AMS - Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Flying through Amsterdam Schiphol Airport? Buckle up, because we’ve got the full breakdown on this massive European hub. From its sprawling layout to its unexpected food scene, here’s how Schiphol stacks up in five key categories: Layout, Efficiency, Food, Shops, and Vibe.
Layout: Big, Bold, and a Bit of a Trek
If you’ve ever been to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Schiphol might give you some serious deja vu. The design is similar, with a central hub—featuring that super cool clock with the moving painter—and long spokes that extend to different gate areas.
The downside? This place is HUGE. Everything we needed seemed to be miles apart. Whether it was our gate, a good food spot, or even just a restroom, it felt like a workout to get there. Not to mention, we had a 5 minute layover (yes, 5 min) and our plane was at the next gate over and we STILL had to run a good distance. So, pack your patience (and maybe some running shoes) because you’ll be getting your steps in!
Efficiency: A Tale of Two Layovers
Our first experience at Schiphol was smooth sailing—security was quick, customs were a breeze, and we were out to explore Amsterdam fast (finding the shuttle stop to our hotel was a different story). But on the way home? A 180 experience.
During our 2nd layover, security was painfully slow. Bags were being held up left and right for secondary screening and what felt like for no reason, and we had a moment of panic when we thought my duty-free Konyagi (Tanzanian liquor) might get confiscated. Thankfully, it survived in its sealed duty-free bag! Or there may have been a problem!
If you’re just arriving or departing, Schiphol is pretty efficient. But if you’re connecting internationally, brace yourself for potential delays.
Picture Source: Skytrax
Food: From Disappointing Mc D’s to Deliciously unique spots!
Schiphol’s food scene is wildly diverse.
McDonald’s Sausage McMuffin? Hard pass. It tasted more like a hamburger patty than breakfast.
Dutch Kitchen Bar & Cocktails—One of the coolest airport restaurants I’ve been to. Think high-end market vibes, with three separate food stations: pre-made sandwiches & toasts, a bakery & coffee section, and a hot food station serving massive omelets and mini dutch pancakes.
Bubbles Seafood & Wine Bar—Would’ve been amazing, but a bit risky before a 9 hour flight with little sleep prior. It’s on our list for next time.
Lounge food was solid but had limited options for breakfast. Bonus: Heineken on draft!
Bottom line: Schiphol delivers on food variety, as long as you steer clear of the wrong McDonald's orders.
Shops: Fancy and Functional
Schiphol gives off LAX vibes when it comes to shopping—plenty of designer stores, from Gucci to Montblanc, if you’re feeling fancy. If you're more into souvenirs, they’ve got a decent magnet selection and lots of Dutch-themed gifts like those tiny glass houses everyone seems to be obsessed over.
It’s a solid mix of luxury and practicality, so whether you're splurging or just grabbing a last-minute gift, you’re covered.
Vibes: Cool But Crowded (and Under Construction)
Schiphol has potential for great vibes, but right now, construction is killing it a bit. The main terminal area would probably feel way more exciting without all the work being done.
Some of the gate areas felt a little dated, and the airport was packed. They did have some cool stacked wooden seating areas, the kind you’d find in a Google office, which was a nice modern touch.
Once the construction wraps up, I can see Schiphol being an even more vibrant and enjoyable airport to transit through.
Final Verdict: Worth the Layover?
Schiphol is a solid airport with a lot to offer, but your experience might depend on your situation: ✅ Departing or Arriving? Smooth, efficient, and easy. ❌ Connecting Internationally? Could be slow and frustrating. 🍽 Hungry? Tons of options 🛍 Shopping? Fancy designer stores and fun Dutch souvenirs. 🎭 Vibes? Cool, but construction and crowds bring it down a notch.
Would I fly through Schiphol again? Absolutely. But next time, I’ll know which food spots to hit and how to prepare for those long walks.
Cloud Ratings:
Chantel: 7
Wyatt: 8
The Bag Tag: 7.5