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11 iconic things to do in Volendam in 2024

Lea Shamaa 🇺🇸🇱🇧
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11 iconic things to do in Volendam in 2024

Volendam is packed full of things to do to channel your inner, traditional Dutchie.

The historical fishing town of Volendam offers so many underrated experiences to make you feel like a true Nederlander. 🇳🇱

From eating some lekker haring on the town’s famous dike to visiting an old ship of the Dutch East India Company, there are many iconic things to do in Volendam. 

1. Dress up in traditional Dutch clothes at Fotostudio Volendam

photo-of-traditional-dutch-clothes-hanging-on-coathangers-at-fotostudio-volendam
Time to dress like the Dutch. Image: Depositphotos

What’s a better way to familiarise yourself with Dutch culture than by dressing up in classic Dutch farmer attire?

At Fotostudio Volendam, you can do precisely that. Whether you’re with a friend or an entire group, grab a traditional-dress costume along with some wooden clogs, and “Say cheese!” (Yes, another very Dutch thing)! 🧀

Pro tip: You can request to have your picture in a classic Sepia filter, for that old nostalgic effect! 😎

Your pictures will be printed and ready within just an hour after taking them — an unforgettable souvenir and a top thing to do in Volendam.

💰 Price: Prices vary depending on size and number of persons
⏰ Opening hours: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
📍 Location: Haven 82, 1131 ET Volendam

2. Stuff your face with herring on the dike

Haring-with-onions-and-pickles-in-the-netherlands
A delectable plate of herring. 🐠 Image: Depositphotos

If slipping a fresh, onion-topped herring in your mouth doesn’t make you feel like a true Nederlander, we don’t know what will. 

Herring, a small oily fish, has long been part of Dutch tradition. Today it’s bought from street kiosks and fish stores, served with chopped onion, and eaten all in one go. Eet smakelijk!

On its famous dike, Volendam offers several shops and kiosks with fresh haring to satisfy your taste buds. 😋

💰 Price: About €2 for one serving
⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM to 6 PM Monday to Saturday
📍 Location: Haven 82, 1131 EP Volendam

3. Get in touch with Volendam’s history at Experience Volendam

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The traditional and elegant Dutch attire. Image: Depositphotos

Become acquainted with some local townsy culture and experience what Volendam looked like 100 years ago! 

Experience Volendam lets you look at the city circa 1916 via virtual reality glasses — and it’s so realistic you can almost smell the fish at the harbour. 🐟

READ MORE | The liberation of the Netherlands like you’ve never seen it before (coloured videos inside)

The experience needs at least two people, so make sure to tag along with another history buff for some good company. 

💰 Price: €8.75 per person
⏰ Opening hours: Daily from 11 AM to 5 PM
📍 Location: Haven 154, 1131 EW Volendam

4. Soak up the rays at Volendam’s beach

Volendam-seaside-villages-and-town-during-day-trip-from-amsterdam
So serene; it almost looks like a painting! Image: Depositphotos

When compared to other Dutch towns, Volendam is quite small, and so is its beach. But, it’s definitely worth taking a dip in the freshwater of Lake Marker (A.K.A Markermeer). 🏊

While the lake used to be made up of salt water, after the closing of the Afsluitdijk in 1932, the water became completely refreshed. 

READ MORE | Best beaches in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide to Dutch beaches

Usually, the beach is busiest between 9 AM and 1 PM, but you’ll only have to consider that during warm summer days when the sun is shining and the water isn’t freezing.

💰 Price: Free
⏰ Opening hours: 24/7
📍 Location: Havendijkje, 1131 XP Volendam

5. Look inside an old Dutch VOC ship at Voldendam’s harbour

Replica of VOC ship in Volendam harbor in Holland
The Halve Maen in Volendam’s harbour! Image: Depositphotos

As an old harbour city, it seems almost essential to check out the true-to-history replica of the old Dutch VOC ship that dates all the way back to the 17th century. 

The original ship, called Halve Maen, is best known as a discovery ship and a freighter in the bulk trade, and is currently open to the public as a museum!

On board, you can get learn about all the adventures the ship has had and get some lekker dinner on board afterwards. 🥘

💰 Price: €9 for adults, €4.5 for kids up to 14 years
⏰ Opening hours: 12 PM to 4:30 PM on Saturday and Sunday (last viewing 30 minutes before closing time)
📍 Location: Havendijkje 2, 1131 EZ Volendam

6. Visit the old fish auction building

visaflag-volendam-fish-auction
It doesn’t serve as a fish auction anymore, but you’ll find great handmade products there! Image: Weefemwe/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0

In this historical building, built as a trade office in 1934 and later used as a fish auction hotspot, lies Volendam’s rare and intact monument: St. Vincentius’ Fish Auction Cooperative.

Though, since April 2017, it acts as a shop where you can buy local products that are handmade in Odion’s day activity centres.

