to Train Station

Transit Options from Amsterdam Airport to Train Station

Amsterdam Centraal Station sits right in the heart of the city and is the second-busiest rail hub in the Netherlands. It’s also a landmark in its own right. If you want to reach Amsterdam Centraal as soon as you land at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), your main choices are airport taxis, private transfers, a hire car, or the fast and reliable train connection.

Options Overview

Our Tip: Bus routes do operate from Schiphol (Connexxion and GVB routes), but they don't run directly to Amsterdam Centraal Station. Travelling by bus usually means changing routes, which makes the trip slower and more tiring.

Amsterdam Airport to Train Station by Taxi

Authorised Amsterdam airport taxis are available 24/7 at the official taxi rank (Taxi rank) outside Schiphol Plaza. Taking a taxi from the designated rank is essential to avoid scams. While serious taxi fraud is not common, isolated incidents have been reported involving individual drivers claiming to be licensed.

Official Amsterdam taxis don't have one fixed colour, but you can identify them by the roof “Taxi” sign, the company logo, and the taxi number. Their price list should be displayed on the exterior, and the licence and tariff details should also be visible inside the vehicle. Another useful detail: Dutch taxi number plates are typically blue.

The ride from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Centraal usually takes about 26 minutes. During congestion, the journey can stretch to 45–50 minutes. Amsterdam taxis are metered, but since the Dutch government mainly regulates maximum taxi rates, many companies offer fixed fares for popular routes. For Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal, you can usually expect to pay around £43–£52 (approximately).

Even if you agree on a fixed fare, the taximeter should still run. If the meter ends up showing a lower amount than the agreed fare cap, you pay the lower amount. Tipping isn’t required; many passengers simply round up when service is good. Payment is typically possible by cash or card, but if you plan to pay by card, it’s best to tell the driver before the ride begins.

• Our Tip 1: Since prices can differ by company, you can choose the taxi you prefer from the rank—no need to automatically take the first one in the queue.
• Our Tip 2: Ride-sharing services are also available at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

Important Note: The earlier “Athens Airport” reference is not correct for this section. If you keep the “recommended provider” block, it must be Amsterdam/Schiphol-related.

Recommended Private Taxi Provider

• Local English-speaking drivers.
• Set, pre-paid fee
• Flight monitoring for delays
• 24/7 customer support + free cancellation

Amsterdam Airport to Train Station by Train

Taking the train is the quickest and most cost-effective way to travel from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal. Both Sprinter services and Intercity Direct trains depart from Schiphol Airport Station and reach Amsterdam Centraal in approximately 14 minutes (Intercity) or 17 minutes (Sprinter).

Schiphol Station is located directly underneath the terminal and connects to Schiphol Plaza via lifts, escalators, and stairs. Trains operate 24/7, but frequency varies:

• 5:30 am – midnight: every 4–10 minutes
• Midnight – 01:00 am: less frequent
• 01:00 am – 05:30 am: roughly hourly

Ticket Options for the Train from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal

Depending on how long you'll be staying in Amsterdam and how much you'll use public transport, you can choose the most suitable ticket type:

1) OV-chipkaart (anonymous)

If you're staying longer and planning to use public transport a lot, the anonymous OV-chipkaart can be useful. It's rechargeable, works across public transport, and can be used by different people (but not at the same time). The card costs about 8.50€ (9$) and is available from the yellow machines at Schiphol Plaza. It typically requires a minimum top-up (often around 20€), so it's mainly worth considering for longer stays.

2) E-ticket (online ticket)

E-tickets are popular with visitors. You can buy them online, store them in the NS app, or keep them on your phone. They are personal, so you should carry an ID/passport/driving licence. A single ticket from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal costs about 4.90€ (5.20$). Return tickets are also available, but the return journey must be taken on the same day.

Children aged 4–11 can use a Railrunner ticket (often around 2.50€), whilst younger children typically travel free.

3) Single-use OV-chipkaart (disposable)

You can also buy a disposable single-use card from the yellow machines or ticket counters at Schiphol Plaza. This option usually includes an extra fee of about 1€, so the total fare becomes approximately 5.90€ (6.30$). Cash is typically accepted at machines (not always at counters), whilst counters often prefer card payments.

4) Amsterdam Travel Ticket

If you intend to use Amsterdam’s public transport a lot, an Amsterdam Travel Ticket can be a practical choice. It's available for 1/2/3 days and is usually priced at 18€ / 24€ / 30€. It includes unlimited public transport (including the Airport Express Bus 397) and is generally valid for second-class rail travel. Validity starts at first use and lasts until 04:00 am after the final day.

Tickets are typically sold at the Holland Tourist Desk and ticket machines at Schiphol Plaza, Connexxion counters (often at Bus Platform B9), and online. If you plan to explore beyond Amsterdam, consider the Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket. For broader Netherlands travel, the Holland Travel Ticket may be more suitable.

Regardless of ticket type, remember that you might need to check in and check out at station gates or scan your mobile ticket where required.

• Our Tip 1: Contactless payment has recently been accepted across parts of the NS rail network.
• Our Tip 2: Intercity Direct trains are usually a bit more spacious and may offer slightly more room for luggage.
• Our Tip 3: Off-peak hour discounts and group deals may be available, and early bookings can sometimes reduce fares.
• Our Tip 4: Night-time maintenance may affect travel time – check the NS website if you're travelling late.

Car Hire from Amsterdam Airport to Train Station

Renting a car is mainly suited to travellers who want maximum flexibility during their stay in Amsterdam and around the Netherlands. Schiphol hosts multiple international and local car rental providers, making it easy to compare offers. Early online booking is recommended for better prices and more vehicle choice.

The drive from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal typically takes around 26 minutes, but heavy traffic can significantly increase this time. Parking near Centraal is expensive and limited, so many travellers use the P+R (Park & Ride) system on the outskirts and continue by tube or tram into the centre.

Amsterdam Airport Transfers from Amsterdam Airport to Train Station

If you want the most comfortable arrival, a private airport transfer is the premium option. After you collect your luggage, your driver meets you near Schiphol Plaza or the agreed Arrivals point, helps with bags, and escorts you directly to the vehicle parked nearby. Transfers provide door-to-door service and often include extra perks depending on the provider, such as flight tracking and pre-paid pricing.

Multiple private transfer companies operate at AMS, so comparing options makes it possible to upgrade your arrival experience without overspending.