December departures from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) are marked by holiday demand, potential weather-related delays, and extended security lines. Flights typically operate nonstop on major carriers and through hubs; expect higher fares during peak dates and more limited availability around Christmas and New Year.
Arriving at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) in December offers quick rail connections to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and other major Dutch cities, but expect cold, wet weather and festive crowds. December is prime holiday travel, so plan transfers, pre-book tickets for events, and use train timetables to avoid surprises.
In Amsterdam (reachable from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)), December brings Christmas markets, ice rinks, and light festivals across the city and nearby towns like Haarlem and Leiden—perfect for holiday sightseeing. In Houston (near George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)), December features holiday light displays, seasonal concerts, and winter markets. These events increase demand for travel, so book accommodation and tickets early. Combine an Amsterdam visit with day trips to Rotterdam or Antwerp for additional holiday experiences.
For cheaper fares and lower crowds in December, consider flying early in the month and on weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday). Red-eye departures can also save money and often have lighter airport crowds, but remember that red-eyes may increase jet lag on arrival at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS). Avoid travel the few days before Christmas and the weekend immediately after New Year's Day if possible—these are the most expensive and busiest travel periods.
Nonstop flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) are faster (typically ~8.5–9 hours) and more convenient, reducing missed-connection risk during busy December travel. Connecting flights often cost less and offer flexible routing through hubs like Atlanta or London but can add 3–10+ hours of travel time and increase the chance of weather-related disruptions in winter. Choose nonstop for convenience and reliability in peak season; choose connecting when price savings justify the extra time and you have flexible schedules.
United and KLM often operate nonstop services between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), offering comparable flight times and transatlantic amenities. KLM often includes traditional European service options and benefits for Flying Blue members, while United may offer better connectivity within North America via Star Alliance partners. Delta sometimes offers competitive connecting fares through U.S. hubs. Compare baggage allowances, seat pitch, lounge access, and frequent flyer benefits when booking December travel; use airline comparisons and price alerts to find the best overall value.
Pack warm, waterproof layers and a compact umbrella for Amsterdam's damp December climate, and include a travel power adapter for European plugs. Allow extra connection time for winter weather, secure travel insurance that covers delays and cancellations, and print or save important documents offline. Consider flights that arrive in the morning to maximize daylight for transfers and sightseeing. Finally, sign up for airline and airport alerts to receive real-time schedule updates during the busy December travel period.
Nonstop flight time from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) generally ranges from 8.5 to 9 hours. In December there are regular daily nonstop flights on major carriers, but frequency increases around holiday travel days and may vary on Sundays and Mondays when demand peaks. Connecting itineraries through major hubs like Newark, Atlanta, or London add 3–8+ hours of total travel time depending on layover lengths. Check airline schedules and real-time updates before travel, and build buffer time for customs and baggage on arrival at Schiphol.
To secure cheap flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) in December, start searching 2–4 months ahead and use flexible-date calendars to identify mid-week savings. Set fare alerts across Google Flights or Skyscanner, mix and match one-way tickets on Star Alliance or SkyTeam partners, and consider flying early December instead of peak holiday windows. Use location-based modifiers like 'Houston to Amsterdam December deals' and filter by nearby airports (e.g., consider splitting return to Dallas or Austin) to uncover lower fares. Book with flexible or refundable options if prices are volatile during December holiday travel.