Can you stay overnight at Amsterdam Airport?
Can you stay overnight at Amsterdam Airport? Discover sleeping options for travelers with long layovers and early morning flights.
Amsterdam Airport is one of Europe’s busiest hubs, with flights connecting to every corner of the world. If you’ve got a layover or an early departure, there are several safe and comfortable spots where you can get some rest before your next flight.
We’ll cover safety, opening hours, practical tips, and other useful details to make your time at Schiphol as smooth as possible. And if you’d rather have extra peace of mind, we’ll also point out nearby hotels. Keep reading to plan your layover or overnight stay in the Dutch capital.

Can you stay overnight at Amsterdam Airport?
Yes, you can sleep at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, and in fact it’s fairly common for travelers with late flights or long layovers. The airport is open 24 hours a day, so staying overnight is possible, though there are a few important things to keep in mind.
One thing to keep in mind is that security restricts access to certain areas overnight. Only passengers with a valid boarding pass for an upcoming flight can remain in the departure zone. In the public area, before security, anyone can stay, though the facilities are much more limited.
Security guards patrol the airport regularly. As long as you’re resting quietly, they usually won’t ask you to leave, though they might move you if you’re in a restricted area or lying on the floor.
It’s best to grab a seat without armrests if you can, or use your backpack as a cushion. There are also designated spots like Lounge 2, which has sleeping pods, or the areas near gates E and F, which tend to be quieter at night. These are good places to wait if your flight leaves after 4 am.
Sleeping at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
If you plan to spend the night inside the airport, it helps to know which areas are the most comfortable, what services stay open overnight, and what tips can make it easier to rest peacefully.
Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your time at the airport, whether you’ve got an early morning flight or a long international layover.
Tips for sleeping at Amsterdam Airport
To get some rest at the airport, try to arrive early, preferably before midnight, since spots can fill up fast. Even though it’s quieter at night, the lights stay on and announcements keep going, so bring earplugs and an eye mask if noise or light bothers you.
Schiphol is generally a safe airport, but it’s important to keep your luggage with you or secure it with locks. If you want to sleep soundly or relax, you can use a strap to attach your backpack to your body or a fixed structure.
Airport staff are generally understanding. If they ask why you’re resting, just mention a long layover or an early flight. Sleeping on the floor isn’t ideal, but if you must, choose a quiet corner away from busy areas.

What should you pack if you plan to sleep at the airport?
A night at the airport can be uncomfortable if you’re not prepared. So, if you know you’ll be sleeping at Schiphol, make sure you bring:
- A neck pillow or inflatable pillow
- Lightweight blanket (nights can be cold, even in summer)
- Eye mask and earplugs
- Non-perishable snacks (most places close at night)
- Reusable water bottle
- Power bank for your cell phone
It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable, layered clothing. Even with heating, the airport’s large open spaces can feel chilly at night.
Recommended places to sleep inside the airport
Inside Amsterdam Airport, there are some areas that are more comfortable than others for resting:
- Lounge Area 2 (Schengen area): Has some seats without armrests and is less noisy. Ideal for layovers within Europe.
- Gates E and F: These areas, located in the international zone, are quieter at night and have carpeted floors in some areas.
- Food court between terminals B and C: Although there is cleaning activity at night, it can still be a good option if you arrive late and can’t find a spot elsewhere.
- Public area near the main entrance (Schiphol Plaza): It’s louder and offers less privacy, but it’s still an option for those who can’t access the departure area.
Keep in mind that the most comfortable areas tend to fill up quickly, so arriving early will give you a better chance of choosing your spot.
Capsules or rest services at the airport
For those who need to rest without leaving the airport, Schiphol has YOTELAIR, located in Lounge 2’s transit area, accessible only after security. The hotel offers private cabins with a bed, shower, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a small workspace.
- Estimated price: From $95-120 for 4 to 6 hours, depending on the time slot.
- Reservations: Can be made online or directly at the airport if there is availability.
- Hours: 24 hours, but entry depends on access to the international area.
Stay connected during your layover with Holafly.
Spending long hours at the airport is much easier if you have reliable internet rather than dealing with limited or spotty airport Wi-Fi. If you’re only in the country for a short stay, Holafly’s eSIM for the Netherlands is a great choice, letting you get unlimited data just for the days you need.
For longer stays, Holafly’s monthly plans let you stay connected with the same eSIM in over 170 destinations worldwide, including the Netherlands. You can stream shows, listen to music, check reservations, or stay in touch without interruptions. With the unlimited plan, you can connect multiple devices at once starting from $64.90 per month, with no contract required.
If you travel a lot, Holafly’s monthly plans are a great choice for digital nomads or frequent travelers. You can set them up easily with an eSIM, without having to change your regular SIM card.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍

Sleeping near Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Because it’s close to the city and well connected by transport, staying near Amsterdam Airport is easy and convenient. Whether you prefer a modern hotel or a local vibe through Airbnb or Couchsurfing, there are plenty of options for every budget and type of traveler.
Here we share the best areas and accommodations for spending the night near the airport.
Recommended hotels near the airport
Here are some of the hotels most highly rated by travelers in transit:
- CitizenM Schiphol Airport Hotel: A 5-minute walk from the terminal, with modern rooms and automatic check-in. From $150 per night.
- Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel: Located right across from the airport, with direct access from Schiphol Plaza. Ideal for quick layovers. From $210 per night.
- Ibis Styles Amsterdam Airport: 10 minutes away by free shuttle, more economical but with clean and comfortable rooms. From $110 per night.
Most offer free transfers to and from the airport.

Couchsurfing options near the airport
If you’re looking for a social and affordable option, Couchsurfing is worth considering. You can find hosts in areas like Hoofddorp or Badhoevedorp, just a 10–15 minute train or bus ride from the airport. It’s ideal if you have time to plan and want to meet locals.
Using Couchsurfing in the Netherlands requires an active profile with references, and we recommend sending requests in advance.
Airbnb options near the airport
On platforms such as Airbnb, you can find studios, private rooms, and entire apartments just a few minutes from the airport:
- Badhoevedorp: A quiet residential area with many private options starting at $70 per night.
- Hoofddorp: Connected by direct train to Schiphol, with accommodation available from $90 per night.
- Amsterdam Zuid: A little further away, but ideal if you want to take advantage of visiting the city and returning to the airport with time to spare.
Remember to check the entry and exit conditions and confirm whether they offer transfers or are well connected by public transport.
Transportation tips for getting to your accommodation
Schiphol has an underground train station right beneath the terminal, making it quick to reach places like Hoofddorp or downtown Amsterdam. There are also night buses (lines N30 and N97) and 24-hour taxis, though taxis tend to be more expensive.
If you choose a hotel or other accommodation nearby, make sure it offers a shuttle or has good public transport connections, especially if you have an early morning flight or arrive late at night.
Frequently asked questions about staying overnight at Amsterdam Airport
Yes, Schiphol is open 24 hours a day and allows travelers to sleep inside, especially in case of long layovers or early flights.
The most recommended areas are Lounge 2, gates E and F, and some spaces near the food court between terminals B and C.
Yes, in some VIP lounges and at the YOTELAIR hotel in the transit area. There are also paid public showers near Holland Boulevard.
No. You can only enter the transit area if you have already checked in and have a flight scheduled in the next few hours.
Yes, you can book a cabin at the YOTELAIR hotel, which offers beds, showers, and privacy within the international area.