If you think your rent is already high, brace yourself. The Dutch cabinet has new plans for calculating maximum rent in the Netherlands, and they come at a price.
Relaxations to current rules that would allow landlords to charge higher rent could take effect on January 1 next year, NOS reports.
Why, just why?
It all goes back to last summer, when the government introduced new rent control rules, alongside scrapping short-term rental contracts and increasing taxes.
Since then, many small landlords have sold up and quit the market.
Now, the cabinet needs them back. Housing Minister Mona Keijzer wants to adjust the points-based system used to set maximum prices, enabling landlords to charge higher rent.
Their focus is on rentals in popular cities: “With these measures I want to make mid-range rent more attractive to landlords, so that they do not sell their homes,” Keijzer explains.
What’s new?
As part of Keijzer’s proposal, there are three key changes:
Firstly, if a home lacks a balcony or garden, the current rules state that the rent will be lower. These deductions could be scrapped, causing the rent to rise for such properties.
Keijzer also wants more temporary rental contracts for students, so that landlords can sooner and more frequently increase the rent.
And what’s more, to those who masterfully snatched a beautiful old rental home — watch out. Landlords of small monumental homes would also get more flexibility to charge higher rents. 😤
Criticism from all sides
The proposal is receiving backlash from both tenant and landlord groups.
Tenant organisation Woonbond disagrees with Keijzer’s goals. They argue that if the real aim is to make renting out homes more appealing, “the minister should do something about the tax that landlords have to pay her.”
Interestingly, even the landlords themselves aren’t fully on board. The Vastgoed Belang organisation also points out the flaws, calling the measures “insufficient.”
“If the government wants to ensure that there are sufficient affordable rental properties, then the tax burden really needs to be reduced. This helps landlords and tenants.” the organisation expresses.
Ahh, Maastricht. The metropolis of Limburg. You’ll find plenty there! This beautiful city is the ultimate marriage of classic Dutchness and that southern European vibe.
Cute cobbled streets, pretty parks, and medieval monuments — Maastricht has a little bit of something for everyone.
Having been ruled by French, Spanish, Prussian, and Austrian powers throughout history, the province of Limburg has a distinct character compared to its northern Dutch counterparts, making for a truly unique experience when visiting Maastricht.
Whether you’re looking for a fun day out on the Maas River, exploring the mysterious Fort Sint Pieter caves, or just want somewhere pretty to walk around, Maastricht is the perfect destination for a casual day trip.
It’s one of the first areas you hit when walking towards the centre from the station, and it’s a rather stunning first impression.
Sint Servaasbridge: an ancient beauty
This is quite possibly the oldest bridge in the Netherlands, dating back to the 13th century.
Spanning over the Maas River, this old beauty connects the two halves of Maastricht, whereby you can walk straight from Wyck into the old town.
When the weather is good, this spot is perfect for taking pictures with the Maastricht skyline behind you, as it offers a great view of both sides of the city.
Boekhandel Dominicanen: a bookstore built into a church
This 700-year-old Gothic church was converted into a bookstore in 2006 — and what a bookstore it is! Over 50,000 books are packed in the stone walls and shelves.
The nave is dominated by what is essentially a two-story bookcase that you can climb and walk around. Here, timeless literature blends perfectly into the living history of the church.
Books in English and other languages are also available, and a cafe sits snugly at the back — gezellig!
AlleyCat: bikes and coffee in one
If you find yourself in need of a coffee break AND a bike part, look no further than the Alley Cat Bikes & Coffee.
They pride themselves in serving ethical, speciality coffee, as well as anything to do with bikes really. Homely wooden tables, fresh cakes, and the cutest dogs are always there to welcome you when you enter.
If you’re not in the mood for a coffee, they also have a delectable dirty chai latte which we highly recommend.
Helpoort: the old city gate
Helpoort was the city gate of Maastricht during medieval times, and it still stands remarkably well-preserved today.
A day trip to Maastricht is not complete without a visit to the glorious city gate, which dates all the way back to 1229! Image: Depositphotos
Dating back to the 13th century, as many things in Maastricht do, this is the oldest surviving city gate in the Netherlands.
Take a stroll through the gate and along the old wall for a scenic walk and a taste of Limburg history.
Stokstraat: fancy stores and eats
Known for its historic appearance, Stokstraat is one of the oldest streets in Maastricht.
Today, it hosts luxurious fashion and interior design stores. Traditional Burgundian restaurants with the finest wines and quality food can also be found along this street.
Burgundian food is typical in Limburg and is where the French influence comes through. This cuisine is from the region of Burgundy and tends to be meaty and full of rich flavours.
In Maastricht, you’re never far from a cafe, so of course, Stokstraat is a treasure trove of delicious cakes, teas, and coffees.
It’s within the pedestrian zone, so wandering along this street is a relaxing feast for both the eyes and stomach.
Bonnefanten Museum: the place for art
If you’re craving some visual art but want something different from the museums in the north, Maastricht’s Bonnefanten Museum is ideal for you.
