Best in Apr
Netherlands
Amsterdam
Moderate
From $120 /day
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a captivating blend of historic charm and forward-thinking innovation, where iconic windmills and tulip fields meet cutting-edge architecture and world-class museums. Beyond the famous canals of Amsterdam, you will find a landscape shaped by a tireless relationship with the sea, visible in the ingenious dikes and expansive coastal dunes. The country is famously flat, making it a paradise for cyclists who navigate over 35,000km of dedicated paths through picturesque villages and vibrant cities. Expect a welcoming atmosphere characterized by the local concept of gezelligheid—a unique sense of cozy social connection. Whether you are exploring Golden Age masterpieces or contemporary design hubs, the Dutch experience is one of effortless efficiency and cultural richness.
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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
2 cities
6 guides
$117 – $120 Daily Budget
Quick Facts
Capital
Amsterdam
Languages
Dutch, Frisian (co-official in Fryslân/Friesland)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
1 € ≈ 1.18 $
Plug Type
Type C/F (230V, 50Hz)
Driving Side
Right
Dial Code
+31
Entry Requirements
Check requirements →
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2 in summer)
Emergency
112 (Police/Fire/Ambulance); 0900-8844 (Police non-emergency)
Why Visit Netherlands
Masterful Art and History
Walk through the halls of the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum to witness the genius of Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer. The country's history is preserved in perfectly maintained medieval centers and poignant sites like the Anne Frank House.
World-Class Cycling Culture
Experience the ultimate freedom of travel by hopping on a bicycle to explore city streets and rural landscapes. With more bikes than people, the infrastructure is unparalleled, allowing you to reach hidden gems safely and sustainably.
Iconic Seasonal Blooms
Every spring, the Dutch countryside transforms into a vibrant patchwork of color as millions of tulips bloom. A visit to the Keukenhof Gardens offers one of the most spectacular floral displays on the planet.
Innovative Modern Architecture
While the historic gables of Amsterdam are timeless, cities like Rotterdam showcase a bold, futuristic skyline. From the Cube Houses to the Markthal, the Netherlands is a living laboratory for experimental and functional design.
Picturesque Canal Towns
Venture beyond the capital to find the quiet beauty of cities like Utrecht, Delft, and Leiden. These towns offer serene waterways, ancient university vibes, and a slower pace of life that captures the heart of Dutch culture.
Top Experiences
Top-rated tours and activities in Netherlands
Cities & Destinations
Regions
North Holland
Home to Amsterdam, this region is the cultural heart of the country, featuring famous canals, the Zaanse Schans windmills, and the historic cheese markets of Alkmaar. It is the perfect starting point for first-time visitors looking for iconic Dutch scenery.
South Holland
This powerhouse region contains the futuristic port city of Rotterdam, the royal seat of government in The Hague, and the famous pottery town of Delft. It is also the epicenter of the tulip industry, hosting the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens.
Utrecht
Centered around its lively university city, this region offers a more intimate canal experience with unique wharf-level terraces. It is a hub of central transport, dotted with impressive medieval castles like Kasteel de Haar.
Limburg
The southernmost province feels distinct with its rolling hills and the sophisticated, Roman-influenced city of Maastricht. It is a haven for foodies and those seeking a different, more topographical side of the typically flat Netherlands.
Zeeland
Located in the southwest, Zeeland consists of a series of islands and peninsulas known for pristine beaches and the monumental Delta Works. It is a prime destination for water sports and fresh North Sea seafood.
Cities & Destinations:
Best Time to Visit
The Netherlands is a year-round destination, but timing is crucial for specific experiences like tulip blooms or outdoor canal culture. Spring and summer offer the most vibrant atmosphere and favorable weather for cycling.
Peak Season
Apr, Jul, Aug
April is the peak for tulip season, specifically at Keukenhof Gardens. July and August bring warm weather with temperatures averaging 17–25°C (63–77°F) and the largest crowds, particularly in Amsterdam.
Shoulder Season
May, Jun, Sep, Oct
These months offer a balance of mild weather and manageable crowds. September and October are particularly scenic as the autumn foliage lines the urban canals, with temperatures ranging 8–18°C (46–64°F).
Off-Peak
Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Winter is cold and often rainy, with temperatures between -1–9°C (30–48°F). While tourism dips, December is popular for festive markets, and January offers the lowest prices for accommodation.
Getting Around
The Netherlands boasts one of the world's most integrated and efficient public transport networks. OVpay lets you tap in/out with a contactless debit/credit card (or phone) on trains, trams, buses and metros; note that train travel via OVpay is 2nd class only and season tickets/discount products may not apply. Bicycles are the primary form of local transport and are accommodated by over 35,000km of dedicated paths.
Train
The national rail operator (NS) connects all major cities with high-frequency Intercity and Sprinter services. Most routes run every 10–30 minutes from 05:00–00:00.
Metro
Amsterdam and Rotterdam feature extensive metro systems that are faster than trams for cross-city travel. Use OVpay for contactless entry with a bank card or phone.
Bicycle
Biking is ubiquitous; rental shops are found at every major station and city center. The 'OV-fiets' program offers affordable rentals for those with a personal OV-chipkaart with an OV-fiets season ticket (or NS Flex).
Tram
Trams are the primary way to navigate the historic centers of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. They share the same payment infrastructure as buses and trains.
Food & Drink
Dutch cuisine is hearty, practical, and deeply influenced by its seafaring history and colonial past. You will find a love for dairy, fresh seafood, and comforting stews, alongside a vibrant street food scene perfect for quick snacks between sights.
