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Registration in the Netherlands: the complete guide for 2025

Fresh off the plane? Welcome! ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฑ If youโ€™re feeling a bit lost and arenโ€™t sure what you’re meant to do next, donโ€™t stress โ€” weโ€™re here to help. First things first, letโ€™s get you registered in the Netherlands.

Not sure what that means? As we say here in the Netherlands, geen probleem (no problem). We promise registering at a Dutch municipality isn’t as difficult as you think.

Registering in the Netherlands: what is it?

Once you arrive in the Netherlands (EU national or not), you must register at the town hall in the area in which you will live.

This is necessary if you plan to work or study in the Netherlands and/or are staying for over four months.

Once you register, you are marked as a legal resident of your municipality. You can register in two ways:

  • From abroad: you can make an appointment to โ€œregister abroadโ€, and they prepare you for what you need to bring with you.
  • On arrival: as soon as you arrive and seal the deal with a property, you can make an appointment and register as soon as possible.

Why do I have to register in the Netherlands?

Registering is essential for getting life started in the Netherlands. When you register, you are making your presence known in a specific household.

This helps the Municipal Personal Records Database (BRP) keep track of how much tax a household must pay, manage emergencies, and monitor the Dutch population.

Registering is mandatory, and you can be fined if you donโ€™t register or falsify your registration.

Once you have registered, you will receive a burgerservicenummer (BSN). This handy number will let you apply for almost everything you need for life in the Netherlands.

What is a burgerservicenummer (BSN) โ€” and why do I need one?

Once you register, you are given a unique nine-digit code. This is your BSN (or citizenโ€™s service number), and it is sacred. ๐Ÿ”‘

Your BSN helps the Dutch government to identify you whenever you have dealings with them, for example, when you have to pay taxes.

Until you have your BSN, you canโ€™t do other necessary basic things in the Netherlands, like:

In order to apply for any one of the things on this list, you’ll need those magic nine digits.

Penalties for failing to register in the Netherlands

Avoiding that simple trip to your municipality office is not without consequences. If you move to the Netherlands and plan on staying longer than four months, you are legally required to register your address. If you fail to register, you risk being fined โ‚ฌ325.

This also applies if you change your address and fail to notify the municipality on time or if you have given the incorrect address.

The municipality will launch investigations if they believe thereโ€™s a chance someone has given the wrong address/is living illegally at an address.

So if you donโ€™t want bureaucrats knocking at your door (or the wrong door) โ€” make sure to register.

How do I register in the Netherlands?

First things first: the government says that you must register within five days of your arrival in the Netherlands. That means you may need to make your appointment before you arrive.

To take the first step, just Google โ€œregistration ______” (insert city you live in, e.g. Rotterdam), and youโ€™ll find the correct municipality. We also have a handy list below of the main municipality contact details.

Depending on the municipality, you will either have to call to make an appointment or fill out an online form. You can find the appropriate phone numbers and website links below.

Once you call or apply online, you will be given a date and time to come to the municipality office. Now all that’s left to do is gather your things and turn up to the meeting!

Tip: Pssst! Havenโ€™t learned Dutch? No problem! Itโ€™s easy to make an appointment in English.

photo-the-hague-municipality-main-building-appointment-to-register-living-in-the-netherlands-sun-shining-on-white-tall-building-many-windows-gray-floors-green-trees-people-walking
The Hague municipal building or ‘stadhuis’. Image: Depositphotos

What documents do I need to register in the Netherlands?

The fateful day has arrived, so what do you have to bring to your appointment? Hereโ€™s a list of everything you will need:

  • Valid ID: such as an identity card or passport (in date.)
  • Your original birth certificate: this needs to be translated into either English or Dutch and legalised with an apostille. (Some government employees will request this, and others wonโ€™t, but you should bring it no matter what.)
  • Any other legalised documents: such as marriage or divorce certificates, if applicable.
  • Your letter of enrolment: if you’re a student.
  • Your tenancy agreement:ย showing that you are living at the specified address.

Note: Some people don’t realise that depending on where you are registering, there are sometimes no appointments available for weeks. So not only is it important to register but try and register on time too.

Help! Can I register in the Netherlands without a permanent address?

If you have arrived in the Netherlands and youโ€™re struggling to find housing (a common struggle, unfortunately!), then fear not. You can still register using a correspondence address.

How does this work? Allow us to explain.

If you need to register but havenโ€™t found a permanent residence yet, then you can turn to your family, colleagues or friends and register with their address.

The address must be residential, so you canโ€™t just use your office building. On top of this, the address must be recognised as legitimate by the BRP.

photo-of-beautiful-classic-historic-dutch-red-mailbox-against-brown-brick-wall-with-sun-shining
Make sure you have somewhere that the municipality can send letters! Even if your mailbox isn’t as pretty as this one. Image: Depositphotos

Once youโ€™ve sourced a suitable address, you must head to the municipality office for the address with your relevant papers to apply for a correspondence address. The โ€œrelevant papersโ€ depend on the municipality, so make sure to check their website!

This solution is only temporary, but it allows you to receive a BSN and continue setting up everything else that is involved with moving to the Netherlands.

Do I need to register for a short stay in the Netherlands?

If youโ€™re moving to the Netherlands for less than four months (and arenโ€™t just a tourist travelling around), then you still need to register as a non-resident in an RNI municipality.

An RNI is a municipality that has the ability to enter you into the non-resident’s database.

To find out which municipalities you can register at as a non-resident, here’s a government list

How to register a change of address with a Dutch municipality

Letโ€™s say youโ€™ve managed to figure it all out โ€” you have your BSN, youโ€™re a registered citizen, and everything is in order โ€” but youโ€™re about to change your address.

You have to notify your municipality office, even if youโ€™re moving within the same municipality. (We know, we know, itโ€™s a pain! ๐Ÿ˜ฎโ€๐Ÿ’จ)

This is because the municipality must always have your current address.

Also, itโ€™s for your own sake, as the last thing you want is for any important letters to go missing โ€” something you can get fined for.

Next thing you know, youโ€™ll find that you owe the municipality taxes that were never paid.

Why do I need to deregister when I leave the Netherlands?

If youโ€™re looking to romanticise your life by dropping everything at once and dashing off to a different region/country โ€” then just make sure to pop into your local municipality office during the montage.

If you leave the Netherlands without telling anyone in the municipality, the municipality is going to assume youโ€™re still living there.

This becomes a problem when somebody notices that you donโ€™t have health insurance or havenโ€™t paid tax โ€” both mandatory when living in the Netherlands.

photo-woman-looking-out-the-window-at-airport-in-very-nostalgic-gaze-contemplating-life-decisions-waiting-for-her-flight-while-leaving-the-netherlands
Getting ready for your next adventure? Image: Depositphotos

A letter will be sent to your address informing you of which health insurance you are receiving, and then voila! You will be expected to pay the bill.

READ MORE | Dutch health insurance in 2025: What’s new?

Next thing you know, youโ€™re frolicking across foreign hills and accumulating hundreds of euros in health insurance fees. (Believe me, I learnt that one the hard way! ๐Ÿ˜ฌ)

How do I deregister from my local municipality?

The process of deregistering in the Netherlands varies depending on your municipality.

Sometimes this process can be done in writing. You can send a letter listing the names of your family members who will be leaving, your old and new addresses, and a copy of a valid I.D.

In other cases, you and any other departing family member above the age of 16 must fill out a form and report to the municipality in person.

Itโ€™s also important to note that municipalities will often have a required notice period when processing departures.

This means that in some cases, you must deregister no more than five days before you leave the Netherlands. We recommend you check your local municipalityโ€™s website for any notice period.

