If you fly to / through / around Europe long enough, chances are really good that you’ll end up with a tight connection at the Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam at some point. How long of a layover do you really need in Amsterdam anyway?
- In my experience, intra-European (Schengen to Schengen) connections can be made in as little as 40 minutes.
- You’re going to need at least an hour and 10 minutes to make a connection to a non-Schengen country (pretty much anywhere outside of Europe).
Despite how complicated the Amsterdam Airport may seem, it’s actually fairly simple and easy to navigate. Don’t worry. You got this!
The reason why short layovers are ok in Amsterdam (most of the time)
There are two very good reasons why short layovers in Amsterdam are relatively easy to manage:
- It’s an airport designed and built from the ground up to make connections (to points all over the world) as simple as possible. AMS is one of the most efficient airports I’ve ever been to – which is saying a lot considering that I don’t speak a lick of Dutch.
- It’s an extremely simple airport design. There’s only one terminal building, and walking between all concourses is fast and easy. Assuming you won’t have to go through any security checkpoints to reach your connecting gate, it’s possible to walk from one end of the airport to the other in under 20 minutes.
The bottom line is that they have really nailed the passenger experience at the Schiphol Airport. Everything just makes sense, and every connection that I have ever had there has been as smooth as butter.
What is the minimum layover time needed for connecting flights in Amsterdam?
The amount of time that you lead for a layover in Amsterdam will dependent tirely on where you are flying to. Basically, the airport is separated into two separate zones (Schengen and non-Schengen).
If you’re flying to another European destination, you will be confined to one part. If you’re flying to anywhere else, you’ll be confined to another. Don’t worry. It’ll be perfectly obvious where you need to go once you arrive. And if by chance you can’t stop worrying (I totally get it), do be sure to check out my post about having to go through customs for a connecting flight in Europe. It’ll explain everything.
Connecting to Schengen flights
Layovers for one Schengen flight to another Schengen flight in Amsterdam can be as low as 40 minutes. I actually did it in 35 minutes once, but that was a wee-bit tight. 40 minutes is a safer amount of time. FYI, the reason why such short layovers are possible is because you won’t need to go through any additional security checks.
Note: Passengers arriving from the US to Schengen destination will have to go through passport control (but not security). In that case, 50 minutes is a safe amount of time – although it’s entirely possible to do it in less time than that.
Connecting to Non-Schengen flights
Layovers from a non-Schengen flight to another non-Schengen flight in Amsterdam can be as low as 45 minutes. An example of this would be flying from Canada to South Africa with a connection at AMS. This type of layover doesn’t require going through passport control, so in most cases, you’ll be able to go directly from one plane to another.
A brief overview of the terminal layout at the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
As I’ve already mentioned, the Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam is a refreshingly efficient change of pace from other major hub airports. Yes, it is intimidatingly large. But once you arrive you will see that it makes total sense (and that everything is laid out in the most efficient way possible).
There is one large interconnected building with 6 individual concourses at AMS. There are no inter-terminal trains or transfer buses to worry about. You can walk everywhere you need to go.
It’s worth noting that there are some remote gates at the Amsterdam airport (meaning that you’ll have to get on a bus to reach your aircraft). This won’t affect how you move through the airport however. If your flight is assigned to a remote gate, you’ll still have a physical gate area to wait at inside the airport. Like I said – it’s extremely efficient and easy!
Walking time between all terminals at AMS
Assuming that you don’t have to pass through any additional security checks or passport control, it’s possible to walk from one end of AMS to the other in about 15 minutes at a brisk pace. At a more leisurely “no f***s given” pace, it’ll probably take 25.
Here are my personal time estimates for walking between all terminals at the Amsterdam Airport at a normal pace:
Concourse B to:
- Concourse C: 4 minutes
- Concourse D: 8 minutes
- Concourse E: 12 minutes
- Concourse F: 16 minutes
- Concourse G: 20 minutes
Concourse C to:
- Concourse B: 4 minutes
- Concourse D: 4 minutes
- Concourse E: 8 minutes
- Concourse F: 12 minutes
- Concourse G: 16 minutes
Concourse D to:
- Concourse B: 8 minutes
- Concourse C: 4 minutes
- Concourse E: 4 minutes
- Concourse F: 8 minutes
- Concourse G: 12 minutes
Concourse E to:
- Concourse B: 12 minutes
- Concourse C: 8 minutes
- Concourse D: 4 minutes
- Concourse F: 4 minutes
- Concourse G: 8 minutes
Concourse F to:
- Concourse B: 16 minutes
- Concourse C: 12 minutes
- Concourse D:8 minutes
- Concourse E: 4 minutes
- Concourse G: 4 minutes
Concourse G to:
- Concourse B: 20 minutes
- Concourse C: 16 minutes
- Concourse D:12 minutes
- Concourse E: 8 minutes
- Concourse F: 4 minutes
It’s worth noting that there are very few instances where you’ll ever be able to walk unrestricted from one end of the airport to the other. As I mentioned earlier, the Amsterdam Airport is broken up into separate zones (Schengen vs non-Schengen). It’s not possible to walk from one to the other without going through passport control at some point.
How long of a layover do you need in Amsterdam for a no-stress connection?
Based on my experience making connections in Amsterdam, a layover of 2 hours would the perfect amount of time. The most significant thing about that statement is that it’s 2 hours is for any type of connection (Schengen or non-Schengen).
This is such an efficient airport to make transfers at, so it doesn’t really matter what type of transfer it is. It’s always going to be fast! I can’t think of any other airport in the world I can say that about.
It’s also worth noting that long layovers (over 2 hours) are very enjoyable at AMS. Not only are there many great restaurants and shops to occupy your time, the KLM Crown Lounge is a fantastic place to get some rest between flights.
Tips for making really short layovers at the Amsterdam Airport
I know the feeling of being worried about a short layover in Amsterdam. I once had a KLM flight from Warsaw to Madrid that left me with a 35 minute connection at AMS after a delay getting out of Warsaw (you can watch the video here). All the panicking I did was pointless. I made my connecting flight to Madrid with plenty of time to spare.
