✈️ Flight Guide: Chicago (ORD) → Amsterdam (AMS)

May in the Netherlands features spring flower displays, regional festivals, and music events. While King's Day (Koningsdag) occurs in April, May continues with cultural festivals, museum exhibits, and the Keukenhof gardens often open through early May. Travelers flying from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) should plan for increased tourism around famous floral attractions; book accommodations and day-trip tickets early. Nearby cities like The Hague and Rotterdam host arts festivals and concerts throughout May, making the region vibrant for visitors.

May is one of the best months to fly from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) due to mild weather and lower summer crowds than June–August. For cheaper fares and quieter airports, target midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) and avoid holiday weekends like late May bank holidays. Early May can offer lower fares before peak tulip-week tourist surges; however, late May may coincide with festivals and higher demand. If your priority is sightseeing, plan arrivals mid-May for pleasant weather and active outdoor attractions.

Nonstop flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) save time—typically 8–9 hours in the air—and eliminate potential connection risks. In May, nonstop fares can be slightly higher but often worth the convenience for short stays or business trips. Connecting flights through European hubs (e.g., London, Dublin, Frankfurt) may offer lower fares or flexible routing but add transit time and potential delay exposure. If you prioritize price and can manage an extra few hours, a one-stop itinerary may be the best way to find cheaper May tickets.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and United Airlines frequently offer nonstop services between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) in May. KLM typically provides Dutch-focused connectivity with solid ground handling at AMS and a full-service experience, while United offers integration with US domestic networks for convenient connections from other US cities. Compare baggage policies, seat pitch, and loyalty program benefits—KLM often offers free checked bags on many fare classes for Europe routes, while United's baggage allowance depends on fare and status. For comfort on the 8–9 hour crossing, consider premium economy or business seats when available on May flights.

Pack layers for unpredictable May weather—light raincoat, comfortable walking shoes, and a compact umbrella—since Dutch spring can be cool and showery. For flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), bring a universal power adapter and plan for jet lag by adjusting sleep patterns before departure. Reserve popular day-trip activities like Keukenhof tickets in advance, and download NS and local transit apps to manage train schedules from Schiphol. For cheaper fares, book 6–10 weeks ahead and avoid weekend departures during festival dates.

Nonstop flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) typically take between 8 hours 15 minutes and 9 hours depending on winds and routing. In May, airlines often operate daily or multiple weekly nonstop services, with peak morning and evening departures to align with business and leisure demand. Connecting itineraries through hubs like London, Dublin, or Frankfurt can extend travel time to 11–16 hours total. For the smoothest travel experience in May, choose flights that arrive in the morning at AMS to maximize same-day connections and sightseeing.

To find cheap flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) in May, start monitoring fares 6–12 weeks before your travel dates. Use fare aggregators and set price alerts for both nonstop and one-stop routes; be open to red-eye flights and midweek departures to secure lower prices. Consider alternate nearby airports like Milwaukee (MKE) or Indianapolis (IND) as departure options for savings, and check round-trip vs. multi-city pricing. Sign up for airline newsletters from KLM and United for flash sales and watch for bank holiday windows in May when airlines often launch promotions.