Layover in Amsterdam: An Expert Guide to Scheduling Your Stopover

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the main international airport in the Netherlands. It’s also one of the busiest and most connected airports in Europe. Just 9 kilometers from the city center, Schiphol serves over 70 million passengers a year. From here, you can fly to more than 300 places around the world.

If you have a layover in Amsterdam, you’re in a great place to enjoy your stop. This guide will help you use your time well — whether you stay at the airport or go into the city. We’ll share ideas for things to do inside the terminal and also how to plan a short visit downtown.

To make your layover easier, try Qeepl. It’s a handy luggage storage service near Amsterdam’s airport and tourist spots. With your bags stored safely, you can explore, rest, or even visit a museum — all without dragging your suitcase around.

Amsterdam Transit Visa Requirements

The first question many travelers ask when planning a layover in Amsterdam is whether they need a transit visa. This depends entirely on your nationality, travel documents, and whether you intend to leave the airport during your layover.

Some travelers can transit airside through Schiphol without a visa, while others will need a Schengen airport transit visa or a short-stay visa to exit the international zone. The most reliable way to determine your visa requirements is by checking the official Dutch government website, which outlines entry rules by nationality and travel scenario.

What to Do at the Airport During Your Amsterdam Layover?

If your layover is under five hours, it’s generally recommended to stay at the airport, as immigration lines and transport logistics can be time-consuming.

Still, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol offers a surprising number of options to keep you occupied. From dining and shopping to wellness and art, here’s how to make the most of your time inside the terminal.

Restaurants Worth a Stop

Schiphol Airport features a broad range of restaurants to suit every craving. For a flavorful Dutch experience, visit Grand Café Het Paleis, which combines traditional local dishes with international classics in a cozy brasserie-style setting. Whether you’re craving a hearty stamppot or just a buttery croissant, this spot serves comforting meals with views of the airfield.

For something more upscale, try Bowery Restaurant, located within the Hilton Schiphol. Just a short walk from the terminal, it offers freshly grilled meat and seafood, Asian flavors, and an extensive wine list in a chic, open-kitchen space. It’s a great choice for those with a slightly longer connection.

Best Stores to Browse Between Flights

Shopping at Schiphol can be just as fun as shopping in the city. One place you shouldn’t miss is Dutch Discoveries. It’s great for finding special Dutch gifts and local treats like stroopwafels, Delftware, and Dutch cheese. It’s the perfect spot to pick up last-minute souvenirs that feel real and unique.

If you like fashion or beauty, check out Perfumes & Cosmetics or GASSAN Watches & Jewelry. These are two of the most popular duty-free stores. The airport also has well-known shops like Victoria’s Secret, H&M, and Rituals. You’ll find lots to look at — all without even leaving the terminal.

Lounges and Nap Zones

Schiphol has several great lounges. If you’re flying business class or have a lounge pass, the KLM Crown Lounge is a top choice. It has showers, buffet food, work areas, and even a rooftop terrace.

If you just need a nap, you don’t have to book a lounge. The Mercure Hotel Schiphol, inside the terminal, has rooms you can use during the day. There are also rest zones with reclining chairs. And YOTELAIR offers small sleeping cabins you can rent by the hour.

Facilities, Services, and Wi-Fi Access

Free Wi-Fi is available all over Schiphol Airport. It’s fast enough for streaming or getting work done. You’ll also find lots of charging spots, quiet areas for work, and rooms for baby care. If you want to relax, visit the XpresSpa for a quick massage or a manicure.

There are also pharmacies, medical help, baggage wrapping, and even a small airport library — the first one in the world — where you can read while you wait.

How to Spend Long Layover in Amsterdam?

If your layover is longer than five or six hours and you have the right visa, it’s worth going into the city. Amsterdam is small and easy to get around. Trains from Schiphol are fast, so you can see a lot in just a few hours.

8-Hour Layover in Amsterdam

Start with a quick 15-20 minute train ride from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal Station. From there, it’s a short walk to iconic spots like Dam Square, The Royal Palace, and the Anne Frank House. Grab a coffee at a canal-side café and stroll through the Jordaan district, known for its narrow streets and indie boutiques.

Allow at least two hours for the return journey, airport security, and boarding — Amsterdam’s lines can get long, especially in the afternoon.

12-Hour Layover in Amsterdam

With a 12-hour layover, you can slow down a bit and take in more of the city. In addition to the central sights, consider visiting the Van Gogh Museum or the Rijksmuseum, both located at Museumplein. For a break, picnic in nearby Vondelpark or take a canal cruise, which offers a scenic overview of Amsterdam’s unique architecture and history.

Finish your day with dinner at a local bistro or trendy spot in De Pijp, one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

24-Hour Layover in Amsterdam

A full-day stopover opens up even more options. Start your morning with pancakes or poffertjes at The Pancake Bakery, then visit the A’DAM Lookout tower for panoramic views. Cross the river via ferry and explore Noord Amsterdam, which offers a more local, artsy vibe.

Later, rent a bike and ride through Oosterpark or along the canals. Cap your day with a meal in the atmospheric Nine Streets area and catch the train back to Schiphol in time for your next flight.

How to Handle Overnight Layover in Amsterdam?

An overnight layover in Amsterdam can be comfortable and stress-free if you choose the right place to stay. Here are top options near the airport:

• CitizenM Schiphol Airport: Just a 5-minute walk from the terminal, CitizenM offers sleek, modern rooms with smart lighting and fast check-in. Prices start around €130 per night. It’s ideal for solo travelers or couples looking for stylish comfort without a long commute.
• Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel and Conference Center: Directly connected to the terminal, this upscale hotel is perfect for travelers prioritizing ease and service. The rooms are spacious, soundproofed, and well-equipped. Rates start at €180 per night, and it’s a solid choice for business travelers or families.
• Ibis Styles Amsterdam Airport: Located about 10 minutes from Schiphol by shuttle, Ibis Styles offers cozy rooms and reliable service, along with free airport transfers. Rooms typically start at €90 per night, making it a great mid-range option.
• YOTELAIR Amsterdam Schiphol: Located in the transit area of the airport, YOTELAIR is designed for travelers who prefer not to clear customs or leave the terminal. Cabins start at €70 and include smart beds, mood lighting, and compact private bathrooms. It’s great for a quick nap or a short overnight rest.

If you have more time the next morning, you can easily hop on a short train ride into the city for a coffee and canal stroll before heading back for your flight.