More importantly, I learned a lot from that experience! There are several things you can do to help ease the stress of a short layover at AMS:
- First of all, relax! as I’ve mentioned several times already, the Schiphol Airport is one of the most efficient in all the world (if not the most efficient). It’s a facility built from the ground up to move people through it as quickly and as frictionless as possible.
- Make every effort possible to get your boarding pass for your connecting flight before you arrive. Having to stop at the transfer desk to pick up your boarding pass is going to add lots of time.
- Choosing a seat near the front of the aircraft on your inbound flight can save you a lot of time (as you’ll be one of the first off the aircraft when you arrive in Amsterdam). If you’ve got a tight connection, it’s probably worth paying extra for a seat near the front.
- Don’t worry about getting something to eat in the airport between flights. Decent (somewhat substantial) snacks are still a thing on most European airlines, so you can eat on the plane.
Hi there, thanks for this! I’ve got a connection in Schiphol in a few weeks (24 January 2023) and this is reassuring me – however, do you know if this is still the case nowadays? I’ve heard Schiphol has had a lot of trouble with staff shortage and there are massive queues as a result, including during transfers. We’ve got 2 hours to do the connection (Edinburgh => Amsterdam, Amsterdam => Buenos Aires, so both non-Schengen). Thanks!
Hi Aline – yes, it’s much better now. I recently had a connection through AMS (CDG-AMS-SFO), and it took all of 5 minutes to get through the required passport check. 2 hours will be more than enough time!
Thank you for your answer Scott, that is reassuring!
Dear Scott,
I am very glad to bump into your post while searching information about flight transfers in Schiphol. May I ask your advice? I have a 55-minute long transfer time from Schengen to a non-Schengen country. I only noticed this once I had made the booking with KLM, and the price to change the flight is ridiculously high. Is it possible to make it if I pay for a seat in front seat and run when doing the transfer? Or is it just better to pay the salty price and have a longer transfer time? Thank you so much for your help in advance.
Hi Anna – 55 minutes will be easy. The only thing you’ll have to do upon arrival is go through a quick passport check, but it’s usually a fast process. Just follow the signs for international connections (which will lead you to the passport verification queue), and then you’re free and clear after that. I’d stick with the 55 minute connection!
Hi Scott. I’m considering booking a flight ZHR-AMS-IAH with a 70 minute layover in AMS. Your post makes me think this may be okay. However, I have heard flights to the US will need to “re check” baggage in AMS. Have you experienced this? Is there additional security?
Hi Amanda – as long as your full itinerary is on the same reservation, 70 minutes will be more than enough time since your bags will automatically transfer to your next flight. You will have to go through a quick passport verification upon arrival at AMS, but it won’t take long.
If you both segments are separate tickets, you will have to retrieve your luggage at AMS and then recheck it to your IAH flight. 70 minutes will be very tight in that scenario.
Hello Scott,
Thank you for all of your responses to previous questions. This is all very helpful. I have a 2 hour connection through AMS (from US) to Croatia this Summer. I read your comment about “follow the signs for international connections”. My question is “overall is the airport equipped with signs in English”? I had a connection in Frankfurt in 2019 and I felt like that was a difficult airport to maneuver. Thanks again.
Hi Cary – you’re very welcome! You’ll have no issues at AMS. All signage is in English, and it’s basically the same as any large airport in the US. Have a great trip!
Hi Scott,
Thanks for this very helpful article. Quick question, I will be traveling from Minneapolis-St. Paul to Glasgow and back this summer, connecting in Amsterdam both directions. Will 50 minutes be enough to comfortably make those connections? Will I need to pass through any customs or passport control at AMS for these non-Schengen to non-Schengen transfers?
Thank you!
-Brandon
Hi Brandon – the only thing you’ll need to do at AMS is go through a quick passport verification check (just follow the signs for international connections). It’ll take just a few minutes, so a 50 minute connection will be a piece of cake.
Thank you so much!
-Brandon
Hi. Lyon to AMS to SFO. Checked suitcase (1). Is 2 hours enough? I am 74, in pretty good shape, but… All flights are KLM. What do you do you think? Is this doable. Thanks so much for this.
Hi Judith – 2 hours will be easy! Your bags will be checked all the way through to SFO, so the only thing you will have to do at AMS is to go through a quick passport verification check (it shouldn’t take more than 10 minutes). Have a good trip!
Hi Scott,
I’m flying from Canada to Edinburgh, with my layover in AMS. I’m switching airlines so will have to collect my luggage and check it again. Will 3 hours be enough time to get through passport control and get my luggage checked again?
Thank you!
Hi Rebecca – yeah, that should be enough time. It probably wouldn’t be if they were still having issues at AMS like they were over the summer, but they’ve pretty much got everything sorted now. It should be a fairly quick and easy transfer IMHO. Have a good trip!
I have a 1 hr 20 min layover in Amsterdam, originating in Croatia, destination US. I’m concerned the layover time may be too short. Will I have to go through customs or passport control since it is a layover?
Hi Joanne – assuming that your bags are checked all the way through to your destination (and that you’ll already have a boarding pass for your connecting flight when you arrive in Amsterdam), the only thing that you’ll have to do is go through a quick passport verification checkpoint. That’ll take 10 to 15 minutes tops, so a 1 hour and 20 minute connection will be easy.
Hi Scott, I just wanted to say thank you so much for this super helpful article! I was really freaking out when my airline changed my flight time which now gives me only a one hour 20min layover time at Amsterdam airport. You’ve now reassured me that it’s possible to get through passport control and to my new gate within that time period so thank you! I know just have to hope there’s no delays with my inbound flight
You’re very welcome Lucy! AMS is actually a very easy airport to make a connection at, so yes – an hour and 20 minutes will be more than enough time (even if your inbound flight is delayed slightly). Have a good trip!
Hi Scott, I will be going through AMS in April from the US to Istanbul. On my May return I come from Glasgow and go through AMS on my way back to the US. Do I go through passport control either time? Security? Both flight segments are on one itinirary so luggage should be check straight through, correct? Any thing I should know? Thanks so much. I have 2:55 lay over on the way to Turkey and 1:55 on the way back from Glasgow but that seems to be enough time.
