Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is one of Europe’s busiest hubs, serving millions of short- and long-haul travellers every year. While it’s not the quietest place to spend a layover, Schiphol does offer a solid mix of food, shopping, and a few uniquely Dutch touches to help pass the time. Whether you’re stretching your legs between flights or facing a long wait, here are some realistic ways to make your layover a little more comfortable.
1. Eat
Schiphol has no shortage of places to eat, ranging from familiar fast-food chains to cafés and casual restaurants with a distinctly Dutch flavour. Alongside McDonald’s and Starbucks, you’ll find local and regional brands that are worth trying if this is your first time in the Netherlands.
For something quick, look for Dutch-style sandwiches on crusty bread, often topped with cheese, ham, or egg. Bakeries sell stroopwafels (thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup), poffertjes (mini pancakes, when available), and fresh pastries that travel well for a short layover. Cheese-focused counters and cafés offer tastings or simple plates featuring Gouda and other Dutch cheeses, which are among the country’s best-known exports.
If you have time to sit down, Schiphol has casual brasseries and cafés serving soups, salads, burgers, and comfort food with a European twist. The Heineken Bar remains a popular stop for travellers who want to sample a Dutch beer before flying onward.
2. Check into a lounge
If you’re looking for a quieter place to sit, eat, or freshen up, a pay-per-use lounge can be a good option. Many lounges accept travellers regardless of airline or class of service, either through advance purchase or lounge membership programs. For current locations, access rules, and amenities, see our Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Guide. [ read more ]
3. Explore the museum or library
Recently renovated, Holland Boulevard offers a small taste of Dutch culture without leaving the airport. The Rijksmuseum has a permanent airport gallery displaying rotating works from its collection, typically focused on Dutch art and history. Nearby, the Airport Library provides seating and access to books by Dutch authors translated into multiple languages. Location: Airside, between Lounges 2 and 3.
4. Check out the sights in Amsterdam
If you have a layover of at least 6–7 hours, you may have enough time to leave the airport and explore central Amsterdam, depending on crowds and security conditions. Trains run directly from Schiphol Station (below the terminal) to Amsterdam Centraal every 10–15 minutes, with a travel time of about 15–20 minutes.
Bus Line 397 (Amsterdam Airport Express) also connects the airport to the city. Popular nearby sights include canal walks, museum districts, and central squares. Always allow generous time to return to the airport and clear security again.
Visit the Royal Palace, stroll through the Red Light District, explore the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, or Van Gogh Museum, or stroll along the canals and snap pictures of the world-famous architecture. For more ideas, check out our Amsterdam Layover Sightseeing article or visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Amsterdam.
5. Enjoy a spa treatment
Several wellness and spa services are available at Schiphol, including haircuts, manicures, and massage treatments. Prices and services vary by location. In addition, paid massage chairs can be found in different areas of the terminal and offer short, automated sessions for a few euros.
6. Shop
Shopping is one of Schiphol’s stronger distractions, especially if you’re looking for last-minute Dutch souvenirs or practical travel items. In addition to duty-free staples and international brands, the airport has several stores that highlight local products.
Travellers often gravitate toward Dutch cheese shops, which sell vacuum-sealed wedges that are easy to pack. You’ll also see stores dedicated to tulip-themed gifts (bulbs and souvenirs), a classic Netherlands takeaway. Liquor and specialty food shops carry Dutch gin (jenever), chocolates, cookies, and stroopwafels that make easy gifts.
Bookstores and design shops stock Dutch magazines, postcards, and small home goods, reflecting the country’s reputation for clean, modern design. While prices vary, Schiphol is convenient for souvenirs you may not want to hunt down once you’re already on the move.
7. Stay connected
Stay connected to friends and family, update your social media accounts or surf the internet during your layover. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Connections typically time out after several hours, but you can re-connect as needed during longer layovers.
8. Sleep
At Schiphol Airport, you can catch some z’s at one of the designated rest areas found throughout the airport. These areas offer a few different reclining seating options. Still, seats can be limited, and recent rumours suggest the airport has become a bit intolerant of sleepers spread out on chairs or lying on the floor during the day. You may be asked to head to one of the designated rest areas or in-transit hotels. [ read more ]
Luckily, you have a few options if you want to avoid going through security. The Mercure Schiphol Terminal Hotel is located airside in Lounge 3, and you can check in for an overnight or opt for a day room. For something less traditional, head to YotelAir in Lounge 2, which offers sleep cabins in 4-hour increments. Both hotel options offer a shower-only option from €17,50€ to € 22,50, including towels and toiletries. GoSleep Pods (Concourse D) are a good option for a quick nap. Outside of the airport, plenty of hotels are available – see our Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Guide for details about the above properties and other nearby options. If you are looking for some overnight shut-eye in the terminal, travellers often rely on the chairs and benches near Piers E and F or the rest area located upstairs near the D gates. It is cold, so bring an extra layer. [ read more ]
Updated 19 December 2025
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Amsterdam Airport. Visit our Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Guide for more information about more services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.