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Travel Guides about Netherlands

The Netherlands, a land of windmills, tulips, and canals, welcomes you to discover its stunning landscapes, sample its delectable cheeses, and be wowed by the works of its renowned artists on a trip that will attract and captivate you.
 
When to visit
Travel to the Netherlands in mid-April to see the best tulips. Tulip season lasts from the end of March to the middle of May..
Currency
The Currency of the Netherlands is Euro. 1 Euro is equivalent to 1,07 USD.
Amsterdam

Amsterdam

Marken, Netherlands

Marken, Netherlands

Zaanse Schans - Netherlands

Zaanse Schans - Netherlands

Giethoorn - Netherlands

Giethoorn - Netherlands

Hague
Rotterdam
Utrecht
Zaanse Schans
Amsterdam

Weather in Netherlands

The warmest months in the Netherlands are typically June, July, and August. The weather is pleasant and you can explore the country’s beautiful landscapes, cities, and outdoor attractions. If you are looking to experience the beauty of the Dutch countryside, the best time to visit is spring (April to May). The country also offers a charming mix of mild winters and festive holiday markets from November to February.

3°C

🌨️

Jan

4°C

🌨️

Feb

7°C

🌦️

Mar

11°C

☀️

Apr

15°C

☀️

May

18°C

☀️

Jun

20°C

☀️

Jul

20°C

☀️

Aug

17°C

🌥️

Sep

13°C

🌦️

Oct

9°C

🌦️

Nov

5°C

🌨️

Dec

Best Activities in Winter
  • Ice Skating on Frozen Canals. Famous spots include the Grachtengordel in Amsterdam if the weather permits.
  • Visit the Christmas Markets in cities like Amsterdam, Maastricht, and Valkenburg, with beautiful lights, festive foods, and cozy atmospheres.
Best Activities in Spring
  • Enjoy tulip tours & flower festivals in regions like Keukenhof and the Bollenstreek, or attend the annual Flower Parade in April.
  • Cycle through the Dutch countryside through the picturesque villages, meadows, and historic windmills, such as in Zaanse Schans or the Giethoorn village.
Best Activities in Summer
  • Enjoy the beach on the Dutch Coast along the North Sea, such as Scheveningen and Zandvoort. It is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports during the summer months.
  • Enjoy festivals and events like the North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam and Pinkpop, one of Europe’s largest music festivals in Landgraaf.
Best Activities in Autumn
  • Explore Dutch Castles and Fortresses such as Muiden Castle or De Haar Castle, as the fall foliage adds a magical backdrop.
  • Bike through nature reserves like Hoge Veluwe National Park or along scenic routes in the Friesland region.

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Travel Tips

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Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Citizens from many countries can travel to the Netherlands for up to 90 days without a visa, while others may require a short-stay Schengen visa.

Yes, the Netherlands is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, like in any major city, it’s advisable to take standard precautions against petty crime, especially in crowded areas.

Yes, tap water in the Netherlands is of high quality and safe to drink throughout the country. It’s a good idea to carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while exploring.

You should not miss traditional Dutch foods such as stroopwafels (thin waffles with syrup), herring (raw fish), poffertjes (small fluffy pancakes), and Dutch cheese varieties like Edam and Gouda.

One prevalent scam involves taxi drivers overcharging tourists, particularly at airports. Additionally, fake police officers may approach you, claiming to search for counterfeit money while attempting to steal your belongings. Rental scams are also a risk, with listings on popular accommodation sites leading to lost deposits. Other scams include selling invalid public transport tickets, offering boat trips with hidden fees, and pickpocketing in crowded areas.

How to Get There

By Airplane

The Netherlands is served by several international airports, with Amsterdam Schiphol Airport being the busiest and a major hub for global travel. Other airports include Rotterdam The Hague Airport, Eindhoven Airport, and Groningen Airport Eelde. Airlines like KLM, Ryanair, and EasyJet offer frequent and affordable flights within Europe and beyond.

By Train

High-speed trains such as the Eurostar, Thalys, and ICE connect the Netherlands to major European cities like London, Paris, and Berlin. Domestic train services are also available coming from neighboring countries like Belgium and Germany.

By Ferry

Ferries operate between the UK and the Netherlands, with popular routes like Harwich to Hook of Holland and Newcastle to IJmuiden, offering a scenic and relaxed travel option.

 

How to Get Around

Trains

The Netherlands has an efficient and extensive railway network, operated by NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen). Trains connect major cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague.

Buses

Regional buses complement the train network and provide access to rural areas. Companies like Connexxion and Arriva ensure good coverage across the country.

Cycling

Cycling is a nice Dutch experience. The country is bike-friendly, with dedicated cycling lanes and bike rental services available in all major cities and towns.

Driving

Renting a car is an option for exploring less accessible rural areas, such as the Veluwe, or small villages like Giethoorn. Keep in mind that parking can be expensive and limited in urban centers.

Trams
Cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague have efficient tram systems for local transportation.

Taxis
Taxis are available but expensive. Apps like Uber operate in major cities, offering more affordable alternatives.

 

SIM Card Options

Local SIM cards can be purchased at airports, convenience stores, or mobile shops.

  • KPN: Excellent network coverage and reliable data plans.
  • Vodafone Netherlands: Offers good EU roaming options and high-speed connectivity.
  • T-Mobile Netherlands: Known for affordable data-rich plans and wide coverage.
  • Lebara: Popular for its budget-friendly plans and flexible options.

 

eSIM Card Options

  • Airalo: Provides eSIM plans for the Netherlands with flexible data options and no physical SIM required.
  • Holafly: Offers unlimited data eSIMs for short-term trips.
  • Nomad: Flexible eSIM plans with both regional and global options.

What to pack for Netherlands

  • Passport and travel documents
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Lightweight rain jacket
  • Umbrella
  • Layered clothing
  • Travel adapter
  • Backpack
  • Camera and smartphone
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Snacks or energy bars
  • Travel toiletries
  • Euros or international credit card

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Netherlands Suggested Daily Budget

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On Budget

€50 - €75 per day

If you are on a budget,  you can stay in dormitory beds in hostels, which typically range from €30 to €40 per night. You can cook your meals or try budget meals at local cafes or street vendors. You can use public transportation with a day pass for buses and trams costing about €7. Within this budget, you can explore free attractions like parks and markets, visit museums on discounted days, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht.

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Mid-range

€100 - €190 per day

For a mid-range experience, you can stay in three-star hotels or Airbnb guesthouses. Dining at mid-range restaurants will cost approximately €15 to €40 per meal. You can get around the cities with a rental bike or using public transportation. This budget enables you to enjoy guided tours of popular sites and visit attractions such as the Anne Frank House or Van Gogh Museum.

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Luxury

€250+ per day

With this budget you can stay in luxury hotels typically range from €150 to €300. You can eat at fine restaurants and use private transfers or car rentals to get around the country. With this budget, you can try exclusive experiences such as private yacht tours through Amsterdam’s canals, private city tours, and visits to high-end attractions.