Hi Chava! On the way to Istanbul, you won’t have to do anything at AMS but go through a quick passport verification check (just follow the signs for international connections). You’ll do the full customs and immigration procedure upon arrival in Istanbul.
It’ll be the exact same thing on the way back to the US. Follow the signs for international connections, which will take you to a quick passport verification area (it takes just minutes to get through). Customs and immigration will happen when you arrive back in the US. Have a good trip!
Hi! Fellow stressed and OCD traveller here……I’ll arrive in Amsterdam from JFK with a connecting flight to Stuttgart, Germany. The planned layover is 65 minutes. I have only hand luggage, could 65 minutes be enough to clear customs and passport control?
Hey Alex – no need to be stressed! You won’t have to go through customs at AMS (you’ll do that in Stuttgart), but you will have to do passport control. 65 minutes isn’t a lot of time, but it’s plenty enough to get through passport control and to your connecting gate. You’ll make it!
Hi Scott, great article. What about coming in from UK and onward to Dusseldorf? I assume passport control, and unless the arriving flight has to wait on a bus to terminal, the one hour transfer should be ok? Flying KLM. Many thanks. Gordon
Hey Gordon! Correct – you will have to go though passport control, since both the Netherlands and Germany are part of the Schengen Zone. You’ll then go through German customs when you arrive in Dusseldorf.
An hour is going to be tight! However, I’ve always been amazed at how quick and easy it is to make transfers at AMS. You’ll make it. Have a good trip!
Scott, we arrive into AMS from USA on Delta and then fly to France on Air France with a connecting time of 1:40. My wife will need wheelchair assistance in AMS.
Will this be Ok Thanks Phil
Hi Philip – that is going to be a tight connection with wheelchair assistance (which means that you’ll likely be the last off the plane). The good news is that they will probably get you where you need to go on an electric cart, which is going to be a lot faster than walking.
I think you’ll be ok – especially if you let them know about your connection time. They’ll get you there.
Hi Scott, I am looking at a flight that would arrive at AMS from the US then on to Italy. We will arrive on delta & then on to Italy on KLM. The conncection time is 55 minutes. There is an alternate flight with a connection time of 1h25 minutes and it arrives in to FCO nearly 5 hours later. Which would you suggest?
Hi Teresa – 55 minutes is probably enough. You’ll have to go though passport control at AMS, but not customs (that will happen when you arrive in Italy). If it’s really important that you arrive in Italy as early as possible, then this is probably your best option.
I’m a bit of a worry wart though, so if it were me, I’d go for the option with the 1:25 connection just for the added peace of mind.
Hi Scott, I am traveling from Oregon to CDG with a 90 minute layover in Amsterdam next week. Will that be enough time to make it to my flight to CDG?
Thanks!
Hi Roberta – assuming all flights are part of the same ticket (everything was purchased together), yes. That’ll easily be enough. Note that you will have to go though passport control upon arrival in Amsterdam though, so you won’t have a lot of extra time once you’re clear of that. Have a good trip!
Thank you for your reply, Scott! Hoping for the best. 🙂
Hi Scott, connecting in Amsterdam later this month on 2 separate tickets so I’ll have to clear passport control, collect my bag, and re check in. Is 3 and 1/2 hours enough or should I stick to a longer layover (next shortest option is 7 hours which is definitely too much)
Hi Abdul – I think that’ll be enough time with it only being March (not the busy travel season). If you were going to do this connection during the busy summer months, I’d highly recommend the 7 hour layover instead. Have a good trip!
Hi Scott, I’ll be travelling from Munich, Germany, to Santiago de Chile via Amsterdam in mid-April. Layover time in Amsterdam will be 90 minutes, all flights part of the same ticket (KLM). As it’s Schengen to non-Schengen/intercontinental, what do you think of my chances? 🙂 90 minutes too tight? Thank you! 🙂
Hi Chrissy – 90 minutes will be no problem at all. Just follow the signs for international connections, which will lead you to a passport verification checkpoint. It’ll take just a few minutes to get through, and then it’s simply a matter of walking to your connecting gate. There will be no additional security checks. Have a good trip!
Hi Scott Ill be traveling from Boston to Milan with a stop in AMS 1 hour 20 min layer and on the return Milan to Boston with a stop in Paris (CDG) 1 hour 20 min layover. Are my layovers going to give me enough time to get through passport control? Do you think it would be better to change planes in ATL on the return flight with a 3 hour layover?
Thank you and I have enjoyed reading your blogs
Hi Pam! The layover at AMS on the way there will be tighter than your layover at CDG on the way back.
You will have to go through passport control at AMS (but not customs – that will happen when you arrive in Milan). AMS is pretty efficient most of the time, so an hour and 20 minutes won’t be an issue. But be prepared to stand in line for a bit.
On the way back through CDG, you’ll likely have to go through a quick passport check (not passport control). You won’t have to go through customs either, so you’ll have plenty of time.
Have a good time in Milan!
Hi Scott, I’m looking to travel from the Minneapolis to Malaga, Spain with a 50 min layover in Amsterdam, is that enough time?
Hi Denise! 50 minutes is going to be tight, since you will have to go through passport control before you can you can continue on to your connecting gate. You’ll most likely make it, but it will be a bit stressful, so I’d recommend a longer layover if it’s available.
Hi Scott!
I’m looking to purchase tickets from LAX to Italy in September. The flight there has a 1:55 hour layover in Paris to Milan. The flight back has a 70 minute layover from Florence to Amsterdam. The airline is Delta partners with Air France. Thoughts? Thanks for your time and reply! Happy travels!
Hi Adriana – 70 minutes to make that connection at AMS will be a piece of cake. Just follow the signs for international connections, go through a quick passport verification checkpoint, and continue on to your connecting gate. There’s no reason not to book that itinerary!
Hi Scott,
I’m traveling US-AMS-Spain with a 1:45 layover in May (Monday) and June (Wednesday) Delta-KLM (all in one ticket).
Will this be enough time?
Hi Linda! Yes, even with the larger crowds during the summer months, I think you’ll be fine. The efficiency of AMS passport control amazes me every time – they move a LOT of people through in a very short amount of time.