You can visit the monument at Volendam’s harbour. It’s built in the style of expressionism, and, while the superstructure is made of wood, it rests entirely on concrete beams and legs. 

Miss the fish? You’ll be happy to know that the fish auction is often re-enacted during school outings and popular festivities, so keep your eyes on the calendar. 🐠

💰 Price: Free entrance, but the rest depends on what you buy there 🛍
⏰ Opening hours: April to November, 9 AM to 4 PM from Tuesday to Thursday
📍 Location: Haven 41, 1131 EP Volendam

7. Indulge in Dutch cheese at the Cheese Factory Museum

Photo-of-woman-weighing-boerenkaas-in-traditional-Dutch-cheese-shop
There’s no cheese like Dutch cheese. Image: Depositphotos

In prime position on Volendam’s dike is The Cheese Factory Museum — how Gouda! 🧀

Here, you can indulge in melt-in-your-mouth cheese tastings, discover how Dutch cheese is produced, explore the museum, or grab a tasty souvenir in the gift shop.

No reservation is necessary, so pop on in and have a cheesy time! 💁

💰 Price: Free entrance
⏰ Opening hours: 9 AM to 8 PM every Sunday to Thursday and 9 AM to 9 PM every Friday and Saturday
📍 Location: Haven 25, 1131 EP Volendam

8. Sail on the incredible Marken Express

marken-harbour-volendam
A view of the Marken harbour from the Marken Express. Image: Depositphotos

This 30-minute cruise sails across the water from Volendam to the still and peaceful island of Marken. ⛴

With a bar on board, you can enjoy a drink while taking in the serene atmosphere as you look onto the still lake water. 

Once arrived at the Marken peninsula, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the island’s coastal beautiful sights, visit the Marken Museum and gaze through its harbour. 

The Volendam Express has been sailing for almost 100 years, which truly makes it an unmissable piece of Volendam history! 🛥

💰 Price: €16 for adults and €10 for kids over three
⏰ Opening hours: Daily from 10 AM to 5 PM 
📍 Location: Haven 39, 1131 EP Volendam

9. Watch how clogs are made at Alida Hoeve Clog Factory

picture-of-many-Dutch-wooden-clogs-stacked
Dutch culture wouldn’t be the same without the iconic clogs. Image: Depositphotos

While this factory calls for a trip outside of the main city of Volendam, it’s always worth a visit to watch the traditional production process behind a pair of Dutch clogs. 🇳🇱

Luckily, you don’t need to pay a single cent for entrance, parking, nor to watch the demonstration, which lasts a bit less than one hour. 

Alida Hoeve also doubles as a cheese farm, where you’ll find the world-famous Edam, sheep, and goat cheese. Lekker! 😋

💰 Price: Free
⏰ Opening hours: daily from 9 AM to 6 PM
📍 Location: Zeddeweg 1, 1131CW Volendam

10. Enjoy an unr(eel) musical tour at the Palingsound Museum

photo-of-man-looking-at-records-in-palkingsound-museum-volendam
Let your ears do the exploring. Image: Freepik

Who would’ve thought that there was a connection between electric eels and Dutch music?

Well, at Smit Brokkum’s Palingsound Museum, that’s exactly what you’ll find! 🎶

With an exhibition on Volendam’s music history, the museum offers a look into 100 years of the city’s music, made by “ordinary” Volendammers who put the city on the map. 🌍

Where do eels come into play? Well, it’s a nod to Volendam’s maritime economy and a reference to the type of music made by Volendammer artists, a smooth and relaxing melody, which they have come to call “eel sound”. 

So, sorry to the aquatic lovers, there are no eels on display! But, you can reserve lunch or dinner at the restaurant after the tour, where you might just find eel on the menu. 😉

💰 Price: €1.75
⏰ Opening hours: 9:30 AM to 6 PM from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays)
📍 Location: Slobbeland 19, 1131 AA Volendam

11. Take in the sights at Marina Volendam

volendam-harbour
Who wouldn’t want to spend a day here? Image: Depositphotos

Last but definitely not least, Volendam has a wonderful marina with a gorgeous view of Lake Marker. 🌊

With various restaurants and cafés on Volendam’s famous dike, you can grab a glass or a snack and stroll around the marina, enjoying the aquatic winds. 🌬️

💰 Price: Free
⏰ Opening hours: 8 AM to 5 PM Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM Saturday and Sunday
📍 Location: Pieterman 12, 1131 PW Volendam

As you’ve just read, there are so many iconic things to do in the city of Volendam. And, since it’s quite the small city, you can easily make a day trip out of it! 🚗

Did you like this list of things to do in Volendam? Have other things to add to it? Tell us in a comment below! 👇

7 types of cyclists found when biking in the Netherlands

Sarah O'Leary 🇮🇪
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7 types of cyclists found when biking in the Netherlands

We can guarantee that if there is one element of Dutch culture that’s bound to inflict some form of culture shock on the unsuspecting international — it’s the cycling culture.

