Essential information to know before visiting the Netherlands

With its stunning cities and picturesque landscapes featuring polders, dykes, windmills, and canals, the Netherlands boasts excellent sustainable travel infrastructure. While potential mishaps are few, there are a few key details to keep in mind (starting with the correct name!). Having explored and written about this enchanting country for nearly twenty years, I’ve compiled my top tips for a seamless journey.

1. Remember, it’s the Netherlands (not Holland)

You may encounter the term 'Holland' used to describe the entire nation, but this is a misnomer that the Dutch tourism authority has only recently begun to phase out. Holland specifically refers to just two of the country’s twelve provinces: Noord-Holland (North Holland), where Haarlem is the provincial capital and Amsterdam the largest city, and Zuid-Holland (South Holland), which has Den Haag as its provincial capital and seat of government, with Rotterdam as its largest city. The rest of the country is not Holland; the entire nation is the Netherlands.

You may also hear about the Randstad, a metropolitan area that encompasses the Netherlands’ largest cities in Noord-Holland, Zuid-Holland, and Utrecht, serving as the economic hub and home to nearly half of the population.

2. Keep in mind there’s much more to Amsterdam than just the city center—and more to the Netherlands than Amsterdam itself.

While Amsterdam is the primary arrival point for many travelers, it often becomes their sole destination. As visitor numbers surge, the Dutch capital is implementing measures to combat overtourism, such as increasing tourist taxes, restricting short-term rentals, capping annual overnight visitors, reducing river cruises by half, and entirely closing its ocean-liner cruise port. The city is also discouraging disruptive 'nuisance tourists' by banning organized pub crawls and limiting the opening hours of central bars and clubs, all while remaining welcoming to respectful visitors.

A short distance from the center, you can find fantastic, often overlooked neighborhoods like Amsterdam's West, Oost (East), and Noord (North), where you can gain a more authentic understanding of local life. Consider joining positive-impact tours offered by Tours That Matter to explore off the beaten path.

Moreover, the compact nature of the Netherlands, combined with its excellent transportation system, places the country’s magnificent cities, picturesque landscapes, and thrilling activities (often at lower prices) right at Amsterdam's doorstep.

3. Determine how much time to spend in the Netherlands

Traveling across the country takes only a few hours, but there's plenty to explore. A week allows you to enjoy both Amsterdam and nearby destinations like Haarlem, Utrecht, Leiden, Delft, Den Haag, and Rotterdam. The more time you have, the further you can venture, from the Frisian coast and islands to well-preserved Hanseatic cities like Deventer and Zwolle, as well as the hilly southeastern region around the vibrant Maastricht.

When planning your itinerary, you can estimate travel times using the journey planner 9292.nl, which provides the most efficient public transport routes across the nation. Cycling is another excellent option, thanks to the extensive network of short- and long-distance bike paths. Biking is ingrained in Dutch culture, with locals riding for everything from commuting to dining out or attending the opera, so you'll fit right in.

Explore the best ways to navigate the Netherlands

4. Secure your museum time slots early to ensure you don’t miss out

As the birthplace of artistic legends like Rembrandt, Vermeer, Van Gogh, Mondrian, and MC Escher, the Netherlands is rich in art, with countless museums highlighting its historical, cultural, and diverse heritage. More and more, museums require online reservations for entry, which tend to fill up quickly. It’s wise to book your slots a few weeks in advance (even earlier for the Anne Frank Huis) to help structure your travel itinerary.

5. Also, make sure to confirm your accommodations and popular restaurant reservations ahead of time

Especially during the peak summer season or around festivals, events, and holidays, it's crucial to secure your accommodation in advance. Popular and upscale restaurants should also be booked ahead of time.

6. Pack wisely and be ready for unpredictable weather

The prevalence of windmills across the flat terrain is no coincidence: it can get quite breezy here. The Dutch term uitwaaien means 'to clear one's head by enjoying a walk in the refreshing wind,' and the maritime climate brings its share of rain, so always include waterproof gear in your packing list, regardless of the season. Comfortable, durable shoes are essential for various terrains, along with a slim daypack and layers that can be easily added if the temperature drops. In winter, warm clothing, gloves, and a wool hat are indispensable.

In Dutch cycling culture, fashion is both chic and functional, featuring designs that prioritize flat soles and garments that won’t snag in bike spokes.