Where can I register and deregister in the Netherlands?

Ready to march into that municipality office? Great!

Hereโ€™s some contact information. With 355 municipalities in the Netherlands, we canโ€™t list every single one, but here are some of the main hotspots for expats.

Tip: If your municipality isnโ€™t listed, just Google โ€œ[city name] registrationโ€ or โ€œ[city name] gemeente.โ€

MunicipalityLocal PhoneInternational PhoneWebsite
Amsterdam 14 020 +31 20 624 1111Amsterdam Gemeente
Den Haag14 070 +31 70 353 30 00Den Haag Gemeente
Rotterdam 14 010(010) 267 16 25Rotterdam Gemeente
Utrecht14 030030 – 286 00 00Utrecht Gemeente
Groningen14 050+31 (0) 88 043 04 30Groningen Gemeente
Maastricht 14 043+31 43 350 4040Maastricht Gemeente
Leiden14 071 +31 71 516 51 65Leiden Gemeente
Eindhoven14 040 +31 40 238 6000Eindhoven Gemeente

Registering in the Netherlands: handy Dutch vocabulary

DutchEnglish
GemeenteMunicipality
Inschrijven / InschrijvingRegister / Registration
Inschrijven vanuit het buitenlandRegister from abroad
Burgerservicenummer (BSN)Citizen service number
Basisregistratie personenPersonal Records Database
Het gemeentehuis / het stadhuisThe city hall
LegalisatieLegalisation
AfspraakAppointment

Have you registered in the Netherlands before? How did you find the experience? Tell us in the comments below!

Victim identities, a hotel raid: what we know about the Dam Square stabbing so far

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Following the shocking stabbing incident on Thursday afternoon at Amsterdamโ€™s Dam Square, authorities have released new details about the victims.

The five victims include a 69-year-old man and 67-year-old woman with American nationality, a 26-year-old Polish man, a 73-year-old Belgian woman and a 19-year-old woman from Amsterdam.ย 

A rare “citizenโ€™s arrest”

The suspect was tackled and restrained by a bystander before the police arrived, which is a rare “citizenโ€™s arrest” in action.

According to Dutch law, civilians are permitted to detain a suspect if they catch them red-handed, but this is not encouraged in everyday situations.

Police have stated that the attack appears to be random, with no clear pattern between the victims. RTL Nieuws reports that investigations confirming this are ongoing.

Hotel raid in search of motive

Authorities are still trying to pinpoint the reason for the stabbing. It is unclear whether the arrested suspect, who is also injured, used multiple weapons during his spree.

Last night, police investigated a nearby hotel on Damrak, but have not yet confirmed if it is linked to the suspect.

READ MORE | Need emergency help? Dutch response times are the longest in 10 years

A hotel receptionist reported that about twenty police officers searched a room at the hotel for over an hour.ย 

Witnesses stunned

Eyewitnesses were left horrified. Some reported seeing a knife of at least 10 centimeters in a victimโ€™s back.

Others saw a hooded man walking towards Dam as bystanders fled into nearby shops. 

Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema expressed in a statement, โ€œWe hope to get more clarity soon about the background of this horrible stabbing. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families and loved ones.โ€

Meanwhile, investigations into the attack continue.ย 

Want the latest Dutch news to come zooming through the internet to your inbox? Dat kan! Subscribe to DutchReviewโ€™s weekly roundup.

Dutch Quirk #134: Rent apartments with no curtains or floors

Itโ€™s well-known that the Dutch traditionally opt for a curtain-less existence, but did you know about their floor-less lifestyle?๐Ÿง

Renting in the Netherlands as an international can be surprising โ€” some essentials might be missing.

Youโ€™ll spot the living room setup right through the open windows, but step inside andโ€ฆ the floor might be gone too.

What is it?

Need a quick Dutch rental tip? Kaal (โ€œbaldโ€) means an empty home โ€” no floors, curtains, lights, or furniture. ๐Ÿš๏ธ

No wonder tourists find it voyeuristic to stroll past curtain-less windows and peek into peopleโ€™s lives.

However, fewer people may notice apartments lacking flooring, especially during moves.

Why the disappearing floors? Previous tenants took them along โ€” but itโ€™s not because theyโ€™re clingy with their carpets.

Why do they do it?

The most popular explanation for Dutch openness traces back to Calvinism, which values honest living and having nothing to hide.

Others say that itโ€™s an attitude thing: the Dutch desire to create gezelligheid (cosiness) or even to show off possessionsโ€ฆ๐Ÿ˜‰

READ MORE | Pillarisation โ€” or why do the Dutch have big windows

Others question whether the often-grey Dutch skies have something to do with it. Cutting out curtains certainly maximises your Vitamin D intake!โ˜€๏ธ

As a people-watcher myself, I think itโ€™s more of a you-scratch-my-back-Iโ€™ll-scratch-yours approach to living. AKA, the Dutchies enjoy observing the observers!

@castellvicomedy The Dutch and their curtains #standup #dutch #curtains #comedy #netherlands #expats โ™ฌ original sound – Matt Castellvi

When it comes to carpeting, the reason is much more straight-โ€œfloorโ€-ward.

Since rentals in the Netherlands are usually long-term, flooring often becomes outdated โ€” removing it spares new tenants the hassle and gives them a fresh start to make the space their own. โœจ

It might seem like a lot at first, but at least youโ€™re not stuck with decades-old dรฉcor!

Why is it quirky? 

Wide-open windows may baffle outsiders, but for the Dutch, openness is just part of the culture โ€” practically furniture.

What does raise eyebrows? The piles of laminate left outside.๐Ÿ‘€

READ MORE | 9 kooky things about renting in the Netherlands

Perhaps the strangest part is the insistence: there are regulations in place when it comes to floor removals. 

Surely young renters or students would appreciate a nice free floor in perfectly good condition? No, itโ€™ll be going with its owners by law.

Should you join in? 

Flexibility isnโ€™t an option for floors in the Netherlands: If you brought your own floor when you move in, you must โ€” yes, must โ€” take the flooring with you, even if you’ll never use it again!

Meanwhile, going curtain-less is more of a personal choice, and you can still go for a more private lifestyle if youโ€™d like. ๐Ÿคซ

More curtains and blinds are appearing in Dutch windows โ€” a shift locals say might be driven by young people and internationals closing the curtain on the once-famous openness.

What do you think of this Dutch quirk? Have you experienced it? Tell us in the comments below!๐Ÿ‘‡

BREAKING: 5 wounded after stabbing spree on Amsterdam’s Dam Square

A stabbing incident occurred on Thursday afternoon near the Dam in Amsterdam, leaving five people injured.

As the NOS writes, the attack took place on Sint Nicolaasstraat, the street connecting Damrak to Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal, right next to Dam Square.

Emergency services were quick to respond, and a trauma helicopter landed in the area.

Here’s what we know

At around 3:30 PM this afternoon, several people were attacked with a knife on the Dam Square. As the Amsterdam police write on X, five people were wounded and have either been transferred to a nearby hospital or were treated on the spot.

According to Het Parool, witnesses described the attack as happening in front of a fabric store at the corner of Sint Nicolaasstraat. One witness said they heard a knock before seeing a girl stabbed in the back, with the attacker fleeing the scene.

The police have arrested a suspect, but the motive for the attack is still unknown.

What also remains unclear is whether there was one or multiple crime scenes. While the stabbing is confirmed to have occurred on Sint Nicolaasstraat, witnesses also mentioned a stabbing on Gravenstraat, which could indicate that the attacker struck in more than one location.

Dam Square open to the public again

After initially diverting trams and asking people to avoid the Dam, the square has now been reopened to the public.