More specifically, it’s the people attached to the bikes. Sometimes carelessly, sometimes barely so, sometimes seeming to defy the laws of physics.

Not sure what exactly we’re talking about? Allow us to run through the seven types of cyclists you are bound to encounter during your cycling career in the Netherlands. 

7. The flying Dutchman 

These are the most common species of cyclist that you will encounter on the cycle path.

I wouldn’t be surprised if these Dutchies came out of the womb on a bike: cycling is so deeply ingrained in their nature. 

For this reason, they will happily whizz past you at an uncomfortably close distance without bearing in mind that their actions may convince you that both of you are about to crash horrifically.

Speedy-cyclists-in-the-netherlands-amsterdam
Watch out for these speedy cyclists, you never know when they will appear! Image: Depositphotos

As your life flashes before your eyes, the flying Dutchman will have already manoeuvred their way around you.

They may even throw you a glance over their shoulder which says, “what the hell are you screaming for??” as they swoop away into the horizon. 

6. The speedy McBreezy

Not to be confused with the flying Dutchmen, these cyclists will have passed around you so quickly that you wouldn’t even have time for your fight or flight to kick in. 

READ MORE | 19 things the Dutch did to make cycling easy and attractive

In fact, apart from the streak of lycra and the odd muffin top that swoops through your peripheral vision, the only indicator of their presence is the occasional huff in your direction.

Because a city cycle path is, OF COURSE, the place to beat their personal best. 🙆‍♀️

5. The clingy couples 

The most terrifying of all cycling species is this duo. From a distance on a poorly lit night, these figures look like something from a horror film. 

To be fair, the silhouette of two people holding hands while on bikes can be truly horrifying for those new to cycling.

You never know what the protocol is for these situations. It seems that these two have no intention of detaching from one another as they cycle closer and closer to you.

couple-biking-together-in-amsterdam-during-sunset
Couples that bike together, stay together? Image: Freepik

Do you give way to them? Or cycle on resolutely, hurtling towards them like the newest conflict in their relationship?

Perhaps this is the true test of a Dutch relationship, will they chicken out last minute and detach from one another? Or succeed and decapitate a poor bamboozled international. 

4. The international newbies 

Of course, we internationals are no angels on the cycle paths either. In fact, we can be quite a nuisance, especially if we are just stopping by for a flying visit to the Netherlands.

young-international-cyclist-in-the-netherlands-with-yellow-rain-coat
Dead giveaways include: not knowing where to bike, slow cycling, and failing to signal. Image: Freepik

You know what I am talking about — those tourists who cycle at a dangerously slow pace while attempting to hold a selfie stick.

READ MORE | 7 things that will get you fined while cycling in the Netherlands

My superiority complex really kicks in as I overtake these folks. “Absolute newbs,” I tell myself as I fail to signal my left turn for the 550th time. 

3. The seasoned international (you wish)

They are everything you wish to be.

Almost indiscernible from Dutchies, these internationals glide down the cycle paths with ease. It’s as if they, too, were plucked from the womb and placed on a bike. 

The only indication that they are expats may be a light international accent as they curse you out in Dutch.

You have a moment of realising, “Hey, they’re like me!” and “oh wow, their Dutch is good” before the offence kicks in. 😅

2. The brave bakfietsers 

We don’t know who is braver, the person cycling with a bucket full of children strapped to the front of their bike, or the children. 

father-biking-in-amsterdam-bakfiets-with-two-kids
They also somehow manage to make a massive bucket look light? Image: Depositphotos

If I were told to place a precious and fragile bundle of youth in a bucket on the front of my bike, I would have worrying flashbacks to the time I nearly threw myself and my bike under a lorry or the time I was standing a little too close to the bus. 

Then again, those who undertake this task have probably entered the final stage of the cyclist’s evolutionary trajectory. 

1. The tiny tots 

These little darlings shouldn’t trigger your fight or flight response — unless you mistake them for a Chucky doll on wheels, in which case you need to lay off on the psychedelics. 

Tiny-kid-biking-in-the-netherlands-in-park
I mean, can it get any cuter than this? Image: Freepik

The serotonin boost that results from spotting a tiny tot teetering along on an equally tiny bike is undeniable.

These little angels can hold up the cycle path for us any day. We’re pretty sure even the speedy cyclists wouldn’t be mad.

Cycling in the Netherlands comes with both challenges and perks, can you think of any other interesting characteristics? Tell us in the comments below! 

What’s the difference between Holland and the Netherlands?

Chuka Nwanazia
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What’s the difference between Holland and the Netherlands?

Most visitors to the Netherlands refer to Holland in the same way as they would the Netherlands. They think the two are one and the same, but unfortunately, they’re wrong. So, what is the difference between Holland and the Netherlands?

It’s a mistake we’ve probably all made at some point in our lives (at least us internationals, that is), and it makes sense! The names “Holland” and “the Netherlands” are often used interchangeably in popular culture.

