Plan
your trip with this essential Netherlands travel guide - from tulip
fields and canals to culture, cuisine, and city highlights. Discover
key facts, tips, and insights for every traveller.
Country: Netherlands (Holland)
Continent / Region: Europe / Western Europe
Capital City: Amsterdam (official capital); Government in The Hague
Government Type: Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy
Population: Approx. 17.8 million
Official Language(s): Dutch
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~90% (one of the highest in Europe)
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+1 / GMT+2 (summer)
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/F – 230V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 112 (all services)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 1–1.5 hours (direct flights)
Best Time/Months to Travel: April–October
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Part of the Schengen Area
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: Up to 90 days in a 180-day period
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in the Netherlands):
Average Daily Costs: £60 / £120 / £180+
Tipping Culture: Not mandatory; rounding up or 5–10% appreciated
Public Transport Options: Trams, trains, buses, metros, ferries
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: €3–€4 (tram/metro/bus)
Internet / SIM Availability: Excellent 4G/5G; KPN, VodafoneZiggo, T-Mobile
Main Climate Type: Temperate maritime
Average Temperature: Winter 3–8°C; Summer 18–25°C
Major Cities: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, Eindhoven
Natural Attractions: Windmills, tulip fields, coastline, national parks
Popular Destinations: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Keukenhof Gardens, Zaanse Schans, Giethoorn
Main Religions: Christianity; large secular population
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Stroopwafels, herring, bitterballen, poffertjes, Dutch cheese
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Kinderdijk windmills, Rotterdam architecture
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Common Scams: Pickpocketing in major tourist zones
Health Risks: Minimal; strong winds and cycling traffic awareness
Recommended Clinics: High-standard healthcare nationwide
Insurance Recommendation: Standard travel insurance recommended
Internet Speed: Excellent 4G/5G; widespread free Wi-Fi
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Kinderdijk windmills, Keukenhof tulip fields
Unique Experiences: Canal cruises, cycling tours, cheese markets, Rotterdam modern architecture, windmill villages
Hidden Gems: Giethoorn canals, Texel Island, Hoge Veluwe National Park, Leiden old town, Haarlem
Popular Areas to Stay: Amsterdam Canal District, Rotterdam Centre, Utrecht Old Town, The Hague beachfront (Scheveningen)
Average Hotel Prices: £60 / £120 / £200+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Amsterdam Leidseplein & Rembrandtplein, Rotterdam Witte de Withstraat, Utrecht canals
Local Drinks: Dutch beer, jenever (gin), craft brews
Entertainment: Canal bars, live music, nightclubs, cafés
Car Rental: Not needed; public transport excellent
Trains: Extensive and efficient
Cycling: Easiest way to explore cities
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Uber available; taxis expensive
Best Markets: Albert Cuyp Market, Bloemenmarkt, Rotterdam Markthal
Popular Souvenirs: Cheese, Delftware, stroopwafels, wooden clogs, tulip bulbs
Local SIM Card Providers: KPN, VodafoneZiggo, T-Mobile
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Among the cleanest in the world
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
One-third of the Netherlands lies below sea level, protected by one of the world’s most advanced water management systems.