However, the shock persists, and many stores remain closed for now.

Authorities have asked anyone with footage of the attack to share it with the police as they investigate.

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

21 best day trips from Amsterdam: the ultimate travel guide

Thinking about taking a day trip from Amsterdam? Wat leuk! (How nice!) There is heaps to see in the Dutch capital, but you can discover even more outside of the city. 

Picking what to do and see in a short time can be confusing and complicated โ€” but we have some top travel recommendations, no matter what you want to explore!

Here are 19 of the best day trips you can take from Amsterdam, sorted by distance. ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Day trips less than 30 minutes from Amsterdam

If you wonโ€™t be in the city for long, a 30-minute day trip from Amsterdam is perfect for getting out of the city for a day! Here are our top picks for nearby towns and cities. 


1. Zaanse Schans: a picture-perfect town of windmills

A trip to the Netherlands would be incomplete without seeing windmills โ€” and thereโ€™s no better way to see them than in the historical town of Zaanse Schans. ๐Ÿƒ

This quaint village gives visitors an accurate impression of Dutch living in the 17th and 18th centuries.

READ MORE | The perfect weekend trip from Amsterdam: How to spend two days in the Zaan region

From cheese and dairy factories to traditional windmills and historical museums, youโ€™ll live, breathe, and experience the old Zaan style of living. Classic!

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 21 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Zaanse Schans, 17 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Zaanse windmills, Honig Breethuis, Museumwinkel


2. Haarlem: the river city

An ideal day trip from Amsterdam, Haarlem is located between the Spaarne River and coastal dunes โ€” did someone say beach? ๐Ÿ–

Canalside-view-of-Haarlem-in-the-Netherlands
Wouldn’t you just love to take a walk along the Spaarne river? โœจ Image: Depositphotos

This city has everything: bustling markets and shopping streets, plenty of family-friendly cultural activities like museums, comedy clubs, concerts, and cuisine choices to die for. ๐Ÿด

If youโ€™re looking for a change of scenery but still want to have lots of activities to do, Haarlem is the place for you. 

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 30 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Haarlem, 19 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: St. Bavoโ€™s Kerk (church), Grote Markt, Bloemendaal aan Zee


3. Broek in Waterland: a village fit for sea captains

Broek in Waterland made a name for itself back in the 16th century โ€” a popular vacation destination for sea captains! ๐Ÿง‘๐Ÿปโ€โœˆ

If youโ€™re looking for a getaway from the big city, Broek in Waterland is the definition of an idyllic Dutch town. 

READ MORE | The 10 best authentic Dutch villages that you have to visit

With a population of fewer than 2,500 people, this village has quiet streets and picturesque nature. ๐ŸŒฟ

Old-traditional-harbour-of-Broek-in-waterland
A perfectly picturesque harbour. ๐Ÿ›ถ Image: Depositphotos

Its standout feature is its traditional wooden houses, with more than 80 of them considered National Heritage Sites. 

There are also lots of biking and walking routes nearby. If youโ€™re looking to get some fresh air and exercise while on a day trip from Amsterdam, check out the biking tours around the town!

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 14 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Broek in Waterland, 18 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Traditional village townhouses


4. Marken: a former island in the Zuiderzee

Marken was separated from the Dutch mainland in the 13th century by a storm, turning it into an island in the Markermeer lake. โ›ˆ๏ธ 

Residents of the town built wooden houses on artificial hills to prevent more flooding damage. To this day, these picturesque homes remain a popular cultural attraction. 

Only nine kilometres in area, you can easily walk across the whole town and island.

On your walk, you can visit the cosy town harbour or enjoy the scenic route of fields, forests, and the lakeshore. ๐Ÿšฃ๐Ÿผ

This lovely town has historical connections to Volendam, so you could make it a longer day trip from Amsterdam and visit two towns with one ferry. ๐Ÿ˜‰

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 27 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Marken, 45 minutesย 
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Paard van Marken Lighthouse, The Marken Museum


5. Volendam: a traditional Dutch fishing town

Volendam is the best-known fishing village in the Netherlands. You can visit the old harbour full of traditional Dutch ships, many of which are still in use! ๐ŸŽฃ

This day trip from Amsterdam would be incomplete without trying some of the fish delicacies โ€” you can finally conquer your fear of raw haring (herring) and smoked eel, or stick to the delicious kibbeling (deep-fried codfish). 

Volendam-seaside-villages-and-town
Volendam offers a beautiful seaside town, fresh ocean air, and delicious food. Image: Depositphotos

Volendam is also one of the few towns where you can experience the traditional Dutch clothing style.

Itโ€™s surely the most recognisable traditional Dutch costume, with charming hats and clogs (not everyone wears them, so theyโ€™re extra special). You can even wear the clothes yourself for a souvenir picture!


Day trips less than one hour from Amsterdam

If you have a little more time on your hands, these day trips from Amsterdam are worth checking out!

Theyโ€™re just a tad further away from the Dutch capital, but youโ€™ll find some beautiful monuments and sites if you make the trip. 


6. Hoorn: the pearl of the IJsselmeer

Hoorn is located by the IJsselmeer, an artificial sea-turned-lake in Noord-Holland. This harbour town has a lively centre with plenty of shops, terraces, and restaurants to enjoy.

If you’re looking for an authentic Dutch maritime village, Hoorn is the go-to choice. 

Old-harbour-of-Hoorn-in-the-Netherlands
An artificial island destination, this day trip from Amsterdam is plenty of fun. Image: Depositphotos

You can also check out historical monuments like the historic ship and 16th-century warehouses, the defence tower built in the 16th century, and the Oosterkerk (Eastern Church) for fishers and sailors!

If you want to get active, you can try out some water sports (although we canโ€™t guarantee comfortable water temperatures ๐Ÿฅถ) or take a walk on the beach and dunes around the area. ๐Ÿšถ๐Ÿป

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 35 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Hoorn, 33 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Westfries Museum, The Red Square, De Hoornse Straatjes


7. Leiden: the city of arts and sciences

With canals and architecture to rival Amsterdam, Leiden might be one of the most underrated places for a day trip from Amsterdam.

We should know โ€” itโ€™s home to our headquarters and one of our favourite Dutch cities! ๐Ÿ˜‰

A walk through the city centre will show you all the trendy restaurants, bars, and cafรฉs on offer.

Leiden is also home to cute, unique shops where you can buy handmade ceramics, old-fashioned mechanical wristwatches, and vintage records. 

A university city since 1575, Leiden has been a prominent art and science centre of the world.

The inner city is full of museums and historical buildings like the Leiden Citadel and the old city gates. It was also home to more Dutch artists than you might expect โ€” Rembrandt, Steen, and more! ๐Ÿ‘จ๐Ÿผโ€๐ŸŽจ

Plenty of trains pass through Leiden, making it a convenient day trip from Amsterdam. ๐Ÿ˜Œ

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 42 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Leiden Centraal, 43 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Hortus Botanicus Leiden, Hooglandse Kerk, Museum de Lakenhal


8. Utrecht: the very centre of the Dutch mainland

Utrecht is the Netherlands’ bright, beating heart, connecting the east to the west at the centre of the Netherlands.

Built around the Dom Tower, you can see this spectacular monument from all around the city โ€” so you’ll never get lost!

The historic city is surrounded by an old moat called De Singel, built for defence in the 12th century.

One of the most special parts of Utrecht is its unique terraces: landings right next to the canals that thrive with bars and restaurants. 