Their collection spans from medieval right through to modern, contemporary, and conceptual art — and there’s always an interesting new exhibition taking place!
The museum even sometimes hosts international events and travelling art worth checking out. 😍
Onze Lieve Vrouwe Sterre de Basiliek: iconic Catholic church
In English, this means “Church of Our Lady, Star of the Sea”. This Roman Catholic church is still active today, which is impressive considering it dates back to the fourth century!
Its beautiful Romanesque architecture is definitely worth seeing and is another reason why the culture and aesthetics in Maastricht are visually unique to the rest of the Netherlands.
Outside the church, you can find charming restaurants and a wonderful ice cream shop.
Basilica of St. Servatius: the church Maastricht is known for
The broad chest of this magnificent church stands tall along the edge of the Vrijtof and is a recognisable feature of Maastricht which draws visitors from far and wide.
The mostly Romanesque style of this Catholic church contrasts the red Gothic structure of Saint Jan’s to its right.
For just a few euros, you can enter St. Servatius and climb the tower of Saint Jan’s for a great view of Maastricht.
Lichtenberg ruins: the castle on the hill
The “mountain of the Netherlands”, as locals call it (a hill, really), known as St. Pietersberg, is home to the Lichtenberg Castle ruins.
Just outside Maastricht, the ruins overlook the Maas River, and the walk up there is a scenic trail frequented by picnickers, dog walkers, and runners.
As the oldest castle ruins in the Netherlands, this is not one to miss for history buffs. Entrance is free with a voluntary donation, and the ruins are usually open from the end of April to the start of November each year.
In the summer, a restaurant opens up amidst the ruins, and it’s quite a lovely spot to sit and eat.
But if you’re looking for something a little unusual, try laying your blankets on the grass of an abandoned fort!
The perfect spot to take a break and enjoy nature! Image: Depositphotos
The varying levels and heights of the fort sections make for an interesting maze to wander through — and also provide more privacy than the usual picnic spots. Very popular with the kids, this one.
Food and drink to try in Maastricht
The Dutch aren’t exactly famous for their food, but the interesting mix of European influences has created some delectable delicacies you don’t want to miss on your day trip to Maastricht.
Hearty stews, local brews, and oh-so-sweet desserts are all on the menu here.Lekker!
Zoervleesj
Zoervleesj is Limburgian for “sour meat” or zuurvlees in Dutch.
It’s a sweet and sour kind of flavour in what is essentially a beef stew. The unique taste results from marinating the meat in vinegar, and adding apple sauce and gingerbread.
Perhaps not one for the vegetarians, but definitely a must-try for the omnivores! Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen/Supplied
Sounds weird, we know! But trust us, it’s great. Locals eat it with fries, and if you enjoy hearty meals with rich flavours, you will absolutely love it!
Maltese beer
Any good meal needs a tasty beer beside it, and for that, Maastricht has a special treat. The historic Maltese beer is a full malt Dortmunder style beer and was one of the first speciality beverages in the Netherlands.
It has a dark colour with a rather strong taste and is very popular amongst tourists.
Through the grapevine, it gives you the power of the gods, the wisdom of Aristotle, and oh yeah — a throbbing hangover in the morning. But don’t take our word, give it a try yourself!
The local brewery, called the Maltezer, has been crafting the beer at its current location since 1954. You can find it on the Maas in the Wyck district, not far from the Sint Servaasbridge.
Vlaai: the Limburg pie
If you enjoy apple crumble or cherry pie, this is kind of similar — but also definitely not the same.
Vlaai is a traditional pie or tart-like dessert from the province of Limburg, where Maastricht is situated, with a yeast-dough crust and usually a fruity filling.
Who wouldn’t want a piece of that pie?😍 Image: Unsplash
Variations of it exist, including in the surrounding Belgian and German regions, but typical flavours include cherry, apricot, strawberry, and plum.
Eating a warm slice of vlaai with ice cream or vla (custard) is truly heaven. 🥧
The best vlaai bakery in Maastricht is the Bisschopsmolen, where you can also take part in workshops and learn how to make your own.
Using local wheat, they grind their own flour with the watermill, which is in itself a tourist attraction.
Walking past their bakery window is enough to make your mouth drool, trust us. You won’t regret stopping by!
Fun tours and activities in Maastricht
Done with the tourist attractions, and ready to see a different side of the city?
Geen probleem, there are many fun tours and activities for you to do on your day trip to Maastricht!
Boat tours on the Maas River
There are all kinds of sailing options for the Maas River, depending on the company you go with.
Bubbly brunch or dreamy sunset cruise? Take your pick! Image: Emily Burger/Supplied
There are basic riverboat tours, but also breakfast, pancake, and Saturday night dinner cruises.
You can even sail into Belgium and back if you want to! Tours are in Dutch, English, and German, and can be combined with other tours in Maastricht.
Cave tour at Fort Sint Pieter
The underground caves beneath Fort Sint Pieter have a fascinating history. The 60-kilometre-long tunnel system was originally a mine but was later used for shelter by locals during WWI and WWII.
