Quick answer: The easiest and cheapest way from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) to the city is the train — the station is directly under the airport, trains run every few minutes, and it’s about €5–6 and just 15–20 minutes to Amsterdam Centraal.
Your options compared
| Option | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Train (to Centraal) | 15–20 min | ~€5–6 |
| Airport Express bus (397) | ~30 min | ~€7 |
| Taxi / Uber | 20–30 min | ~€40–50 |
Which should you choose?
For almost everyone, the train wins — it’s fast, frequent and drops you in the centre. The 397 bus is handy if your hotel is near Museumplein or Leidseplein. A taxi only makes sense with heavy luggage or a group.
Tips
Tap in and out with a contactless card (OVpay) or buy a ticket from the yellow machines. Don’t forget to tap out, or you’ll be overcharged.
FAQ
Cheapest way from Schiphol to Amsterdam? The train (~€5–6, 15–20 min).
Where is the station? Directly beneath the airport terminal.
You Might Also Love
Written by
John Morrison is the founder and lead travel writer at Packzup. Over the past decade he has explored destinations across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania — always self-funded, never on a press trip.