Terraces-on-canals-in-Utrecht
Combining two very Dutch things: canals and terraces! Image: Depositphotos

With lots of places to shop and eat, cultural spots like museums and concert halls, access to nature, and beautiful inner-city sites, you wonโ€™t run out of things to do in Utrecht

This city is a super convenient day trip from Amsterdam because of the direct intercity train (the fast train that travels between cities) that runs four times an hour. The journey is less than 30 minutes! ๐Ÿš…

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 44 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Utrecht Centraal, 26 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: The Dom Tower, Rietveld Schrรถder House, Hoog Catharijne


9. Rotterdam: a city with an unmatched skyline

A city of skyscrapers, bright buildings, and modern facades, Rotterdam is the metropolis of the Netherlands. ๐Ÿ™

Rotterdam was heavily bombed during World War II, which is why you see far less iconic Dutch architecture from the 17th century, like in Amsterdam or Leiden.  

The city has a thriving nightlife scene, sophisticated shopping streets and markets, hip cultural attractions, and a wealth of good food.

Rotterdam might be best known for its expansive port and the iconic skyline that graces the river Maas. โ›ด

Itโ€™s also another convenient day trip from Amsterdam with direct intercity trains running every 15 minutes from the central stations!

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 1 hour and 1 minute
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Rotterdam Centraal, 41 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Markthal, The Euromast, The Cube Houses, Blijdorp Zoo


10. The Hague: city of international peace and justice

The Hague is the political capital of the Netherlands, making it a perfect pairing for a day trip from Amsterdam, the cultural capital.

This Dutch city, filled with historical monuments and museums, is the only major city with a beach and has an international scene second to none in the Netherlands. 

the-hague-parliament-building-binnenhof
The Hague is home to the Dutch parliament. Image: Depositphotos

You can enjoy a beautiful city centre with places to eat and shop to your heartโ€™s desire, or perhaps go hiking in one of many scenic locations in the Hague like the Haagse Bos. 

If youโ€™re looking to dip your feet in the (albeit, freezing) sea, look no further than Scheveningen Pier.

Itโ€™s the perfect place to sit by the beach, grab a drink, and enjoy the sea, whether itโ€™s doing water sports or just lounging. ๐Ÿ™‚

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 58 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Den Haag Centraal, 53 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Peace Palace, Buitenhof, Madurodam, Scheveningen Pier and Boardwalk


11. Delft: home to Vermeer and Delft Blaauw

Delft has an international reputation for being the hometown of Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer and the originator of Delft Blaauw (Delft Blue) pottery.

It is the definition of a full-sized city with a small-town feeling โ€” gezellig! ๐Ÿ”ต

View-of-main-square-in-Delf-the-Netherlands
Delft has a stunning main square โ€” it makes for the perfect place to start your adventure in this lovely town! Image: Depositphotos

The city boasts beautiful architecture and historical sights like the Eastern Gate from the old city walls to the New Church of Delft.

If youโ€™re curious about experiencing another student city, Delftโ€™s busy nightlife will keep you up on your feet all night long. ๐Ÿ’ƒ๐Ÿป

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 59 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Delft, 1 hour and 5 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Delft City Hall, Old Church of Delft


12. Gouda: the birthplace of iconic Dutch cheese 

Which came first, the cheese or the city? For Gouda, the city is the namesake for this world-famous cheese. ๐Ÿง€

Itโ€™s a surprisingly old city with plenty of old monuments and buildings from as early as the 13th century, like the city hall (formerly surrounded by a moat!) and St. Johnโ€™s Church. 

Saint-John's-church-tower-in-the-city-of-Gouda-the-netherlands
Gouda has beautiful scenery in this modern landscape. Image: Depositphotos

The city is quaint, but the centre bustles with shops, restaurants, bars, and cafรฉs.

Check out the weekly Markt (market) on Thursdays and Saturdays and the first Fairtrade Street in the Netherlands, where all street food is sustainably produced and sold!

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 1 hour
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Gouda, 53 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Gouda cheese market, Old City Hall, The Waag (weigh house) Museum


13. Schiedam: home to the worldโ€™s tallest windmill

Yep, you heard that right! While there are windmills all around the Netherlands, Schiedam has the tallest traditional windmills of all, standing at 26.6 metres. ๐Ÿƒ

Tall windmills for a tall group of people, it seems. ๐Ÿคท๐Ÿป

Tallest-windmill-in-Schiedam-the-netherlands
Take a look at how tall this windmill is! It’s almost unbelievable. ๐Ÿคฏ Image: Depositphotos

Schiedam is also known for being the Netherlandsโ€™ gin capital, with the city producing the most jenever (also known as Dutch gin) in the country.

There are also multiple bars museums where you can check out the production process. ๐Ÿธ

Apart from windmills and gin, you can visit Gothic cathedrals, 14th-century churches, and history museums, creating an excellent combination of culture and recreation in one day trip from Amsterdam!

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 55 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Schiedam Centrum, 1 hour and 8 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: National Jenever Museum, Jenever โ€˜t Spul, Liduina Basilica, Stedelijk Museum Schiedam


Day trips over an hour from Amsterdam

If youโ€™re looking to get out of the region and visit a far-off place (for Dutch standards), here are some longer day trips from Amsterdam!


14. Dordrecht: a historic trading port

Dordrecht is the oldest city in Holland (we mean the old province of Holland and not the so-called โ€œcountryโ€!).

There are plenty of cultural spots, including seven churches and several historical monuments-turned-museums. 

Harbour-and-canal-in-dordrecht-the-netherlands
You can spend a whole day just walking along the canals of Dordrecht. Image: Depositphotos

While most of the Netherlands is surrounded by canals and dikes, water and boats make a unique part of Dordrechtโ€™s cityscape. 

As an old trading port, there are plenty of historic boats scattered around the old harbours connected by canals. On your day trip from Amsterdam, check out the canal network and catch a boat tour! ๐Ÿšค 

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 1 hour and 5 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Dordrecht Centraal, 1 hour and 34 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Dordrechtsmuseum, Munt van Holland (Mint of Holland), Grote Kerk


15. Tilburg: Dutch textile central

Tilburg is the second-largest city in Noord Brabant and is a city with a focus on turning old into new. โœจ

Originally famous for its textile industry, the city has now made a name for itself for its energetic street art, world-class museums, urban scene, and as one of the greenest cities in the Netherlands. 

Donโ€™t miss a trip to the LocHal library, a former warehouse converted into a library and the 2019 World Building of the Year!

If you go on your day trip from Amsterdam in July, Tilburg runs a 10-day fair that draws more than a million visitors every year. ๐ŸŽก

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 1 hour and 28 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Tilburg Centraal, 1 hour and 52 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Textielmuseum, Stadsmuseum Tilburg, Tilburg Kermis


16. Groningen: the hidden gem of the north

Despite being far away from most big cities, Groningen attracts many travel buffs, making it the perfect day trip from Amsterdam if you really want to get out of your surroundings. 

Groningen has a compact city centre with restaurants and shops, beautiful sites like the Martini Tower and Grote Markt, and contemporary art museums. ๐Ÿ—ผ

As a student city, Groningen has exciting nightlife โ€” plenty of clubs and bars included. ๐Ÿ˜‰

Along with an energetic centre, quiet countryside surrounds Groningen city, which you can enjoy.

You can hike on one of the beautiful trails through the dunes and along the coast or take a cycle route around artificial hills, forests, and old forts. 

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 2 hours
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Groningen Station, 2 hours
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Groninger Museum, Martinitoren, Groningen City Centre


17. Den Helder: city of the sun

Surrounded by water on three sides, Den Helder is a maritime city at heart.

On the northernmost point of the Dutch coast, the city has a lot of naval sights to see, including the largest naval base in the Netherlands. 

