Amsterdam Schiphol airport (AMS)

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), opened on 16 September 1916, is the main air terminal of the Netherlands and one of the most important connection hubs in Europe. Located several metres below sea level, it stands out for its single-terminal design, which makes transfers easier and operates a vast network of international flights around the world.

Official Website: schiphol.nl

Telephone: +31 20 794 0800

Social Media:

Terminals

Schiphol operates under the concept of a “single terminal”, where all facilities are located under one roof, divided into three departure halls (1, 2, and 3) that connect to the various boarding piers. The terminal is open 24 hours a day and is distributed across three main levels:

• Ground Floor (Schiphol Plaza): Arrivals, ground transport, and public shopping area.
• First Floor: Check-in counters and security checkpoints.
• Second Floor: VIP lounges, rest areas, and access to the panoramic terrace.

Annual Traffic (2024): 66.8 million passengers.

Information Points

There are information desks and digital assistance stations located both in the public area (Schiphol Plaza) and in the transit areas (Departure Halls 2 and 3, and boarding piers). In addition, there are assistance telephones throughout the terminal for immediate enquiries.

 Location

The airport is located in the municipality of Haarlemmermeer, 9 km (5.5 miles) southwest of Amsterdam, next to the A4 motorway, which connects the city with The Hague and Rotterdam.

Parking services at Amsterdam Schiphol airport (AMS)

The airport offers various parking options suited to different needs and budgets, ranging from quick drop-off areas to long-stay facilities and valet services. It is strongly recommended to book online in advance to ensure availability and obtain better rates.

Drop-off Area (Kiss & Ride)

Located in front of the Departures Halls. This is an exclusive area for dropping off passengers who are departing. Vehicles may only stop briefly to unload luggage. Parking or waiting is not permitted; if you need to accompany the passenger inside the terminal, you must use the P1 car park.

P1

This is the main car park located directly opposite the terminal (a 2–6 minute covered walk). It serves two purposes:

• Passenger pick-up: Ideal for short stays when meeting someone arriving.
• Long stays: You can leave your car here for extended periods (more than 48 hours) provided you have made an online reservation in advance.
• Services: Charging points for electric vehicles.

P3

The most economical option for long stays (holidays or business trips lasting several days). It is located about 5 minutes from the terminal by bus.

• Options: It has a covered building and an outdoor area.
• Connection: A free shuttle bus connects the car park with the terminal 24 hours a day. It runs every 10 minutes and the journey is short.
• Services: Electric charging points available in the covered garage.

P6

Official valet service located a short distance from the terminal (2 minutes on foot). You park your vehicle in the designated area, hand over your keys at the counter and walk to the airport building. Your car will be parked in a secure outdoor compound (with video recording of the vehicle’s condition upon entry) and will be ready for you at P6 on your return.

Bookings and Rates

Facilities for passengers with special needs

Schiphol Airport is fully equipped to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM), hearing, visual or invisible disabilities. Assistance is free of charge and provided by specialised staff who will accompany you from your arrival at the airport to your seat on the aircraft (or vice versa).

Assistance Request

To ensure the availability of the service and avoid delays, it is essential to request assistance through your airline or travel agency at least 48 hours before your flight’s departure. If you do not make the advance request, staff will do their best to help you, but you may experience longer waiting times.

Meeting Points

Upon arrival at the airport, you must announce yourself at one of the designated call points (assistance columns) so that an assistant can come to meet you. These are located at:

• Train Station (Schiphol Plaza): On the platforms and in the main hall.
• Bus Stops: Near the bus bays.
• Car Parks: In the reserved areas of car parks P1 and P3.
• Departures Halls: At the check-in counters and information desks.

Invisible Disabilities

Schiphol recognises the Sunflower Lanyard programme. If you have an invisible disability (such as autism, anxiety or dementia), you may wear this distinctive green lanyard. This allows airport staff to discreetly identify that you may need more time, patience or additional assistance during security and boarding procedures. You can request it at the information desks.

Facilities and Services

• Infrastructure: The airport offers spacious lifts, ramps, automatic doors and moving walkways in all terminals.
• Toilets: Wheelchair-accessible toilets are available in all areas, clearly signposted.
• Hearing: Information counters and key service points are equipped with induction loops for passengers using hearing aids.
• Parking: Reserved spaces located as close as possible to the terminal in P1 (short stay/pick-up) and P3 (long stay). A European or international disabled parking card must be visibly displayed on the dashboard.

More information