Compare cheap car hire at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol with practical advice on pickup locations, vehicle types, driving routes and seasonal rental prices.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the main international airport in the Netherlands and one of the busiest hubs in Europe. Located about 17km southwest of Amsterdam city centre, the airport provides quick road access to cities across the Netherlands as well as neighbouring Belgium and Germany.
Although trains connect Schiphol with major Dutch cities, renting a car at the airport can be useful for exploring coastal areas, countryside regions and smaller towns that are harder to reach by rail.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Amsterdam Airport has frequent direct flights from Ireland, making it one of the easiest European airports to reach from Irish cities.
- Dublin → Amsterdam (Aer Lingus, KLM, Ryanair)
- Cork → Amsterdam (KLM)
Flight time from Dublin to Amsterdam is typically around 1 hour 40 minutes.
Where the Car Hire Desks Are Located
Car hire desks at Amsterdam Airport are located inside the main terminal building in Schiphol Plaza, the public arrivals hall directly connected to the train station.
After completing the rental agreement at the desk, travellers collect their vehicle from the nearby Car Rental Service Center, located in the airport parking garages just outside the terminal complex.
The walk from the terminal to the car collection area usually takes around 5–10 minutes.
Terminal information and airport maps are available on the official Amsterdam Schiphol Airport website.
Rental Companies at Amsterdam Airport
A wide range of international and European car hire companies operate at Schiphol Airport.
- Hertz
- Avis / Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Enterprise
- Alamo
Vehicles are normally parked in the airport’s dedicated car rental parking structures close to the terminal.
Typical Rental Prices at Amsterdam Airport
| Season | Economy Car | Family / Compact | SUV / Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – March | €30 – €55 per day | €55 – €90 per day | €90 – €150 per day |
| April – June | €35 – €70 per day | €70 – €110 per day | €110 – €170 per day |
| July – August | €45 – €90 per day | €90 – €140 per day | €140 – €220 per day |
| September – October | €35 – €75 per day | €75 – €120 per day | €120 – €190 per day |
| November – December | €30 – €60 per day | €60 – €95 per day | €95 – €160 per day |
Choosing the Right Car for the Netherlands
Compact Cars
Small hatchbacks are ideal for city visits and short drives between Dutch towns.
Family Cars
Larger compact cars are comfortable for exploring multiple cities across the Netherlands.
Electric Vehicles
The Netherlands has an extensive EV charging network, so electric cars are increasingly popular rental choices.
Driving from Amsterdam Airport
The airport connects directly to several major motorways, making it easy to reach destinations across the country.
- Amsterdam city centre – about 25 minutes
- Rotterdam – around 50 minutes
- The Hague – roughly 45 minutes
- Utrecht – about 40 minutes
The A4, A5 and A9 motorways connect Schiphol Airport with the wider Dutch motorway network.
Driving Tips in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has excellent road infrastructure, but visitors should be aware that bicycles have priority in many areas, particularly in city centres.
Parking in central Amsterdam can be limited and expensive, so many travellers park outside the centre and use public transport to reach major attractions.
For travel advice and visitor information you can also consult the official Netherlands tourism website.
Places to Visit by Car from Amsterdam
With a rental car, travellers can explore several destinations across the Netherlands.
- Zaanse Schans – historic windmill village north of Amsterdam
- Keukenhof Gardens – famous spring flower gardens
- Rotterdam – modern city known for architecture
- The Hague – political centre of the Netherlands
These destinations are easily reached within a short drive from Schiphol Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Amsterdam Airport?
The rental counters are located in Schiphol Plaza, the main arrivals hall of the airport terminal.
Which companies operate car hire at Amsterdam Airport?
Major suppliers include Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Budget, Sixt, Enterprise and Alamo.
How far is Amsterdam Airport from the city centre?
The airport is located about 17km from central Amsterdam.
Is driving in the Netherlands easy for visitors?
Yes. Roads are well maintained and clearly signposted.
Do Dutch motorways have tolls?
Most motorways in the Netherlands are toll-free.
Do I need a credit card to hire a car at Amsterdam Airport?
Most rental companies require a credit card in the lead driver’s name for the security deposit.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, although manual vehicles are still common in Europe.
Should I book Amsterdam Airport car hire in advance?
Booking ahead usually provides better prices and vehicle availability.
How long does it take to drive from the airport to central Amsterdam?
The journey usually takes around 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.
Is parking easy in Amsterdam?
Parking in the city centre can be limited and expensive, so many drivers use park-and-ride facilities.
