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Utilities in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide to gas, electricity, and water

Lyna Meyrer 🇱🇺
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Utilities in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide to gas, electricity, and water

Before you can enjoy your charming new Dutch home, there’s one essential task to tackle: setting up your utilities in the Netherlands. 

Having a smooth flow of heat, electricity and water in your house is crucial, especially on those rainy days when you don’t want to leave the house. 

But how do you get it all set up? Let’s talk about it.

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What do I need to set up my utilities in the Netherlands?

Before you can embark on your Dutch utilities journey, there are a number of important documents that you need to gather. These will be needed by your utility provider to set up your services.

You’ll need:

  • proof of identity (ID card or passport),
  • proof of address (rental contract), and
  • a bank statement or proof of residency from your municipality (gemeente).

It’s also almost always necessary to have a Dutch bank account to set up your utilities in the Netherlands. 

(Psst! Just arrived in the Netherlands? Check out the banks that let you open an account before you get a BSN — AKA the crucial Burgerservicenummer!)

Buying vs renting: the difference when it comes to utilities

It’s important to know that whether you rent or own your home can have an impact on your utilities in the Netherlands.

I’m renting a property in the Netherlands

I’m buying a property in the Netherlands

Electricity and gas in the Netherlands

Now that we got the basics out of the way, let’s move on to the first major utility you’ll need to set up in the Netherlands: electricity and gas.

Electricity and gas in the Netherlands are grouped as “energy supply sources”. Most Dutch homes use electricity as their main source of power, but gas is an option in many homes, too.

woman-sitting-near-heater-using-gas-in-the-netherlands
Many homes use gas as a source of central heating. Image: Freepik

While gas-powered homes use electricity as well (for all things that need electricity), they use gas for things such as heating, stoves, and hot water. 🔌

How to connect electricity and gas to your Dutch home

You’ll be happy to hear that, in most cases, electricity and/or gas will already be hooked up to your Dutch home when you move in. 

All you need to do (ideally before moving in) is choose an energy provider and transfer the services to your name. From then on, all you need to take care of is paying your bills.

Good to know: If you don’t enter into a contract with a provider upon moving, you will be sent a letter by your municipality reminding you to do so. If you still fail to set up gas and electricity, your power will eventually be cut off.

After transferring the utilities to your name, your new provider will usually ask you to provide meter readings. 

To make sure that you only pay for the energy that you actually use (and save money!), we recommend that you make note of these readings on your move-in day. 

How to choose a Dutch electricity and gas provider

The Dutch energy market is privatised, meaning you have the freedom to select a gas and electricity provider that ticks all your boxes. ✅

photo-young-couple-calculating-dutch-energy-bills
Choosing can take some effort, but it’s not as hard as you might think! Image: Depositphotos

The most popular providers of gas and electricity in the Netherlands are:

When choosing the provider that’s right for you, there are a variety of factors you may want to consider. Think of costs, customer service, sustainability, and contractual terms and commitments. 

Tip: An easy way to get an overview of the best providers and their prices is by using a price comparison tool like Energievergelijk.nl, which is fully available in English.

Costs of gas and electricity in the Netherlands

It’s important to know what you can expect to pay for gas and electricity in the Netherlands so that you can stick to your monthly budget (and have some spare change for a biertje or two).

Of course, how much you actually end up paying per month can vary on factors such as your usage, the insulation of your home, the type of contract you sign and, very significantly, the energy label of your home and your appliances.

Energy labels for Dutch homes and appliances

What the frikandel is an energy label? In simple terms, it’s an EU-wide categorisation of homes and devices that indicates how energy-efficient your house or appliance is. 

The rating ranges from A (the most energy-efficient) to G (the least energy-efficient). For apartment buildings, the A-rating is extended to ​​A, A+, A++, A+++ and A++++, where more pluses indicate better energy efficiency. 

man-checking-energy-efficiency-of-house-in-the-netherlands-on-tablet
You can check your home’s energy label online. Image: Freepik
  • For houses, the energy label indicates how energy efficient a house is compared to similar houses.
  • For appliances, the energy label indicates the device’s energy-efficiency and also provides information about the noise level, repairability, and water use, for example.

Appliances that have an energy label include fridges and freezers, washing machines and washer-dryers, dishwashers, televisions, ovens, vacuum cleaners, lighting products, central heating boilers, and air conditioners.

Where your home and appliances lie on the scale can have a major impact on your energy bill. 

READ MORE | How to calculate your utility costs in the Netherlands

How major? Well, a G-labelled home uses a whopping 50% more gas than an A-rated one. As for electricity, homes with a G label use, on average, 15% to 25% more than A-rated ones.

table-with-example-of-dutch-energy-prices-based-on-energy-labels-in-the-netherlands
To give you an example, these are the energy costs of a two-bedroom house of about 60 square metres, based on different energy labels. Source: DutchReview

Average gas usage and cost per month:

How much gas a household consumes mainly depends on the type of house you live in.

