Shoppers' Delight: Best Buys At Schiphol Airport

what to buy at schiphol airport

Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam is one of the busiest airports in Europe, and it has a lot to offer. The airport has plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes serving local and international cuisine, including traditional Dutch, Chinese, American, and Italian. Schiphol Plaza, a large shopping center within the airport, offers clothing stores, specialty liquors, and unique shopping experiences like Planes@Plaza, a store built around a DC-9 cockpit. The tax-free area has a variety of items at savings for travelers flying outside the EU. For those interested in art and culture, the Holland Boulevard features an outpost of the world-famous Rijksmuseum, showcasing 17th-century Dutch paintings.

Characteristics Values
Location Schiphol Plaza, a large shopping center
Shops Clothing stores, specialty liquor stores, Planes@Plaza, Victoria's Secret, Bvlgari
Food Traditional Dutch snacks, vending machines, restaurants, bars, cafes, McDonald's, Starbucks, Heineken Bar, Food Village
Attractions Holland Boulevard, Rijksmuseum, Library, Panoramic Terrace, KLM Fokker 100 Plane, Cocktail shop, Casino, KLM Business Crown Lounge
Dutch Delicacies Cheese, Stroopwaffles, Licorice, Speculaas, Pickled Herrings, Gouda Cheese, Muisjes, Rusk

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Dutch cheese and stroopwafels

If you're looking to buy some Dutch cheese and stroopwafels at Schiphol Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, while the airport will have these items available, they may be more expensive than if you were to purchase them elsewhere. For example, at a cheese shop in Amsterdam or a local grocery store, you can find a wider variety of high-quality, traditional Dutch cheeses. That being said, if you're short on time or would prefer the convenience of shopping at the airport, there are a few options to consider.

At Schiphol Airport, you can find Dutch cheese and stroopwafels at various shops, including Dutch Food Gifts. Here, you'll discover an extensive range of cheeses, such as Gouda and Edam, as well as popular Dutch treats like stroopwafels and Haagse Hopjes. It's worth noting that some travellers consider the cheese available at the airport to be of a lower quality compared to that found in speciality cheese shops in the city. However, if you're looking for convenience and a taste of Dutch culture, the airport options may still be worth considering.

When purchasing Dutch cheese at Schiphol Airport, you may find pre-packaged, airtight options that are chemically preserved and suitable for travel. These can be placed in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage, depending on your preference and the duration of your travel. If you opt for carry-on, consider placing the cheese in a daypack under the seat to keep it cool during the flight.

As for stroopwafels, these Dutch treats are a popular choice for travellers. You can find them at Schiphol Airport, but it's worth noting that they are also available in many coffee shops outside of the airport, including in the UK and Amsterdam. Stroopwafels are often considered excellent gifts and can be enjoyed by cookie lovers of all ages.

In conclusion, while Schiphol Airport offers a convenient option for purchasing Dutch cheese and stroopwafels, you may want to consider exploring cheese shops and local grocery stores in Amsterdam for a wider variety and potentially better quality. However, if time is a factor, the airport can still provide you with a taste of Dutch culture through these iconic food items.

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Liquor and spirits

If you're looking to buy liquor and spirits at Schiphol Airport, head to the Schiphol Plaza, a large shopping centre with a variety of stores, including speciality liquor shops. While you may find better prices for liquor and spirits in the town, the Plaza is a good option if you're looking for unique Dutch liquors and spirits to take home as gifts or to enjoy yourself.

One option is to purchase genever, a Dutch spirit, which you can find at various liquor stores in the airport. Just be sure to pack it securely, as the bottle can crack during travel. If you're looking for a unique shopping experience, check out Planes@Plaza, a store built around a DC-9 cockpit and cabin. Here, you might find a selection of liquors and spirits to choose from.

Another option is to visit the Bubbles Bar in Lounge 1 of the airport, where you can enjoy a glass of champagne. For a wider selection of drinks, the Cocktail Shop at the Panoramic Terrace might be worth considering. Here, you can taste, smell, and feel the ingredients used in cocktail-making before making a purchase.

If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, the Dutch Bar between Lounge 2 and 3 could be a good choice. While the details of their liquor and spirit offerings are not readily available, it may be a place to unwind and enjoy a drink.

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Luxury goods

Schiphol Airport offers a range of luxury goods for travellers looking to indulge or find the perfect gift. The airport's tax-free shopping area is an excellent place to start, offering savings on various items if you're flying outside the EU. Schiphol Plaza, a large shopping centre, boasts a diverse range of stores, from well-known clothing brands to speciality liquor shops.

