Our Ultimate Netherlands Travel Tips: A First-Timer’s Guide to Holland
Are you heading over to The Netherlands (Holland as many call it) and searching for so tips to help you along the way? Look no further, I have got you covered in this travel guide!
The Netherlands, with its picturesque cities and scenic landscapes of polders, dykes, windmills, and canals linked by excellent, eco-friendly infrastructure, is a traveller’s delight. As a visitor, you’ll find few challenges, but there are still some things to know (like using the correct name for the country!). Drawing on nearly twenty years of writing about this captivating nation (and a lifetime of exploring it), here are my essential tips for a seamless journey. 🇳🇱
When is the Best Time to Visit the Netherlands?
Honestly, there’s no single “best” time; it all depends on what you’re looking for. I’ve visited in the glorious spring sunshine and the moody autumn mist, and each has its own unique magic. My personal favourite is late spring—the King’s Day energy is electric, and the tulips are just spectacular.
| Season | Vibe & Activities | What to Expect |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 🌷 Peak tulip season! King’s Day celebrations. | Mild weather, but can be unpredictable. Expect crowds in popular areas like Keukenhof Gardens. |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | ☀️ Long, sunny days. Outdoor cafes, festivals, canal swimming. | Warmest weather, perfect for exploring. It’s also peak tourist season, so book well in advance. |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | 🍂 Cosy “gezellig” atmosphere. Beautiful autumn colours. | Cooler temperatures and more rain. A fantastic time for museum-hopping with fewer crowds. |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | ❄️ Festive Christmas markets. Ice skating on canals (if it’s cold enough!). | Cold, damp, and shorter days. Magical atmosphere but you’ll need to wrap up warm. |
🗺️ Guide to Amsterdam: Visiting Amsterdam: 3-5 Day Suggested Itinerary
Flights from Trip.com (Best Value for the Netherlands)
Go Beyond Amsterdam: Discover the Real Holland
Amsterdam is incredible, obviously, but it’s only one piece of the Dutch puzzle. The train system makes day trips ridiculously easy and affordable. One thing I love is discovering the unique personality of a country and you can only find that in its other cities or towns. I personally recommend you venture out of Amsterdam, you’ll love the experience!
Utrecht: Often called a “mini Amsterdam” with fewer crowds. Its unique, two-level canal system is lined with amazing cafes right at water level.
The Hague: The political heart of the country, home to international courts, beautiful museums (The Girl with a Pearl Earring lives here!), and the Scheveningen beach.
Rotterdam: A city of futuristic architecture, completely rebuilt after WWII. It has a vibrant, modern energy and an amazing food scene at the Markthal.
Haarlem: Just a 15-minute train ride from Amsterdam, offering gorgeous medieval streets and a wonderfully relaxed pace.
🚂 Recommended Train Tickets: Trainline Netherlands
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: For train tickets, you can tap in and out with your contactless debit/credit card now, just like with the OV-chipkaart. It’s called OVpay and it’s a game-changer for short trips!
🗺️ The Netherlands Related: The Best Time To Visit The Netherlands
Our Google Map Legends
Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
Getting Around: More Than Just a Bike
The Dutch public transport system is a dream, it’s clean, efficient, and connects the entire country with infuriating ease. I wasted hours on my first trip figuring this out, so here’s what worked best for me.
Your magic key is the OV-chipkaart. It’s a single rechargeable card for all public transport: trains, trams, buses, and metros.
Anonymous Card: You can buy this at ticket machines at stations for around €7.50 (non-refundable) and top it up with credit. Perfect for tourists.
Check-in & Check-out: You must tap your card on the reader when you get on and when you get off. Forgetting to check out is a classic first-timer mistake that can cost you. We’ve all been there!
✋🏼 Good to Know: Many city buses are now completely cashless, so you can’t buy a ticket from the driver. Having your OV-chipkaart or a contactless bank card is essential.
Embrace Two Wheels: Cycling Etiquette 101 🚲
You can’t talk about the Netherlands without talking about bikes. There are more bikes than people, and it’s a beautiful thing! Renting one is a fantastic way to feel like a local, but please, for the love of all things Dutch, learn the rules. I nearly caused a ten-bike pile-up on my first day by stopping suddenly for a photo. A mistake I won’t make again!
Stay in Your Lane: Stick to the red-coloured bike paths. Don’t wander into them on foot—you’ll get an earful!
Signal Your Intentions: Use hand signals to indicate turns. A simple point left or right does the trick.
Lights On: It’s illegal to cycle without lights at night or in poor visibility. Most rental bikes come equipped.
Give Way: Generally, traffic from the right has priority unless signs say otherwise. Trams always have priority. Seriously, don’t mess with the trams.
Lock It Up: Always lock your bike’s frame to a solid object, not just the front wheel. Bike theft is a real issue.