Just wondering if you think an hour and 20 is enough of a layover at AMS, coming from Florence, Italy ( KLM) )and connecting to SFO ( United )??? Thanks in advance for your input!!
Hi Lori! Yes, you’ll have more time than you’ll know what to do with actually (lol). The only thing you’ll have to do is pass through a quick passport verification checkpoint. After that, it’s simply a matter of walking to your connecting gate.
Scott… wow, thanks so much for your prompt reply! Now I get to spend an extra day in Florence!!!
Hi Scott! I am traveling from Mexico City to Copenhagen with a 1-hour layover in Schiphol Airport. I booked a one-ticket trip with KLM and I will be flying with two different airlines (first Aeromexico and then KLM). Do you think I will have enough time to make the connection or should I change my booking to one with a longer connection time? I am specially worried because it is my first time flying and I will be doing it by myself. Thank you very much for your blog, I really enjoyed reading it!
Sounds like a fun trip Mary! AeroMexico and KLM are partner airlines, so the process will be fairly seamless. Upon arrival in Amsterdam, you’ll have to go through passport control to enter the EU. Customs will happen when you arrive in Copenhagen.
An hour is going to be a little tight, but of all the major airports in Europe, AMS is the best for short connections. The lines for passport control usually move quick!
Hi Scott, thanks for such an informative and reassuring article! I’m thinking of getting on a flight in early Sept from Barcelona to Vancouver with a 6 hr 40 layover (midday) in AMS. All via Delta, so I believe I won’t have to recheck bags. This might be an obvious question, but do you think that would be enough time to roam around the city, even if I have to check bags (erring on the side of caution)? Do you have any suggestions for things to do and how to get around during the layover? I appreciate any suggestions, comments, recommendations! Thank you so much!
You’re very welcome Aira! Going into the city or not all depends on how adventurous you’re feeling. You are going to have to clear customs and immigration if you want to exit the airport, so that will take some time. You won’t have to retrieve your luggage though – it will transfer to your next flight automatically.
Getting into central Amsterdam from the airport is relatively easy via the train. It’s been many years since I’ve done it, and from what I remember, it is something you could do with a 7 hour layover. You won’t be able to stay in the city long though.
Definitely keep an eye on what customs / immigration / security lines are like at AMS this summer. Last summer was horrendous, and most airlines have been reporting really strong transatlantic bookings for this summer, so…there is a chance that even 7 hours won’t be enough time go to into the city.
Hello Scott! Thank you for all of your travel guidance. We will be flying from Budapest to AMS early afternoon, then home to Minneapolis/ St. Paul. We have a 1 hour 45 minute connection in AMS. Flying Delta -early June. I have an option to change this to a 3 hour lay over.
You’re very welcome Tiffany! One hour and 45 minutes is the perfect amount of time for a connection like that in my opinion. The only thing you’ll have to do is go through a quick passport check, and from there you can go straight to your gate. No passport control (immigration), no customs, and no additional security checks. It’s easy!
Hi Scott-
Traveling from Ohio ( through Minneapolis) to BCN with a 70 minute layover at AMS. Delta /Transavia airlines. Doable?
Hi MGW – yes, 70 minutes should be fine under most circumstances. The only thing that you’re going to have to do is to go through passport control. There will be no security checks or customs in Amsterdam.
However, keep in mind that wait times to get through passport control at major European airports could take longer than normal this summer due to all the crowds (just like last summer). Prepare for the worst, but hope for the best!
Hey Scott!
Thinking about connecting from 9:05 AM Arrival on a KLM from SFO on a Saturday (May 13) to an easyJet at 11:30. It will involve passport control, baggage collection and re-check, and security. Do you that is still doable?
Hi Mark! Normally I’d say that it wouldn’t be an issue at all, but we’re getting closer to summer now and passport / security lines at major airports in Europe are only going to get busier. FYI, it took me more than an hour to get through the passport check at CDG last week (flying MUC-CDG-SFO). Almost missed my flight!
AMS is a lot more efficient than CDG though. I think you’ll be fine, but it’s probably a good idea to prepare yourself for the worst…
Scott: We are booked on an AA flight from LAX to Ams that arrives in Ams at 8:40 am. We have a flight to Ljubljana, Slovenia that leaves AMS at 10:25 am on LOT Airlines, that we booked separately. I called American and they said we could not check our baggage through to Ljubljana, but would have to claim our bags from AA at AMS and recheck them with LOT. With this brief amount of time, should we pare down and take only carry on luggage?
Hi Dan – yes, if you can do carryon only, that will certainly help. 2 hours might be possible with checked luggage, but it will be much easier (and faster) without it!
Hi Scott, We are traveling from DAR-AMS-SLC in mid-January all on KLM. Our flight times just changed, shortening our layover in AMS to 90 minutes. Is this enough time? With both flights being international do we have to go through either security or passport control?
Hi Jodie – 90 minutes will be enough time. Yes, you will have to go through a quick passport check, but not security. Have a good trip!
Hi, Scott. My husband and I will be traveling from Basel to Amsterdam then on to Atlanta. One flight option has a layover of 1 hour and 20 minutes. Does that leave enough time to get to our gate?
Hi Nita – yes, that should be enough time. The only thing you’re going to have to do upon arrival in Amsterdam is go through a passport check, which usually moves pretty fast. Just know that lines are going to be longer (and slower) in the summertime – so be prepared if that’s when you’re going. Have a good trip!
Hi Scott,
I’m thinking of booking a flight from Los Angeles to Cape Town, South Africa, on KLM that transits through Amsterdam Schiphol. My connection time is 1 hr 5 min. Will that be enough time?
Thanks!
Hi Skymyr – yup, that’ll be plenty of time assuming that your inbound flight in on time (or at least close to it). Just follow the sighs for international connections, which will lead you to a passport checkpoint. That’s the only thing you’ll have to do. Have a good trip!
Hi Scott!
I have a flight BER-AMS with a connecting flight to Dublin. The layover in Amsterdam is 1 hour. Do you think this is doable?
Thanks in advance 🙂
Hi Rose – yeah, that’ll be easy as long as your inbound flight isn’t running very late. Also, crowds will likely be larger in the summertime, so keep in mind that lines to get through passport control might be a little long. AMS is very efficient though, so you aren’t likely to have any issues. Have a good trip!