Since then, artists of all kinds have left their marks on the stone, and remnants of life underground can still be seen.
The caves are cool, refreshing, and extremely tall, and the guides that can take you are very knowledgeable. It’s definitely an adventure you wouldn’t want to miss!
Soak up the dialect
As you may have noticed, Limburg has its own dialect that differs a little from standard Dutch. It’s considered a mixture of German and Dutch and is referred to by locals as plat.
For example, they would say boeten instead of buiten (outside), and sjoon rather than schoenen (shoes). The Maastricht catchphrase is haw pin! Which means houd moed or “stay strong”.
Of course, different towns and cities have different variations of this dialect.
About 750,000 people speak plat, although in Limburg they also speak general Dutch, and many people speak English well.
Locals in Maastricht are known for being friendly, so don’t be shy to say hello and have a go at plat!
Kringloop: second-hand steals
If you’re a shopaholic and love a good bargain, or maybe you’ve started a more sustainable fashion lifestyle, Maastricht has many good-quality second-hand stores (kringloop winkelen) for you to browse through.
You can find anything from classic radios, record players, and type-writers to timeless fashion pieces and vintage furniture.
Take some time to wander through these shops, and you might be surprised by the gems you’ll find.
How to get to Maastricht
You can get to Maastricht fairly easily by train, bus, or car. From Amsterdam, the train trip is about three hours and by car, it’s two hours.
The NS Dutch railway often has travel offers for those planning a day trip to Maastricht, such as a return day ticket to Maastricht for €25.
Of course, there are many stunning places in the Netherlands to explore, and each one has its own unique character. But if you’ve already seen the major Dutch cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, why not try Maastricht next?
Its charm will leave you wanting more!
Do you have more hot tips for Maastricht? Tell us in the comments below!
There’s no denying that cancer sucks. And cancer therapy? Just as much. But there is one Dutch company that hopes to make the whole experience more manageable: Imuno Therapeutics.
Instead of relying on one-size-fits-all treatments that often come with tough side effects, Imuno Therapeutics is working hard on developing an alternative that targets a patient’s cancer more specifically.
I sat down with CEO Jan-Jaap Verhoef to learn more about their impressive mission.
What does Imuno Therapeutics do?
Imuno Therapeutics‘ goal is simple: “We want to make great therapies for patients with cancer,” says Jan-Jaap.
But unlike traditional treatments that often come with severe side effects, Imuno Therapeutics focuses on creating highly targeted therapies. What does that mean, you ask?
Well, currently, most cancer drugs are a bit of a one-size-fits-all, Jan-Jaap explains. “They hit all the organs in our body, but only slightly more aggressively target the cancerous tumour. That’s why cancer patients often suffer from significant side effects.”
As we all know, cancer treatment is hard on the body. Image: Freepik
Imuno Therapeutics’ approach is different. “We identify elements unique to the tumour, allowing us to create a highly aggressive drug that remains safe because it only recognises the tumour.”
Sounds complicated? Here’s a simple analogy: “All our cells put their dirty laundry outside — and [Imuno Therapeutics] figure out what the dirty laundry of the tumour cell is. Once we know that, we can build something to specifically target it.”
How did Imuno Therapeutics get started?
Imuno Therapeutics was born out of a passion for precision medicine and the advancements made by companies like BioNTech and Moderna, which you probably know best for their COVID-19 vaccines.
Jan-Jaap spent eight years in a lab at different Universities around the world, and he “got really excited about making drugs that could have a real impact on patients’ lives,” he says. “I felt that oncology needed a more tailored approach rather than a one-size-fits-all treatment”.
With nothing more than ambition and a 12-slide pitch deck, Imuno Therapeutics became operational in 2021.
“I came out of an academic career but had no invention or patent or anything. I just wanted to do something for cancer patients,” Jan-Jaap smiles.
“I found one crazy guy who believed in it and invested, and then he brought on a friend. Then, almost out of our garage, we started building the company.”
What major milestones has Imuno Therapeutics reached?
Since the company’s early days, it has achieved multiple major milestones. One of them, as Jan-Jaap recalls, was when two great people came on board: “Leo Price — he was the founder of OcellO — and Mark Throsby, who’s a big guy in biotech. That brought a lot of expertise and knowledge into the team.”
Since then, Imuno Therapeutics has successfully developed a drug to treat cancer by targeting a well-known mechanism of the disease. “It’s extremely safe and works extremely well.”
The hard work has paid off. Image: Freepik
“We’ve now proven that our approach can lead to effective and precise therapies. We’ve shown that in academic conferences, and we’re talking to bigger pharma to actually bring it to patients.”
Essentially, Jan-Jaap says, “We have made a drug, we have validated the drug — and that just proves our whole platform. Now, we can show that we can hopefully make people better.”
How has the Leiden ecosystem contributed to Imuno Therapeutics’ success?
With the wonderful city of Leiden being a hotspot for health and life sciences, being based here has played a big part in the company’s growth.
“One of the reasons we initially landed here is the support for biotech startups,” Jan-Jaap shares. “The Bio Science Park ecosystem and programs like unlock_ (PLNT’s start-up incubator), have been incredibly helpful.”