Finding Your Perfect Dutch Base: Accommodation Tips 🏡
Okay, let’s talk about where you’ll rest your head. Finding the right spot can make or break your trip, and the Netherlands offers some fantastic options. You’ve got everything from chic boutique hotels in historic canal houses to sociable and surprisingly stylish hostels that are perfect if you’re on a budget.
If you’re staying for a few days, I often lean towards renting an apartment; it gives you that brilliant ‘living like a local’ feeling. And for a truly unforgettable Dutch experience, why not sleep on the water in a houseboat? Whatever your style, book well in advance for the best choice and prices, especially in Amsterdam.
🔹 Pro Tip I Wish I Knew Sooner: Many traditional Dutch buildings, especially in Amsterdam, have incredibly steep, narrow staircases. They’re not joking! If you have mobility issues or heavy luggage, always check the property description or reviews for mentions of “steep stairs” before you book.
Use Booking.com to find your perfect Dutch stay!
Let's Talk Money: Cards, Cash, and Tipping 💳
Here’s what you need to know before you start splashing the cash. The currency is the Euro (€).
Cards are King: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities. Contactless payment is the norm.
Not All Cards are Equal: Here’s a quirk I wish I knew sooner: some smaller shops and, most famously, the Albert Heijn supermarket chain, may not accept non-European debit cards or any credit cards. It’s changing, but it’s always wise to carry €20-€30 in cash, just in case.
Tipping: Tipping isn’t mandatory as service is included in the bill. However, for good service in a restaurant, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is a much-appreciated gesture that will earn you a smile.
🗺️ Related Post: Travel Mishaps? No Worries! Conquer Common Travel Problems Like A Pro
Recommended Tours and Tickets
What to Pack (Hint: It’s All About Layers) 🧥
Dutch weather is famously changeable, similar to the UK. You can genuinely experience sun, wind, and rain in a single afternoon! I’ve tested this, and trust me, the key is layering.
A Good Waterproof Jacket: This is non-negotiable, even in summer. Make it a windbreaker too, if you can.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on beautiful, but unforgiving, cobbled streets.
Layers, Layers, Layers: T-shirts, long-sleeved tops, and a jumper or fleece will see you through most situations.
A Scarf: The Dutch secret weapon. Perfect for fending off a sudden chilly wind.
A Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water is safe and delicious to drink.
🗺️ Related Must-read: Best Travel eSIMs: Stay Connected Everywhere
Our Google Maps Legends
Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
Dive into Dutch Cuisine: What to Eat 🍟
Dutch food is more than just cheese (although the cheese is a reason to visit in itself). It’s hearty, comforting, and the snack culture is elite. I’m obsessed with it.
Stroopwafels: Two thin waffles stuck together with a layer of caramel syrup.
Patat/Friet: Thick-cut chips served in a paper cone. Try patatje oorlog (“war chips”) with mayo, satay sauce, and onions. It sounds odd, but it’s amazing.
Kibbeling: Battered and deep-fried chunks of white fish. Perfect for a seaside snack in The Hague.
Bitterballen: A classic savoury bar snack. Deep-fried crispy balls with a beef ragout filling. They are molten hot inside, so be careful!
Poffertjes: Tiny, fluffy pancakes dusted with icing sugar.
Haring: Raw herring with chopped onions and pickles. You have to try it at least once! (Pictured above)
🔹 Pro Tip: For the best stroopwafel of your life, get a fresh one from a street market, like the Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam. The pre-packaged ones from the supermarket don’t even compare.
A Word on Words: Language Basics
Nearly everyone in the Netherlands, especially in tourist areas, speaks incredible English. You’ll have no problem communicating. However, learning a few Dutch phrases shows respect and will always be met with a smile. I’ve found the Dutch really appreciate it when you at least try.
Hello: Hallo (ha-loh)
Thank you: Dank u wel (dank-oo-vel) – formal / Dank je wel (dank-ya-vel) – informal
Please: Alstublieft (alst-oo-bleeft)
Goodbye: Doei (doo-ee) – casual and friendly!
Cheers!: Proost! (prohst) 🍻
Booking in Advance is Your Best Friend
If you take only one tip from this article, let it be this one. I’m talking specifically about popular attractions like the Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum. Tickets sell out weeks, sometimes months, in advance. I’ve seen the disappointment on people’s faces when they show up hoping to get in. Spontaneity is wonderful, but for these bucket-list sites, you absolutely need to book online the moment you know your dates.
💡 Fact: The only way to get tickets for the Anne Frank House is via their official website. They are released on a specific schedule, so check the site for details and set a reminder!