Hi Scott,
I am travelling from Budapest to Amsterdam then Amsterdam to Singapore on different reservations. Would 2h 40 min be enough time or should I fly in the day before. I am meant to arrive in Amsterdam at 08:40 on Saturday morning. Do you think 2 hours 40 min is enough time ?
Hi Kirsten! I would personally feel more comfortable flying in the day before. 2 hours and 40 minutes will probably be enough time, but based on what we saw last summer at AMS, you’ll want as much buffer time as possible.
Also, 08:40 is going to be busy. Most flights to AMS from the US arrive in the morning, so the queues for everything are likely to be long.
FWIW, I think your chances of making it will be higher if you aren’t traveling during the summer months. Good luck with whatever you decide!
Hi Scott! We’re flying Orlando to Amsterdam and then on to Prague in late November mid week. Our layover is 2 hours, but I’m wondering about crowds that time of year when not traveling on a weekend? Thanks for all the great info!
Hi Tina! Crowds won’t be an issue if you’re traveling mid week in November IMHO. Most of the tourists will be gone by that point, so making your connection will be quick and easy.
If it makes you feel any better, I made a connection through Amsterdam last November, and it took all of 10 minutes.
Have a great trip!
Hi Scott! We are flying Minneapolis with a 1 hr 20 minute layover in AMS to Germany the beginning of July. Will that be enough time? It’s my understanding we only have to go through passport control as our tickets were purchased as a single ticket.
On our way home the route is the same with a 1 hour and 40 minute layover. Will this be enough with summer travel crowds?
Thank you so much!
Hi Shelby! You are correct – it’s going to be passport control only. You’ll go through customs in Germany.
Your layover times will most likely be OK, but it’s hard to say with any certainty due to the busy summer travel season. That said, I’d much rather have a layover at AMS than any other major European airport. AMS is extremely efficient IMHO.
Have a good trip!
Hi
Flying KLM from SFO to AMS with 1 hour to connect to KLM flight to JRO (Tanzania ) in late June. Doing carryon just to be safe. Will we make it?
Hi Leslie – if it were any other time of year, I would say that you would have absolutely no issues with a one hour layover. However, June is a pretty busy time at AMS. The only thing that you’re going to have to do is go through a passport verification check – but just be aware that the lines to get through it might be a bit longer than usual (due to the summer crowds).
I personally think you’ll be fine, but you might not have a lot of extra time once it’s all said and done.
Flying from Venice (Marco Polo) on Jun 5, 2024 (Wed). Land in AMS at 7:50 have connecting flight to Houston (IAH), a 1 hour 50 min layover. Is this enough time? Flights on 1 ticket and both KLM.
Hi Carla – yes, I think that’s going to be perfectly fine. The only thing you’re going to have to do is go through a passport check (you won’t have to go through security). The lines might be a little long due to larger summer crowds, but AMS is fairly efficient when it comes to international transfers IMHO.
Hi Scott, We are flying KLM from LAX to JRO with only 1 hour to connect in AMS in mid August. Is it doable? Do we need to go through passport control?
Hi Judy – 1 hour is probably going to be a little tight due to all the summer crowds IMHO (August is always the worst). Thankfully, the only thing that you’re going to have to do is go through a passport verification check. Security and customs will not be required.
Even though I think it’s going to be a little tight, it’s worth noting that AMS is probably the most efficient airport in Europe for international to international connections at the moment. That’s just my opinion of course, as I’ve never had any issues there.
Thanks, Scott. The connection time was originally 1 hour and 20 minutes. KLM had a schedule change and thus the connection time was decreased to 1 hour. If we missed the connection, will the airline help us with rescheduling?
No problem! Yes, they will automatically rebook you. They will most likely post your updated itinerary to the mobile app on your phone – but if not, just go to the nearest transfer desk and they can sort it out for you there.
Hi Scott – we are flying Delta (operated by KLM) ATL-AMS-OSL on Aug 30th. Layover AMS is 1 hr 35 mins. Should we be worried?
Hi Fidie – I don’t think you should be worried, but you do need to be prepared for long lines even through passport control is going to be your only requirement. That said, long lines were a problem at AMS last summer, so patience will be required. I think you’ll be fine!
Thanks for such a great post. My student will be first time oversees traveling to Lacoste France via either Delta or Air France from Boston via either AMS or CGD. CDG for a first time young student I have read will be a challenge, and connection times are small. AMS seems very manageable, however boston to AMS (connection 1:40) the to MRS hoping AMS is long enough connection? I am assuming her round trip ticket means she does not have to retrieve her luggage? Not sure what seperate ticket means. I guess also CDG prob has more flights to MRS and Boston if she misses, but reading about CDG versus AMS seems as a parent to make me worried. Thanks for any input and it is very much appreciated
You’re very welcome Brian! I definitely recommend AMS over CDG for making connections. CDG can be a nightmare (even for seasoned travelers), and I consider AMS much easier to navigate.
I think she’ll be fine with a one hour and 40 minute connection time. Besides, I would rather miss a flight at AMS than CDG. There will still be plenty of options to get to MRS from AMS if she misconnects.
As long as her entire itinerary is booked with either Delta or Air France, she won’t have to worry about retrieving luggage during a layover. It will be transferred for her automatically. The only thing she’s going to have to do is go through passport control. Customs will happen at her final destination.
This information has been so helpful! Started following you for more information. I read your article and all your answers to the questions. But my anxiety makes me want to clarify with you. Next summer (late June/early July) we will be flying Delta from OR >AMS > CPT. The best options have 1 hour 45 minute layover in AMS. In general, it sounds like you think that might be fine. The fact that it is in the summer months is making me nervous. What is your advice? Will that most likely be ok or should I take a flight that has more stops and significantly longer time traveling to add more time to that layover? Thanks!
Glad to help Julie! If it were any other airport than AMS, I might recommend looking for other options. However, Schiphol Airport may be the best in Europe for making international to international connections IMHO. Yes, the summer crowds might make it more challenging, but I don’t think you’ll have any issues.
