Amsterdam

Departing from Birmingham Airport

Getting to Birmingham Airport is easy whatever mode of transport you use. If you’re travelling by public transport, you will find bus services running directly to the airport or to Birmingham International Airport Railway station. A free Air-Rail Link from the station will take you to straight into the terminal.

If you’re driving to the airport, you’ll find a choice of car parks, which are all easily accessible from the terminal by foot or via the courtesy shuttle bus. Book a car parking space online in advance and save up to 70%.

Need currency for your trip abroad? Look no further – all you need to do is head to our Travelex stores conveniently located in the Arrivals area of the terminal building and Departures Lounge.  If you prefer, you can pre-order your currency and get next day collection if you order before 3pm at Birmingham Airport. Travelex’s ATM machines are operational 24/7, ready for any time of flight offering both pounds and Euros, and accept most major cards.

Our single terminal has everything you would expect to find at an international airport. It’s fully equipped with all the facilities you need and plenty of places to shop, eat and relax once you pass through security.

If you’re feeling hungry, you’ll find a great selection of cafés, bars and restaurants for you to relax in and enjoy a tasty meal before you fly. Enjoy a sit-down meal at Giraffe or grab something to take on the plane from Pret a Manger or Wrapchic.  Wetherspoons has all your favourite beers.

We’ve also got a great selection of shops for you to browse, so you can get all your last minute essentials or treat yourself to something new. Find great savings at World Duty Free or browse Accessorize and Sunglass Hut for something new.

For extra comfort and relaxation, why not book into one of our airport lounges? Enjoy complimentary food and drinks, unlimited WiFi and great runway views.

To find out about our other services, head to our terminal facilities page.

Arriving at Amsterdam Airport

Schiphol Airport is huge; it has one main terminal with six concourses. It doesn't really matter which one you land at, as they all end up at the huge arrivals area, Schiphol Plaza. From here, onward travel is super easy. The taxi rank, train station and bus stops are well signposted, so finding your way into the city is simple and stress-free.

The train is the quickest way to reach Amsterdam (15-20 minutes) and the station is located just underneath the airport. If you prefer taxis, you'll find plenty just outside the main entrance to arrivals and at train station level. 

Pre-book your transfer with HolidayTaxis and avoid the queues when you arrive.

What to expect in Amsterdam

There is more to Amsterdam than its famous Red Light District. A modern city with many distinctive neighbourhoods, the areas surrounding the city centre are pretty and tranquil. If you are going to explore the Red Light District, remember to be respectful. While the Dam is renowned for its relaxed attitude towards soft drugs, possession is still illegal. Coffee shops are the only places where possession, purchase, and use are tolerated.

Linguistically speaking, Dutch and English are very similar, which means the Dutch are known for their strong English language skills. Even though the locals will speak to each other in Dutch, the majority will be able to speak perfect English – that’s not to say you shouldn’t make effort to learn a few Dutch phrases though!

Culture in Amsterdam

Although well-known for its village-like charm, Amsterdam is a European capital and as such offers an exciting art, music, film and theatre scene. You certainly won’t be bored on a visit to this city.

Be aware that the Dutch people have earned themselves a reputation for being incurably outspoken – speech is always straightforward and context-driven, so don’t be put off if it comes across harshly. On the up side, ask a Dutch person anything and you’ll get the answer!

Bikes are an inescapable part of the local culture. Many Dutch people list the bicycle as their most frequent mode of transport on a typical day, so rent one and get exploring the city.

You must also sample some local food. From mini pancakes to croquettes from a vending machine, Amsterdam offers its travellers many tasty treats.