Must Try
Bitterballen
These savory, deep-fried gravy-filled meat croquettes are the ultimate bar snack, best enjoyed with a dab of sharp mustard and a cold beer.
Stroopwafel
Two thin waffle layers glued together with a sweet cinnamon syrup; try them fresh and warm from a street market for the best experience.
Hollandse Nieuwe Haring
Raw herring cured in salt and served with onions and pickles; the traditional way to eat it is by holding the fish by the tail and sliding it into your mouth.
Stamppot
A comforting winter dish made of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables like kale or sauerkraut, traditionally served with a smoked rookworst sausage.
Kibbeling
Popular at fish stalls, these are battered and deep-fried nuggets of white fish, usually served with a side of garlic or tartar sauce.
Poffertjes
Tiny, fluffy buckwheat pancakes served in batches with a generous lump of butter and a heavy dusting of powdered sugar.
Jenever
The traditional Dutch precursor to gin, this potent spirit is often served in a tulip-shaped glass filled to the very brim, requiring you to take the first sip without hands.
Money & Costs
With an average daily budget of ~$119 / €101, the Netherlands is a mid-to-high cost destination. Food and transport are efficient but priced at a premium in tourist hubs like Amsterdam.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but 5–10% is customary for good service in restaurants. For casual cafes or bars, it is common to round up the bill to the nearest Euro.
Cards
Card usage is extremely high; many shops and cafes are 'pin-only' and do not accept cash. Acceptance of Debit Mastercard/Visa Debit is expanding as the Netherlands transitions away from Maestro/V PAY, but coverage still varies by merchant—carry a backup payment option.
ATMs
ATMs are commonly branded as Geldmaat (yellow machines). Due to rising contactless payments, ATM numbers have been decreasing.
Culture & Etiquette
The Dutch value directness, punctuality, and an egalitarian social structure. Social interactions are generally informal, but respecting public order and the strict rules of the road—especially for cycling—is essential for fitting in.
✕
Do not walk in the red-paved bike lanes, as they are strictly for cyclists and you will likely be greeted with a sharp bell or a verbal warning.
✓
Make eye contact and offer a firm handshake when meeting someone for the first time, as the Dutch appreciate straightforward and honest communication.
✕
Do not confuse a coffee shop with a café; a coffee shop sells cannabis products, while a café is where you go for coffee, tea, and sandwiches.
✓
Be punctual for all appointments and social gatherings, as arriving even 5–10 minutes late is often considered disrespectful in Dutch culture.
✕
Do not refer to the entire country as Holland; North and South Holland are just two of the twelve provinces, and locals elsewhere may find it inaccurate.
✓
Carry a debit card or some cash, as many smaller shops and supermarkets are pin-only. Note: the Netherlands is transitioning from Maestro/V-Pay to Debit Mastercard/Visa Debit, but acceptance varies by merchant.
✓
Greet shopkeepers and staff when entering or leaving a store with a simple 'Hoi' or 'Goedemorgen' to acknowledge their presence.
✕
Do not take photos of people in the Red Light District in Amsterdam, as it is strictly forbidden and can result in your camera being confiscated or confrontational situations.
Safety & Health
The Netherlands is generally very safe for travelers, though petty crime is common in major tourist areas. Travelers should exercise normal safety precautions and stay alert in crowded transport hubs.
Tap Water
Safe to drink
Vaccinations
No special vaccinations are required; ensure routine immunizations are up to date. Tetanus and Hepatitis A/B are occasionally recommended for long-term stays.
Common Scams
- ⚠ Fake police officers asking to inspect wallets for counterfeit currency.
- ⚠ Unlicensed taxis at airports charging exorbitant flat rates instead of using a meter.
- ⚠ Bicycle theft is extremely high; always use two locks and secure the bike to a fixed object.
- ⚠ Accommodation 'ghost' rentals on unofficial social media groups or fake websites.
Medical facilities are of a very high standard. International travelers must have comprehensive travel insurance as out-of-pocket costs for emergency care are high.
Language
Dutch is the official language, but over 90% of the population speaks English fluently. In major cities and tourist areas, English is often the primary language for service and menus.
English Spoken: Widely spoken
Key Phrases
| Meaning | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Hallo | HAH-low |
| Thank you | Dank u wel | dank-oo-vel |
| Please | Alstublieft | ALS-too-bleeft |
| Goodbye | Tot ziens | tot-seenz |
| The bill, please | De rekening, alstublieft | duh ray-kon-ing als-too-bleeft |
| Do you speak English? | Spreekt u Engels? | spraykt-oo eng-uls |
| Yes / No | Ja / Nee | yah / nay |
| Cheers! | Proost! | prohst |
Visa & Entry
The Netherlands is a member of the Schengen Area, allowing for seamless travel between 29 European countries. The EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) is being rolled out (operational since 12 Oct 2025; full operation from 10 Apr 2026). ETIAS is planned to start operations in the last quarter of 2026 for visa-exempt travelers.
Max Stay
90 days in a 180-day period
Passport Validity
Issued within the last 10 years AND valid at least 3 months beyond intended departure from the Schengen Area
Visa-free for
USA, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, South Korea
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Netherlands safe for solo travelers?
How expensive is a trip to the Netherlands?
When is the best time to visit for the tulips?
Do I need a visa for the Netherlands?
Is English widely spoken in the Netherlands?
What is the best way to get around the country?
Can I drink the tap water in the Netherlands?
What are the rules for cycling as a tourist?
What is the difference between a coffee shop and a café?
Why you can trust this guide
Jan Křenek
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
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