Netherlands Travel Guide (2024) | Everything you need to know

Tourist Information About the Netherlands

Useful Information About the Netherlands

Cost of Living in the Netherlands

Quality of Life in the Netherlands

General Etiquette, Cultural Insights and Tips

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  Greetings: In the Netherlands, a handshake is the common greeting for first meetings. Among friends and acquaintances, it is usual to give three cheek kisses (right-left-right). Always use a polite greeting such as "Goedendag" (Good day) or "Hallo" (Hello) and address people by their last name until invited to use their first name.

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  Punctuality: Punctuality is highly valued in Dutch culture. Being on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings is essential. Arriving even five minutes late without prior notice can be considered impolite.

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  Bargaining: Bargaining is not common practice in Dutch stores or professional services. Prices are generally fixed and not subject to negotiation, except at flea markets where some bargaining may occur.

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  Dress Code: Dress codes in the Netherlands are generally casual. For business and formal events, more conservative attire is expected, but overall, the Dutch prefer a practical and unpretentious style.

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  Personal Space: Personal space is important in Dutch culture. People maintain a respectful distance during conversations. Touching others during a conversation is not common and can be seen as an intrusion of personal space.

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  Formality in Language: The Dutch language uses formal ("u") and informal ("je/jij") pronouns. The formal is used when speaking with strangers, in formal settings, or with elders, while the informal can be used among friends or with younger people.

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  Art Appreciation: The Netherlands has a rich artistic heritage with a strong appreciation for art and design. Engaging in discussions about Dutch art or visiting museums can be a rewarding experience and is well regarded.

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  Historical Significance: The Netherlands has a profound historical depth, especially in cities like Amsterdam, Leiden, and Utrecht. Respect for historical buildings and local customs, especially regarding preservation efforts, is appreciated.

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  Environmental Consciousness: Environmental awareness is significant in the Netherlands. Recycling, cycling, and energy conservation are part of everyday life, and visitors are expected to adhere to these practices as well.

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  Values and Misconceptions: The Dutch are known for their directness and openness in communication, which can sometimes be perceived as blunt or straightforward. This direct approach is valued and is not intended to be rude, but rather to maintain clear and honest communication.

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  Debate and Discussion: Open debates and expressing opinions are integral to Dutch communication style. Feel free to engage in discussions, but always remain respectful and considerate of different viewpoints.

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  Respecting Etiquette: Observing basic manners and social norms is crucial. Politeness, respect for law and order, and a straightforward approach in interactions are highly valued in Dutch society.

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  Religion: The Netherlands is traditionally Christian, but today it is very secular with a diverse religious landscape. Freedom of religion is strongly upheld, and there is a high degree of religious tolerance.

Dining and Culinary Etiquette in the Netherlands

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  Café Culture: Cafés play a significant role in Dutch social life, often serving as places to meet friends or conduct informal meetings. Coffee is typically served with a small biscuit or cake. It's customary to enjoy a leisurely pace when in cafés.

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  Dining Etiquette: When dining, it's usual to keep your hands visible by resting your wrists on the edge of the table. The Dutch use utensils for most meals, and it's important to use your fork and knife properly. Start eating only after everyone has been served and the host begins.

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  Drink Etiquette: If alcohol is served, it's polite to wait for a toast before drinking. The host usually initiates the first toast. Be sure to make eye contact when toasting as it's a sign of respect and trust.

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  Cheese Course Etiquette: The Netherlands is famous for its cheeses, and cheese often appears as a snack or part of the meal. When cheese is served, use the cheese slicer provided to cut thin slices and consume moderately unless encouraged to indulge.

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  Bread Etiquette: Bread is commonly served with meals and should be eaten with a knife and fork, not with your hands. Butter a small piece of bread at a time, rather than the whole slice at once.

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  Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in the Netherlands. Service charges are usually included in restaurant bills, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small extra amount (5-10%) for good service is customary.

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  Table Manners: Good table manners are important. Do not start to eat until everyone at the table has been served, and always pass dishes to the left. Finish everything on your plate if possible, as leaving food can be seen as wasteful.

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  Speaking with Servers: Always be polite and clear when ordering or speaking to servers. Direct communication is appreciated, but remember to say please (alstublieft) and thank you (dank u).