Type of homeCost per month
Apartment (Appartement)€112
Row house (Tussenwoning)€139
Corner house (Hoekhuis)€158
Semi-detached home (Tweegezinswoning)€176
Detached home (Vrijstandhuis)€224
Source: Nibud

The average overall price for gas comes out to about €140 per month.

Average electricity usage and cost per month:

The cost of electricity usage mainly comes down to the size of the household (i.e. the number of people). 

Household sizeCost per month
1 person€31
2 people€51
3 people€63
4 people€75
5 or more people€84
Source: Nibud

The overall average price for electricity comes out to about €50 per month.

How to save money on gas and electricity in the Netherlands

Now comes the fun part: saving money! There are a multitude of ways in which you can save some of those hard-earned euros on your energy bill. 

READ MORE | Save money by outsmarting your Dutch utility contracts

Here are our three hottest tips that can help you channel your inner frugal Dutchie:

  • Switch energy providers regularly to always get the best variable rates
  • Run high-energy appliances like the dishwasher at night during reduced rates (yup, they’re a thing!)
  • Turn down your heating at night (sleeping in a cool room is better for you anyway 😉)

TIP: Wanna know more ways to save money on energy costs in the Netherlands? Dat kan! Check out our article on 14 ways to save on energy costs in the Netherlands.

Renewable energy in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a very sustainable country, and it’s on a mission to reach net-zero carbon (CO2) emissions by 2050.

To achieve that goal, the government supports households that switch to green energy by subsidising part of their cost. 

Dutch-sustainable-energy-transition-ECT
The Netherlands has various sources of sustainable energy. Image: Depositphotos

This means that, although green energy is more costly to produce, it often ends up costing the consumer as much (or less!) as non-renewable energy would. 

READ MORE | Renewable energy in the Netherlands: everything you need to know

If having green energy is important to you, then you’ll want to pick a provider that offers green energy. 

Let op! Not everything that’s “green” is actually sustainable — and some providers may be much greener than others. 🚫

It’s pretty easy for Dutch energy suppliers to call themselves green; so always make sure to double-check where your provider’s energy actually comes from. 

If you want guaranteed green energy, it’s worth thinking about solar panels! ☀️  

Water in the Netherlands

Getting water to your Dutch home is not nearly as complex as getting gas and electricity. Phew! 

How to connect water to your Dutch home

Good news: Water is already connected to your home in the Netherlands when you move into it. There is nothing you need to do besides getting a water supply contract in your name.

photo-of-utilities-in-the-netherlands-water
Setting up utilities like water in the Netherlands doesn’t have to be so hard! Image: Unsplash

Water supply providers in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, your water supplier is not chosen by you. Instead, providers are decided by the region you live in — and there are 10 different ones for the entire country. 💦

To find out who your provider is, you can ask your landlord or insert your postcode into this handy tool.

If you live in any of these major Dutch cities, these are your water suppliers: 

AmsterdamWaternet
Den Haag/LeidenDunea
RotterdamEvides
UtrechtVitens
EindhovenBrabant Water
MaastrichtWaterleiding Maatschappij Limburg
GroningenWaterbedrijf Groningen

Once you know who your provider is, you can visit their website to change the name on the contract and provide your Dutch bank details.

Cost of water in the Netherlands

Your total water cost consists of two elements:

  • the cost of your actual water usage (often called “tap water bill”, or drinkwater rekening in Dutch), and 
  • your municipal taxes (gemeentelijke belastingen) for water services such as sewage and maintenance.
inforgraph-explaining-water-bills-utilities-in-the-Netherlands
Make sure that the annual municipal tax doesn’t come as a surprise to your budget. 😉 Image: DutchReview

For water usage, your bill will, of course, depend on the amount of water you use. Waternet estimates a price of:

  • €15.71 per month for a one-person household,
  • €23.05 per month for a two-person household,
  • €30.39 per month for a three-person household, and
  • €37.74 per month for a four-person household.

When it comes to water service taxes, you should budget around €189 for the year (2026) for your water bills if you live alone.

If you live with one or more other people, then you can expect to pay around €453. This covers a water treatment charge and a water system charge.

READ MORE | Top 12 services for expats in the Netherlands to make your life easy

If you own the house you live in, you will need to pay an additional water system charge for buildings of about €65.

How can I pay my utility bills in the Netherlands?

We’ve covered Dutch utilities, providers, and prices; now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of paying your bills. (Yep, turns out they’re pretty strict about that).

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

Usually, utility providers will offer you two standard options to pay your bills: 

  • Automatische incasso (automatic direct debit), where your due amount gets taken straight out of your account every month, or 
  • Manually transfer the amount you owe to your provider each month via internet banking.

Your tax bills for water will be sent to your home address once a year or once per quarter, depending on your municipality. You can typically choose to pay the amount in one go or split it up into multiple payments. 💵

How can I switch utility providers in the Netherlands? 

As you know by now, the utility market in the Netherlands is privatised. 

