As the front-door to the Netherlands, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol paints an intriguing picture, championing both modernity and tradition. Situated a mere 9 kilometres southwest of Amsterdam, in the municipality of Haarlemmermeer, one could argue that your Dutch adventure begins the moment you land.

In 2021, Schiphol proudly held its rank as the world's third busiest airport by international passenger traffic, and continuing the theme of threes, it's likewise the third-busiest in Europe in terms of passenger volume. However, in terms of aircraft movements, it comfortably outstrips its European peers, receiving the distinction of being the busiest on the continent.

This hive of activity takes place over a vast 6,887 acres of meticulously engineered land, managed by way of a single-terminal concept; one grand terminal, ingeniously partitioned into three departure halls. From here, a fleet of airlines operate, including household names such as KLM, easyJet, and Martinair amongst others.

Delve a little deeper, and Schiphol's history is as fascinating as its cutting-edge operations. Originating as a military airbase in 1916, its shift toward civilian flights in the aftermath of World War I set the stage for the international hub it is today. The name "Schiphol" itself hints at the location's humble beginnings as an area of low-lying wetland where timber was once extracted.