As a frequent traveler or someone flying from Schiphol for the first time, the question often comes up whether you can park for free at Schiphol Airport. Unfortunately, you cannot park for free at Schiphol itself. Nevertheless, we will go deeper into possible ways to park for free near Schiphol Airport. This way you can still find a free parking spot near Schiphol.
Free parking at Schiphol Airport. Is that possible?
The idea of free parking at Schiphol sounds like music to the ears of many, but the reality is often different. Schiphol is a busy place and as with most major airports, parking there is often a paid service. But, there are alternatives and tips you can use to minimize costs or even park for free, provided you are willing to make some compromises.
Options for free parking
When looking for alternatives to parking at Schiphol itself, there are several options available in and around Schiphol that can be both cost-effective and practical, although each requires its own considerations.
Park and Ride (P+R).
One such option is to use Park and Ride (P+R) locations. These are located in various places in and around Amsterdam. At these P+R locations, you can often park at a reduced rate or even for free, provided you continue your journey by public transportation to Schiphol. This option is ideal for travelers willing to invest some extra time in their journey to the airport. It offers a cost-effective solution, but requires some planning in terms of switching from car to public transportation.
Free parking on streets near Schiphol Airport
Another option is to park in the streets of nearby neighborhoods around Schiphol. You can find free parking spaces in some of these neighborhoods. However, this option requires a good knowledge of local parking regulations to avoid unpleasant surprises such as parking fines. It is important to be alert to parking signs and regulations, which can vary from area to area.
Carpooling or being dropped off at Schiphol
There is also the possibility of carpooling or being dropped off at Schiphol Airport. If you know someone willing to drive you to the airport, this can be considered a form of free parking. While this can be a convenient option for shorter trips, it can be less practical for longer trips, depending on the availability and willingness of the person driving.
Examples of free parking at Schiphol
Here are some examples of the above mentioned options for free parking at Schiphol:
P+R Haarlem Spaarnwoude
- 140 free parking spaces (Also an IKEA parking lot nearby)
- Travel time train: 35 minutes
- 1 transfer (Amsterdam sloterdijk)
- Price €5.60
P+R Getsewoud
- 100 parking spaces
- Travel time bus: 25 minutes
- Cost of bus €3.
- Between 00:00 and 5:30 no buses
P+R Voorhout
- Travel time 25 minutes
- 1 transfer (Leiden central)
- Price €6.70
Parking in residential area Headdrop
- 20 minutes travel time
- Bus stops Overbos, Bornholm or Toolenburg.
- Price +/- €2.50
- Residents probably don’t appreciate the free vacation parking!
Each of these options offers a unique way to get around the cost and inconvenience of parking at Schiphol Airport itself. Choosing the right option depends on personal preferences, length of travel, and willingness to invest time and effort in alternative modes of transportation.
Paid parking options
While free parking options are limited at Schiphol Airport, there is a wide range of paid parking options, ranging from economical choices to more premium services. These options allow travelers to make a choice that fits their budget and needs.
Long-term parking at P3
A popular and budget-friendly option for long-term parking is the Long Parking lot, known as P3. This is an ideal choice for travelers who will be away for an extended period of time and are looking for a reliable, yet affordable parking solution. A major advantage of P3 is the free shuttle service available to travelers. This shuttle bus will take you to the terminal in about 10 minutes, making it a convenient option for both individual travelers and families.
Private parking services in the Schiphol area
In addition, there are several private parking services in the Schiphol area that offer competitive parking services. These private companies can often be more affordable than the official parking options at the airport itself. However, it is advisable to research these companies well in advance. Reading customer reviews and carefully reviewing the terms and conditions can help you choose a reliable and cost-effective parking service.
Parking at P1 or P2
For travelers making a short trip or needing to pick up or drop someone off, Schiphol also offers short-term parking options, known as P1 and P2. These parking options are ideal for shorter stays and are closer to the terminal, providing convenience and time savings. These options are perfect for those who want quick access to the airport without spending too much time traveling to and from the parking lot.
Schiphol thus offers a variety of paid parking options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you are looking for a long-term, cost-effective solution or a quick and convenient way to pick up or drop off someone, there is a range of options available to meet your requirements. This flexibility in parking options adds to the overall experience of traveling through Schiphol Airport, allowing travelers to focus on their journey knowing that their vehicle is parked safely and affordably.
Tips to save on costs with parking at Schiphol Airport
Finding affordable parking at Schiphol Airport can be a challenge, but there are certainly ways to cut costs without sacrificing convenience. We’ve compiled the 3 best tips for this:
- Book your parking spot in advance: Many parking providers offer significant online discounts for early reservations. By booking your parking spot well in advance, you can often take advantage of lower rates. In addition, this gives you the assurance that you will have a spot on the day of your flight, which can significantly reduce stress.
- Compare prices: Just as you would when booking airline tickets or hotel rooms, comparing parking rates at different providers can help you find the best deal. There are numerous websites and apps available that compare the prices of different parking options at and around Schiphol Airport. By using these tools, you can make an informed choice and potentially save significantly on parking costs.
- Consider alternative transportation: Schiphol is easily accessible by public transportation such as trains and buses. These options can not only be cheaper, but also faster, especially during peak hours when traffic around the airport can be busy. In addition, using public transportation contributes to a more sustainable travel option.
It may be worth comparing the costs and times of train or bus transportation with those of airport parking to determine which is most economical and practical for you.
Free parking at Schiphol Airport?
Free parking at Schiphol Airport is challenging, but not impossible. With some creativity and planning, you can cut costs or even avoid them altogether. However, for ultimate convenience and a worry-free start to your trip, there are plenty of affordable paid parking options available. As with anything, it’s a trade-off between cost, convenience and personal preferences.
Are you interested in our valet service? Book now and benefit from convenience!