FYI, the only thing you’ll have to do is go through a passport verification checkpoint (no security or customs). Have a great trip!
Hello Scott,
Do you know which Terminal American Airlines uses at AMS? we are looking at a 1 hour connection coming from DFW and need to transfer to KLM to get to Warsaw. The only other option is a 6 hour layover taking up most of the day. Do you think we should opt for the 6 hour layover to be safe?
Hi Tamara! American Airlines uses Terminal 3 at AMS most of the time (which is separate from the terminal that KLM uses). I wouldn’t risk a one hour layover – you might be able to make it, but it’s going to be an extremely stressful experience.
By the way, the KLM terminal at AMS is amazing (full of really great restaurants and shops). It won’t be all that difficult to kill six hours.
Hello, Scott!
Thank you for such a helpful article!
As I gathered from the above comments, a 2 hour connection in Amsterdam should give us plenty of time (we’ll going from JFK, New York, to Norway connecting in Amsterdam). Do you happen to know what Schiphol’s policies are now regarding covid? I’ve read on the Netherlands’ government site that there are no restrictions at all at this time and no testing is required, but the Schiphol site says a negative covid test result is needed? Do you have any information on that?
Thank you so much in advance!
Hi Irina – no Covid test needed! I’m not sure why the website is saying that, because there are no restrictions at this time.
Hi Scott thanks for your informative article, I need your advice, my son is traveling from Riyadh to Frankfort then through Amsterdam Airport to Canada as a final destination, with very short layover time in Amsterdam airport 1h 40 minutes, taking into consideration that he has to take his baggage check out then recheck in, do you think it will be very tight layover, the issue if we changed the flight we will pay extra cost 1600 SAR.
I don’t think an hour and 40 minutes is going to be enough! If he didn’t have to claim (and then re-check) his luggage, there wouldn’t be any problem. I just don’t think there will be enough time to do all that unfortunately.
Hi Scott, my family is going to travel from Stockholm to AMS, then from AMS to Atlanta, USA. The layover time is 1 hour 35 minutes. Will that be enough time? Thank you!
Hi Wilson! Yes, that will be plenty of time. Making international connections at AMS is extremely easy – the only thing you’re going to have to is go through a quick passport verification checkpoint (with no security checks).
I wouldn’t recommend an hour and 35 minutes for this type of connection at a few other European airports, but AMS has always been quick and easy for me.
Thank you Scott! My delta flight (from AMS to ATL) just changes their departure time so now we only have 1 hour 10 minutes layover. The flight is on Christmas Day, December 25th. I called Delta, and Delta tried to contact KLM to change the flight from Stockholm to AMS, but KLM said 1 hour 10 minute is still within allowed time and would not change it for us. What do you think? We are very nervous now. Thank you!
Hi Scott, we are traveling on 1 August with kids and 3 grandkids, all small, one under a year. Flying on klm Tel Aviv to Amsterdam connecting thru to Edinburgh. Baggage will be checked thru, wondering if 1 hr 15 minutes will be adequate? Saw many posts that Schiphol is shambolic, is there any priority for travelers with kids?
Hi Chanah – The fact that it’s the height of the summer travel season is going to make things a bit challenging. That said, things are much better at AMS now than they were last summer (which was a total disaster).
The only thing you’re going to have to do is go through a passport verification check. I think you’ll be fine, but keep in mind the line to get through passport control is probably going to be a little longer than usual. As long as you don’t waste any time getting to that point, you shouldn’t have any issues.
I’m not sure about the priority lanes for families traveling with children, however. I don’t recall seeing that the last time I connected through AMS.
We’re looking to travel Ncl Newcastle (UK) to Berlin via Amsterdam so non Schengen to Schengen with a 1hr 25 layover. Will this be enough time? Thank you
Hi Joan! Yes, that will more than likely be enough time. However, it’s the busy summer travel season now, so keep in mind that lines for passport control might be a little longer than usual.
Thank you very much
Hi Scott-
Great article; appreciate the info. I’m looking at a 1hr and 5 min layover, flying from Geneva, through AMS to Salt Lake City (US). Based on your comments above, it looks like 65 minutes at AMS could be cutting it close during peak summer but what are your thoughts on whether that is sufficient time the first week of September? Thank you.
Thanks – and you’re very welcome Jason! Yeah, that’s not exactly a connection time I’d be comfortable with in July or August. Past experience has taught me that things slow down significantly at the very beginning of September though, so I don’t think you’ll have much of an issue. It’s probably going to be a little bit slower than normal, but I wouldn’t sweat it.
Hi Scott, As I’m reading your article, I can’t help but notice that you mention how passengers (mainly from the First World) on connecting flights do NOT need to clear a second security check. only passport control depending on whether they’re staying in the Schengen zone or not. Do I have that right?
I’m due to fly on KLM in October from Vienna to Toronto via a 90-minute stopover in Amsterdam, and am trying to sort out whether I need to factor in the risk of a potential line-up at a second security screening in Amsterdam before boarding the flight to Toronto. I’m under the impression that the first security check in Vienna SHOULD be enough since I need to stay airside at Schiphol and would move from a Schengen gate to a non-Schengen one. Please let me know how I’m thinking this through because the 90-minute buffer seems a little short to me if I’d need to clear passport control AND a second security check. Thanks in advance.
Hi Slavo – 90 minutes will be plenty of time! Transiting at AMS to international destinations is actually quite easy. Just follow the signs for international connections, which will lead you to passport control. The lines for passport control move fairly quickly in my experience (the summer months are slower however), so unless it’s really backed up (and it’s the middle of August or something), you’ll be through in a relatively short amount of time.
Once through that, you can proceed directly to your gate. There are no additional security checks. Have a great trip!
Thank you Scott for answering that quickly.
Thus I’d indeed face only passport control at Schiphol and wouldn’t need to line up for a second security check there to board the flight to Toronto because the first security check in Vienna was good enough. That means that I could buy some duty-free booze in Vienna without fear of dumping it in front of a security screener in Amsterdam.
I recently read about someone on a connection who got the nasty surprise of a second security check at Schiphol on the way to the US. From what I could piece together, the problem may have been that the originating flight was from an “unsafe” airport outside the First World or that the policy was that ALL passengers going to the US (but not Canada) needed the second security check – including those who stayed airside as connecting passengers.
