I want to take advantage of a long layover in Amsterdam but want to ensure we have plenty of time to get back to the airport. I know the train from the airport to Amsterdam Central takes about 20 minutes and runs several times an hour. However, I have no idea how long it will take to leave the airport or how long it will take to go back through security when we return. Any advise? I know most people suggest arriving to the airport 2 hours before your flight leaves for international flights but I wasn't sure if there was extra security as a result of terrorism or if Amsterdam's airport was significantly different from others. Thanks in advance!
Posted by
St. Louis , MO
228 posts
You don't say how long the layover is so it's hard to tell you if its doable. " Long " is very subjective . Today , Sunday , May 28 , the Dutch TSA employees had a 20 minute work stoppage because of a labor dispute. The waiting line got long enough for some people to miss their flight ! They promised they will do this as long as their demands are not met . BTW , there are no trams from Schiphol ; only TRAINS .
Posted by
OP
6 posts
Sorry. The layover is 8 hours. Thanks again!
Posted by
Green Bay
20085 posts
I've done it, although that was 15 years ago and security was not quite as stringent. Spent a great afternoon in the Vondelpark. Zydeco band and 2 EUR Heinekens.
Are you going on to a Schengen Treaty destination or elsewhere, or coming back to N.A.? Assume your baggage is being transferred and you will have a boarding pass for your connecting flight. So you just need to get through security and maybe a passport check. 2 hours should be plenty of time to be back at Schipol before your connection.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9100 posts
This FAQ about Schipol layovers will answer all your questions: