Airport Hacks & Reviews Guide to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) - Non Official

Car Rental Amsterdam Airport

Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) – Car Rental Guide

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is one of Europe’s busiest airports and an excellent starting point for exploring the Netherlands and nearby countries by car. Renting a car at Schiphol is simple and efficient, with a wide selection of international and local rental companies offering vehicles for every type of traveler.

Booking your rental car in advance is the best way to secure lower prices and guarantee availability.

Rental desks are conveniently located at Schiphol Plaza, just a short walk from arrivals, making pick-up and drop-off fast and hassle-free.


Car Rental Price Overview

Car Type Examples Price per Day Best For
Economy VW Polo, Ford Fiesta €35–€60 City driving, budget trips
Compact VW Golf, Opel Astra €45–€75 Comfort + efficiency
SUV / Family Nissan Qashqai €70–€120 Families, long trips
Luxury BMW, Mercedes €120+ Premium travel



Popular Destinations by Car

Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore beyond Amsterdam and discover some of the most beautiful locations in the Netherlands.

Destination Travel Time Highlights
Amsterdam Centre 20 min City attractions
Keukenhof 30 min Tulip gardens (seasonal)
Zaanse Schans 30 min Windmills & heritage
Rotterdam / The Hague 40–60 min Modern cities
Giethoorn 90 min “Dutch Venice” village



Car Rental Insurance Explained

Most car rentals include basic insurance coverage, but it is important to understand what is included:

  • Third-Party Liability: Covers damage to others
  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Limits your liability
  • Theft Protection: Covers vehicle theft

Optional insurance upgrades can reduce or eliminate the deductible (excess).

Always check the excess amount , it can be high if you do not purchase additional coverage.


Insurance Comparison

Insurance Type Coverage Excess
Basic Damage & liability High
CDW Reduced liability Medium
Super CDW Full coverage Low / Zero


Car Rental Tips

  • Book in advance for better prices
  • Check fuel policy (full-to-full is best)
  • Inspect the vehicle before leaving
  • Take photos of any existing damage
  • Check parking rules in Amsterdam

Parking in Amsterdam city centre can be expensive, consider using park & ride options.


Best Option Depending on Your Needs

Situation Best Option Why
Exploring the country Car Rental Maximum flexibility
City centre only Train Faster & cheaper
Family travel SUV / Family car Comfort & space
Business trip Premium car Comfort & image

Car rental companies

In Amsterdam Airport you can find the following car rental companies:

Alamo

Alamo

Contact: +31 20 740 0951
Website: www.alamo.com
Location: Airport Terminal
Avis

Avis

Contact: +31 88 284 7620
Website: www.avis.nl
Location: Airport Terminal
Budget

Budget

Contact: +31 88 284 7620
Website: www.budget.nl
Location: Airport Terminal
Dollar

Dollar

Contact: +31 23 510 0790
Website: www.dollar.com
Location: Out of the airport
Enterprise

Enterprise

Contact: +31 20 740 0950
Website: www.enterprise.nl
Location: Airport Terminal
Europcar

Europcar

Contact: +31 20 316 4190
Website: www.europcar.nl
Location: Airport Terminal
Hertz

Hertz

Contact: +31 20 502 0240
Website: www.hertz.nl
Location: Airport Terminal
Sixt

Sixt

Contact: +31 20 405 9090 / +31 23 569 8656
Website: www.sixt.nl
Location: Airport Terminal and Out of the airport
Thrifty

Thrifty

Contact: +31 20 502 0240
Website: www.thrifty.com
Location: Out of the airport

Location

All rental desks are located in Schiphol Plaza, the airport’s public area, directly connected to the arrivals and departures halls. After collecting your keys, the car pick-up and return parking area is a short walk from the terminal, well-signposted for easy access.

Car Rental 1 Amsterdam Airport
Amsterdam Airport car rental desktops

 

Car Rental 2 Amsterdam Airport
Amsterdam Airport car rental desktops