Den Helder boasts a rich history with the largest Dutch naval base, a historic harbour, and fascinating marine attractions, including the North Sea Aquarium and three museum ships (museums housed in historic ships from the Dutch Navy!). 

If youโ€™re seeking nature and scenery, the city has a wide variety of landscapes โ€” you can take a refreshing hike around the dunes and polders surrounding the Wadden Sea. 

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 1 hour and 10 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Den Helder, Steiger TESO, 1 hour and 40 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Fort Kijkduin, The Marine Museum, Lange Jaap Lighthouse


18. Giethoorn: Venice of the Netherlands

A picture-perfect landscape, Giethoorn is an almost entirely car-free village, replaced with boats and, of course, bicycles.

READ MORE | 14 glorious things to do in Giethoorn in 2025

You donโ€™t want to miss a boat tour around this scenic town or a pleasant hike around the area. ๐Ÿšถ๐Ÿป

Giethoorn is a Dutch town through and through โ€” with winding canals, countless boats, and quaint matching houses, it doesnโ€™t get more gezellig than this. ๐Ÿง˜๐Ÿป

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 1 hour and 26 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Blauwe Hand Bus Station, 2 hours
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Boat tour through Giethoorn, Gondola festival, Giethoorn walking route


19. Bourtange: the medieval fortress village

While the name suggests a beautiful rural town in France, Bourtange is actually in the Netherlands! Although, it might be the longest day trip from Amsterdam yet. 

This small village is a perfectly restored fortress town from medieval times in the north, built in the shape of a star. โญ๏ธ

Aerial-view-of-bourtange-village-in-the-netherlands
Literally and figuratively a star of a town! ๐Ÿคฉ Image: Depositphotos

With a population of 430 people, there isnโ€™t much room for proper shopping โ€” but you can check out smaller quirky shops with Delfs Blaauw pottery, candles, other gifts, and trinkets. 

We recommend exploring the medieval architecture which youโ€™ll find all over the city. From fortified walls and traditional houses to windmills, visiting Bourtange is like visiting a village-sized museum!

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 2 hours and 35 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Bourtange Bus Station, 3 hours and 16 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: City fortifications, Church of Bourtange


20. Texel: a Dutch island escape

For a breath of fresh air on your day trip from Amsterdam, hop on a ferry to Texel, the largest of the Wadden Islands in the north of the Netherlands.

Just a short trip from the mainland, this island is a perfect escape from city life, offering stunning nature, charming villages, and plenty of activities for every type of traveler.

Eierland-lighthouse-in-texel
Yes, this is the Netherlands! Image: Depositphotos

One of the best ways to explore Texel is by bike โ€” with over 140 kilometres of cycling paths, you can easily ride through Duinen van Texel National Park, a breathtaking coastal reserve with dunes, forests, and heathlands.

Beach lovers can relax on De Koog, one of Texelโ€™s most famous beach towns, or take a mudflat walking tour during low tide to experience the seabed up close. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or craving a beach day, Texel is for you.

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 2 hours and 14 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by public transport: Amsterdam Centraal – Den Helder – Texel, 3 hours and 9 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: National Park Duinen van Texel, Eierland Lighthouse, beaches

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21. Zierikzee: historic harbour vibes

For a mix of history, seaside beauty, and authentic Dutch culture, Zierikzee is a hidden gem worth discovering on a day trip from Amsterdam.

Located in Zeeland, this medieval town boasts over 500 monuments, including the impressive Sint-Lievensmonstertoren, which you can climb for panoramic views of the coastline.

A stroll through the picturesque harbour brings you past centuries-old fishing boats, and a visit to the Maritime Museum will teach you all about the townโ€™s seafaring past.

Foodies, you’re in luck: The region is famous for its seafood, so donโ€™t miss the chance to indulge in fresh Zeeland oysters, mussels, or lobster at a waterfront restaurant.

๐Ÿš— Travel time by car: 2 hours and 20 minutes
๐Ÿšƒ Travel time by public transport: Amsterdam Centraal – Zierikzee, Sas, 2 hours and 51 minutes
โญ Donโ€™t miss: Oosterschelde National Park, harbours

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How to get around the Netherlands for day trips

There are a couple of ways to get around for day trips in the Netherlands, depending on what youโ€™re comfortable with: taking public transport, hiring a car, and cycling. 

Using the Dutch public transport system for day trips

Public transport in the Netherlands is reliable and easy to use โ€” most big cities have trains, trams, and buses, and some, like Rotterdam and Amsterdam, even have metros and ferries. 

If youโ€™re travelling between cities and towns, you can buy many types of (cheap) train tickets. The day ticket is the most common and accessible ticket to travel on any train during off-peak hours.

READ MORE | 21 beautiful towns in the Netherlands that arenโ€™t Amsterdam

You can buy tickets on most trams and buses within cities. Metro and train stations have machines to buy tickets. The Netherlands also has an extensive night public transport system that you can use.

taking-the-amsterdam-public-tram-system-on-day-trips-from-amsterdam
Several of the bigger cities, like Amsterdam, are also home to their own tram networks. Image: Freepik

An OV-chipkaart (public transport card) can be the easiest option if you plan to make a lot of day trips from Amsterdam using public transport.

You can place credit on the card so you can check in and out of the turnstiles with ease.

You can usually buy an anonymous OV-chipkaart in the major train stations. Just go to the NS service desk and ask to buy one!

Hiring a car to visit Dutch towns and cities

There are five major car rental companies where you can hire a car: Avis Budget, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt.

If youโ€™re flying into Schiphol Airport, you can rent a car from one of these companies directly at the airport. You can pre-book a car or just go with the flow and see whatโ€™s there on the day!

If youโ€™re arriving in Amsterdam another way, these car rental companies have rental locations in the city itself. 

Biking on a day trip from Amsterdam

Biking around your desired day trip city is a great way to get a feel for Dutch cycling culture! 

READ MORE | 17 reasons why biking is king in the Netherlands

If you have a personal OV chipkaart (only available to residents of the Netherlands), you can go full circle and rent an OV-fiets.

photo-of-man-and-woman-cycling-on-their-day-trips-from-amsterdam
Cycling is hands down the best way to get around a city in the Netherlands. Image: Depositphotos

The NS has set up bicycle rental locations at most train stations, bus and metro stops, and P+R facilities which you can rent for a few hours at a time. 

If you only have an anonymous OV-chipkaart or none at all, you can rent a bicycle from companies in Amsterdam.

Different types of bicycles are available for hourly/daily rates. We promise you donโ€™t have to bike like a seasoned Dutchie โ€” but do be careful on the bike paths. 


What’s your favourite spot for a day trip from Amsterdam? Leave some suggestions in the comments!

Day trips from Amsterdam: frequently asked questions

What are the best day trips from Amsterdam?

Where can I see windmills near Amsterdam?

Where can I see tulips near Amsterdam?

Can you do a day trip from Amsterdam to Bruges?

Where is it easy to travel to from Amsterdam?

What’s close to Amsterdam by train?

Does the Netherlands have Daylight Saving Time?

The tricky thing about the time in the Netherlands is that it’s always changing โ€” or at least twice a year, when Daylight Saving Time starts and ends. โฐ

Daylight Saving Time can be tricky, especially in the Netherlands, where it isn’t always obvious when you’ve entered a new season (thanks, irregular weather). ๐Ÿ™„

So, if you want to stay up to date with Daylight Saving Time in the Netherlands, read on! ๐Ÿ‘‡

Does the Netherlands have Daylight Saving Time?

