My husband and I are flying into Amsterdam and taking Dutch Railway to Rotterdam. Our travel agent said the train station was in the airport but looking at some travel guides this doesn't seem to be the case. Anyone know where to go to get the train to Rotterdam from the airport? Thanks!

There is a train station in the airport, distinct from the Amsterdam Central station. The airport station is called Schiphol in the train schedules. You can get a direct train from the airport to Rotterdam without going into Amsterdam.

The train station is directly under the airport. It is indeed called Schiphol.

Look at this website for the departure times of the trains: http://tinyurl.com/bbzmu

The direct train ('intercity' or 'sneltrein') takes about 45 minutes.

A couple of years a go, we (2 adults + 2 children) took a train from the airport to Rotterdam. Do not remember the price. From Rotterdam train station we took a taxi - an indian who overcharged us 25euro for the short trip to the hotel. He did not want to use the meter and requested 25 euro when our cases were inside his small old red car. I could have refused and took another taxi. It is not for the money but as principle. We did not like the specific train since it was a 2 levels and so a hassle to carry the suitcases when the first level seems full. On returning from Rotterdam hotel to Amsterdam hotel, a large family taxi arrived to take us to the Train station as per my original request. He was a nice man, who look an Indian - though from a Dutch colony.... I think it was Suriname.. I am not sure. Anyway, he informed me that they do have a fixed price to Amsterdam hotel for Euro 80 which I have accepted for convenience and reasonable cost. He had to check with his office first since i have not booked it in advance. It was agreed and so we went in a very relexing way to our Amsterdam hotel. Therefore, I think you could consider the two choices.

The station is very clearly marked when you arrive at Schiphol.

You will need to buy your tickets on arrival - neither the machines or the kiosk take credit cards. They will accept an internationl debit card with a Maestro Logo, or cash. Coins only in the case of the machines. You cannot buy your ticket on the train.

If you look at the link TommieG gave it tells you all about buying the tickets too.

Oh, thank you all so much. This is a relief. Jet lag means my energy level will be low and had hoped to make this last leg of the trip easily. Now I know it can be!