Discover the Wonders of the Netherlands: A Travel Guide
Known for its tulips, windmills and bicycles, the Netherlands stretches out over a predominantly flat landscape. Sleepy rural towns and sophisticated cities lie within its expansive vistas, broken here and there by dikes, walls, canals and castles. The country is also home to one of Europe’s most densely populated regions, which is located in an urban hub called Randstad. The area radiates in a circle from Amsterdam and includes The Hague, Utrecht, and Rotterdam, as well as the smaller towns of Delft, Haarlem and Leiden. Visitors will find vibrant art scenes, cultural activities, seasonal festivals and excellent pubs and restaurants in these destinations.
Historically speaking, the country’s global influence stretches back centuries. That is, the Dutch East India Company established trading links with the East and West Indies in the 1600s, bringing a wealth of merchandise and cultural influences back to Europe. The Netherlands’ Golden Age reached its zenith in the artworks of its master painters, namely, Frans Hals, Rembrandt van Rijn, and Johannes Vermeer. Today, their paintings hang from the walls of the country’s many world-class museums and galleries.
Tourists generally visit the Netherlands to experience its capital city, Amsterdam, though nature lovers may enjoy the south’s undulating landscapes of heath moors and shifting sands. They’re best explored within the Hoge Veluwe National Park. The historical city of Maastricht is tucked between the Belgian and German borders, and is definitely worth seeing.
Regarding global conflicts, the Netherlands has largely taken a neutral stance since the collapse of Napoleon’s empire in 1814. That said, it suffered severely in World War II, when the Nazis invaded. Its neutral position and tradition of tolerance and liberalism would make it the logical location for the International Court of Justice, which is situated in The Hague.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Dutch is the official language. English is widely spoken. Frisian (as well as Dutch) is spoken by the people of Friesland Province.
- Passport/Visa:
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple-entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, non-EEA visitors to the Netherlands must hold confirmed return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country.
It is recommended that a traveller’s passport has at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Major credit cards are widely accepted. Foreign currency can be changed at banks, post offices or bureaux de change (usually indicated by the letters GWK). Banks are closed on weekends but bureaux de change are open. ATMs are widely distributed and most are open 24 hours a day.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Two-pin round European-style plugs are used.
Overview
Time is a multi-layered luxury in the Netherlands, where centuries-old windmills and visionary architecture accent the famously flat landscape, pushing and pulling the imagination in delightful ways. Visitors can look backwards at Golden Age art, or glimpse the future through cutting-edge design with equal ease.
Amsterdam dominates the tourism scene, though cities such as Delft and Rotterdam have undeniable appeal. The Red Light District, world-class museums, marijuana ‘coffeeshops’ and lovely natural landscapes are all part of the experience. History-buffs, culture-lovers and pleasure-seekers will all enjoy their stay in the country.
Climate in Netherlands
The Netherlands’ fairly temperate climate is very similar to the UK’s. There are four distinct seasons but the temperatures are variable year-round and rain occurs throughout the year. The weather is particularly changeable on the coast, where it is influenced by the ocean. The Netherlands experiences cool summers, between June and August, and mild winters, between December and February. The average summer temperatures range between 53°F and 72°F (12°C and 22°C), and the average winter temperatures range between 34°F and 43°F (1°C and 6°C). Snow can fall anytime between November and April, although the country only experiences an average of about 25 snowy days a year. Rainfall can occur at any time of year, but is marginally more common in summer and autumn. Tourists should ensure that they pack a rain jacket whatever time of year they visit the Netherlands.
Despite the hordes of tourists, the best time to visit is over the summer (June to August), or in spring (April and May) when the famous tulips are in bloom. However, the country is a year-round travel destination, as enjoyment of the cultural attractions, like museums, galleries, restaurants and historic buildings is mostly not weather dependant.
