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Amsterdam Overview

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Traveling from Amsterdam, the Netherlands, to major cities in China is relatively straightforward, as Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport (AMS) is one of the largest international hubs with numerous direct and connecting flights to various Chinese cities. This guide outlines the most common ways to travel from Amsterdam to cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xi’an, Chengdu, and Hong Kong, along with important travel tips.

Step 1: Depart from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)

Direct Flights from Amsterdam to China

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) offers several direct flights to major cities in China. These cities include:

  • Beijing (PEK)
  • Shanghai (PVG)
  • Guangzhou (CAN)
  • Hong Kong (HKG)

Airlines Offering Direct Flights:

  • KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: Offers direct flights to Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.
  • China Eastern Airlines: Operates direct flights to Shanghai and Guangzhou.
  • Air France: Offers direct flights to Shanghai.
  • Cathay Pacific: Offers direct flights to Hong Kong.

Step 2: Connecting Flights

If you are traveling to cities without direct flights from Amsterdam, such as Chengdu or Xi’an, you may need to take a connecting flight via international hubs. Popular connection points include:

  • Dubai International Airport (DXB) – UAE
  • Frankfurt Airport (FRA) – Germany
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) – Singapore
  • Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH) – Qatar

Example Connecting Routes:

  • Amsterdam → Dubai → Chengdu
  • Amsterdam → Frankfurt → Xi’an
  • Amsterdam → Singapore → Guangzhou

Step 3: Arrive in China’s Main Cities

Upon arrival in China, you will typically land in one of the major international airports. Some of the busiest airports in China include:

  • Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK): The main gateway to China’s capital.
  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG): China’s financial hub.
  • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN): A major trade and transport center.
  • Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU): Located in the Sichuan province.
  • Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY): The ancient city of the Terracotta Army.
  • Hong Kong International Airport (HKG): A global hub with a blend of Chinese and Western influences.

Step 4: Transportation Within China

After arriving in China, you will have multiple options to travel within the country:

Domestic Flights

Flights between cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Xi’an are frequent and efficient. Domestic airlines such as China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Air China provide frequent service to major destinations.

High-Speed Trains

China boasts a comprehensive and fast high-speed rail network that connects many major cities. Popular routes include:

  • Beijing to Shanghai (approx. 4.5 hours)
  • Shanghai to Chengdu (approx. 10 hours)
  • Xi’an to Chengdu (approx. 4.5 hours)

Local Transportation

In most Chinese cities, you can use the metro system, buses, and taxis for easy travel. In larger cities like Beijing and Shanghai, metros are an efficient way to get around.

Popular Cities to Visit in China

Beijing

  • Landmarks: Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Temple of Heaven.
  • Travel Tip: Spend at least 3-4 days to explore Beijing’s cultural and historical sites.

Shanghai

  • Landmarks: The Bund, Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, Nanjing Road.
  • Travel Tip: Visit both the historical districts and modern skyscrapers for the best experience.

Guangzhou

  • Landmarks: Canton Tower, Cantonese Cuisine, Chen Clan Ancestral Hall.
  • Travel Tip: Known for its vibrant food scene, try local dishes such as dim sum.

Xi’an

  • Landmarks: Terracotta Army, Xi’an City Wall, Big Wild Goose Pagoda.
  • Travel Tip: Explore the ancient heart of China, starting from the Silk Road.

Chengdu

  • Landmarks: Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Wuhou Shrine, Sichuan Cuisine.
  • Travel Tip: Don’t miss the famous spicy hot pot and the pandas.

Hong Kong

  • Landmarks: Victoria Peak, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong Disneyland, Avenue of Stars.
  • Travel Tip: Known for its fusion of Western and Eastern cultures, Hong Kong is a shopper’s paradise and a vibrant city to explore.

Estimated Flight Times and Distances from Amsterdam to China

City Distance (Miles) Distance (Kilometers) Flight Time (Hours)
Beijing 5,100 miles 8,200 km 10-11 hours
Shanghai 5,200 miles 8,400 km 10-11 hours
Guangzhou 5,400 miles 8,700 km 11-12 hours
Chengdu 5,600 miles 9,000 km 11-12 hours
Xi’an 5,200 miles 8,350 km 10-11 hours
Hong Kong 5,200 miles 8,400 km 10-11 hours

China Visa for Dutch Citizens

Dutch citizens need a tourist visa (L visa) to visit China. To apply for a visa, you will need to:

  1. Fill out a visa application form.
  2. Submit documents including your passport (valid for at least six months), recent photos, flight booking, hotel reservations, and financial proof.
  3. Apply at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in the Netherlands, or use a visa agency to handle the process.
  4. Processing time is usually 4-5 business days. Plan ahead and apply at least 1 month before your departure.

Popular Tour Packages from the Netherlands to China

Various travel agencies offer tours that include flights, accommodation, transportation, and guided visits to China’s main attractions. Some examples of tour packages are:

  • 8 Days Beijing-Xian-Shanghai Tour
  • 9 Days Beijing-Xian-Guilin-Yangshuo Group Tour
  • 11 Days China Classic Tour with Yangtze River Cruise
  • 14 Days Beijing-Xian-Chengdu-Chongqing-Yangtze River Cruise-Shanghai Group Tour