You’re very welcome Slavo! Yeah, I believe that’s the case. You’re not going to have to go through an additional security check if you’re coming from Vienna. It’ll be passport control only.
Hi Scott! I appreciated the help you gave the first time several months ago, and could use your advice once again. Will be traveling on a return flight in October: Venice>Amsterdam>Vancouver on KLM Airlines which are on same ticket. We have a 1 hr 40 min layover in Amsterdam. Will we need to go through both passport check plus a security check in Amsterdam?
In Vancouver, we will be changing planes and flying back to Hawaii on Westjet. We have a 2 hour layover. Will we be going through passport check, security check, and need to pick up our baggage & recheck it again?
Please advise. Thank you again so much!
Hi Lita – I’m happy to help! On your way back from Venice, you will only need to go through passport control in Amsterdam. There will be no additional security checks. And yes, 1 hour and 40 minutes will be more than enough time to make the transfer.
Your layover in Vancouver will be slightly more complicated if your WestJet tickets were purchased separately. This will require you to go through Canadian passport control and customs (which will necessitate retrieval of your luggage). Two hours is going to be a bit tight in this scenario, but totally doable if you keep moving as fast as possible.
If your entire itinerary from Venice to Hawaii was purchased as part of the same ticket, just follow the signs for international connections upon arrival in Vancouver. Theoretically, your luggage should transfer automatically, and the only thing you’ll have to do is go through a passport checkpoint.
Sounds like an interesting trip. Have fun!
Aloha, Scott! Thanks again so much for your wonderful and quick response to my inquiry. So grateful for the peace of mind you provide. I’m so relieved. I looked again at the air itinerary that Norwegian Cruise Lines provided to us, and it does look like our return trip from Venice all the way to Honolulu is all on one ticket. So it’s great to know we will only need to go through a passport checkpoint in Vancouver and not need to retrieve our luggage. Thanks very much for your valuable expertise.
You’re very welcome Lita – it sounds like it’s going to be an amazing trip, and I will admit that I am totally jealous. Have fun!
Hi Scott I’m travelling from uk to Hannover with a 55 min stop over in schiphol airport do I go through non shengen or shengen passport control? I missed my connection last month due to a late take off from manchester, so now iv booked a seat to get off plane first just trying to be prepared as much as possible many thanks, Trish.
Hi Trish – you’ll be going through Schengen passport control to Enter the EU. 55 minutes is going to be a little tight, but as long as you’re first off the plane (and your flight arrives on time) you should be OK.
Hi Scott I am traveling Atlanta>Amsterdam>Porto. Is 1 hour enough time to make the transfer?
Hi Anita – 1 hour is likely to be a bit tight IMHO. You’re going to have to go through passport control at AMS (but not customs), so it will all depend on how long the queue is.
That said, AMS is probably the only airport in Europe that I would feel confident doing a 1 hour layover at. It’s a very efficient setup.
Looking to transfer through AMS from Newcastle, going to Milan in Dec 23, transfer time is 45 mins, is this going to be a problem?
Hi Dominic – probably not, but keep in mind two days before Christmas is going to be busier than normal (thus making your chances for a missed connection higher). The only thing that you’re going to have to do is go through passport control. It’s usually pretty quick at AMS, so as long as your inbound flight is on time, you should be OK.
Hi Scott, thanks for some very helpful tips. Am planning a return trip mid-November. Hoping to catch first flight out of Heathrow, land in AMS at 9 AM and then make a 3 hour connecting flight to Toronto. Have checked in luggage. Will the 3 hour layover in Amsterdam be sufficient? I assume we have to recheck in luggage (not same ticket), go through passport control, security, and recheck in luggage for our flight to Toronto? Thanks!!
Hi Ying – you’re very welcome! I wouldn’t recommend that at the peak of the summer travel season (like August), but 3 hours should be fine in mid November. As a matter of fact, that’s an itinerary I’d book for myself without worry – though I’d try to do it with carry-on luggage only if I could.
You’ll be fine with checked luggage though. Have a great trip!
Hi Scott, my family (4) will be connecting in AMS on our way to BCN (Feb. 2024) with a 2 hour 25 minute layover. The flight is a Delta codeshare on KLM aircraft. The flight to BCN is on KLM. My wife and one of my sons have some physical difficulties. They don’t require wheelchairs, but don’t move really quickly, is this enough time for us to get through the process in your opinion? Thanks.
Hi Jeff! Two hours and 25 minutes will be more than enough time. The only thing you’re going to have to do is go through passport control, and I always find it to be a fairly quick process at AMS (especially in the low season / winter). Enjoy Barcelona!
Thank you for this very detailed article. Traveling from South Africa to Orlando (US) with a 2 hour layover in Amsterdam. All ticketed together so should even have time for a quick coffee. I was getting rather concerned and overthinking it, but that’s just me. You’ve answered all my questions and put my overthinking mind at ease 🙂
You’re very welcome Martin! Yes, two hours is going to be easy – you’re not likely to have any issues at all. Enjoy the coffee (and Orlando)!
We have a 3 hour and 20 minute layover in Amsterdam, flying in from Minneapolis, US on the way to Tanzania. Do we have enough time to leave the airport and go into Amsterdam?
Hi Cheryl – it all depends on how adventurous (and energetic) you’re feeling. 🙂 There’s no way I would do this, but it’s probably enough time to hop on a train to the city center (and then turn around and come right back to the airport).
I wouldn’t recommend this during the summer months. That’s the busiest time of year at AMS, and the lines to get through passport control / customs / security will likely be too long to make this feasible.
In the winter though? It’s worth a shot!
Hi,
Our trip is mid-January. Is there plenty to do in the airport? Can you recommend a place for good coffee?
Actually, yes! AMS is one of my favorite airports in the world for connections. There are a ton of great restaurants, comfortable chairs to lounge in, and large windows providing excellent views of the airport.
I’m not a coffee drinker unfortunately, so I have no recommendations for that. Perhaps someone here in the comment section can recommend a good spot…
Hi Scott,
You are fantastic for answering all these questions!
