” How do I get from Schiphol Airport?” - this is one of the most commonly asked questions when visiting Amsterdam. You have landed at Schiphol, got your luggage, walked into the Arrivals Hall and now what... how do you get to the city?
Like most European airports, Schiphol airport's connection to the city is well organized. There are many modes of transportation from the airport: buses, taxis, trains. In this article, we will summarize all you need to know about Amsterdam Airport shuttle buses.
If you are traveling during the day, you'll need to get on bus number 397 (formerly number 197). Your ride will be direct and fast, as the shuttle makes only several major stops, like Museumplein, Rijskmuseum, Leidseplein, Busstation Elandsgracht. Many hotels and tourist attractions are within walking distance of these stops. If you are traveling further you can always catch a tram, metro, city bus or a taxi.
Note that the shuttle does not stop at Amsterdam Central Train Station, which can be an inconvenience for passengers traveling further on. If you need a ride during the night, you need to catch an N97 bus. It has the same route as the daytime Express Shuttle, however, the ride will be longer, as this bus makes more stops during the night. The shuttle departs twice an hour during the night, between the hours of 01:00h and 05:00h.
Your bus ticket for the Amsterdam Airport Express costs only € 6,50 for a single journey and € 11,25 for a return trip. Your return ticket will be valid for 14 days. The night shuttle is cheaper as it operates like a regular bus, making more stops along the way.
As public transportation in Amsterdam is cash-free, you can only use a debit or credit card onboard for the payment. You can also purchase your ticket at ticket machines at the airport.
If you feel that the airport shuttle is not suitable for your needs, you can always choose the comfort and privacy of private airport transfers. Your transfer is prearranged before travel, so you have nothing to worry about on your travel date. The transfer will be customized to suit your needs completely – from the type of vehicle to destination address, or any extra requests you might have, like a larger vehicle, or maybe child seats.
Once you land, you will be met at the Arrivals hall by your driver, who will escort you to the vehicle and help you with the luggage. The driver is professional, courteous, and speaks English. He will take you straight to your destination. You will need not to worry about the luggage, the ticket machines, or language barriers. Just sit back and off you go! Simple as that.