Consider visiting the Netherlands outside of peak summer: here’s the best time to go

7. Be prepared for what to expect at your accommodation

Staying in the Netherlands can reveal some surprises for first-time visitors. Particularly in older structures, you may find a lack of air conditioning, and elevators can be small or absent altogether (Dutch staircases are often steep, resembling ships’ ladders). The local approach tends to be liberal and direct, and you might encounter more open-plan bathrooms than anticipated, with limited privacy (yes, even for toilets). If privacy is a priority, it's worth investigating this before you book, as alternative options may not be available upon check-in.

To maximize natural light, hotels and homes typically feature large windows without blinds or curtains; however, in this compact and densely populated country, privacy is generally respected among neighbors.

8. Understand Dutch communication style

The Dutch communicate in a clear and concise manner, prioritizing directness over casual small talk. While this might seem refreshingly blunt to visitors, it’s meant to be straightforward and honest. Punctuality is highly valued in both formal and social settings.

Fluent English is commonly spoken, but knowing a few Dutch phrases can enhance your interactions, such as goedemorgen/goedendag/goedenavond (good morning/day/evening), tot ziens (goodbye), alstublieft/alsjeblieft (please, formal/informal), and dank u wel/dank je wel (thank you, formal/informal). Raise a glass of beer or jenever (Dutch gin) with a hearty proost (cheers) while making eye contact during toasts. Dutch drinking culture is social, focusing on food and friends, typically beginning with borrel (“drinks”) before uitgaan (going out).

9. Prioritize sustainability

In a nation largely situated below sea level, environmental issues have always been paramount, and the Dutch are leading the charge in sustainability efforts. The Netherlands aims to achieve a circular economy by 2050, focusing on reusing, repairing, and recycling renewable materials to eliminate waste. Significant strides are being made in everyday life. As a visitor, you can contribute by opting for eco-friendly transportation, reducing energy use, minimizing packaging and food waste, and choosing local and organic produce while shopping sustainably.

10. Be aware of tipping customs

In the Netherlands, service charges are included in hospitality wages, so staff do not rely heavily on tips. However, it is common to leave a modest tip of up to around 10% for exceptional service, particularly in restaurants and bars where drinks are served at your table.

11. Carry both cash and cards

Contactless cards and app-based 'smart wallet' digital payments are increasingly prevalent, particularly in public transport systems. Many establishments like cafes, restaurants, and shops—especially in larger cities—operate on a cashless basis. However, traditional venues may only accept cash, so it's wise to carry a combination of both cash and cards to be prepared.

12. Be cautious of bike lanes

Bike lanes can experience faster and denser traffic than you might anticipate. In addition to quick cyclists, be aware of motorized electric bikes and larger cargo bikes. Pedestrians should exercise caution when crossing streets; stepping into a bike lane without checking for oncoming traffic can lead to serious accidents. Drivers should remain especially vigilant.

If you’re cycling like a local, be mindful of other cyclists, distracted pedestrians, and vehicles. Don’t hesitate to ring your bike bell as needed. When crossing tram tracks, do so at a sharp angle to prevent your wheels from getting caught. Before you ride, take a moment to learn the rules of navigating Dutch traffic.

Bookmark this guide to the top cycling routes in the Netherlands

13. Exercise caution around canals

The Netherlands boasts beautiful waterways in its cities and countryside, but these areas are rarely fenced. Keep a watchful eye, especially if you have young children with you. If you decide to rent a boat (one of the best experiences here), make sure life jackets are available for all passengers, including kids.

14. Feel free to drink tap water

Tap water throughout the Netherlands is of excellent quality and safe to drink, with any exceptions clearly marked.

15. Don’t be startled by the siren tests (but take them seriously during emergencies)

On the first Monday of each month at noon (excluding public holidays), you’ll hear public warning sirens blaring for one minute and 26 seconds, as they’re tested nationwide. If you hear them at any other time, treat it as an emergency (like a fire or flood) and follow local guidance.

16. Stay safe and know how to seek help if needed

The Netherlands is a very safe country, but it’s wise to take standard precautions in larger cities and be aware of pickpockets in tourist-heavy areas like major train stations. To prevent bicycle theft, use secure bike-parking stations when possible and always lock your bike with two locks, one of which should secure it to a fixed object like a bike rack.

For minor ailments or injuries, an apotheek (pharmacy) can offer advice and sell over-the-counter medications, and guide you to specialized care if needed.

Be mindful that cannabis remains illegal in the Netherlands. While authorities generally tolerate small amounts (up to 5g), enforcement varies by municipality, with some areas imposing public smoking bans. (Government regulations may change.) Avoid purchasing drugs on the streets, as this can lead to serious dangers.

In case of a serious emergency, dial 112 to reach the police, fire, and ambulance services. If issues arise during your trip, having easily accessible backup copies of your travel insurance policy can be beneficial.