getting around Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport

Schipol airport has just one terminal housed in one enormous building. The various "piers" of the terminal are connected by one single corridor, so the airport is very easy to navigate. Basically all you have to do is look up your flight on the monitors and follow the signs to your gate. You will have to pass through Immigration and a security clearance.

Thank you so much Coming in on Delta and leaving on Alitalia pier b to e i think,
do we have to get luggage and recheck or do they check all the way through using different airlines?

You're welcome. Since Delta and Alitialia are partner airlines it's probably all part of the same "ticket", so your baggage will be sent automatically to your connecting flight.

Hello from another Portander! My related question: is there fairly easy access from this airport into town (Amsterdam) as I have a seven hour layover. I'm hoping, as Sarah does, that my Delta luggage will not need rechecking onto Estonia Air... Thx for any help and have fun in Italy, Sarah;-)

It takes 25 minute by train to get from Schiphol train station to Amsterdam CS. There are 5-7 trains per hour serving that route.

Jan, checkout this FAQ about exploring Amsterdam during a layover at Schipol: http://tinyurl.com/24eep4t It will tell you everything you need to know.

I am so happy to have found you guys! Thank you so very much for all of your helpful information and support! Safe travels to one and all.
Sarah

Schiphol is one of the easiest airports to find your way and the staff speak better English than many Americans. You shouldn't have any problem at the airport or going from the airport to town. Your problem will occur when you first confront the Dutch language on street signs!

I share Sarah's sentiments: thank you all!
Jan PDX

You may want to note that on your return to the States, KLM (a Delta partner) has posted the following: Change of departure hall at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol Are you travelling from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to the United States, Paramaribo, São Paulo or South Africa? Check-in has temporarily moved to departure hall 3 until the end of 2012.
Departure hall 3 To the end of 2012, all travellers on KLM and Delta Air Lines at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol with the destinations United States, Paramaribo, Sao Paulo and South Africa will depart from departure hall 3. http://www.klm.com/travel/us_en/prepare_for_travel/up_to_date/USA_Paramaribo/index.htm