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For most visitors arriving in Amsterdam, Amsterdam Centraal Station is their first handshake with the city. But beyond being a busy transport hub with trains, trams, and ferries bustling through its veins, this architectural marvel is steeped in stories, scandal, and stunning views. Whether you’re passing through or starting your city adventure here, this iconic station deserves more than a glance.
What is the story behind Amsterdam Centraal Station?
Built between 1881 and 1889, Amsterdam Centraal Station was designed by architect Pierre Cuypers, who also designed the Rijksmuseum. It stands as a symbol of the Dutch Golden Age's embrace of industrial progress. But its location was controversial - Cuypers and his team filled in part of the IJ Bay, effectively cutting off the city from the waterfront, which angered many at the time.
What makes the station extraordinary isn’t just its neo-Gothic facade or intricate detailing - it’s how it has evolved with Amsterdam itself. Originally built for about 200,000 passengers per year, it now handles over 200,000 per day. And despite modernization, it has preserved many original architectural features, like cast-iron roof spans and sandstone sculptures.
Want to hear these stories unfold as you explore? You’ll love the StoryHunt audio walk through Amsterdam, which brings the station’s ghosts and gossip back to life.
What is Amsterdam Central Station called?
The Dutch name is "Amsterdam Centraal", which simply means "Amsterdam Central." You’ll see this on all signage across the country. Locals often refer to it as “Centraal” for short.
Fun fact: the spelling is Dutch - not “Central” as in English - and many tourists miss this subtle difference when searching for it on apps or train websites.
How far is Amsterdam Centraal Station from the airport?
Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport (AMS) is approximately 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) from Centraal Station. The journey by train takes just 15-20 minutes, making it one of the most convenient city-airport links in Europe.
Trains depart every 10-15 minutes, even on weekends, from Schiphol’s underground station directly beneath the arrivals hall. You’ll arrive at track 1 or 2 in Amsterdam Centraal, ready to explore the city within minutes.
And here’s a pro tip: if you’re planning to explore the city center on foot or join the Discover Amsterdam audio tour, Centraal Station is the perfect launchpad.
How much is a train ticket from Amsterdam airport to Central Station?
A standard second-class one-way ticket costs around €5.90 (as of 2025), plus a small surcharge if you buy a disposable ticket instead of using an OV-chipkaart or contactless payment (e.g., credit card or phone).
You can purchase tickets:
- At NS ticket machines in Schiphol
- Online via NS.nl or the NS app
- Using your contactless debit/credit card (tap-in, tap-out system)
This affordable and efficient ride lands you smack in the heart of Amsterdam, no transfers required.
Is Amsterdam Central Station safe?
Yes, Amsterdam Centraal is generally very safe, especially during the day and early evening. It’s heavily patrolled by police and NS security staff. That said, like many major stations worldwide, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur - particularly in crowded areas like platforms, ticket machines, or outside the tram stops.
Keep your belongings close and stay alert, especially if someone’s trying to "help" you with ticket machines. Beyond that, the station is clean, well-organized, and traveler-friendly - even late at night.
Is it worth seeing Amsterdam Centraal Station?
Absolutely. Even if you’re not arriving by train, Amsterdam Centraal Station is a must-see - both as a functioning piece of the city's daily life and a living monument to Dutch history and design. Its centrality, beauty, and the stories embedded in its walls make it much more than a travel stop - it’s a gateway to understanding Amsterdam itself.
If you want to explore the layers of history and hidden tales behind those brick arches and iron beams, the best way to do it is with the StoryHunt Discover Amsterdam audio walk. Trust us - this station talks, and StoryHunt helps it speak directly to you.
What else is nearby Amsterdam Centraal Station?
Once you step outside the station, the city opens like a storybook. Within a few minutes’ walk, you’ll find:
- Damrak Avenue – the iconic canal street leading to Dam Square, lined with shops, canal cruises, and street food stalls.
- De Wallen (Red Light District) – Amsterdam's oldest neighborhood and home to rich medieval architecture and, of course, its famous nightlife.
- St. Nicholas Basilica – directly across from the station, offering ornate interiors and city views from its tower.
- A’DAM Tower & Eye Filmmuseum – just hop on the free ferry behind the station to the north side of the IJ for skyline views and futuristic film exhibitions.
Don’t just catch your train - catch the essence of Amsterdam right outside the station doors.