In a nutshell, yes, the Netherlands has Daylight Saving Time. That means twice a year, the clock is set an hour forward or back.ย 

It also means that every time we switch to winter time, it’s super common to hear: “Wow! How is it so dark already?!” ๐Ÿ˜ฉ

netherlands-sunset-evening-during-daylight-savings-time-scaled
During winter, the sun sets earlier than usual since clocks go back one hour in October. Image: Pixabay

Time zones in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has one standard time zone: CET (Central European Time), and another one during Daylight Saving Time: CEST (Central European Summer Time).ย 

The standard time zone of the Netherlands, CET (Central European Time), is one hour ahead of UTC (Universal Time Coordinated). 

Daylight Saving Time (DST) marks the beginning of summer, and, more specifically, the switch from the standard Central European Time to the Central European Summer Time

More specifically, the standard time zone changes to CEST (Central European Summer Time) when the clock moves one hour forward in March, which kicks off the season of Daylight Saving. โ˜€๏ธ

TimeTime zoneUniversal time
Standard Time CET (Central European Time)UTC +1
Daylight Saving TimeCEST (Central European Summer Time)UTC +2

Upcoming clock changes in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, Daylight Saving Time begins on the last Sunday of March and ends on the last Sunday of October.ย 

In March 2025, the clock change will mark the beginning of Daylight Saving Time in the Netherlands, which is also the beginning of Central European Summer Time. โฐ

On Sunday, March 30, 2025 at 02:00:00, clocks are turned forward 1 hour to Sunday, March 30, 2025, 03:00:00 Daylight Saving Time instead.

The next clock change will happen in October and will mark the end of Daylight Saving Time in the Netherlands. 

On Sunday, October 26, 2025 at 03:00:00, clocks are turned backwards 1 hour to Sunday, 26, October 2025, 02:00:00 local standard time.

Why does the Netherlands use Daylight Saving Time?

The Netherlands uses DST for the same reason every other country does: to make better use of their daylight! ๐ŸŒ†

When the winter season rolls in, daylight hours get shorter and shorter, which makes it quite hard for those who work outside and need sunlight to carry on with their tasks. 

Take it from the farmers, researchers, and archaeologists, who all need that precious sunlight to see their crops, plant samples, or find 100 million-year-old dinosaur bones.

photo-of-man-working-outside-thanks-to-daylight-savings-time
Farmers need loads of daylight to work. Thanks, Daylight Saving Time! Image: Pexels

Moving the clock one hour back gives workers who depend on sunlight more working hours in the morning, so they can profit from those powerful light beams! โ˜€๏ธ

READ MORE | The Dutch and time: how their language shows they are planning maniacs

The first country to implement Daylight Saving Time was Canada in 1908, so they could extend their daylight hours for longer and use them more efficiently.ย 

A short history of Daylight Saving Time in the Netherlands

The history of Daylight Saving Time in the Netherlands finds its origins in its neighbour, Germany.ย 

On April 30, 1916, Germany became the first entire country to implement DST โ€” but the Canadian region of Port Arthur in Ontario was the first area to implement it.ย 

The next day, on June 1, 1916, the Netherlands followed the Germans’ lead and started using Daylight Saving Time.  

Unfortunately, history doesn’t stop there. Between 1940 and 1942, German forces, which invaded the Netherlands during WWII, advanced the country’s local time by 1 hour and 40 minutes to match the occupiers’ clock schedules. 

This changed the Netherlands’ time zone from the standard Dutch Time to the Central European Summer Time. 

Until 1945, the Netherlands followed the German clocks along with its Daylight Savings switches. After WWII, the Netherlands abolished Daylight Saving Time but kept Central European Time as its standard time zone. 

The Netherlands stopped using DST for three decades and reintroduced it in 1977, which remains the same to the present day.

Debate over Daylight Saving Time in the Netherlands

Not everyone is on the same page when it comes to having Daylight Savings in the Netherlands. 

After the European Union standardised DST for all countries within the European Economic Area (EEA) (except for Iceland), it sparked a lot of debate. 

On March 26, 2019, the EU decided to remove DST from their plans.ย 

Though, none of the member states decided whether they wanted to keep the winter or summer time, so that decision is yet to be made. ๐Ÿคท๐Ÿปโ€โ™€๏ธ

Will the Netherlands ever get rid of Daylight Saving Time? 

While many European countries prefer scrapping DST, the Netherlands seems to favour it โ€” after all, it allows us to make better use of daylight hours when the seasons change. 

Many people find changing their clocks twice a year quite a fuss. It can also have negative effects on people’s mental and physical health, such as sleep deprivation and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases.ย 

Woman-with-brown-curly-hair-looking-sad-about-daylight-savings-time
You can also get SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) from Daylight Saving Time. Yes, that’s a thing. Image: Depositphotos

So, until now, the Netherlands will keep practising DST, and, each year, people will keep getting surprised at how it gets dark so early in the day.

Are you for or against Daylight Saving Time in the Netherlands? Tell us why in the comments below! ๐Ÿ‘‡

Daylight Saving in the Netherlands: Frequently asked questions

What time zone does the Netherlands use?

How does Daylight Saving work in the Netherlands?

When do clocks go back in the Netherlands?

When do clocks go forward in the Netherlands?

Does the Netherlands have two time zones?

Over 1000 kilos of cheese stolen from Brabant award-winners in ‘premeditated’ heist

In a crime so bold it sounds like a Netflix special, a group of thieves broke into a North Brabant cheese shop last Friday and made off with over a ton of cheese.ย 

The shop JUST won gold at the National Cheese Inspection, so owner Wilco de Crom is devastated, he tells Omroep Brabant.

Now he’s suspicious that their recent prize makes this robbery more “Ocean’s Eleven” than random hit. ๐Ÿ‘€

Wheelbarrowing the wheels away

The thieves used a van, a neighborโ€™s pasture, AND the cheesemakerโ€™s wheelbarrow to meticulously empty three of four cheese trucks, each containing 350 kilos.

By the time Wilcoโ€™s colleague arrived on Saturday morning to pick up a truck, he was met with the grim scene: the door had been forced open, and the cheese was gone.

READ MORE | Letโ€™s talk kaas: cheese tourism in the Netherlands

Thatโ€™s over 1,000 kilos of buttery brilliance vanished in just one hour. ๐Ÿ˜ข

“This can only have been done with premeditation,” said the owner. Nieuwerwets cheese shopโ€™s award-winning stock is hardly budget, after all.

See it, say it, report it

Security footage from neighbours shows the suspectsโ€™ van charging through a hedge like a dairy-fueled action movie.

Wilco believes the cheese will inevitably appear for sale somewhere, and calls on loyal customers to let him know if they spot it.

Check your next market for cheese that looks suspiciously glorious โ€” oh, and expensive, though Wilco is still hesitant to share its exact worth. ๐Ÿง€๐Ÿ’ธ

Seen any sketchy cheese lately? Step up, fellow sleuths โ€” letโ€™s bring these dairy bandits to justice! ๐Ÿ•ต๏ธโ€โ™€๏ธ

Former Groningen mayor is appealing his public masturbation conviction

After being convicted of ‘indecent assault’ for masturbating in public, the former Groningen mayor Koen Schuiling wants to appeal.

He claims he had his belt undone because of a different kind of relief โ€” massaging his stomach due to severe abdominal pain, AD reports.

It’s not about the money

Schuiling received a fine of โ‚ฌ250 for masturbating in public last March, but refused to pay it. He saw it as an admission of something he claims he didn’t do.

Since he resisted the fine, he had to go to court, where he was found guilty of ‘indecent assault’ and asked to pay the โ‚ฌ250 again. ๐Ÿ˜ฌ

More time in court

Unsurprisingly, the former mayor is unhappy with the ruling and has filed an appeal. He still claims that what the driver had seen was a lower stomach massage.

