I have an international flgight from LAX to Athens with a 3.5 hr layover in Amsterdam.
Is that enough time to use lounge flying internationally through Amsterdam?
Flying in the US I know it would be. But not sure internationally. Suggestions? What’s your experience going through Amsetrdam?
Also, if I asked for a lounge pass, but then didn’t have time to use it, is it still counted as used?
Thanks so much!
It’s enough time. In fact, in most lounges you’re only allowed 3 or four hours before your departure.
Yes, if you don’t use it, you lose it
I’ve only used lounge passes a few times in Europe - through friends, not through THS - and I think they are not worth the hassle. There are long lines to get in (even if you have a pass, you still have to check in), mediocre food and crowds when you do, and I’ve had a much better experience just finding a spot at either a terminal restaurant or at a gate with no outbound flights. With a 3.5 hour layover, I probably wouldn’t bother - by the time you get through immigration, use the restroom, and find the lounge, it’s time to head to your connection anyway.
You can take a shower at Schiphol,by the way - that’s a great way to refresh after such a long flight and before your connection. Just be sure to bring your own soap and towel (a tiny camping towel is all you really need and it will take up minimal space in your luggage; I always bring one).
Speaking personally, after a flight from LAX to AMS, I would really appreciate the comfort and sanity of a lounge. I’ve been in 3 of the lounges at Schiphol - never seen a line to get in and they have all been very nice, reasonable food etc. That said, if you want to save your pass for another occasion, Schiphol is one of the best airports to kill some time. Check out the (free) branch of the Rijksmuseum, there’s an airport ‘library’ and if you need to chill, there are chaise-longue style chairs for napping. And, as someone mentioned, also showers.
We have only used airport lounges twice, in Sydney and Thessaloniki - Both were excellent experiences. No queues in either (we were the only people at Thessaloniki!). Open bar and good quality and selection of food. ( In Sydney, it was waiter service off a menu/in Thessaloniki, self-service)
We’ve used the THS passes in Istanbul (both airports), Doha, Bangkok & one more (brain fry) and all have been worthwhile. If you have it then why not. 3 hours is normally the max anyway. Never queued for any of them. #loungelizard
Thanks for sharing your experience.
I appreciate your experiences and suggestions in this airport! Was entrance through immigration long at all? That would be part of my decision about whether or not to use the pass. Thanks!
@PreciousPets Greece is Schengen so you will clear immigration in AMS and move to the Schengen side of the airport. Looks like it is the Aspire lounge whether on Schengen or international side of AMS. Reviews of Aspire No 26 on the Schengen side aren’t great - Aspire Lounge 26 (Schengen) (2025) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Reviews)
Was going to suggest you maybe use it on your return for the intl lounge but those reviews aren’t much better.
And as @JoWales writes, you can usually find some places at Schipol that may be better than a lounge.
Immigration is generally quick at AMS although that will depend on arrival time.