The history behind “Holland” vs “the Netherlands”

To really understand the difference between Holland and the Netherlands, one must, first of all, know the history of the Netherlands. So here’s a short lesson. 🤓

The Netherlands is a kingdom that was founded after Napoleon’s defeat in 1815. At the time, it included Belgium.

After Belgium’s secession in 1830, the map of the Netherlands was redrawn, and this proud, wonderful country as we know it today was born.

Dutch-royal-family-photo-from-2023
The Netherlands is a kingdom led by the Royal Family. Image: Het Koninklijk Huis

Let me take you back to the Batavian Republic. You know what? I’ll go even further and take you back to the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands. Lots of republics, right? Yeah, I know.

The Republic of the Seven United Netherlands existed from 1588 until 1795. It emerged when a part of the Netherlands separated from Spanish rule after the Eighty Years War or the Dutch War of Independence.

The war was a revolt against King Philip II of Spain by the Seventeen Provinces of modern-day the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, as well as the French region of Hauts-de-France. The Seven United Netherlands was made up of:

  • The Duchy of Guelders (Gelderland in Dutch)
  • The County of Holland
  • The County of Zeeland
  • The Lordship of Utrecht
  • The Lordship of Overijssel
  • The Lordship of Frisia
  • The Lordship of Groningen and Ommelanden

The Republic’s seven provinces each had their own independent governments and were very powerful. During the period in question (the late 16th and 17th centuries), the provinces dominated world trade, conquered a large colonial empire, and had the largest fleet of merchantmen.

The County of Holland was one of the wealthiest and most urbanised regions in the world at that time.

In 1795, French troops conquered the Republic. It became known as the Batavian Republic in 1806 when Napoleon appointed his brother, Louis, as King and turned the country into a kingdom.

After Napoleon Bonaparte’s defeat, William VI of Orange was invited to assume power as the “Sovereign Prince.”

He landed in Scheveningen on November 30, 1813, and two years later, on March 16, 1815, the United Kingdom of the Netherlands was proclaimed.

This kingdom was the fusion of territories that used to belong to the Batavian Republic, the Austrian Netherlands, and the Prince-Bishopric of Liège.

READ MORE | That time the Dutch conquered Britain (ja, we’re serious)

As history would have it, though, this United Kingdom of the Netherlands came to an end with the secession of Belgium.

Belgium went its own way, the map of the Kingdom was redrawn, and, just like that, The Kingdom of the Netherlands as we know it today was born.

Let’s summarise it

  • The Dutch fought the Spanish for their independence, and when they got it, they formed the Seven United Netherlands.
  • When the Dutch were conquered by Napoleon Bonaparte, he made his brother King and thus, the Batavian Republic was born.
  • After Napoleon’s defeat, William VI of Orange became King of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands.
  • William VI of Orange’s kingdom didn’t last long because Belgium wanted its independence.
  • After Belgium left in 1830, the map was redrawn, and the Netherlands as we know it today came to be.

Today’s provinces

The Netherlands consists of 12 provinces: Groningen, Friesland, Drenthe, Overijssel, Flevoland, Gelderland, Utrecht, North Holland, South Holland, Zealand, North Brabant, and Limburg.

map-of-provinces-of-the-Netherlands
Perhaps this snazzy map will help. Image: Alphathon/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0

Two out of these 12 provinces include the name Holland: North Holland and South Holland.

Blame it on the sailors

The confusion surrounding the difference between Holland and the Netherlands must have started as a result of Dutch sailors. These sailors were known to have sailed the open seas during the Golden Age in search of new land, trade routes, and spices.

On their travels, they only mentioned the names of the city-states they hailed from when asked about their origins. A Dutch sailor could tell a fellow trader that he was from South Holland or North Holland when asked where he came from.

Understandably, this made many people think that Holland was a country. It must have been quite confusing because, at that time, a united Netherlands did not exist as a country.

https://youtu.be/eE_IUPInEuc

Today, the official name of the country is the Kingdom of the Netherlands. King Willem-Alexander is the King, and “Holland” actually refers to the two provinces of “Noord-Holland” and “Zuid-Holland”, which, translated to English, would mean North Holland and South Holland.

So, dear visitors, what is the difference between Holland and the Netherlands? Holland is simply two provinces in the Netherlands.

Have you also mistaken Holland for the Netherlands? What do you find the most confusing? Tell us in the comments below!

The first LEGO flower shop in the world has just opened in the Netherlands

Lottie Gale 🇬🇧
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0
The first LEGO flower shop in the world has just opened in the Netherlands

Strolling along Dutch streets, you’re often greeted with a sweet floral scent. Now, you have to thank not just the markets but also the world’s first LEGO florists, made especially for adults.

LEGO’s botanical collection, including rose and wildflower bunches for around €59.99 each, has been delighting kids and adults alike for years now.