“The sense of community in Leiden has just been great. You’re surrounded by like-minded people who are just as excited to do something valuable in the world.”
What impact does Imuno Therapeutics want to make in the future?
Of course, the company’s immediate goal is to develop cancer therapies that are both effective and safe, improving the quality of life for patients.
But the long-term goal is to revolutionise the way drugs are made: “I truly believe that in the future, it will become much more efficient to make drugs cheaper and there will be fewer mistakes. We’re moving towards on-demand precision therapy, and eventually, we’ll be able to make on-demand precision therapy for patients.”
What motivates you to keep going?
For someone who is literally working on a cure for cancer, the answer to this question is obvious.
But beyond this mission, Jan-Jaap says he’s driven by the opportunity to solve complex problems with a talented team.
“It’s incredibly fun working with a smart, diverse team — some in the lab, some focused on computational tools. Every day is like solving a new puzzle. It’s not just about the end goal, but also about enjoying the journey.”
And while competition is emerging, especially in the US, Jan-Jaap sees this as a positive sign. “When I started, no one was really doing this. Now, others are joining in. That proves people believe in this way forward.”
“Now we just have to outsmart the others and be just as successful — or even more successful,” he smiles.
With a more precise approach to cancer treatment, the future looks brighter — and we can’t wait to see how Imuno Therapeutics will make life a whole lot easier for patients in cancer care.
What do you think of Imuno Therapeutics’ journey? Share your thoughts in the comments.
One minute you’re clutching your chest in agony, the next you’re drinking tea and popping a paracetamol just like the doctor ordered. We’ll never get over classic Dutch healthcare tales.
Content creator Matheus Santana recently asked his Instagram followers for the wildest things Dutch doctors have told them — and the replies did not disappoint.
Similarly, user lmvds was told to try “walking around and singing a song” for chest pain and shortness of breath.
Because nothing says medical expertise like chanting the pain away. 🧘
Insomnia is a myth
Struggling to sleep? Dutch doctors say: fake it till you make it.
It seems many users have received the simplest of advice when it comes to sleepless nights: dxlly.e was told “you have to close your eyes”, and h.evelyn_ recalls, “Me: Can’t sleep, have insomnia. GP: Try smoking and close your eyes”.
That’s the first time we’ve heard a huisarts recommend nicotine. 🚬
Symptom? What symptom?
Turns out Dutch GPs have a talent for casually gaslighting your symptoms into oblivion. 👀
User tintiniee’s doctor said straight up: “That PCOS is not real & it’s just in my head.”
So if chronic illness is in our imaginations now, should we stop pretending? Mayara.ldm discovered how:
“I had been coughing for many days, and the doctor said that in order to stop coughing, I had to force myself not to cough. I was so shocked that the doctor told me: ‘Yes, it sounds stupid, but to stop coughing, you need to stop coughing.’”
Doctors who consult the oracle… or Google
Yes, your doctor did 8+ years of medical school — and yet, they’re googling your symptoms just like you did at 2 AM last night. 😅
The doctors tending to mibracomila and carolccrr3 summed up this reality: “Let me check on Internet”, “They checked what I had in google”.
Comforting, right? Just you, your symptoms, and your GP’s search history.
After assaulting at least 30 people over four years in South Holland, a 57-year-old male cyclist was finally convicted on Wednesday.
He was sentenced to two years in prison, one of which is conditional, reports NU.nl.
Four years, 30 women
Between May 2019 and August 2023, dozens of women could hardly enjoy walking around South Holland in peace.
The reason? A man cycling through various outdoor areas, groping their private areas. He inappropriately touched at least 30 women, one of whom was a minor.
Randomly selected, but purposeful
During Wednesday’s court verdict in the Hague, the judge determined that the man acted purposefully: he committed assaults without any witnesses around.
The victims could not have known that only intended to touch them briefly, causing them further distress.
“It is precisely these kinds of facts that make women feel restricted in their freedom of movement,” explains the judge.
He claimed he never intended to touch a minor or the women’s genitals. But since he groped the women while cycling past them at high speed, the judge decreed he accepted that chance.
A psychologist diagnosed the cyclist with frotteurism disorder — a condition where someone gets aroused when touching people without permission.
On top of his sentence, he must seek treatment for this and pay around €500 to eight victims.
Turned himself in
The man was caught on camera committing one of his heinous acts, and when the footage circled in his cycling club, he turned himself in.
He was previously convicted in 2009. If he commits another offense within three years, he will serve the conditional part of his sentence as well.
Before stepping foot in the land of windmills, canals, and fun-filled activities, you’ll likely have to get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam’s city centre — and here’s how!
Not feeling brave enough to roll your suitcase while cycling to the airport? Don’t worry, we get it.
Between public transport, renting a car, or car-sharing, there are plenty of affordable and easy options to get from Amsterdam’s airport to your next stop.
TIP: Want the quick answer? Our favourite mode of transport is the train from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Centraal. It’s fast, convenient, and affordable, thanks to the train station at the airport.