I am flying from Zagreb to Boston through AMS, changing airlines (Croatia to Jetblue) with a 50 mins layover. Google says the Croatia flight is often delayed by 30mins. We will only have carry-on luggage. Is this a good idea? Our other option is to spend the night in Amsterdam, which adds costs.
Thanks John – glad to help! My honest opinion: No. It’s not a good idea. 🙂
50 minutes would be tight enough as it is, but you’ll be screwed if your inbound flight to AMS is delayed even slightly. Spend the night in Amsterdam and relieve yourself of the stress of trying to make a dicey connection.
FYI, the Sheraton (connected directly to AMS) is pretty good.
Hi Scott. I first time travel from Poland to Atlanta in Usa by KLM. And I have a transfer in Amsterdam. worried about 50 mins connection flight that I have. Will it be enough. Do I need to go through a security check and passport control again and how long will it takes? And what if missed that connection flight? If travel by single airline will they wait for me if they know am in the Airport and can’t arrive on time?
Hi Mykhailo – 50 minutes Will be plenty of time to make the transfer in Amsterdam. The only thing you’ll have to do is go through passport control. You won’t have to go through security or customs, and your luggage will transfer automatically. It will be very easy!
If by chance you miss your flight, you’ll automatically be put on standby for the next one. You can check with the transfer desk (or the KLM mobile app) to find out the information about your new flight. If it makes you feel any better, people miss their connections all the time – the airlines are very good at getting people to their destination regardless. You’ll be OK. Have a great flight!
Hi Scott-
We are traveling from Detroit to Barcelona in June. Amsterdam seems to be the best choice for layover (vs. CDG). Trying to figure out how much time I need for a layover going and coming through Amsterdam?? I assume we will need to collect our luggage and go through customs and re-check in– will that happen DTW-AMS and BNC-AMS?
Many of the flights I am looking at only have 2 hours, but wondering if I pay more for ther 4 hour?
Thanks!
Hi Jodi – AMS is definitely the better choice! Note that you will not need to claim and a recheck your luggage if you’re flying the same airline or alliance. For example, if you fly from Detroit to Amsterdam on Delta, and then connect to KLM to Barcelona, your luggage will transfer automatically since they are partners in the SkyTeam Alliance.
On the way over AND the way back, you’ll go through passport control in Amsterdam (not customs). This is usually a quick process, and a 2 hour layover will be more than sufficient. Have a great trip!
Thank you so much! We will be on Delta the whole time (or their partner). I was told be a few friends that we would have to get our luggage and recheck in .
Thank you!!!
Hi Scott,
I am considering a flight from US with 1 hr 50 min AMS stop prior to Schengen connecting flight. Will have kids and carry-on luggage only. Will this allow plenty of time for customs and passport control?
Thanks.
Hi Ryan – yes, two hours is really easy for this type of connection at AMS. You’re not going to have any issues at all (unless your inbound flight is really late).
Greetings Scott – I appreciate this information and your responses to curious travelers, I am going to add to your question queue here!
I have a flight from the US to Venice, with a long layover in AMS. My original flight was a 90 minute layover, but it changed to 6 hours now! I am curious if this would be enough time to put our bags (carry on only) into lockers at the airport and head into city center for a bit? I think it would be, but the logistics of leaving the security area and coming back in, and then what area I’d go back through security at, leaves me a bit nervous. If I go through passport control/security on my way out, are there lockers in the non security area? When coming back to make my connecting flight, would I have to go through passport control again being a non-Schengen citizen – or since I’m flying from AMS to VCE would that make this a Schengen flight and thus, I assume, faster check in/security process?
Much appreciated for the insight!
Hey Patrick – no problem. Glad to help! Yes, as long as you’re not talking about mid summer (the height of the busy travel season), 6 hours will be enough time to hop on the train to Central Amsterdam. You won’t have much time to look around, but enjoying a coffee (or beer) at a street side cafe should be doable.
To be honest I’m not even sure where the lockers are located – you’ll have to do some further research on that.
You won’t have to do much when you come back for your connecting flight. Just check in like you normally would, and proceed to the security checkpoint. You’ll also have to go through a quick passport verification before entering the terminal, but that’s it. It should be pretty quick.
Have fun!
Hi Scott:
Thank you for this helpful article! I have tickets in July from Florence to JFK with a connecting flight in Amsterdam. I have a 1 hour layover. The other flight offered has a 7 hour layover in Amsterdam otherwise I would have to connect in France for more options. Do you think 1 hour is cutting it too close? (My itinerary is on 1 ticket). Thank you!!
You’re very welcome Dawn! One hour should be fine, but it might be a little tight considering that’s a very busy time of the year to travel through AMS (or any other major European airport). The only thing you’re going to have to do is go through passport control. No security checkpoints (or customs).
AMS is your best option IMHO. I don’t know if I would be comfortable with a connection like that at any other airport in Europe at the height of the busy summer travel season.
Hi Scott. What do you think of a 90 min layover in AMS from Athens going to LAX in May? Will I have enough time?
Hey Summer – yeah, even with the busy summer travel season just getting underway, 90 minutes should be enough time. It probably wouldn’t be enough at other major European airports *cough*CDG*cough*, but AMS is usually very efficient. Have a great trip!
Very helpful article, 70 minute layover from Venice to AMS (KLM), then onward to the US (Delta). Passport control seems to be the only speed bump per your article. 70 minutes still okay layover time in early September? Thanks!
You’re very welcome Karen – yup, the only thing you’re going to need to do is go through passport control. 70 minutes might be questionable mid-summer, but that should be fine in September.
Hi Scott, I am traveling from the US to Ibiza with a 70 minute layover in AMS. It is all one itinerary, so I will not have to recheck my bag, but I’m worried this won’t be enough time to make my connecting flight since it is July. What do you think?
Hi Leah – if it were any major European airport other than AMS, you’d have legitimate reason to be concerned. But you’re not likely to have any issues with that type of connection IMHO. Things have greatly improved since the post pandemic madness.
You’ll have to go through passport control. Once through that, you can proceed directly to your connecting gate. No security checks required.
Have a great trip!