‘The Botanical’ in Utrecht is the first pop-up shop in the world selling their lifelike bouquets, the AD reports.

Scan for a bunch

If you fancy some spontaneous sunflowers or last-minute lilies, you won’t be cycling home with a bouquet right away.

READ MORE | Here’s how technology changed the iconic way the Dutch sell their flowers

To buy the flowers, customers first scan a QR code, which takes them to Bol’s online store to order.

Thomas Feuerstacke from Bol.com, wants people to enjoy their purchase in anticipation and save them walking through the city with a package.

But isn’t balancing bouquets while biking the cutest sight in the Netherlands? 🤭🚲

Big kids

These plastic petals are intended for a “more mature audience”, adds Vincent Andries from LEGO.

Think floral playground: you can take in a variety of LEGO creations, snap some special flowery pics and even get building there yourself. 👷‍♀️

In 2022, the toy company found 86% of adults said playing with LEGO helped them relax after work and 89% said it kept them mentally sharp.

READ MORE | 5 places to visit in the Netherlands for flower lovers

So, it’s no surprise the shop on the Lijnmarkt in Utrecht wants to create a fun space that’s not just for kids.

But these LEGO-lovers better act fast — The Botanical is just a pop-up and will close its doors again on May 18.

What do you think of this global LEGO first? Would you pay it a visit? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Northern lights visible across Dutch skies in rare appearance this weekend

Katrien Nivera 🇵🇭
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Northern lights visible across Dutch skies in rare appearance this weekend

Many lucky people had a chance to see the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, this weekend — and not just in their usual places.

The lights were visible to the naked eye across the entirety of the Netherlands thanks to a strong solar storm, reports the NOS.

Missed the aurora? Take a look at last weekend’s snaps:

How do the northern lights work?

Auroras occur when charged particles from solar flares pass through the Earth’s atmosphere and collide with each other, usually in the north and south poles where the magnetic field is strongest.

Energy is released, creating colourful patterns in the sky that we see as the northern lights. ✨

The aurora borealis is usually seen further north in Scandinavia, but it can be visible in the Netherlands a few days a year.

Want to spot the aurora? Go to an area with little to no light pollution on a dark night with a clear sky — and enjoy the sights!

Did you see the Northern Lights this weekend? Have you seen them before? Tell us in a comment below!

BREAKING: Dutch contestant Joost Klein disqualified from Eurovision Song Contest

Katrien Nivera 🇵🇭
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5
BREAKING: Dutch contestant Joost Klein disqualified from Eurovision Song Contest

Dutch artist Joost Klein has officially been disqualified from performing at the Eurovision Song Contest final in Malmö, Sweden, following a “backstage incident”.

A complaint was made to the Swedish police after Klein allegedly threatened a female member of the production crew, reports the NOS.

This is the first occasion in which a contestant has been disqualified from performing after the start of the five-day event.

Absent for rehearsals and jury show

Joost Klein was suddenly absent during the Friday rehearsal for the grand finale, and he was not allowed to participate in the jury show on Friday evening when the professional jury awards points to the artists.

Swedish police confirmed on Saturday that they had opened an investigation into the Dutch contestant and that the case was being passed on to the Swedish prosecution, reports the BBC.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has since confirmed that Klein will not be allowed to return to perform at the grand finale.

Many have come to his defence, including Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS, arguing that his disqualification is disproportionate.

A favourite entry

Joost Klein was a favourite to win Eurovision 2024 with his pro-Europe techno song “Europapa”.

The 26-year-old had dedicated the song to his father, who he lost to cancer when he was 12. Klein promised his father he would one day make it to the Eurovision stage.

Today’s grand final will go forward with 25 entries instead of 26.

Will you be watching the Eurovision Song Contest finale tonight? Tell us in the comments!

Sick leave in the Netherlands: the easy guide for 2024

Samantha Dixon 🇦🇺
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7
Sick leave in the Netherlands: the easy guide for 2024

Coughs, splutters, headaches, injuries, burnout, and chronic illnesses: all things that might force you to take sick leave in the Netherlands. 🤒

But before you call in sick to your Dutch workplace, you’re probably not quite ready to give up a day’s wages just yet. 

No stress! Unlike other countries (cough, the US, cough!) the Netherlands understands that part of being human is falling ill — so your time off sick is generally paid. 

READ MORE | 10 things to know before finding work in the Netherlands as an international

But how much, when, and how often? Great questions! Here’s what you need to know about sick leave in the Netherlands. 

We’re lean, mean, writing machines who never get sick (right boss?). Just kidding! But we did turn to the experts in recruitment in the Netherlands, Undutchables, to write this article. They’re the pros when it comes to finding a great Dutch job (that will let you take sick leave). Want a Dutch job? Search for it here! 🔎

🤔 How does sick leave work in the Netherlands?

Sick leave (ziekteverlof) in the Netherlands is surprisingly simple: if you are sick, you are paid a minimum of 70% of your wage. 

