Schiphol Airport Breaks

If you think Schiphol Airport is just a stop between flights, you’re missing the real story. Set on the edge of Amsterdam, this major European gateway is surrounded by charming villages, green escapes, and a rich layer of Dutch history and culture. Whether you’re here for a few hours or staying a while, Schiphol is more than a connection – it’s a destination in its own right.

Start by visiting Hoofddorp, just four minutes by train from the airport and the vibrant centre of the surrounding Haarlemmermeer region. Once a small polder village – built on land reclaimed from a former lake – it’s now a buzzing modern town. Grab a coffee, browse local shops, or take a breath of fresh air in one of the nearby parks.

Next, make your way to Museum De Cruquius – just a 15-minute cab ride from Schiphol. This isn’t just any museum; it’s one of the most iconic engineering landmarks in the Netherlands. Set inside a monumental 19th-century steam pumping station, it houses the world’s largest beam engine and tells the story of how the Dutch quite literally turned a lake into liveable land. After exploring the exhibits, take a stroll along the peaceful Ringvaart Canal – once the outer rim of the Haarlemmermeer Lake, now a scenic waterway that circles the entire region.

Fancy something a little different? Hop in a taxi and you’ll reach Fort Vijfhuizen in just 15 minutes. This former military fort – part of the UNESCO-listed Defence Line of Amsterdam – is now home to Kunstfort, a bold and unexpected mix of history and modern art. Explore rotating exhibitions, artist studios, and installations tucked inside thick concrete walls, then unwind at the relaxed canal-side café.

When you’re in the mood for food, skip the terminal snacks and sample some local Dutch flavours instead. Around Schiphol, you'll find everything from cosy village cafés to polished hotel brasseries serving up regional favourites. Tuck into a warm plate of stamppot (mashed potato with vegetables and sausage), snack on crispy bitterballen with mustard, or try a broodje haring – raw herring served the traditional way. Got a sweet tooth? Don’t miss a fresh stroopwafel or a slice of buttery Dutch apple pie. Whether you're after a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there’s plenty of local flavour to discover just beyond the airport gates.

Once you’re refuelled, jump on board the Museum Tram Line, where beautifully restored electric trams from the early 20th century travel a scenic route between Haarlemmermeer Station and Amstelveen. It’s charming, laid-back, and a unique way to see the local area.

As night falls, escape the airport crowds and head to Nieuw-Vennep for a relaxed dinner at a local bistro or sip a cold beer by the canal in Badhoevedorp as the sun goes down. Prefer to stay close? Settle into a stylish airport hotel bar where cocktails come with runway views. No rush, no stress – just good food, easy vibes, and a quiet Dutch charm that’s worlds away from the terminal.

Whether you’re recharging between flights or staying over before take-off, Schiphol Airport is more than just a stop – it’s a chance to slow down, look around, and experience a slice of the Netherlands that most travellers miss.