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  Order of Courses: A typical meal in the Netherlands might start with a light appetizer or soup, followed by the main course, and a dessert. In more formal settings, a cheese course might follow the main meal before dessert.

Public Behavior and Expectations in the Netherlands

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  Gift Giving: When visiting someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift such as flowers, chocolates, or a bottle of wine. When giving flowers, make sure they are an odd number (but not 13), as even numbers are typically used for funerals.

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  Smoking Etiquette: Smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces including restaurants, cafes, and bars. It's important to smoke only in designated smoking areas. Being considerate of non-smokers is highly valued.

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  Conversation Style: The Dutch value direct and straightforward communication. It is customary to be frank and to the point, which should not be perceived as rudeness. Small talk is not particularly common, and conversations quickly turn to meaningful subjects.

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  Public Transport Etiquette: When using public transport, it's important to be punctual and considerate. Offer your seat to elderly passengers, pregnant women, or those with disabilities. Keep phone conversations quiet and brief, and use headphones when listening to music.

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  Respect for Quiet Spaces: Quiet is highly valued in places such as libraries, museums, and places of worship. Speaking loudly or causing disturbances in these places is considered disrespectful.

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  Metro: Keep to the right on escalators to allow others to pass on the left. Eating or drinking on public transit is generally frowned upon, especially if it could disturb other passengers or create a mess.

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  Conservative Dressing: Dress codes in the Netherlands are generally casual but neat. For business or formal occasions, more conservative attire is expected. However, in everyday settings, practical and comfortable clothing is the norm.

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  Swimming Pool: Follow local rules at swimming pools, such as showering before entering the pool and wearing appropriate swimwear. Note that some pools may have specific guidelines regarding swim caps or lane usage.

Health and Safety in the Netherlands

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  Tap Water: Tap water in the Netherlands is of excellent quality and is safe to drink anywhere. It's environmentally friendly and more cost-effective than bottled water.

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  Pharmacies: Pharmacies are widely available and can be identified by a green cross sign. Pharmacists are well-qualified to advise on minor health issues and medication. For more serious conditions, you'll need to visit a doctor.

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  Medical Treatment: The healthcare system in the Netherlands is high-quality, though access requires registration with a local doctor for residents. Tourists and temporary visitors should ensure they have health insurance coverage to receive treatment if necessary.

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  Emergencies: The emergency number in the Netherlands, as in all EU countries, is 112. This number can be dialed free from any phone to contact the police, medical services, and fire department.

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  Smoking Laws: Smoking tobacco and e-cigarettes are prohibited in all public indoor spaces, including bars, restaurants, and public transport. Note that smoking cannabis is tolerated in designated coffee shops only.

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  Condom Availability: Condoms are readily available at pharmacies, supermarkets, and vending machines in public toilets. Sexual health and responsible practices are openly discussed and promoted in the Netherlands.

Things Not to Do in the Netherlands

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  Don't Rush Your Meal: Meals are considered a time to relax and socialize. It's impolite to rush through meals, particularly when dining out or at someone's home. Take your time, enjoy the conversation, and savor the food.

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  Avoid Loud Conversations: The Dutch appreciate a calm and composed demeanor. It's considered rude to speak loudly in public places such as restaurants, trains, or buses.

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  Bread Etiquette: When at a meal where bread is served, use a knife to cut the bread rather than breaking it with your hands. Always pass the bread basket to others before serving yourself.

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  Don't Skip the Greeting: Failing to greet someone properly when entering a room or starting a conversation is perceived as impolite. A simple nod, handshake, or "hello" can suffice.

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  Be Cautious with Language: While the Dutch value directness, avoid blunt or offensive language. Be diplomatic and considerate in how you express criticism or disagreement.

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  Don't Ignore Local Customs: The Netherlands has its unique customs and traditions, especially on occasions like King's Day or during football matches. Participate or observe respectfully.

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  Avoid Overly Casual Attire in Formal Settings: While the Dutch dress code is generally casual, dressing appropriately for the occasion is important. In business or formal settings, dress more conservatively.

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  Be Discreet with Money Talk: Open discussions about personal finances or wages are generally considered impolite. Keep such conversations private unless it's with close friends or family.

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  Religion: Be respectful when discussing religion. The Netherlands is a secular country with a diverse range of beliefs, and tolerance is highly valued.