For those seeking high-end fashion and accessories, Schiphol has several options. Bvlgari, for instance, offers luxurious jewellery, watches, and leather goods. Additionally, the Victoria's Secret store provides exclusive lingerie and beauty products.

The airport also features a unique shopping experience for aircraft enthusiasts at Planes@Plaza, a store built around a DC-9 cockpit and cabin. Here, you can find aviation-themed merchandise and souvenirs.

Schiphol's Delicatessen in Lounge 3 offers a range of Dutch delicacies, including Gouda cheese, pickled herrings, and the famous Stroopwaffles, perfect for gifting or indulging during your travels.

If you're looking for a more relaxed shopping experience, the airport's KLM Business Crown Lounge offers a stylish and exclusive environment for travellers seeking luxury. Additionally, the Bubbles Bar in Lounge 1 invites you to sip a glass of champagne as you wait for your flight.

With its variety of luxury offerings, Schiphol Airport provides travellers with a unique and indulgent shopping experience.

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Local delicacies

If you're looking for local delicacies to buy at Schiphol Airport, you're in luck! The airport offers a variety of Dutch treats that you can take home to share with your family and friends.

Cheese is a popular Dutch delicacy, and you can find a wide range of options at the airport, including Gouda, cumin seed cheese (Leiden cheese), and other varieties of vacuum-packed cheese. These can be purchased at specialty cheese shops or pre-packaged at the airport. If you're looking for something sweet, Stroopwaffles (or Stroopwafels) are a must-try. These caramel-filled cookies are a Dutch favourite and make excellent gifts. You can also find other traditional Dutch sweets such as Speculaas (ginger cookies), and Jodenkoeken.

For those with a more adventurous palate, pickled herrings are available at the Delicatessen in Lounge 3. If you're looking for something to drink, Genever, a Dutch spirit, is available at liquor stores in the airport. However, keep in mind that if you're travelling to North America, you'll need to pack any liquids carefully in your checked luggage.

In addition to food items, Schiphol Airport offers a unique cultural experience with the Holland Boulevard, an immersive showcase of Dutch culture. Here, you can explore Dutch art, literature, and history without even leaving the airport. So, whether you're looking for delicious treats or a deeper understanding of Dutch culture, Schiphol Airport has something for everyone.

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Art and culture

In addition to the Rijksmuseum, Schiphol Airport features other artistic gems. The Airport Library, the first of its kind in an airport, offers a collection of Dutch literature translated into over 40 languages. For those seeking a unique art trail, eclectic pieces are scattered throughout the airport, such as the neon HAHA HIHI lights by Dutch artist John Körmeling in Lounge 2, Samira Boon's 10,800 Horizons textile artwork inspired by the Dutch polder landscape, and Tom Claassen's Two Incredible Sitting Black Snowmen, bronze sculptures that invite weary travellers to rest.

Art enthusiasts can also participate in workshops and activities related to art and culture, enriching their time at the airport with interactive experiences. From art galleries to museums, Schiphol Airport offers a cultural journey even before reaching your destination.

If you're looking to bring a piece of Dutch culture home, the House of Tulips offers an iconic greenhouse experience with a variety of tulips, a flower synonymous with the Netherlands. You can also find stores selling traditional Dutch items like clogs and cheese, as well as modern comforts in the lounges, such as digital entertainment and ample charging stations.

Frequently asked questions

If you're looking for unique Dutch items, head to the Delicatessen in Lounge 3 for Dutch delicacies like pickled herrings, stroopwaffles, and Gouda cheese. You can also find pre-packaged, travel-friendly cheese at the airport, although some sources suggest that you can find better quality and prices at cheese shops in Amsterdam. Other Dutch items to look out for include licorice, Joden Keuken, and Muisjes (coloured, sugared aniseeds).

Yes, Schiphol Plaza offers a variety of shopping options, including clothing stores and specialty liquor shops. The tax-free area in the airport is a good place to buy items at a discount if you're travelling outside the EU. However, keep in mind that duty-free shops in Amsterdam may not always offer the best prices, especially for items like alcohol and cigarettes.

Absolutely! Schiphol Airport offers a range of experiences beyond shopping. You can visit the Holland Boulevard, which offers a glimpse of Dutch culture, including an outpost of the world-famous Rijksmuseum featuring 17th-century Dutch paintings. The nearby Library offers a collection of Dutch literature in various languages. The airport also features a Panoramic Terrace on the Arrivals side, where you can watch planes take off and explore a decommissioned KLM Fokker 100 Plane. Additionally, you can enjoy food and drinks at various restaurants, bars, and cafes, including the Heineken Bar for a local brew.

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