Health Notes when travelling to Netherlands
There are no health risks associated with travel to the Netherlands and no vaccinations are required for entry into the country. The water is safe to drink. The standard of health care is very high, but the necessary health insurance provisions must be made before travelling. A reciprocal agreement exists with other EU countries, which entitles nationals to low-cost emergency medical treatment. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is necessary for this purpose. After Brexit, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance. Although medication is widely available in the Netherlands, it is always best to take along any prescribed medication, in its original packaging, and accompanied by a signed and dated letter from a doctor detailing what it is and why it is needed.
Safety Notes when travelling to Netherlands
Travel in the Netherlands is fairly safe and the vast majority of trips are trouble-free. Travellers should, however, always exercise caution in empty streets at night and be aware of pickpockets, particularly in central Amsterdam and at Central Station. There have been several incidents on trains from Schiphol Airport where heavily laden passengers have been targeted by thieves. As in all Western countries, there is a risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks.
Travellers should also watch out for a scam whereby tourists will be approached by ‘plain clothes policemen’ who claim to be investigating credit card fraud and counterfeit currency. Tourists are shown fake identification in the form of badges, and asked to hand over credit cards and money. If approached, travellers are advised to ask for proper identification or to accompany them to the nearest police station.
Customs in Netherlands
In the Netherlands, the use of cannabis is tolerated in designated ‘coffeeshops’ in major cities. This policy exists to prevent the marginalisation of soft drug users, thereby exposing them to more harmful drugs. However, the trafficking in hard or soft drugs outside licensed premises is illegal and the possession of soft drugs in public places will incur a prison sentence. Travellers should note that the rules are somewhat different for foreigners, with the Netherlands tightening up drug laws in recent years: Amsterdam is the only city still fighting for the right of tourists to smoke cannabis in ‘coffeeshops’ and this has become a bit of a grey area with laws not always enforced on the ground. Everybody from the age of 14 is required to show a valid identity document to law enforcement officers on request. Tobacco smoking in cafés, bars and restaurants is prohibited.
Duty Free in Netherlands
Duty free items for travellers to the Netherlands include 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250g smoking tobacco; 1 litre spirits, 2 litres spirits or aperitifs made of wine or 2 litres of sparkling wines, liquor wines or still wine; perfume up to 50g or 250ml eau de toilette; 500g of coffee; 100g tea. Prohibited items include the import of all birds.
Doing Business in Netherlands
Business in the Netherlands is conducted in an efficient and professional manner. Punctuality is important, dress is usually formal (suits and ties are standard), business cards are exchanged and greetings are made with a handshake. Titles and surnames are used, unless otherwise indicated. Women tend to be well received in Dutch business and it is not uncommon for women to hold high positions. Most Dutch people speak excellent English. Business hours are usually 8.30am to 5pm.
Communication in Netherlands
The international access code for the Netherlands is +31. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
Tipping in Netherlands
Service charges are included in hotel rates, restaurant bills and taxi fares, usually at about 15 percent. Tipping for good service is always appreciated but not necessary. It is customary to tip taxi drivers and waiters about 10 percent.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple-entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, non-EEA visitors to the Netherlands must hold confirmed return/onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country.
It is recommended that a traveller’s passport has at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in the Netherlands. No visa is required for holders of Irish passports.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in the Netherlands. A visa is required.
Tourist Offices
Netherlands Tourist Office, The Hague: +31 70 3705 705 or http://www.holland.com
Netherlands Embassies
- In the United States:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 244 5300.
- In Canada:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 237 5031.
- In the United Kingdom:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7590 3200.
- In Australia:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 26 220 9400.
- In Ireland:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 269 3444.
- In New Zealand:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 4 471 6390.
- In South Africa:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 425 4500.
Foreign Embassies in Netherlands
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, The Hague: +31 70 310 2209.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, The Hague: +31 70 311 1600.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, The Hague: +31 70 427 0427.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, The Hague: +31 70 310 8200.
- Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, The Hague: +31 70 363 0993.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, The Hague: +31 70 346 9324.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, The Hague: +31 70 392 4501.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
