Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
How to Get from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam City
Compare every transport option — metro, taxi, Uber, and bus — with up-to-date costs, journey times, and insider tips for 2026.
Quick Facts: All Transport Options
| Mode | Cost | ~Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚆 Train (NS) | €5.50 (~$6) | 17 min | Speed & value |
| 🚌 Bus (397/N97) | €6.50 (~$7) | 30–40 min | Budget travelers |
| 🚕 Taxi | €45–€55 (~$48–$60) | 25–45 min | Groups, luggage |
| 🚗 Uber | €35–€50 (~$38–$54) | 25–45 min | Comfort & price |
| 🚐 Pre-booked Transfer | €30–€60 (~$33–$65) | 30–50 min | Door-to-door |
Train (Fastest & Cheapest)
The NS intercity train departs directly from Schiphol Plaza (below the terminal) to Amsterdam Centraal every 10–15 minutes, 24 hours a day. A single ticket costs €5.50 (~$6 USD) and the journey takes just 17 minutes. Buy tickets at yellow NS machines, the NS app, or tap your contactless bank card directly on the OV-chip readers.
- Follow signs for Schiphol Plaza / Trains from arrivals.
- Buy a ticket at the NS machine or use a contactless card.
- Board any train signed Amsterdam Centraal.
- Exit at Amsterdam Centraal — city centre is steps away.
Taxi & Rideshare
Official taxis depart from the designated rank outside Arrivals (exit 4). Metered fares to central Amsterdam typically run €45–€55 (~$48–$60); always confirm the meter is running. Uber is available at Schiphol — request via the app and meet your driver at the rideshare pick-up zone for an estimated €35–€50 (~$38–$54). Avoid unlicensed taxis that approach inside the terminal.
- Official taxi stand: Arrivals exit 4, ground floor.
- Uber pick-up: follow in-app directions to the designated zone.
- Journey time: 25 min off-peak, up to 45 min in traffic.
Bus
GVB bus Route 397 (Connexxion) runs from Schiphol to Leidseplein and Museumplein, ideal if your hotel is in the south of centre. The night bus N97 covers the same corridor after midnight. A single journey costs €6.50 (~$7) — buy via the GVB app or contactless card on board. The trip takes roughly 30–40 minutes depending on traffic and stops.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way from Schiphol to Amsterdam?+
The NS train at €5.50 is the cheapest option and also the fastest, taking just 17 minutes to Amsterdam Centraal. For night arrivals, the N97 bus is a reliable budget alternative.
Is there a direct metro from Schiphol Airport to the city?+
Schiphol is served by intercity trains, not metro. However, NS trains run just as frequently and connect directly to Amsterdam Centraal, where you can transfer to the GVB metro and tram network.
How much is a taxi from Schiphol to Amsterdam city centre?+
Official metered taxis cost €45–€55 for the trip. Uber is often slightly cheaper at €35–€50. Pre-booked private transfers can offer fixed rates — useful for groups or early morning flights.
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