Visitors wishing to reach the official site should visit schiphol.nl
Frequently Asked Questions at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
🧳 Quick Guide for Passengers at Schiphol
- 🚆 To Amsterdam City Center: Direct train from Schiphol to Centraal (14–17 min, from €5.20).
- 🚖 Uber and Taxis: Schiphol Plaza, exits 3–4. Uber available via app.
- 📶 Wi-Fi: Free. Network:
Airport_Free_Wifi, renewable every 4 hours. - 🍴 24-hour food: Starbucks, La Place Express, Burger King, Bread!, among others.
- 🧳 Luggage storage: Lockers in Lounges 1, 2 and Holland Boulevard. Baggage storage on level -1.
- 🛏 Airport hotels: YOTELAIR, Mercure (airside). Sheraton and CitizenM (landside).
- 💳 VIP Lounges: Aspire, Star Alliance, British Airways, KLM Crown Lounge. See more.
- 🔁 Connection between gates: Walking only. Schiphol is a single-terminal airport.
- 🛃 Security: Peak hours 6:00-9:00 and 17:00-19:30. Arrive early.
- 📞 Lost property: Desks between arrivals 1 and 2, in Lounge 1 and in Holland Boulevard. Online form.
- 🅿️ Budget Parking: P3 with free shuttle. Book online for best rates.
- 🍼 Nursing: Baby Care Lounge on Holland Boulevard.
- 🦽 Accessibility: Wheelchairs, accessible toilets, assistance via the airline.
Photo by Pedro Menezes - Unsplash
What is the best way to get to the city center by public transport?
The train is the fastest and most economical way to reach Amsterdam city centre. Schiphol Station is located directly beneath the terminal. The journey to Amsterdam Centraal takes between 14 and 17 minutes and the ticket costs €5.20 each way if booked in advance. SEE MORE
What can I do if I have a long layover or my flight is delayed?
In the main terminal, besides shops, bars and restaurants (some open 24 hours), you’ll find entertainment areas, a library, massage chairs, spas, a hairdresser, a supermarket, relaxation zones and art exhibitions. You also have access to luggage storage and lockers to make your wait more comfortable.
Where can I charge my mobile phone?
Near each gate you’ll find a table with around six stools and one power socket per seat. These tables are very popular and often crowded. A better option is the stations located away from the gates in the departures area.
Additionally, in Pier B there are 6 stations with portable batteries. You can scan a QR code and charge your devices for 4 hours free of charge, or purchase a portable battery for €19.00.
Can I buy a SIM card at the airport?
The Service Point shop sells SIM cards for your mobile phone. It is located in Schiphol Plaza (before security control) and is open Monday to Sunday from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Is there internet access and workspace available?
Not only do you have free internet access at Schiphol, but you’ll also find workstations ideal for those travelling with their laptop. These compact desks are perfect for working, studying or browsing using the airport’s free Wi-Fi. Select the ‘Airport_Free_Wifi’ network for 4 hours of free access. After this period, simply log in again to continue browsing.
Workstations are located throughout all departure lounges and in Piers C and D. They are equipped with power outlets so you can easily recharge your electronic devices.
Are showers available?
You’ll find private shower cabins at the Mercure hotel, on the upper level of Lounge 3 (€22.50).
At the EF filter, accessible from Lounge 2 and Holland Boulevard, there are free showers available 24 hours a day. Note that towels and toiletries are not provided, so you must bring your own.
Are there currency exchange services?
GWK Travelex offers currency exchange services at its counters and ATMs. Find them at Schiphol Plaza (6:00 am to 8:00 pm), Arrivals 1 (6:00 am to 8:00 pm), Arrivals 2 (6:00 am to 10:00 pm), Corridor GH (7:00 am to 4:00 pm), Lounges 1, 2 and 3 (6:00 am to 10:00 pm), and Pier D (6:00 am to 8:00 pm).
What should I do if I lose belongings at the airport?
If you are still at the airport, go to the lost property desks:
Before Security Control:
- Kelderplein, between Arrivals 1 and 2 (8:00 am to 8:00 pm)
After Security Control:
- Lounge 1, towards pier B (6:00 am to 8:00 pm)
- Holland Boulevard, between piers E and F (6:00 am to 8:00 pm)
If you have already left the airport, provide as many details as possible using the lost property form.
Are shops and restaurants open 24 hours?
Although many shops and food outlets in Schiphol Plaza close at night, both landside and airside you’ll find cafés, restaurants and fast food places that remain open 24 hours.
Before security, the 24-hour dining options are Burger King, Douwe Egberts Coffee Bar, Grand Café Plaza, La Place Express and Starbucks, all located in Schiphol Plaza.
After security, look for Amsterdam Bread Company (Lounge 2), Bread! (Lounge 3), Grab&Fly (Pier D), Harvest Market (Pier D), Loaf (Lounge 1) and Park Café (Lounge 1).
Duty-free shops are located after security (Lounge 1 and Pier B) and open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Where can I find medical services?
There is a medical clinic available 24 hours a day in Departure Lounge 2.
There are also 24-hour first-aid services for passengers and the general public, including personalised medical advice, vaccinations, updated health information and travel items.
Are there facilities for mothers with babies?
The Baby Care Lounge is a dedicated area for breastfeeding mothers and baby hygiene, located on Holland Boulevard between Departure Lounges 2 and 3. It is open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Is smoking allowed at the airport?
Smoking is prohibited inside the Schiphol terminal, both before and after security. It is also not allowed in the car parks. You may only smoke at Jan Dellaertplein, between Doors D and E. You may buy tobacco at the airport in accordance with legal guidelines.
How can I change or cancel my parking reservation?
You can do so via the official Schiphol website. Check your booking conditions as some fares may be non-refundable.
What happens if I arrive earlier or later than my booked parking time?
Extra charges may apply. Contact Schiphol if your schedule changes to avoid issues.
Will I get a refund if I pick up my car earlier?
Generally no, but check your booking terms to confirm whether any refund applies.
I didn’t receive my parking confirmation, what should I do?
Check your spam folder. If it's not there, contact Schiphol customer service with your booking details.
Can I bring food in my hand luggage?
Yes, solid foods are allowed. Liquids and gels must be in containers of up to 100 ml and placed in a transparent bag.
How do I know which belt to collect my luggage from?
Check the screens in the baggage claim area or use the official Schiphol app to see your assigned belt.
What do I do if my suitcase does not appear?
Go to the airline counter or the airport baggage service with your tag and flight details.
What items are prohibited in checked baggage?
Flammable substances, explosives or hazardous chemicals are not permitted. Check with your airline for details.
Can I bring medication in my hand luggage?
Yes. Carry prescribed medication in its original packaging. Liquids must follow security regulations.
How does passport control work?
If you are travelling outside the Schengen Area, you will go through passport control. Carry a valid passport and check whether you need a visa.
Can I leave the airport during a layover?
Yes, if you have (or do not require) a visa for the Netherlands. Allow enough time to return and pass through controls.
Is assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes, you can request it in advance through your airline or directly with the airport.
Where can I see real-time flight information?
If you are already at the airport, check the screens around the terminal or use the official Schiphol app, which provides instant updates, or visit our Departures section if you are waiting to board, or Arrivals if you are waiting for someone.