Jetting off to Amsterdam from the UK? Unless you already have some euros or are planning a cash-free trip, you might need to find an ATM when you land.
The airport is often a convenient place to withdraw cash, but it can sometimes be expensive, especially if currency conversion is involved.
In this guide, we’ll show you where to find ATMs in Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, along with important info and tips on fees and exchange rates.
Where do I find an ATM at Amsterdam Airport?
ATMs are widely available in Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, in all three terminals (which are located in one passenger terminal building). You’ll find them in Arrivals, Baggage Reclaim, all lounges and in the main Plaza.
The airport has a map you can use to locate your nearest one. ATMs are provided by GWK Travelex.
You can also search for your nearest cash machine with these global ATM locators:
What are ATMs called in the Netherlands?
In Dutch, ATMs are known as geldautomaten or pinautomaten. You might still see ‘ATM’ written on them though, particularly in places with international visitors such as the airport. Elsewhere, look out for bright yellow ATMs with ’geldmaat’ written on them.
Are there max cash withdrawal limits in ATMs at Amsterdam airport?
ATMs in Amsterdam may have withdrawal limits, but these vary between operators. It’s likely to be higher if you have a local card (from a Dutch bank), but could be just a few hundred euros for foreign-issued cards.
Another thing to consider is that your bank or card provider may have its own withdrawal limits.
Most UK banks set withdrawal limits for how much you can withdraw a day, week or month (or in a single transaction).
Crucially, many banks have separate limits for spending and withdrawing cash overseas. To find out your limits, check the terms and conditions for your account or card - or contact your bank.
What fees do airport ATMs in Amsterdam charge?
ATMs in the Netherlands may have fees, depending on the operator - however, it may be possible to find bank-operated ATMs with no charges.
However, the ATMs at Amsterdam Airport are run by GWK Travelex, a currency exchange service. They don’t say on their website whether or not they charge fees for withdrawals, so you’ll need to check at the ATM before confirming the transaction.
You’ll also need to make sure you withdraw in the local currency to avoid getting a poor exchange rate, which can be seen as a kind of ‘hidden’ fee. We’ll look at that in more detail next.
Tips for avoiding ATM fees in Amsterdam Airport
Here are our top tips to avoid airport ATM fees:
Always choose to be charged in the local currency
Some ATMs abroad offer a ‘service’ of being charged in your local currency (i.e. GBP). It’s always best to decline this option, as this gives the ATM permission to choose the exchange rate for your withdrawal. This is almost always unfavourable, so it can eat into your holiday spending money - giving you fewer euros for your pounds.
Being charged in the local currency instead helps you avoid hidden ATM rip-offs by giving you the best possible exchange rate.
Check out our currency converter below.
Check whether your home bank has an overseas ATM network
If your UK bank has ATMs in Amsterdam, or partners with banks in the Netherlands, you may be able to benefit from low or no fees on ATM withdrawals.
You’re not likely to find any in the airport itself (as ATMs are run by GWK Travelex), but there may be options available in the city centre.
Look for fee-free ATMs
The ATMs in Amsterdam Airport may charge fees, so it’s always worth checking before using one.
If you can’t find a fee-free option, it could be worth waiting until you travel to Amsterdam city centre where you’ll have more options.
Choose the right fee-free card
Some UK banks charge fees for spending and withdrawing cash in other countries.
If yours does have fees and you’re a frequent traveller, it may be worth switching banks so you can benefit from a fee-free card when you go abroad.
Another crucial tip - never use a credit card to make ATM withdrawals. This is because fees are charged for cash-based transactions, unlike with debit cards.
Plus, interest will likely start accruing right away, so you won’t benefit from your usual interest-free period.
Spend and withdraw worldwide with the Wise card
If you travel regularly, the Wise card is the perfect way to spend and withdraw cash worldwide.
It’s a dedicated travel card, letting you spend like a local in 150+ countries worldwide, including the Netherlands. It automatically converts your pounds to euros at the mid-market exchange ratewhenever you spend for only a small fee*.
And when you need cash, you can use it to withdraw up to £200 a month (max. 2 withdrawals) fee-free*.
You’ll just need to check whether the ATM operator charges its own fees.
Wise only ever charges small, transparent fees for currency conversion, and it’s fee-free if you already have the currency in your Wise account*.
Sign up for a Wise account online and you can get your own Wise card for a one-time fee of just £7.
Your Wise card awaits 💳
ATMs in Amsterdam airport FAQs
Can I use a UK debit card in Amsterdam?
Yes, UK debit cards are accepted all over Amsterdam and the Netherlands. You should be able to use them in shops, bars, restaurants and transport hubs, wherever Visa and Mastercard is accepted.
Are ATMs free in Amsterdam?
One of the widest networks of ATMs in Amsterdam is run by Geldmaat. They’re free to use if you have a card issued within the EEA, but there’s a €4 EUR fee otherwise (which is likely to apply to UK cards).1
It might be possible to find fee-free ATMs operated by Dutch banks or other providers.
Can I use British currency in Amsterdam airport?
It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to spend British pounds once you land in Amsterdam. You’ll either need to use your card or withdraw some euros in cash.
Can I exchange currency at Amsterdam Schiphol?
Yes, you can exchange currency at GWK Travelex stores, bureau de change desks and ATMs at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.
Sources used:
Sources last checked on date: 14-06-2024
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information. This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