Looking for something specific? Skip right ahead! 👇
🚝 How to get to and from Amsterdam’s airport by train
The most common way to get from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam (and vice-versa) is by train — it’s fast, easy, and direct.
Once you exit the baggage carousel area, follow the signs which will lead you straight to the train station. You don’t even need to exit the airport, as the train station is integrated into the airport building.
Follow the signs to this area to take the train from Schiphol Airport. Image: Depositphotos
From there, hop on a direct train to your destination: Amsterdam Centraal. You can see what time trains leave (and from which platform) on the big screens with the train timetable or by asking at the information desk.
Trains run every 5 to 15 minutes during the day and take around 15 minutes to arrive at Amsterdam Centraal.
From Amsterdam Centraal, the most popular areas of Amsterdam, such as Dam Square, are just a 10-minute walk.
If you have a very late (or very early) flight, don’t panic. Between 1 AM and 5 AM, there are night trains running every hour between Amsterdam and Schiphol Airport.
How to buy train tickets from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam
To take the train between Amsterdam’s city centre and Schiphol Airport, you can either:
tap in and out with your bank card, or
buy a ticket online or in the NS app,
buy a ticket at the station,
top-up your Dutch public transport card, if you have one (OV-chipkaart).
As a tourist, the easiest and quickest way is to tap in and out of the train station using your contactless debit or credit card. It’s as easy as that.
If you would rather plan in advance, you can buy a train ticket online. The ticket is valid the whole day, so there’s no stress if you’re running late packing your last-minute snacks or if your flight is delayed.
BUDGET TIP: A train ticket bought online or using a Dutch public transport card or bank card is €1 cheaper than a ticket bought at a station machine.
Another option is to buy a ticket directly at the train station. Spot the big yellow ticket machines, choose the language you prefer, and purchase a ticket to Amsterdam Centraal.
Simply tap your bank card or OV-chipkaart on these poles to pay for the train in the Netherlands. Image: Depositphotos
Finally, a great option for regular public transport travellers in the Netherlands is to buy and top-up a Dutch public transport card, the OV-Chipkaart.
These cards can be purchased and topped up at the yellow ticket machines in the station. However, you need a minimum €20 balance to travel by train.
⏰ Day schedule: Every 15 minutes between 5:30 AM and 1 AM 💰 Price: €5.20 ⏳ Duration: Approximately 15 minutes
🚌 How to get to and from Schiphol Airport by bus
Another great way to travel from Amsterdam Airport to the city centre is by bus. Walk outside the main airport hall (Schiphol Plaza), and you will be right at the bus depot.
How to buy bus tickets from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam
To buy a bus ticket for the Amsterdam Airport Express buses between Schiphol Airport and the city centre, you can:
buy a ticket from the bus driver,
buy a ticket from the office outside Schiphol Plaza,
buy a ticket online and in advance,
tap in and out with your bank card, or
tap in and out using your Dutch public transport card (OV-chipkaart)
Hop in the red buses to travel between Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam. Image: Depositphotos
Single-use bus tickets can be bought with a bank card either directly from the bus driver (they don’t take cash), at the ticket office outside Schiphol Plaza (between 9 AM to 6 PM), or online in advance.
It’s also possible to simply tap in and out of the bus using your contactless debit or credit card.
If you already have a Dutch public transport card, the OV-Chipkaart, you can also use it to tap in and out of the bus.
Which bus do I take?
Buses run regularly between Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam. The Amsterdam Airport Express route runs two buses, covering you 24/7.
From bus stop B17 of the airport, hop onto the red bus 397 during the day (5 AM to 12:30 AM) or bus N97overnight.
These buses will take you straight into the core of the bustling centre of Amsterdam, including Museumplein, Rijksmuseum, or Leidseplein.
⏰ Schedule: Every 10 minutes (daytime), every hour (at night) 💰 Price: Approximately €5.50 ⏳ Duration: 30 minutes
🚕 How to get to and from Amsterdam’s airport by taxi
Rather travel alone and woosh directly from your hotel straight to the airport? Or don’t feel like lugging three huge suitcases on the train or bus? Relax, and hop into a taxi from Amsterdam to Schiphol Airport!
Taxis in the Netherlands aren’t cheap, but they’re a reliable way to travel. Image: Depositphotos
Depending on the space you need, you can choose between a regular taxi, a luxury Schiphol Business Taxi, or a Schiphol Travel Taxi minibus.
How to get a taxi from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam
If you’re taking a taxi from Schiphol Airport, follow the ‘Taxi’ signs to the official pick-up taxi spot.
Beware! Don’t be lured by any individual people away from the queue — these are usually for unlicensed (and scammy) cabs.
Regular taxis will be lining up for you outside the airport, so there’s no need to make a reservation.
Want to go from Amsterdam’s centre to the airport? No worries, you can easily hail a taxi on the street (just check the signs that it’s an official one), book a taxi online, or call 020 777 77 77.
