Amsterdam is a unique city with many diverse, historic, and cultural attractions. With easy access from the airport, an 8-hour layover in Amsterdam is an ideal time to see bit of everything!
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So, we were planning our son’s Bar Mitzvah in Israel (this was in the halcyon days known as “Pre-COVID”). Having had such a great time with our prior layover experience (see: 9-Hour Warsaw Layover with Kids), we decided to see if we could plan layovers this time as well. We were able to book an 8-hour layover in Amsterdam on the way there and a 7-hour layover in Paris on the way back.
11 Time Saving Tips to Make the Most of Your Layover
Getting Out of the Airport (AMS)
With any layover of limited time, you need to be as planned as possible before you land. Consult the airport website for the information you’ll need to get out of the airport. You can download the airport map here. If possible try and print the relevant parts as well (Tip #3).
Luggage Storage
Luggage Storage is available at several locations throughout the airport both before and after security. Pick the location that makes the most sense based on where your departing flight will be. Better to take the time now than be rushed to catch your flight later. Also, there may be times it make sense to store your belongings before security (Tip #4). The lockers near the gates are generally for carry-on size luggage, for a maximum of 7 days, whereas those near the arrivals halls have a larger capacity and can be used for up tp 30 days. All lockers are accessible 24/7 and operate by debit or credit card. No need to worry about changing money–but you should always carry some local currency (Tip #8).
Ground Transportation
Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport is only about 15 minutes by train to Amsterdam Centraal Station (and only costs a few Euros). There’s also easy access from the airport via bus, taxi, or rideshare. Although you may be inclined to “do it the Dutch way” and bicycle into town, keep in mind that this will not maximize your time in Amsterdam–you can always rent a bike in town for the day when you get there.You can buy your train ticket ahead of time or even a day pass to all public transport throughout the city as well as to and from the airport. (Tip #5)
In the Airport
For those not wanting to leave the airport, in addition to dining and shopping, AMS offers a panorama terrace, spa services, relaxing green and meditation spaces, lounges (fees/restrictions apply), children’s play areas, a first of its kind airport library, and interactive set-ups from NEMO science museum . For a list of other services available at the airport, click here.
Attractions for an 8-Hour Layover in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a very accessible city, so you can see a lot of varied attractions in a small amount of time. Not all of the attractions listed below can be seen in an 8-hour layover–although you’d be surprised what you can do with enough advanced planning. But there is enough variety for you to pick from; while most cities have their fare share of museums, parks, and shopping, I have tried to focus on attractions unique to Amsterdam.
Canal or Bike Tour
Amsterdam is well known for its canals and for the fact that the primary mode of transportation is the bicycle. So, why not take a canal tour or a city tour by bike? This would give your family a unique vantage point (and the canal tour would be quite relaxing after a log flight). Starting your day with a tour will help you get oriented and give you a thorough overview of the city.
Flowers
Flowers are one of the first things people think of when they think of Amsterdam. And with good reason! Amsterdam is home to the only floating flower market in the world. And it has been around since the mid-19th Century and is open year-round. You can buy bulbs, bouquets, and even single flowers.
And, if you really want to learn more about the Dutch Tulips, a quick visit to the Amsterdam Tulip Museum can be done year round as well. The museum can be visited in less than a half hour.
Gassan Diamond Factory
With my pre-amble above, you may be wondering about the uniqueness of a diamond factory to Amsterdam. After all, this isn’t Antwerp. But diamonds have been an integral part of the history of Amsterdam. And, if you are particularly interested in the Jewish history of Amsterdam, the Jewish community has, and continues to be, involved in the diamond industry. My kids were fascinated to watch the diamond cutters at work. And of course their “free” gift.
Layover Tips for Jewish Travelers
Esnoga (Portuguese Synagogue)
The Esnoga, also known as the Portuguese Synagogue, was built in the 17th century. This Jewish community is the oldest in the Netherlands and was founded by Portuguese Jews fleeing the Inquisition that had spread to Antwerp. It still maintains the oldest functioning Jewish Library in the world and is a UNESCO site. It’s a beautiful and historic synagogue that is still in active use today. It’s beauty is in full display when lit by the 1,000 candles in its brass chandeliers, as the main synagogue still has no electricity.
We actually ended up at the Gassan Diamond Factory Tour since we bought it as a package with the Esnoga. Several years later, my kids actually talk about Gassan more than Esnoga.
Anne Frank Museum
The Anne Frank Museum is an oft visited site on a trip to Amsterdam, and needs no explanation. However, I do want to bring their ticket policy to your attention. Timed tickets are required for each visitor regardless of age (even babies) and are only available online. They become available on the first Tuesday of the prior month and sell out quickly. So, if you’re interested in visiting the Anne Frank Museum, you will probably have to plan the rest of your trip around when you are able to get tickets.
Houseboat Museum
As you make your way around Amsterdam, you’re bound to notice that there are a large number of houseboats. Yes, people do live in these. One resident, in fact, noticed that many people were so curious and would look into his home or ask him questions. So, the Houseboat Museum was born when Vincent van Loon decided to open his home to the public.
Tickets can only be purchased on board (unless you’re a group of 10 or more). But, this is another great short activity, as the whole thing can be toured in about 20 minutes (although you’re welcome to spend longer).
If you are looking for a way to end your day before heading back to the airport, Heineken offers several different tours. But the most popular is a 1.5 hour tour of the original brewery’s historical building. The tour ends with “two perfectly chilled Heineken beers”. It should be noted, that Heineken does not allow visitors under 18 years old. So, be sure to plan accordingly.
Getting Back to the Airport (AMS)
Keep in mind that the best way from the airport into town is not necessarily the best way back. You may not be returning from the same place and you definitely won’t be returning at the same time of day. So, be sure to check the bus and train schedules or consider a rideshare service. If you opted for a tour, they may include airport drop-off–never hurts to ask. This may be your chance to do a one-way bike rental to the train station (or for the real adventurous all the way back to the airport).
Be sure to allow sufficient time to gather your bags from the lockers and get through security.
What did you do during your 8-hour layover in Amsterdam? I’d love to hear what your favorite experience was.
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