If 70% of your wage would put you below minimum wage, you’ll receive minimum wage instead. 

However, it is common for Dutch workplaces to pay more than 70% (woo!). In fact, most of them will pay up to 100% for the first year of being sick. The amount you will receive will be detailed in your employment contract or collective bargaining agreement. 

Tip: Are you ill because of childbirth, pregnancy, or organ donation? First, sorry you feel unwell. But also, congrats: you’ll receive 100% of your wages. That should help make you feel better!

Waiting days

Some Dutch workplaces include “no-pay waiting days” (loonvrije wachtdagen) — these are the first one or two days of your sickness when the employer is not obliged to pay wages. 

This refreshes every four weeks, so if you become sick on February 1, and are sick again two weeks later on February 14, you don’t need to sit out your waiting days again. 

Check your contract or your collective bargaining agreement to see if you have a waiting day clause. 

How much sick leave can you claim?

Here’s the great thing about sick leave in the Netherlands: unlike other countries where you might have, say, 10 days of sick leave, in the Netherlands, you can claim sick leave from your employer for up to two years. 

Of course, no one wants to spend two years sick. But it is great peace of mind knowing that if the worst does happen, losing your income isn’t something you’ll need to worry about.

sick-woman-sneezing-in-bed-next-to-glass-of-water-and-lemon-while-taking-sick-leave-in-Netherlands
You have our full permission to go back to bed if you look like this. Image: Depositphotos

If you’re still sick after two years, your employer doesn’t have to continue paying your wages.  However, you will likely become eligible for a benefit from the UWV (Employee Insurance Agency). This is an autonomous government authority that deals with labour law. 

Who gets sick leave?

You get sick leave, and you get sick leave, and you get sick leave! 

Most people are eligible for sick leave in the Netherlands. Naturally, however, it depends on how you are employed. 

Not employed in the Netherlands just yet (or want a new job?)? We can fix that! Check out Undutchables job search, where you can find jobs in the Netherlands based on the language(s) you speak. 

Permanent contract

This is the easiest: you’ll be paid a minimum of 70% of your wages by your employer for a maximum of two years. 

Temporary contract

This works the same as the above: a minimum of 70% of your wages paid by your employer for a maximum of two years. 

If your contract expires while you’re sick, your employer will (naturally) stop paying your wage. Instead, you’ll be passed over to the UWV who will continue to pay your wages and help you re-enter the workforce. 

woman-on-couch-sneezing-on-sick-day
Even if you’re not a full-time employee you should still get sick days. Image: Depositphotos

If you’ve been sick for more than six weeks when your contract expires, you and your workplace will prepare a reintegration report outlining what the issue is and what they have done so far to help you reintegrate to work. 

On-call, zero-hour, and min-max contracts

If you work on one of the above contracts, it works a little differently. Generally, if you become ill in the middle of your shift, you’ll be paid 70% of your wages until the end of your shift. 

If you remain ill after a shift, your employer won’t pay any wages unless you are on a min-max contract. Instead, you’ll be referred to the UWV. 

Freelancers (ZZPers)

Gosh, it’s great being your own boss — until you fall sick, of course. If you’re a freelancer, the only sick leave you’ll generally receive is what you can afford to pay yourself. 

Otherwise, it’s worth taking out illness and/or disability insurance from the UWV. You’ll pay a set premium per month, but you’ll be covered if the sick hits the fan. 

⏰ What if I’m sick for a long time?

Has your sickness gone beyond a sniffle? Then you’ll probably need a bit more time off — and that’s okay!

Provided you’re on a permanent or temporary contract, you don’t really have to stress. You’ll continue to be paid a minimum of 70% of your wages for a maximum of two years.

doctor-helping-sick-woman-on-crutches-to-walk
In the Netherlands, you won’t be forced to get back in the office before you’re ready. Image: Depositphotos

After two years, you may become eligible for disability benefits from the UWV. 

Returning to work after being sick

The Netherlands places a lot of emphasis on sick leave being a recovery period so you can return to work. 

If you’re sick for a long period, you and your employer will draw up a reintegration plan. Yes, that means a lot of boring paperwork — but at least you’ll get paid!

The reintegration plan includes a: 

  • problem analysis,
  • action plan,
  • first-year evaluation,
  • current opinion of the company doctor or health and safety service, and
  • final evaluation (you complete this together with your employer).

🏝️ What if I’m sick while on holiday?

Fighting the flu in France? Battling a bug in Britain? Struck down with an STI in Spain? 

What a waste of your hard-earned vacation time!

But have no fear: working for a Dutch company is here! And working for a Dutch company means one nifty thing: you can claim being sick on holiday as sick leave, instead of holiday leave. 

photo-of-sick-woman-on-beach-blowing-nose
Save that holiday leave for a time when you aren’t feeling like this. Image: Depositphotos

That means that if you planned your holiday, flew to your magical destination, and then got sick, your planned vacation days can be converted into sick days. 

