Schiphol taxis are metered but unregulated — fares vary widely. Here's how to get a fair price and the best alternatives.
Taxis from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to the city centre are metered but not price-regulated — different companies charge different rates, and Schiphol has historically been one of Europe's most complained-about airports for taxi overcharging. A legitimate fare from Schiphol to central Amsterdam runs €40–55. Unofficial drivers and touts charge €80–130 for the same journey. The good news: Schiphol has significantly cleaned up the problem with official taxi zones and a code-of-conduct programme, and Uber and Bolt now provide a reliable upfront-pricing alternative. The best option of all is the train, which runs under the airport in 15–20 minutes for €5.30.
Check your Amsterdam fare
Route + scam warnings in seconds
Not sure what you get? See a full sample result →
Schiphol's official taxi zone is located outside the main arrivals hall (follow signs for "Taxi"). Only taxis in this designated zone have agreed to Schiphol's code of conduct, which requires reasonable metered rates and prohibition of touting. Do not accept any ride offered by someone who approaches you inside the terminal — this is always a warning sign. The Schiphol Taxi app allows you to book an official taxi before you arrive. Uber and Bolt have designated pick-up zones at Schiphol and offer completely upfront pricing — for many visitors these are the most convenient and predictable option.
Schiphol's overcharging problem is real and ongoing. Unofficial drivers have been documented charging €100–130 for journeys that cost €45 in the official zone. If a driver approaches you inside the terminal, decline. If a taxi outside quotes a fixed price above €60 for the city centre, walk to the next cab or open Uber.
Schiphol station sits directly beneath the airport terminal — accessible via escalators from the arrivals hall, no outdoor walking required. Intercity Direct and Sprinter trains to Amsterdam Centraal run every 10–15 minutes, take 15–20 minutes, and cost €5.30 with an OV-chipkaart or a single-use ticket. From Centraal, Amsterdam's tram and metro network covers the rest of the city cheaply. The only reasons to choose a taxi over the train: significant luggage, a hotel not accessible from Centraal without another connection, or travelling as a group of 3–4 where the taxi cost per head approaches the train fare.
How much is a taxi from Schiphol to Amsterdam?
€40–55 for a legitimate metered taxi from the official zone. Unofficial drivers and touts may quote €80–130 for the same journey — always use the official zone or Uber/Bolt.
Is the train better than a taxi from Schiphol?
For most travellers, yes. 15–20 minutes to Amsterdam Centraal for €5.30 is exceptional value. Taxis make sense for groups of 3–4, those with heavy luggage, or destinations not well-served by trains and trams.
Is Uber available at Schiphol?
Yes — Uber and Bolt both operate from designated pick-up zones at Schiphol. Upfront pricing makes them a reliable alternative to metered taxis, eliminating the risk of being overcharged.
How do I avoid taxi scams at Schiphol?
Never accept a ride from anyone who approaches you inside the terminal. Use the official taxi zone outside arrivals, book via the Schiphol Taxi app, or use Uber/Bolt. If a driver quotes above €60 for the city centre, decline and try the next cab.
How long does the taxi take from Schiphol to Amsterdam?
25–40 minutes in normal conditions. During morning peak hours (8–9:30am) and afternoon rush (5–7pm), allow up to 60 minutes due to motorway traffic around Amsterdam.
Can I pay by card in Schiphol taxis?
Most legitimate Schiphol taxis accept card payments. Confirm before getting in. Uber and Bolt charge your card on file automatically. Having some cash (euros) as backup is sensible.
Book a pre-arranged transfer in Amsterdam
Fixed price · no meter disputes · book in advance
Affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosure
That's the general range — what's YOUR route?
Fares shift by exact pickup point, time of day, and traffic. Get a personalised estimate for your specific journey in Amsterdam, plus scam warnings and the phrase to say to your driver.
Check My Exact FareFirst time? See a full sample result →
Flying into Amsterdam?
See the full AMS airport taxi fare table — route-by-route estimates, scam warnings, and cheaper alternatives.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol taxi faresGet travel tips in your inbox
No spam — just occasional guides on taxi fares, tipping customs, and getting around without getting ripped off.