Useful Dutch Words and Phrases

Learning a few keywords or phrases before traveling to the Netherlands will help you connect with local people and serve as a starting point for acquiring the language much easier.

• 🗣️ General Dutch Travel Words:

  • Hello: Hallo

  • Please: Alstublieft

  • Thank You: Dank u

  • Welcome: Welkom

  • Excuse Me: Pardon

  • Goodbye: Tot ziens

  • Sorry: Sorry

  • Yes: Ja

  • No: Nee

  • Home: Huis

  • Do you speak [English]?: Spreekt u [Engels]?

  • I don’t understand: Ik begrijp het niet

  • I need help: Ik heb hulp nodig

  • Time: Tijd

  • Day: Dag

  • Night: Nacht

• 🚶‍♂️ Dutch Phrases for Getting Around:

  • Train Station: Treinstation

  • Airport: Vliegveld

  • Bus: Bus

  • Taxi: Taxi

  • Bathroom: Toilet

  • Where is…?: Waar is…?

  • Does this go to…?: Gaat dit naar…?

  • Which way to…?: Welke kant naar…?

• 🥘 Food and Dining Dutch Travel Phrases:

  • Water: Water

  • Food: Eten

  • I would like… : Ik wil graag…

  • What do you recommend?: Wat raadt u aan?

  • The bill, please: De rekening, alstublieft

Interesting Facts About the Netherlands

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  Tulip Mania: In the 17th century, the Netherlands experienced "Tulip Mania," one of the first recorded economic bubbles, where the prices of tulip bulbs skyrocketed and then collapsed.

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  Bicycle Capital: The Netherlands is renowned for its cycling culture, with more bicycles than people and an extensive network of bike paths throughout the country.

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  Oldest Stock Exchange: The Amsterdam Stock Exchange, established in 1602 by the Dutch East India Company, is considered the world's first official stock exchange.

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  Innovative Water Management: The Dutch are famous for their water management expertise, having created an intricate system of dikes, canals, and pumping stations to reclaim land and prevent flooding.

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  Artistic Heritage: The Netherlands is the birthplace of many influential artists, including Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt van Rijn, and Johannes Vermeer, who have left a lasting impact on the art world.

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  Cheese Production: The Netherlands is one of the largest cheese producers globally, known for varieties like Gouda, Edam, and Leyden, with a rich cheese-making tradition dating back centuries.

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  Efficient Public Transport: The Dutch public transportation system is highly efficient, with well-connected trains, trams, and buses making travel easy and accessible.

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  Multilingual Population: Dutch people are known for their language skills, with many speaking English fluently, along with other languages like German and French.

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  Rijksmuseum: The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam houses a vast collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

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  Beer Brewing: The Netherlands is famous for its beer, with brands like Heineken and Amstel being recognized worldwide, and a strong tradition of local breweries and craft beers.

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  Maritime History: The Dutch have a rich maritime history, with the Dutch East India Company playing a crucial role in global trade during the 17th century, establishing the Netherlands as a major seafaring nation.

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  Innovative Architecture: The Netherlands is known for its innovative and modern architecture, with iconic structures like the cube houses in Rotterdam and the floating houses in Amsterdam.

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  Philosophical Contributions: The Netherlands has been home to influential philosophers like Baruch Spinoza and Erasmus of Rotterdam, whose works have greatly contributed to Western thought.

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  National Parks: The country boasts beautiful national parks, such as Hoge Veluwe and De Biesbosch, offering diverse landscapes and outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife observation.

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  Scientific Achievements: The Netherlands has a strong tradition of scientific research and innovation, with notable figures like Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, the father of microbiology, making groundbreaking discoveries.

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  World-Class Education: Dutch universities are highly ranked globally, with institutions like Delft University of Technology and the University of Amsterdam attracting students from around the world.

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  Port of Rotterdam: The Port of Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and one of the busiest in the world, serving as a crucial hub for international trade and logistics.

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  Culinary Scene: The Netherlands has a diverse culinary scene, blending traditional Dutch dishes like stamppot and bitterballen with international influences due to its history of global trade.

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  Cultural Festivals: The country hosts numerous cultural festivals, including King's Day, which celebrates the Dutch monarchy with nationwide parties, parades, and events.

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  Innovations in Agriculture: The Netherlands is a leader in agricultural innovation, utilizing advanced technologies and sustainable practices to become one of the world's top exporters of agricultural products.