Understanding “Gezelligheid”
You’ll hear the word gezellig a lot. It has no direct English translation but loosely means cosiness, fun, and a warm, friendly atmosphere. For me, I found gezelligheid in a tiny, dimly lit ‘brown cafe’ in Utrecht, sharing stories over a local beer as the rain fell outside. It’s a feeling, and you’ll know it when you find it.
Canal Cruises: The Tourist Trap That’s Worth It
Some might call it cliché, but taking a canal cruise is one of the best ways to see a city. It gives you a completely different perspective of the architecture. No matter what anyone says, I always love a good river cruise or boat tour!
🔥 Recommended Canal Cruise: Amsterdam: Open top boat with Unlimited drinks!
🔹 Tinker’s Pro Tip: Ditch the big, glass-roofed tour boats. I only recommend what I actually use, and the smaller, open-air boats are so much better. They often take you through narrower canals and the guides are more personal and engaging. You get better photos, too!
Supermarket Savvy: Albert Heijn & Beyond
Visiting a local supermarket is a great way to save money and peek into everyday life. The main chain is Albert Heijn (AH).
✋🏼 Good to Know: Grab a box of hagelslag (chocolate sprinkles). The Dutch eat them on buttered bread for breakfast. Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it, it’s surprisingly good! It’s also the perfect unique souvenir to bring home.
Stay Connected: SIM Cards and Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is widely available and free in most cafes, hotels, and even on some trains. For constant connection, you can easily buy a prepaid SIM card, or better yet, use an Airalo E-SIM! If you’re travelling from within the EU, your home data plan should work without extra roaming charges. Just a friendly reminder to be cautious on public Wi-Fi networks; they aren’t always secure, DEFINITELY DONT BE BUYING ANYTHING ONLINE!
Respect the Rules: Coffee Shops and the Red Light District
Two of Amsterdam’s most famous aspects come with important etiquette. A ‘coffee shop’ sells cannabis, whilst a ‘café’ or ‘koffiehuis’ sells coffee. Don’t mix them up! If you visit the Red Light District, please be respectful. Remember it’s a residential area as well as a place of work. Taking photos of the workers in the windows is strictly forbidden and seen as deeply disrespectful. Also, just because you might be offended by what they do, doesn’t mean it is wrong.
Museums, Museums Everywhere!
The Netherlands has an incredible density of world-class museums. If you plan on visiting several, especially in Amsterdam, look into a museum pass.
Museumkaart: Gives you access to over 400 museums throughout the country for a year. Best value if you’re staying longer or are a true museum fanatic.
I Amsterdam City Card: Combines public transport, a canal cruise, and entry to many major museums in Amsterdam.
🔹 Pro Tip: Always check museum opening times online, especially around public holidays like King’s Day or Christmas, as they can change. I learned this the hard way once!
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
This Netherlands tips for first-timers is honestly one of the best ways to put you at ease, so if you’re on the fence, consider this your sign to book it and experience one of the most magical corners of this country!
Wishing you the adventure of a lifetime!!! 🌍 ✨
What Are Your Thoughts?
Have you been to the Netherlands? What are your top tips for a first-timer? 👇🗣️
As Always, Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
Simliar Articles:
- Discover the Netherlands: Unveiled Gems Waiting for You
- Best Time to Visit Amsterdam: A Seasonal Guide
- Experience the Netherlands: From Tulips to Canals
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Your Questions, Answered (FAQs)
What is the difference between Holland and the Netherlands?
This is a great question! The Netherlands is the official name of the country. Holland technically refers to just two of the twelve provinces (North and South Holland). Because this is where the major cities like Amsterdam are, the name became a popular shorthand. Using “Holland” is common, but “The Netherlands” is more accurate for the whole country.
Is the Netherlands an expensive country to visit?
It can be, but you don’t need a big budget for this. Your biggest expenses will be accommodation and attractions in Amsterdam. You can save a lot by staying in hostels, grabbing meals from supermarkets, and enjoying free activities like walking through Vondelpark or exploring the Jordaan district.
Can I drink the tap water?
Absolutely! The tap water in the Netherlands is of extremely high quality and is perfectly safe to drink. Fill up your reusable bottle and save money and plastic. The planet will thank you! 🌍
Is English widely spoken?
Yes, overwhelmingly so. The Dutch are among the best non-native English speakers in the world. Whilst it’s polite to learn a few Dutch words, you will have no problem communicating in hotels, restaurants, and shops.
How many days do I need for a first trip?
Let’s simplify this. I’d recommend at least 4-5 days. This gives you enough time to explore Amsterdam’s highlights (2-3 days) and take one or two day trips to nearby cities like Utrecht or Haarlem. If you have a week or more, you can explore further afield without feeling rushed.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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Author
Sam Fisher
I go by the name Sam, and I'm a 24-year-old digital creator and photographer. I'm passionate about embracing simpler, budget-friendly adventures.
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