Passing through De Kooy Airport? A layover in De Kooy is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into De Kooy, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Netherlands vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: De Kooy is roughly 30 minutes from DHR via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What to See and Do in De Kooy
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In De Kooy, two standouts are:
- Nationaal Reddingmuseum Dorus Rijkers — You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
- Fort Kijkduin & Sea Aquarium — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside DHR, you can spend time at De Kooy Airport Terminal Lounge or try Aircraft Spotting at De Kooy. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Transport from De Kooy Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from De Kooy Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in De Kooy, local travelers recommend Restaurant Stoom. If you have time for a second stop, Restaurant ‘t Zwaantje is another popular pick.
Back at DHR, De Kooy Airport Terminal Café Counter is the go-to. Vending Machines & Snack Area rounds out your in-terminal options.
What to Budget for Your De Kooy Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in De Kooy, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
WiFi at DHR should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Netherlands and you’re good to go.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at DHR can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in De Kooy for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Taking a Break at DHR
Long overnight layover? Your options at DHR include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Netherlands also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in De Kooy doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from DHR, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.