Things to do on a layover in Amsterdam – February 2019

Amsterdam, the capital of Netherlands is a common layover between the United States and several European cities especially if you’re flying Northwest or KLM.

So, what to do if you’re stuck in the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport?

Well, you’re in luck because a layover in Amsterdam is pretty high up in the list of best cities during transit and there’s so much to do and see, even in the short time you have.

For all those with shorter transit time, the good news is that you can discover Amsterdam in 4 hours!

(Although you should keep a margin of 6-7 hours) Travel to downtown Amsterdam in just fifteen minutes from the airport for only €8.40 for a day return ticket.

Walk around the city and soak in all the history that is present in the streets.

For most of the passengers, KLM or Skyteam partners have transfer desks and self-service kiosks that can assist you to get further information or check-in for your next flight.

The even greater news is that if your Amsterdam airport layover is longer than 4 hours, you can easily explore the city.

1. I Amsterdam” Sign

Start by hopping off your plane and take some cool photos with the “ I Amsterdam” sign that recently got moved from Rijksmuseum to Schiphol airport.

2. Explore the Canal

One of the best things to do in Amsterdam is to take a canal tour on the traditional glass-topped boats.

There are several companies that run multiple tours daily and you can book any tour from outside the central station which usually ranges from €11-16.

There is a tour guide in several languages and you can select whichever allows you to truly understand the city.

3. Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum

Amsterdam is famous for its many museums, most of which are located within an hour of the central station.

The Amsterdam Museum, The Rembrandt House and the Anne Frank House (buying tickets online in advance is a must) are just a quick 15-minute walk from the station, while the legendary Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum are just about half an hour away.

4. Dam Square and The Royal Palace

Other fun places to visit near the central station are down the Damrak strip to Dam Square where you can see the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), the Bijenkorf department store, the Royal Palace and Amsterdam’s main shopping street, the Kalverstraat.

Along the east of the Damrak strip is Zeedjik which is great for Asian food or to just grab a bite.

There’s also the Nieuwmarkt and the red-light district located east of Damrak.

Further west to Negen Straatjes (9 streets) and Jordaan area are beautiful canals and charming businesses in case you want to get souvenirs.

Throughout your layover, make sure that you are mindful of your time, train and flight schedule.

The Amsterdam Central Station has several trains leaving for Amsterdam Schiphol airport, almost 10 times an hour and they usually depart from platforms 10, 13, 14 or 15.

There are massive screens in Amsterdam Central with train schedules and all other information displayed for the ease of travelers.

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