The Netherlands is a central European air travel hub. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the main gateway. Schiphol ranks among Europe’s busiest airports, handling over 70 million passengers yearly. Direct flights connect Amsterdam to over 300 destinations worldwide. Schiphol is 17 km from Amsterdam city center, accessible by train in 15-20 minutes.
Regional airports include Eindhoven, Rotterdam The Hague, and Groningen Eelde. These serve mainly European destinations. Domestic flights are rare due to short distances and efficient trains. The only regular domestic route is Amsterdam to Groningen, operated by small carriers.
Typical international arrivals are from London, Paris, Frankfurt, and New York. Flights from London to Amsterdam take about 1 hour.
Ticket prices vary: Amsterdam-London starts from €50 one-way with budget airlines. Schiphol offers 24-hour operations and efficient security. Baggage reclaim and customs are usually quick.
Flying is relevant for international arrivals, business travelers, and connections to other European cities. Regional airports offer low-cost options for budget travelers.
Major Airports and Connections
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the largest airport in the Netherlands. Located 17 km southwest of Amsterdam Centraal. Direct trains connect Schiphol to Amsterdam (15-20 minutes, €5.90), Utrecht, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Schiphol offers 24-hour baggage services, multiple lounges, and free Wi-Fi. Facilities include luggage lockers (€8-12/day), showers, and accessible toilets. Taxis to Amsterdam city center cost €40-€60, taking 20-30 minutes. Buses and night trains run regularly. Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) is 6 km from Rotterdam and 23 km from The Hague. It serves mainly European flights. Bus 33 links RTM to Rotterdam Centraal in 20 minutes (€2.50). Eindhoven Airport (EIN) is 8 km from Eindhoven city center. It is a hub for low-cost carriers. Bus 400/401 connects to Eindhoven station in 20 minutes (€2.75). Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ) and Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) serve regional and seasonal flights. All airports offer baggage claim, check-in desks, and basic shops. Lounges are available at Schiphol and Eindhoven. All major airports are wheelchair accessible. Bike parking is available at Schiphol and Eindhoven. Dutch airports have clear English signage. Train and bus tickets can be purchased at airport kiosks or online.
Booking Smart: Flights to and from the Netherlands
KLM is the national carrier. Transavia and TUI fly Netherlands offer low-cost options. easyJet and Ryanair operate from Eindhoven and Rotterdam The Hague airports.
Best times to book: Book 2-4 months in advance for the lowest fares. Avoid Dutch school holidays (late April, July-August, December). Prices rise sharply during King's Day (April 27) and major events.
Direct flights: Schiphol offers direct flights to over 300 destinations. Direct flights are often more expensive than connecting routes.
Connecting flights: Consider Brussels or Düsseldorf for cheaper options. Trains link these cities to the Netherlands in under three hours.
Tips for cheaper fares:
- Use Dutch comparison sites like Skyscanner.nl or Google Flights (set location to Netherlands).
- Midweek departures (Tuesday, Wednesday) are usually cheaper than weekends.
- Early morning and late evening flights cost less.
- Check for "light" fares (no checked baggage) on KLM and Transavia.
- Watch for flash sales from Dutch carriers, especially in January and September.
Booking pitfalls: Some Dutch airports charge high baggage fees. Always check airport location—Eindhoven and Rotterdam are not near Amsterdam.
Domestic Flights: When and Why
Domestic flights in the Netherlands are rare. The country is small—about 300 km north to south. Most journeys are faster by train. There are no scheduled flights between Amsterdam and Rotterdam, Utrecht, or Groningen. The only regular domestic route is Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) to Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST). This flight is mainly for cargo or connecting international passengers. Travel time by air is about 45 minutes. By train, Amsterdam to Maastricht takes 2.5 hours and costs around €28. Domestic flights can be practical if connecting to an international flight with tight schedules. For most travelers, Dutch trains are faster, cheaper, and more frequent. Domestic air travel is not common for internal trips.
Airport Know-How: Tips for Smooth Travel
Security and check-in at Schiphol: Self-service check-in kiosks are common. Security lines move quickly but can be long during peak hours (6-9am, 4-7pm). Liquids must be under 100ml and placed in a clear plastic bag. Baggage handling: Schiphol uses automated baggage systems. Baggage reclaim is on the ground floor. Lost luggage? Visit the Lost & Found desk near baggage claim or use the Schiphol app. Customs and immigration: Non-EU travelers must show a valid passport and proof of onward travel. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens use eGates. Customs checks are random. Declare goods over €430. Delays and disruptions: Strikes and weather can disrupt flights, especially in winter. Schiphol posts updates on screens and the Schiphol app. Train strikes may also affect airport access. Amenities: Free WiFi is available throughout Schiphol. Lockers are in Arrivals 1 and 2 (from €8/24 hours). Showers are in Lounge 2 (YOTELAIR, €17.50/45 minutes). Power outlets are widely available. Tip: Schiphol’s baggage drop closes 40 minutes before departure for most flights. Arrive at least 2 hours early for Schengen flights, 3 hours for non-Schengen.
Quick Reference: Essential Flight Tips
Checklist for Dutch flights:
- Book early for best fares; Schiphol to London from €60, Paris from €80.
- Arrive at Schiphol 2-3 hours before departure. Security can be strict.
- Domestic flights are rare; use trains for cities like Rotterdam or Utrecht.
- Schiphol lost & found: +31 20 333 0333. Flight status: schiphol.nl/en/flight-info.
- Eindhoven and Rotterdam The Hague airports mainly serve low-cost carriers.
- Luggage trolleys are free at Schiphol, €1 at Eindhoven.
- Schiphol has 24/7 train service to Amsterdam Centraal.
- Check passport/ID requirements for Schengen and non-Schengen flights.
- Schiphol has English signage and announcements.
- Always check gate changes on airport screens.