But it’s not just about the principle โ€” Schuiling wants to continue working, and a criminal conviction could stand in the way.

READ MORE | Why driving in the Netherlands is stressful: My experience of living in the Netherlands

According to Schuiling’s lawyer, they are still not certain whether they will go through with the appeal. They just filed it within the allotted time to allow for revisions.

Chaos on the highway

The incident that landed Schuiling in court took place last March when a truck driver saw him masturbating on the A7.

A colleague advised the driver to report the former mayor, according to NU.nl.

As it turns out, this wasn’t the first time the police received reports about Schuiling โ€” he had been seen without any pants on in a gas station parking lot a few months earlier.

Get more from DutchReview! Join ourย WhatsApp channelย orย Instagram broadcastย to get the latest news straight to your pocket. โšก๏ธ

Feature Image: De Balie/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0

13 things that I love about Dutch people as an international

The Dutch โ€” practical yet, playful, direct but never dull, and always effortlessly gezelling.

They have a way of doing things that’s both fascinating and, let’s be honest, slightly enviable. ๐Ÿ˜

But what exactly makes Dutch culture so uniquely charming? Is it their ability to cycle through torrential rain without flinching? Or is there some secret ingredient in all that cheese?

Time to find out! Grab a coffee (you’ll blend right in) and dive into 13 things we absolutely love about Dutch people!

1. You always know what a Dutch person is thinking

Wondering whatโ€™s on a Dutch personโ€™s mind? No need. Theyโ€™ll make it crystal clear.

READ MORE: Be overwhelmingly direct and never beat around the bush

Picture this: youโ€™ve spent hours cooking, serve it with a flourish, and they casually mention that they โ€œdonโ€™t like pasta.โ€ Ouch? Maybe. Refreshing? Absolutely.

But hereโ€™s the thing: with the Dutch, youโ€™ll always know where to stand. There are no mind games, just the truth. And honestly (pun intended), isnโ€™t that kind of beautiful?โœจ

2.  Dutch people arenโ€™t afraid to be sarcastic

So yes, now you know the Dutch are blunt, but did you know theyโ€™re sarcastic, too? If they roast you, they mean it (met liefde, of course). 

Their humour is sharp, dry, and, again, unapologetically honest. Nothing is safe, whether politics, weather, or your wobbly cycling skills.

But thatโ€™s the magic of it! Itโ€™s raw, real, and โ€” best of all โ€” they donโ€™t take themselves too seriously, which makes it all the more brilliant!

3.  Most Dutch people speak multiple languages

Ah, the Dutch โ€” fluent in more languages than you have unread Duolingo notifications. ๐Ÿฆ

READ MORE: Why are the Dutch so good at speaking English?

One minute, theyโ€™re chatting in flawless English; the next, theyโ€™re negotiating in German, and just when you think you’ve caught up, boom, effortless Italian.

And you? Youโ€™re still trying to pronounce Scheveningen without sounding like a confused tourist. Come on, leave some glory for the rest of us!

4. Theyโ€™re passport pros who canโ€™t stay put

Have you ever chatted with someone from the Netherlands and felt theyโ€™ve ticked off every destination possible? Fact: Dutchies genuinely seem to have been everywhere.โœˆ๏ธ

One day, they’re backpacking through Argentina, the next sipping flat whites in Melbourne, or casually discovering a random coastal village near Rome known only to nonnas (true story!). 

Dutch-people-going-to-the-airport
Dutchies love to travelโ€”just take one look at Schiphol, and you’ll see it’s always buzzing with activity! Image: Freepik.

A side-effect of their adventurous spirit? Thereโ€™s nowhere safe. Even on your most obscure, remote holiday spot, the Dutch will find you.๐Ÿง

5. Gouda? Sure. But also guacamole

Sure, the Netherlands blessed the world with cheese and hagelslag, but theyโ€™ve also fully embraced sushi, tacos, and overpriced kombucha from Albert Heijn.

With a mix of international foodies and adventurous Dutch taste buds, the country has turned into a global snack haven.๐ŸŒ

READ MORE: How international cuisine is changing Dutch tastebuds

For internationals, that means almost no more desperate ingredient hunts โ€” just a casual trip to the supermarket that feels like a world tour, no passport necessary.

6. The Dutch work to live, not live to work 

Dutch people have cracked the code to the perfect work-life balance and will do it without sweat.

Lunch breaks are for eating (not emails), and once the clock strikes five? Itโ€™s borrel time, baby! ๐Ÿป Free time is sacred, guarded with the same intensity as โ€˜โ€™The Night Watchโ€™โ€™. 

International-workers-and-dutch-workers-working-in-the-netherlands-having-a-drink-after-work-at-borrel
No one gets in the way of a Dutchies free time. Image: Depositphotos

Sure, some jobs and Dutchies break this rule, but OECD data proves that, generally, the Dutch work to live and not the other way around.

7. The Dutch keep it practical

Why overcomplicate life when you can justโ€ฆnot? The Dutch sure donโ€™t. Theyโ€™re efficiency wizards, and itโ€™s very impressive. ๐Ÿง™โ€โ™‚๏ธ

Raining? Throw on a raincoat and cycle through it. Moving day? Forget the movers. Call some friends, rig a pulley, and squeeze that couch through the window. And when hunger strikes, just toss a verspakket into the pan โ€” one pot, zero stress.

While the rest of the world overcomplicates things, the Dutch keep it lekker simpel! Practicality is their superpower, and weโ€™re taking notes.

8. Their commitment to gezellige moments

Nothing, and we mean nothing, stands between the Dutch and their gezellige moments.

They donโ€™t just endure winter; they romance it with wine, wool socks, and enough candles to make the fire department sweat. 

photo-of-woman-on-couch-surrounded-by-candles-and-dreary-weather-outside-enjoying-quiet-moment
Gezelligheid is a way of life. Image: Freepik

Call it survival, call it genius, but one thingโ€™s clear: if cosiness were an Olympic sport, the Netherlands would take home gold (and celebrate with an obscene amount of bitterballen). ๐Ÿฅ‡

9. How Dutch people canโ€™t live without coffee

The Dutch people and coffee form an inseparable duo. Thereโ€™s always a cup in hand in the morning, noon, or night. They like it extra sterk, black, and bottomless. โ˜•

With coffee shops popping up like tulips in spring (yes, Amsterdamโ€™s got your back), youโ€™re never more than five steps away from your next fix. 

Dutch-people-drinking-coffee-Haarlem
Dutch people enjoy drinking their coffee outside, especially sitting on a terrace. Image: Dreamstime

But the real magic? Koffie and kletsen (chatting) are the glue of Dutch social life โ€” whether itโ€™s a casual date or a deep chat, no plans are required. Simple, informal, and perfect. 

10.  Dutch people make startups as easy as cycling

The Dutch turn ideas into business faster than a bier disappears at a borrel. Armed with boundless creativity, they spot business opportunities everywhere. 

With a knack for innovation, easy startup rules, and investors circling like seagulls over fries, launching a company here feels as natural as dodging tourists on a bike. ๐Ÿšดโ€โ™‚๏ธ

READ MORE: 5 Dutch startups that are changing the game (and theyโ€™re also our neighbours!)

One minute, itโ€™s a wild idea. The next, itโ€™s a thriving company!

11. The way the Dutch turn green thinking into a sport

For the Dutch, living sustainably is just a part of the daily routine, like moaning about the weather (which, letโ€™s face it, is a full-time hobby).