💰 Price: €50 to €60 ⏳ Duration: 30 minutes
📱 How to get to and from Schiphol Airport using rideshare apps
Want a more affordable option than a taxi to travel from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam?
Ridesharing companies Uber and Bolt, where drivers with privately-owned cars bring you to your desired destination, are easily accessible in the Netherlands.
Want a cheaper alternative than a taxi? Book an Uber or Bolt. Image: Depositphotos
Like a taxi, options like Uber and Bolt are great for getting door-to-door with relatively little waiting time. However, keep in mind that the rates are likely to hike up during peak times, but you can check the price on the apps before booking.
How to book a rideshare
You can book a ride with Uber and Bolt through their apps.
Make sure to book only when you’ve already almost made it outside the airport. Schiphol Airport’s quite large, and it often takes over 20 minutes to get from your plane to the pickup spot.
Once you’ve got a confirmed ride, head to the airport’s exit B on the arrivals level, cross the street, and you should see the glass shelter on your right with a sign that says “App pick-up point”.
💰 Price: €30 to €80 ⏳ Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
🚗 How to get to and from Amsterdam’s airport by car
Finally, you can, of course, use the classic method of a car to get to and from Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam’s centre.
If you’re taking your own car, there are plenty of parking spots at Schiphol Airport, from affordable places to valet parking.
Feel good to take on the Dutch roads? Rent a car at Schiphol Airport. Image: Freepik
Simply find the Car Rental and Service Desk in Schiphol Plaza by following the ‘Car Rental’ signs.
You can pop by the offices at the airport on the day or, for a better chance for more options, pre-book in advance online, or give them a phone call.
💰 Price: €50 to €200 a day ⏳ Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
How to book a car-share
Want the practicality of a car and boot for your luggage but don’t want to pay €50 for a taxi? Consider using a car-sharing service to travel from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam’s centre.
Amsterdam’s airport has several reserved parking spots at the World Trade Center (floor -2), a short five-minute walk from the terminal.
Once you’ve arrived at your destination and are ready to clink some beers to start your holiday, park the car at the many designated spots around Amsterdam (and in other Dutch cities).
Driving in Amsterdam is challenging but possible. Image: Freepik
There are two main car-sharing services between Amsterdam and the airport: SIXT share and SHARE NOW.
You can pick up or drop off the SIXT share cars at various spots in Amsterdam’s centre, Schiphol Airport, Rotterdam, The Hague, and even at some further away SIXT locations such as Utrecht and Eindhoven.
SHARE NOW cars are also perfect for travelling just between Amsterdam and Schiphol Airport (they can only be parked at these two locations).
Both car-sharing services are super easy to use. There’s no need to book in advance, the cars can simply be used through the companies’ respective apps.
💰 Price: €15 ⏳ Duration: 30 minutes
Once you’ve made it to Amsterdam, you can be a true Dutchie and rent a bike, or use the trams, buses, or metros to explore the city.
What’s your preferred way to travel from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam? Tell us in the comments below!
🙋♂️ Frequently Asked Questions: How to get to and from Amsterdam’s airport
How do I get from Amsterdam to Schiphol Airport?
The easiest way to travel from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam’s city centre is by train. You can also take an express airport bus, a taxi, a rideshare, or rent a car at the airport.
How much does it cost to get to and from Amsterdam’s airport?
The price to get to and from Amsterdam’s airport will cost you about €5 to €7 by public transport. An Uber will cost around €45, a taxi around €50 to €60, and renting a car will set you back about €100.
Can you get a metro or tram to and from Schiphol Airport?
Unfortunately, there are no metros or trams that go to Schiphol Airport. Instead, take the train, bus, or a ride-share car.
How do I buy a train or bus ticket at Amsterdam’s airport?
Train and bus tickets from Schiphol Airport can be bought online, at the train station’s ticket machine, or with the bus driver. You can also tap on and tap off with most debit and credit cards.
Is there a bus from Schiphol Airport to the city?
With the Amsterdam Airport Express route, you can take bus 397 during the day (5 AM to 12:30 AM) or the bus N97 at night (12:30 AM to 5 AM) from Schiphol Airport to the centre of Amsterdam.
One massive misconception in the Netherlands is that you need to have a permanent work contract in order to be eligible for a Dutch mortgage.
However, this simply isn’t true — let’s get into it.👇
Do I need a permanent contract to get a mortgage in the Netherlands?
While a permanent contract can certainly help when you want to apply for a Dutch mortgage, it is not a necessity.
In fact, there are many scenarios in which you can still be eligible for a mortgage, even if you don’t have a permanent contract.
I have a temporary contract, can I get a Dutch mortgage?
In the Netherlands, it’s quite common for people to first receive a temporary contract from their employers before being offered a permanent one.
As a result, mortgage providers won’t be horrified if you apply using your temporary work contract — they see it all the time.
Instead, mortgage applicants with a temporary contract will be asked to submit extra information to guarantee to the bank that they will be able to pay their mortgage.
This extra information can consist of:
A letter of intent from your employer saying that they intend to keep employing you, or
Your income from the last three years (if you don’t have a letter of intent)
I have a flexible contract, can I get a Dutch mortgage?
