NL · Travel guide
The Netherlands
Dutch weather can change quickly, even in summer. A dry morning does not guarantee a dry afternoon, so a light waterproof layer is worth carrying when sightseeing or cycling. Wind can also make coastal areas feel considerably cooler than the temperature suggests.
Quick facts
- Currency
- EUR
- Main language
- Dutch
- Calling code
- +31
- Driving side
- right
- Plug types
- Type C, Type F
Power
230 V · 50 Hz
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated for good service but is not compulsory or a major part of everyday Dutch service culture.
- Restaurants and cafes: locals may round up or leave around 5 to 10 per cent when the service has been good.
- Bars: rounding up or leaving a small amount is sufficient.
- Taxis: rounding up is common; a larger tip is optional for particularly good service.
There is no expectation for tourists to tip more heavily than locals, and there is no need to apply US-style percentages automatically.
Getting around
The Netherlands has an extensive public-transport and cycling network, making a car unnecessary for many trips. Trains connect cities and larger towns, with buses, trams and metros covering local journeys.
Paying for public transport
OVpay allows visitors to check in and out of trains, buses, trams and metros using a contactless debit or credit card, phone or wearable without buying a separate transport card.
Use the same card or device to check in and out, and each traveller needs their own payment method. When travelling by train this way, you travel second class at the normal fare.
Trains
Trains make day trips between Dutch cities particularly straightforward. Several companies operate parts of the network, so when changing to a different train operator you may need to check out with one operator and back in with the next.
If your plans are flexible, check the NS journey planner before travelling: advance PriceTime Deal tickets can offer discounts on selected quieter, off-peak trains.
Cycling
Cycling is everyday transport rather than a tourist activity, so cycle lanes can be busy and fast-moving. Follow traffic lights and signs, signal clearly and avoid stopping unexpectedly in a cycle lane.
As a pedestrian, treat cycle paths as part of the road rather than extra pavement: look for bicycles before crossing and avoid standing or walking in them.
Everyday essentials
Cards and cash
Debit cards and contactless payments are used extensively, and some businesses are card-only. Foreign cards normally work well, but credit cards are not as universally accepted as debit cards, particularly at smaller businesses.
Carry more than one payment option rather than relying entirely on cash or a single credit card.
Bottle and can deposits
Many plastic drinks bottles and cans include a refundable statiegeld deposit in the purchase price. Rather than throwing them away, return eligible containers at a supermarket or another marked collection point to reclaim the deposit.