Chicago To Amsterdam Flights: Your Guide

Planning a trip from the Windy City to the Venice of the North? Figuring out flights from Chicago to Amsterdam can seem daunting, but don't worry, guys, I've got you covered! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to snag the best deals and have a smooth journey. We'll look at airlines, prices, tips for booking, and even what to expect when you arrive in Amsterdam.

Airlines That Fly the Chicago-Amsterdam Route

Okay, so first things first, which airlines actually fly from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)? You've got a few solid options, each with its own perks. Let's break it down:

• United Airlines: This is often a popular choice since United has a hub in Chicago. You'll likely find numerous direct flights daily, which is super convenient. Plus, they offer a range of cabin classes, from basic economy to Polaris business class, so you can choose what suits your budget and desired level of comfort.
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: As the flag carrier of the Netherlands, KLM is another excellent option. They also offer direct flights, and their service is generally top-notch. Flying KLM gives you a taste of Dutch hospitality before you even land! They often have competitive prices, so keep an eye out for deals.
• Delta Air Lines: Delta, in partnership with KLM, also provides flights on this route. You might find that you book through Delta but the flight is operated by KLM, or vice versa. This partnership can sometimes open up more options and potentially better prices.
• Other Airlines (with connections): If you're open to connecting flights, you can also explore options with airlines like Air Canada, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Icelandair. Connecting flights can sometimes be cheaper, but they will add travel time, so weigh the pros and cons.

When choosing an airline, consider factors like price, flight duration, baggage allowance, and your preferred frequent flyer program. Checking multiple airlines and comparing their offerings is always a smart move.

Finding the Best Flight Deals: Tips and Tricks

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: How do you actually find cheap flights from Chicago to Amsterdam? Here are some tried-and-true tips:

• Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates: This is probably the biggest factor. If you can fly mid-week (Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheapest) or during the off-season (think fall or winter, excluding holidays), you're much more likely to find lower fares. Use flight search engines that have a calendar view so you can easily see which days are the least expensive.
• Book in Advance (But Not Too Far in Advance): There's a sweet spot for booking flights. Generally, booking 2-3 months in advance for international travel is a good idea. Booking too early (like a year out) might not get you the best price, as airlines haven't fully adjusted their pricing algorithms yet. Similarly, waiting until the last minute is almost always a bad idea, unless you get incredibly lucky with a flash sale.
• Use Flight Comparison Websites: Sites like Google Flights, Kayak, Skyscanner, and Momondo are your best friends. These sites aggregate flight information from multiple airlines, making it easy to compare prices and find the best deals. Set up price alerts to be notified when the price of a flight drops.
• Consider Nearby Airports: If you're willing to drive a bit, check flight prices from nearby airports. Sometimes flying out of Milwaukee (MKE) or even a smaller airport can save you significant money. Just factor in the cost of transportation to and from the airport.
• Look for Package Deals: Sometimes booking your flight and hotel together as a package can be cheaper than booking them separately. Check websites like Expedia or Booking.com for package deals.
• Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies: Airlines sometimes track your searches and may increase prices if they see you've been looking at a particular flight for a while. Clearing your browser cache and cookies can help you avoid this.

What to Expect on Your Flight

Okay, you've booked your flight from Chicago to Amsterdam – congrats! Now, let's talk about what to expect during the journey. The direct flight is usually around 8-9 hours, so it's a pretty long haul. Here's how to prepare:

• Pack Smart: Bring a comfortable neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs to help you sleep. Pack some snacks and entertainment (books, movies downloaded on your tablet) to keep you occupied. Don't forget any necessary medications.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes. You'll be sitting for a long time, so comfort is key.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight to avoid dehydration. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can worsen jet lag.
• Move Around: Get up and walk around the cabin every few hours to stretch your legs and improve circulation. You can also do some simple stretches in your seat.
• Adjust to the Time Difference: Amsterdam is 7 hours ahead of Chicago. Start adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before your trip to minimize jet lag. Try to sleep on the plane to arrive in Amsterdam feeling more rested.

Arriving in Amsterdam: Navigating Schiphol Airport

Welcome to Amsterdam! Once you land at Schiphol Airport (AMS), here's what you need to know:

• Immigration and Customs: Follow the signs for immigration and customs. Have your passport ready. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa. After immigration, you'll collect your baggage and proceed through customs. Be prepared to declare any items that may be subject to customs duties.
• Getting to the City Center: Schiphol Airport is well-connected to the city center. The easiest and most popular option is to take the train. The train station is located directly below the airport. Trains run frequently to Amsterdam Centraal Station, and the journey takes about 15-20 minutes. You can purchase tickets at the ticket machines in the airport or online in advance.
• Other Transportation Options: You can also take a taxi or an airport shuttle to the city center, but these options are generally more expensive than the train. Consider using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt.
• Currency Exchange: If you need to exchange currency, you can do so at the airport. However, the exchange rates at the airport are usually not the best. Consider exchanging some money before you leave or using an ATM in Amsterdam to withdraw euros.

Things to Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is an amazing city with something for everyone. Here are just a few of the must-see attractions:

• Canal Cruise: A canal cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. You'll glide along the historic canals, passing by beautiful houses, bridges, and landmarks.
• Anne Frank House: The Anne Frank House is a powerful and moving museum that tells the story of Anne Frank and her family during World War II. Book your tickets well in advance, as they often sell out.
• Rijksmuseum: The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands, showcasing Dutch art and history. It's home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters.
• Van Gogh Museum: The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh. It houses the largest collection of his paintings and drawings in the world.
• Vondelpark: Vondelpark is Amsterdam's largest park, a great place to relax, have a picnic, or go for a bike ride.
• Heineken Experience: For beer lovers, the Heineken Experience is a must-do. It's an interactive tour of the Heineken brewery, where you can learn about the brewing process and sample some beer.

Enjoy Your Trip!

So there you have it – your comprehensive guide to flights from Chicago to Amsterdam. With a little planning and some savvy booking strategies, you can find a great deal and have an unforgettable trip. Remember to be flexible with your travel dates, book in advance, and use flight comparison websites. And most importantly, enjoy the journey and all that Amsterdam has to offer! Happy travels, guys!