Perhaps you have a flexible contract. This means your work varies in certain ways, for example, you may work on an on-call basis, or your hours may vary from week to week.
Good news: it’s still possible to get a mortgage in the Netherlands. In this case, when you apply for a mortgage, you must provide a perspectiefverklaring(perspective statement).
You can get this through your employment agency, and it will outline your future possibilities of earning an income.
You will have to gather some extra paperwork, but it is possible to get a Dutch mortgage without having a permanent work contract. Image: Freepik
I have a zero-hour contract, can I get a Dutch mortgage?
One type of flexible contract is a zero-hour work contract. In this case, the mortgage provider will consider your income for the last three years when determining your eligibility for a Dutch mortgage.
I’m a freelancer, can I get a Dutch mortgage?
While applying for a mortgage as a freelancer (ZZP’er) in the Netherlands can involve more paperwork, you can still be eligible for a Dutch mortgage.
However, you will be asked to provide additional information, such as:
Your earnings over the last three years,
A copy of your last three income tax returns, and
Your most recent correspondence from the KvK
As a freelancer, your annual earnings tend to vary. The banks will use your average income over the past three years to help determine your maximum borrowing power.
However, it’s worth noting that your last year of income will be the most important when determining your mortgage, as this amount will be considered your maximum income.
A ZZP’er for less than three years? That’s ok! Instead, you can have an accountant forecast what they expect you to earn in the coming years.
Moral of the story? While having a permanent contract can make the mortgage application process easier, you don’t need one to successfully obtain a Dutch mortgage.
Have you gone through the Dutch mortgage application process? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!
Planning a cheeky London weekend or a Highland escape? If you’re travelling from the Netherlands to the UK, there’s a new rule: you’ll need an ETA — and scammers are already cashing in.
Apply through the wrong site, and you might just end up paying hundreds for something that should only cost €12. Here’s how to protect your wallet. 💪
What is an ETA? As of April 2025, travellers from the Netherlands (and other EU countries) must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering the United Kingdom. It costs £10 (€12) and can be applied for here.
That’s one pricey click
So what exactly do these scams look like?
Het Belang Van Limburg reports that one unlucky Belgian traveller and her husband thought they were playing by the rules. She searched for the ETA form, clicked the top result on Google, filled everything in, and paid up.
Everything looked legit — until an email from Skylinetravelexpress.com confirmed they’d been charged €437 instead €24. 😩
Realising the scam, she blocked her card immediately. Her reaction? “[It’s] expensive tuition”, she tells the newspaper, and honestly, she’s got a point.
Dutchies are getting scammed too
Before you crack a joke about Belgians, the Dutch are also falling for these scams en masse.
According to the NOS, the Dutch Fraud Helpdesk (Fraudehelpdesk), has been flooded with similar reports since the introduction of the ETA.
In fact, there have been so many reports that they’ve opened a whole case file just for ETA scams.
Energy costs have been a burden for many people in the Netherlands over the past few years, but due to a ruling by the Amsterdam Court of Appeals, some financial relief is in sight.
If you have a variable energy contract, you might have been overpaying for years — the Consumer’s Association says you can claim that money back.
Confusing terms and conditions
A variable energy contract means your energy prices are set twice a year by your provider, with the possibility of interim rate changes in exceptional circumstances. This is where the problem lies.
What counts as “exceptional” is explained in an amendment clause in the energy contract’s terms and conditions — but who understands those anyway?
A win for one becomes a win for all
One Vattenfall customer filed a case against the energy company. The result? The court found that the amendment clause (the basis on which customers saw their energy prices increase) was unfair and, therefore, invalid.
The energy sector isn’t exactly creative, meaning most energy companies use the same conditions in their variable contracts.
This means the ruling has important consequences for anyone with a variable contract.
How to get your money back
Because of this ruling, energy companies must adjust their rates and compensate customers who have been overpaying for years.
One thing’s certain about the Netherlands: there’s loads and loads of water. And where there’s water, there are boats. And where there are boats, there’s someone wondering how you can rent them — that must be you!
You certainly must have seen the people on boats cruising the canals, and enjoying their time in the sun while cracking open a beer.
If you were a bit jealous, worry not — because it’s really easy to rent a boat in the Netherlands. Then you can also wave at the mere mortals walking on the sidewalks!
Who can rent a boat in the Netherlands? 🙋♀️
Anyone over the age of 18 can rent a boat in the Netherlands. Of course, minors can tag along, provided there is an adult with them.
No special permit or licence is required in order to rent a boat in the Netherlands, as long as it fits in a designated category.
Almost anyone (adult, of course) can drive a boat on the canals in the Netherlands. Image: Depositphotos
If you have a child who is over 12, they can also steer the boat and gain some sailing experience, as long as the boat does not go faster than 13 kilometres an hour and is a maximum of seven metres long.
When do I need a boating licence in the Netherlands?
You only need a boating license if you plan on renting a boat that is longer than 15 metres and that exceeds a speed of 20 kilometres an hour.