READ MORE | 7 ways a Dutch job is different

To take advantage of this, typically you’ll need to: 

  • report your illness to your employer as soon as possible and at least within 24 hours,
  • provide an address and/or telephone number where you can be reached,
  • reach out to a doctor at your holiday location and keep evidence of it,
  • advise if you can’t travel home due to sickness and keep evidence as to why you cannot travel,
  • contact your employer when you return home and potentially be consulted by the company doctor. 

Rough that you’re sick on vacation — but at least you can reallocate those vacation days for later! 🏝️

👨‍👩‍👧 Maternity and partner/paternity leave in the Netherlands

Got a notification from PostNL that you have a little bundle of joy on the way? Wat leuk! 

While maternity and paternity leave aren’t considered sick leave in the Netherlands, here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect.

READ MORE | Everything you need to know about maternity leave in the Netherlands

If you’re pregnant, you have a right to at least 16 weeks of leave. This is typically taken as six weeks of pregnancy leave before the due date and at least 10 weeks of maternity leave after childbirth. 

If you’re the partner of someone giving birth, you get a minimum of one week off in the first four weeks after the birth. During this time, you’ll be paid 100% of your salary. 

READ ALSO | Becoming a father? Here’s everything you need to know about paternity leave in the Netherlands

As a partner, you can also choose to take extended partner leave. This is up to five weeks of unpaid leave in the first six months after birth. During this time, you can claim benefits from the UWV for up to 70% of your salary. 

In addition, it’s also possible to take up to 26 unpaid weeks of parental leave until the child is eight years old (and even apply to have nine paid weeks at up to 70% in the first year)!

Got a question about sick leave in the Netherlands? Discuss it in the comments below!

❓Sick leave in the Netherlands: Frequently asked questions

How many sick days do you get in the Netherlands?

How do I ask for sick leave in the Netherlands?

Can I get sick leave for burnout in the Netherlands?

Can I get sick leave if I am depressed in the Netherlands? 

Do I need a doctor’s note to call in sick to work in the Netherlands?

Dutch Quirk #48: Say no to credit cards

Gaelle Salem
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3
Dutch Quirk #48: Say no to credit cards

As a newcomer in the Netherlands, it might come as a shock to discover that you can’t buy so much as a frikandelbroodje at your local Albert Heijn with a credit card. 

So, if you’re thinking about whipping out any of these bad boys: MasterCard, AMEX, and Diner’s Club cards, sorry to say, but you’ll have a pretty hard time paying in any Dutch store. 😬

What is it?

Research shows that around 55% of Dutchies currently own a credit card.

READ MORE | The best credit cards for expats in the Netherlands

While that’s more than half of the Dutch population, you won’t see them using those shiny plastic cards for anything more than holidays abroad or shopping at international sites. 

The flatlanders prefer the humble pin card, which actually comes in the form of something called “iDeal”.

@dutchreview

Just take my money 😭 #MemeCut #Meme #MemeCut #dutchreview #dutch #netherlands #expats #foryou #livingabroad #nederland #workinginthenetherlands #expatlife

♬ original sound – DutchReview

If you’ve ever tried to snag a purchase at an online store in the Netherlands, then you’ve likely come across an option to pay with iDeal — and also probably wondered what in tarnation it is. 🤔

READ MORE | Banking in the Netherlands: the complete guide

Basically, iDeal is an online payment system that, upon purchase, takes you directly to your personal banking site.

This method allows you to transfer that moolah in one swoop instead of putting all your tedious, card info in.

So, in other words, it totally outmanoeuvres the use of credit cards, which is why the Dutch love it oh-so very much. 😁

Why do they do it?

Call it what you will: stingy or stubborn, but the Dutch actually have a pretty good reason for why they say “uh-uh” to credit cards.

In short, using their precious pin card is just a whole lot easier and cheaper. 💁

Shop owners in the Netherlands are charged a certain percentage per credit card transaction — and that money can even take about a week to transfer.

While debit card payments aren’t exactly free of charge, they do have a flat rate, and they’re erg snappy when it comes to cash transfers. 💳

READ MORE | Dutch Quirk #7: Send a Tikkie for virtually nothing

On top of that, 30% of Dutchies believe that credit cards aren’t exactly the safest and most reliable means of payment.

@letsdoubledutch

yeah no not into it 💸 #creditcards #creditcarddebt #howcreditcardswork #creditpoints #rewardsprogram #howthingswork #howthingsactuallywork #kidssaythedarnestthings #eatingoutwithkids #expatlife #eerlijkheid #eerlijkiseerlijk #oneerlijk #expatsinthenetherlands #expatsinamsterdam #letsdoubledutch

♬ original sound – Double Dutch

With a debit card, your transaction data is better protected as it doesn’t go through a third-party source. Instead, it stays between you and your bank.

