Most visitors to the Netherlands arrive by landing at Amsterdam Airport, called Schiphol Airport. The airport is located about twenty kilometers from the capital to which it is well connected by public transport services and private taxi companies. I have listed here what solutions may be possible to reach Amsterdam: train, bus and taxi.
By train
The train is one of the most used means of getting to Amsterdam from Schiphol airport. The train station is located just below the airport which you can access via Schiphol Plaza and is managed by the NS trein company.
- From the arrivals, follow the yellow signs that point towards the tracks. For each track there is an escalator or an elevator that leads directly to the tracks. Tickets can be bought at the classic ticket office, or at one of the many yellow machines located in Schiphol Plaza. Before boarding a train, remember to validate the ticket to one of the columns, simply by placing the ticket near the sensor.
- On request it is possible to use the railway service for accessible transport.
- The most frequent trains to Amsterdam are called "Sprinters" and have an entrance accessible at the height of the platform. If you want to take another type of train then you should contact the Dutch train service in advance. The NS service reports that wheelchairs and scooters for mobility must not exceed these measures: 150 cm in length, 70 cm in width and 137.5 cm in height (including luggage). The measurements are given because they must be suitable for the elevators and ramps used by the service. For more information and to be always updated, consult the NS service page.
- In case you have problems buying a ticket, you can contact an employee of NS Trein. If you can't find any of their employees, you can contact customer service directly on the free phone number (0800-0540) for immediate assistance (in English).
By bus
Amsterdam can also be reached by bus. The departure of the buses can be reached via Schiphol Magna Plaza. The connection between the city and the airport is offered by the Connexxion company. Most of its vehicles are accessible thanks to a special wheelchair ramp. The wheelchairs that can be transported must fall within certain maximum dimensions: 120 cm in length, 70 cm in width and 109 cm in height; to this is added a maximum weight of 250 kg. Mobility scooters are not allowed inside buses.
By taxi
In many cases, taxi hire is recommended, especially if the arrival hotel is not in the center or is not easily accessible by public transport. In this case we suggest you book the service as soon as possible.