If your goal is a calm trip down the canals, you shouldn’t need a boat that requires a boating license.
Where to hire a boat in the Netherlands 📍
There are many companies where you can rent a boat in the Netherlands.
Choosing the company that best serves your needs also depends on where you live, so it’s best to start looking locally first.
Look online for boat rentals in the Netherlands, they’re everywhere. Image: Depositphotos
There are several websites you can look into to find boats for rent in the Netherlands.
If you prefer a more hands-on approach to finding and renting boats, go to your local tourist info point, and they can guide you further in finding the best boat rentals in your area.
A romantic boat tour in Amsterdam
There are plenty of differently-themed boat tours to book in Amsterdam.
If you want something special, romantic and personal, then you can’t go wrong with Rocco and his romantic boat tour through Amsterdam.
Rocco often sails at the golden hour or sunset. Image: DutchReview
It’s snug, takes you to all the gezellig spots, and comes with all those lovely details such as a glass of bubbles, romantic anecdotes about the city and music to fall in love with.
Rocco is a people person and makes sure it never gets cheesy (although, fun fact, some cheese is served onboard).
P.S. You’re totally welcome to invite the DutchReview crew on any boat tour at all times 😉.
What kind of boats can you rent? 🛥️
The list of boats that you could potentially rent is diverse and really depends on what kind of experience you want.
If you’re after a more traditional sailing experience? Perhaps go for a bigger sailboat.
Want a luxurious boat so you can travel off the coast and explore the North Sea with your friends? A larger canal boat should fit your needs.
Canoes, motorboats, whatever your heart desires! Image: Depositphotos
Of course, if you wanna be really close to the water and perhaps even risk getting a bit wet, then a cheap canoe is definitely a fun option to consider!
Another very popular option is the small motorboats. Similarly cheap and loads of fun, you can rent them and go exploring the canals of your city at your leisure.
How much does renting a boat in the Netherlands cost? 💸
The cost of renting a boat varies depending on what kind of boat you are renting, for how long, and if it is manned by a captain or not.
On boat hire websites, most of the prices are listed per day, and can range anywhere from €88 – €300 or even €800 a day.
Note though, that in addition, most boats require a deposit to be paid beforehand.
Want a cheap day on the Dutch canals? Rent a canoe for cheap. Image: Depositphotos
Boats can also be offered for half a day or even for a week if you feel like you want to spend more time on the water.
For things like canoes or rowboats, you can find them much cheaper, but usually the fee is per hour instead of per day. You can rent a canoe for as low as €9 per hour.
What do I need to know before renting a boat in the Netherlands? ✅
An important thing to consider before renting a boat is to get insurance. This also really depends on what canal you are sailing on.
If you are on a busy Amsterdam canal and it’s you behind the wheel (and you have no prior experience), you should really get insurance.
Amsterdam’s canals becomes a highway for boats during peak-season (better get that insurance!) Image: Freepik
If you are somewhere in a more isolated area, it’s perhaps easier, but insurance is an option you should still consider.
However, if you’ve hired a boat including an experienced captain, there’s no need to consider insurance — all legal responsibilities fall on the captain.
Want to get insurance? Make sure to ask for it when renting the boat.
Check for rentals which have ships registered to the HISWA (National Water Sports Association in the Netherlands) rental agreement conditions.
Generally, insurance deductibles equal the deposit you’ll pay on the ship. So, if you pay a €200 deposit and have an accident while you’re steering, expect to pay a €200 deductible.
What should I bring when renting a boat?🎒
Obviously, when cruising down the quaint canals, there are some essentials you should pack.
Firstly, if you are going on a sunny day, sunscreen is a must, especially if your boat does not have an inside area you can shelter in.
Believe it or not, sunny days in Amsterdam can actually get very hot. Image: Pixabay
Depending on how long you’re going for, consider bringing some food. If you are going on a boat tour, some snacks might be provided (especially on guided boat tours).
Can I drink alcohol on a boat in the Netherlands?
Of course, you can crack open some cold Dutch beers while you’re at it — but just as with cars, if you happen to be behind the wheel, don’t drink and drive sail.
Boat captains can have a couple of drinks as long as they don’t exceed a limit of 0.8 per thousand litres blood to alcohol level.
Finally, a question some of you might be curious about. Can you 4/20 blaze it on a boat?
There’s no law against it when you’re renting your own boat (although the person who owns the boat may have their own rules).
However, especially for guided tours, the answer is almost certainly no.
Alternatives to boating in the Netherlands 🌊
Let’s say you’re interested in being on a boat, but for different reasons (such as motion sickness), you’d rather it doesn’t move. Thankfully, there are options for that as well!
Depending on the city, there’ll be boats that are used solely as terraces — they won’t take you anywhere, but you can get the boat experience.
Houseboats can be rented just like hotels, for a night or two. Image: Depositphotos
Finally, for even more fun, certain coffee shops in the Netherlands are located on boats which are moored on canals. For example, check out the Culture Boat in Utrecht.
Have you ever been boating in the Netherlands? What was it like? Tell us in the comments below!
