Will we be going through customs in Amsterdam, or at our final destination, Venice? Trying to judge what time to use for a car rental in Venice. How long is typical to get to the rental company after landing?
Posted by
Royaume-Uni nul points, pas plus
2600 posts
You go through immigration at Amsterdam
if you have any goods to declare that will be done at customs in Venice
Posted by
North Carolina
2499 posts
Two things:
1) not a good idea to drive right after an international flight across time zones (fatigue, jet lag makes it very hazardous);
2) a car will be of zero use to you while you’re in Venice.
Posted by
8322 posts
We went through Schipol Airport last year on our way to East Africa for a safari, but we left the airport and spent time in Amsterdam so we went through immigration and customs twice.
It was last August and the airport was crowded and it took us 2 1/2 hours from checking in for out flights to Africa before we cleared immigration and customs.
It is my understanding that if you come from the USA to Schipol and connect to another airport within the EU then you will go through customs and immigration.
https://www.go4travelblog.com/learn/go-through-customs-for-connecting-flight-in-europe/
I suggest booking a connection with at least a two hour time.
A rental car in Venice is useless, not sure why you are renting one, unless you plan to depart the airport and not go into the city.
If you rent a car at the Venice airport and are traveling somewhere else, you should book to pick it up after you pickup your luggage. Plan on about 30 minutes after arrival.
Posted by
Freedonia
16411 posts
In Amsterdam, you will go through immigration. In Venice, you will go through customs. Unless you have something to declare, you just walk through.
Posted by
Austin, Texas, USA
574 posts
I agree with others. Do not drive on first day. At a minimum, spend the first day walking around Venice to fight the jet lag and go back the next day to get the car.