They bike everywhere, turn rooftops into mini jungles, and treat second-hand shopping like a treasure hunt. 

Windmills-in-the-Netherlands
A prime example of how insanely sustainable the Dutch areโ€”and we love to see it! Image: Depositphotos

Even supermarkets join in, tempting us with deposit-return bottles and shelves of vegetarian and vegan alternatives.โ™ป๏ธ

12. Rain or shine, thereโ€™s no staying inside

Dutch people donโ€™t just go outside, they go all in.

A little storm? Ideal boat weather! Grab a beer, throw on a striped tee, and pretend you own that canal. ๐Ÿšค

Hiking is less about the nonexistent hills (fine, thereโ€™s one) and more about showing up in matching ANWB-branded gear like theyโ€™re about to conquer the Alps.

READ MORE: Dutch Quirk #115: Sit on terraces year-round

Jokes aside, rain or wind, nothing stops the Dutch from embracing the outdoors โ€” after all, theyโ€™re not made out of sugar!

13. The Dutch are leaders in equality โ€” but can be better

The Netherlands often tops the charts for gender equality โ€” dads rocking diaper duty, women running businesses, and splitting the bill like pros.

Compared to many places, thatโ€™s real progress. But donโ€™t pop the champagne just yet!

The top still looks a littleโ€ฆwell, mannelijk. The gender gap still lingers, especially for roles like PhDs and leadership positions. 

READ MORE: Patriarchy in disguise โ€” the myth of gender equality in the Netherlands

The Dutch love balance, and while some scales still need a push if true equality is the goal, we still love the effort. Lekker bezig, Nederland! โš–๏ธ


So, there you have it โ€” 13 reasons we canโ€™t help but love the Dutch! From brutal honesty to biking with an entire IKEA haul, theyโ€™re truly one of a kind. 

Whether you love it, fear it, or are still recovering from your first dose of Dutch sarcasm, one thingโ€™s certain: theyโ€™re never boring. Dankjewel, Dutchies!๐Ÿ˜˜

But now, over to you! What do you love about Dutch people? Did we miss something? Drop your thoughts in the comments! ๐Ÿ‘‡๐Ÿ’ฌ

5 reasons why Lyca’s prepaid SIMs are perfect for internationals in the Netherlands

If youโ€™ve recently moved to the Netherlands and are in the process of getting a Dutch phone number, you likely know how difficult it can get. 

You want to find a SIM plan that fits your new Dutch life, while having enough data to keep in touch with friends and family at home. Of course, you also donโ€™t want to overpay.

If those are your priorities, you might want to consider Lycaโ€™s prepaid SIMs. ๐Ÿ‘‡

1. Youโ€™ll get network speeds faster than you can bike

Letโ€™s face it โ€” no one wants a slow network. From minor inconveniences, like being unable to scroll TikTok on your lunch break, to major issues, such as being unable to access your mobile banking app, itโ€™s a real headache.

Thankfully, Lyca operates on KPNโ€™s network, giving you discounted access to one of the fastest and most reliable networks in the Netherlands.

dutch-woman-using-her-lyca-prepaid-sim-subscription-to-call-while-riding-her-bike-through-a-dutch-city-centre
Slow internet? Nee, we don’t know her. ๐Ÿ˜‰ Image: Dreamstime

With median speeds of 133.92 Mbps and 5G compatibility, youโ€™re guaranteed a rock-solid connection whether youโ€™re streaming, mobile gaming, or more. 

READ MORE | Internet speed in the Netherlands: What you need to know

That means you can leave slow internet speeds and endless buffering where they belong โ€” in 2010. ๐Ÿ˜‰

2. You can pay monthly โ€” and adjust your plan as you go

Flexibility is key when choosing a mobile data plan, and Lycaโ€™s prepaid SIMs give you free rein with their monthly terminable subscriptions.

READ MORE | Mobile phones and SIM cards in the Netherlands: ultimate 2025 guide

And, if youโ€™re looking for a handy way to stay on top of your SIM subscription, Lycaโ€™s mobile app is convenient and user-friendly. You can check your credit balance and data availability and switch between plans โ€”ย  the app even sends you reminders to renew your plan or top up your balance.

(Thatโ€™s one less thing for you to worry about, leaving your agenda free for more important things, such as planning coffee dates three weeks in advance like a true Dutchie! โ˜•)

Plus, for those uncertain how long youโ€™ll be staying in the Netherlands, you wonโ€™t be stuck paying for a SIM plan youโ€™re not using.

3. You can easily keep in touch with all your new friends

So youโ€™ve lived here for a few weeks, and youโ€™re finally starting to make some friends โ€” congratulations! ๐Ÿฅณ

If youโ€™re dying to tell them about the cute cats that live down your street, youโ€™ll be thrilled to know that all of Lycaโ€™s prepaid SIMs come with unlimited minutes and texts. 

expat-woman-in-an-office-in-the-Netherlands-catching-up-with-her-new-Dutch-friends-by-calling-them-using-a-Lyca-prepaid-SIM
No need to worry about the length of your call. Image: Dreamstime

To make the process of getting a Dutch phone number faster and stress-free, Lyca also offers prepaid eSIMs and doesnโ€™t require credit checks for any of its prepaid plans.

READ MORE | eSIMs in the Netherlands: The ultimate 2025 guide + the best options

In other words, you can start basically chatting ASAP!

4. Youโ€™ll access affordable plans that wonโ€™t break the bank

Another thing youโ€™ve probably noticed about the Netherlands is that it can get pretty expensive here. ๐Ÿ˜ฌ

Saving money is an absolute must, so itโ€™s a good thing that Lycaโ€™s prepaid SIMs make that super easy for you with plans starting at only โ‚ฌ10 per month.ย 

Looking for affordability and massive data packages? You can even get monthly unlimited data packages, which is a feature rarely found in prepaid SIMs.

READ MORE | Unlimited data SIM cards in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide

(In fact, most major Dutch providers donโ€™t actually offer monthly unlimited data plans for their prepaid SIMs โ€” so, with Lyca, youโ€™re getting a better deal for less money.๐Ÿ’ธ)

If you can commit to the lowlands, you can opt for a one-year prepaid plan that allows you to save an additional 20%. 

5. You can even stay connected while you travel

If youโ€™re keen on taking a jaunt down to the Belgian coast, Lycaโ€™s roaming plans make sure you wonโ€™t break the bank while Google Mapping your way around. 

woman-holding-a-suitcase-in-the-street-and-using-her-phone-to-roam-without-additional-costs-when-travelling-from-the-Nethelrands-to-another-EU-country-using-a-Lyca-prepaid-SIM
Go anywhere in the EU, stress-free. Image: Dreamstime

Even better: with a Dutch SIM card, the EUโ€™s roam like at home policy ensures you donโ€™t have to pay any additional fees while travelling through Europe.

READ MORE | Making international calls from the Netherlands: the best providers in 2025

Although your provider can still set a data limit usage outside of the Netherlands as a part of the EUโ€™s โ€œfair useโ€ policy, Lyca is very generous with its roaming cap. Their unlimited bundle, for example, offers a generous 51GB of data within the EU for only โ‚ฌ40 per month. 

If your needs donโ€™t necessarily require unlimited data, you can get an even more affordable deal. All Lyca prepaid SIMs include at least 10GB of roaming within the EU โ€” so go ahead and listen to all of your Spotify playlists when you travel. ๐ŸŽถ


Providing a fast network, all the flexibility your heart desires, and super affordable prices, Lycaโ€™s prepaid SIMs are the best tools for staying connected as an international in the Netherlands.

Would you give Lyca a try? Let us know in the comments!