We could even go as far as to say that the Dutch’s distaste for credit cards has everything to do with their frugal ways.

The Dutch are experts when it comes to saving some bucks, and they learned how to “do without” for a long time. 

So, when given the chance to skimp out on some extra, unnecessary payments, they’ll most certainly take it. If you ask us, we can all learn a thing or two from the Dutch. 🤷

Why is it quirky? 

Simply put, it’s quirky because the whole wide world, from the United States to Timbuktu, accepts credit cards, and the Dutch would rather die than stuff one in their wallets.

READ MORE | Debit and debt free: making sense of going Dutch

You’ll see all Dutchies ride with bicycle helmets and agree that Zwarte Piet is racist before they’ll give in to the credit card industry. 😭

Should you join in? 

All in all, to get a 100% success rate, it’s good to know that your trusty credit card won’t get you very far here. 

Even at the smallest, mom-and-pop shops in the Netherlands, you’ll have a better chance of paying for your goodies with a pin card.

So, say sayonara to your credit card and get yourself a debit card! 💃

What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!

Amsterdam’s pro-Palestine protests: in videos

Sarah O'Leary 🇮🇪
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0
Amsterdam’s pro-Palestine protests: in videos

At the beginning of this week, things began to change on Amsterdam’s Universiteit van Amsterdam (UvA) campus. Students gathered to peacefully protest against the war in Gaza, calling on UvA to cut its ties with Israel.

As we come to the end of this week, however, things have escalated with students creating barricades against police, arrests made, and blows dealt.

READ MORE | Pro-Palestine ‘protest camp’ at University of Amsterdam ends in violence and 125 arrests

This is what it looks like

Throughout the week, protesters have been clear about what they want from the university.

Students began occupying some of UvA’s buildings and built barricades.

@emshot1 Morning 7:00 #uva #amsterdam #press #fyp ♬ son original – FYP 🤍🇲🇺
@emshot1 #amsterdam #uva #universityofamsterdam ♬ original sound – ryan.

However, on Wednesday, the situation escalated when the University called in the police due to “insecurity in and around the occupied buildings”, according to UvA.

The police action included the use of a bulldozer to take down the barricades.

Some protesters were determined not to be caught.

@shomaesa protest today at the University of Amsterdam 🍉 #protest #universityprotest #solidarity #amsterdam ♬ الصوت الأصلي – الصَمِت"𓁹

The police then started dismantling the barricades as protesters chanted.

Things also escalated between protesters and police, with blows being dealt.

Last night, the protesters arranged a sit-in in Het Spui against the University’s decision to use police force on protesters.

The sit-in ended with two minutes of silence for those killed in Gaza.

This afternoon, the Amsterdam Council Committee will hold an emergency meeting to discuss the UvA protests and the actions of the police.

Want the latest Dutch news to come zooming through the internet to your inbox? Dat kan! Subscribe to DutchReview’s weekly roundup 📮

Amsterdam crowned most popular destination for European city breaks in 2024

Liana Pereira 🇱🇰
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0
Amsterdam crowned most popular destination for European city breaks in 2024

Whether it’s the chocolate-glazed, sprinkle-laden stroopwafels that attract tourists or the city’s vibrant, historic heart — Amsterdam has royally earned its crown as one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations. 🇳🇱✨

Just how popular, you may ask? Well, according to leading vacation rental company Holidu, Amsterdam has already netted a whopping 91,200 Google searches in 2024.

After analysing Google search data from the past year, Holidu’s travel experts compiled a ranking of the most popular European cities.

Based on the number of Google hits each city received, the ranking placed Amsterdam solidly at number one! 🏆

Ireland, France, and Spain were also fan-favourites

Hot on Amsterdam’s heels were Dublin (Ireland) with 64,000 hits and Paris (France) with 61,000.

However, whilst the Netherlands may have snatched the crown, Spain enjoyed the highest number of cities in the top 20 — with Barcelona, Malaga, Madrid, and Valencia all making an appearance.

View-of-Barcelona-from-damous-wall-in-park-guell-reached-by-international-train-from-the-netherlands
Despite coming in at fourth place, Barcelona nabbed a very respectable 54,800 hits! Image: Depositphotos

Amsterdam was definitely in great company — but don’t just take our word for it!

Here’s a look at the top ten European city breaks, according to Holidu:

RankCityGoogle searches (on average)
1Amsterdam, Netherlands91,200
2Dublin, Ireland64,000
3Paris, France61,000
4Barcelona, Spain54,800
5Rome, Italy41,400
6Malaga, Spain33,960
7Prague, Czech Republic30,320
8Budapest, Hungary30,190
9Lisbon, Portugal27,900
10Berlin, Germany25,500

Just missing out on a spot in the top ten were other city break favourites, Milan and Copenhagen (coming in at numbers 11 and 12, respectively).

How many of these popular city break destinations have you visited? Tell us all about your experiences in the comments below!

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