This means that, in theory, you can switch your gas and electricity contract as much as you like (within your contract, of course). Your water provider, on the other hand, will only change if you move to a different region.

young-couple-using-laptop-to-switch-utility-providers-in-the-netherlands
If your contract allows you to switch, you can usually do so online. Image: Freepik

But why would you choose to switch energy providers? Well, because it can actually be quite profitable! Yup, one of the most efficient ways to save money on utility expenses is to choose your provider wisely and switch regularly. 

READ MORE | To switch or not to switch: here’s how changing energy contracts can save you money 

Another reason to consider a switch could be if you’re looking to make your home more sustainable or if you’re looking for a provider that’s more expat-friendly.

If you want to switch energy providers, the first thing on your to-do list should be to check whether your current contract actually allows you to switch. Since June 1, 2023, providers can fine you if you decide to switch providers before your contract ends.

READ MORE | 14 dang smart ways to save on energy costs in the Netherlands 2026

However, if your plan has an indefinite term, you can switch anytime. 

If you are looking to switch your utility provider, you’ll have to take these two easy steps:

  1. De-register from your old provider. 
  2. Apply to the new provider by providing your new address and an estimate of your monthly or annual usage.

Oftentimes, you can also just contact your new chosen supplier, and they can help you make the change.

Moving and utilities in the Netherlands

Moving house in the Netherlands? Exciting! Unfortunately, that means that you have to deal with setting up your utilities again.

Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be as hard as the first time around. 😅

Transferring utilities to your new address

Moving is stressful enough — so you’ll be happy to hear that one way to make your move a little more manageable is by transferring your existing utility contracts to your new address. 

smiling-man-talking-to-utility-provider-on-mobile-phone-in-the-netherlands
You can easily transfer your services by calling your utility provider. Image: Freepik

Since your energy contract is linked to your personal account with the supplier and not the property, transferring utilities to a new address is easy-breezy!

Cancelling your utility contracts

If you’re moving abroad or want to register with a new supplier in your new home, then it’s time to say goodbye to your utility contract. 

Usually, you can easily de-register from your provider using their online customer portal. Alternatively, you can shoot them a quick e-mail saying you would like to put an end to your contract.

Other services you may want to set up in the Netherlands

Phew! Well done, you’ve officially set up the most important Dutch utilities. 👏

Next up, it’s time to set up your mobile phone and internet. Luckily, we’ve got some guides to help you out:

Need a bank in the Netherlands? How about some useful apps? Or the best savings account? 👇

Feeling ready to tackle your utilities in the Netherlands? Great, take a moment to pat yourself on the back — you’ve just ticked a major task off your to-do list! 

Now, it’s time to enjoy all the wonders that Dutch life has to offer (and maybe some biertjes).

Do you have any more tips about utilities in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments!

Living in Leiden: 5 things to do when you move to Leiden

Veronika Licheva
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Living in Leiden: 5 things to do when you move to Leiden

So you’ve decided you’re going to move to Leiden, congrats! It’s a beautiful Dutch town, and living here will be a life-changing experience.

But now that you’ve made your decision, there are some choices to be made. Where should you live? How will you get a job? And what will you do with yourself?

This article will help you get on your feet if you’ve just made the move to Leiden (and hey, it may even help out a few Leiden locals).

1. Decide which neighbourhood suits you best

With its cosy, compact centre, you’d be forgiven for thinking there aren’t many options in terms of neighbourhoods to live in, but you would also be wrong.

Let’s talk about some of your options. 👇

Living in Leiden’s city centre

Leiden is a very beautiful and historic city that is filled with authentic Dutch buildings. That’s probably why you actually want to live there!

This is also why living in the city centre of Leiden can be a bit more costly, due to the historical and sentimental values of the houses situated there.

photo-of-Leiden-cityscape-with-houses-and-canals-showing-Leidens-neighbourhoods
Leiden’s city centre is like walking around inside a postcard. Image: Dreamstime

Plus, it’s small, and there’s a high demand from students.

Everything in between the old canals of Leiden is considered the old heart and centre of Leiden.

You’ll get the classic Leiden vibe at its best, and with the city being really compact, you can always walk or bike to almost anything.

That being said, while it is on the pricey side for renting or buying a house, all the events and students there make it a buzzing scene (but also a bit too busy for some).

Leiden’s suburbs

If you venture a little further, you can find multiple neighbourhoods that are just as lovely. For instance, the neighbourhoods of De Merenwijk and Stevenshof are just a few minutes cycling away from the city centre.

These two areas are good for families, as they are fully equipped with schools, playgrounds, and shops.

bikes-on-bridge-over-canal-in-leiden
One thing’s for certain: the city’s got quaint canals galore! Image: Depositphotos

The houses in these neighbourhoods were built between the 1970s and 1980s and carry the true spirit of traditional Dutch suburbs.

Even fancier and closer to the centre of Leiden are neighbourhoods like the Tuinstadwijk, de Lage Mors and the Professorenwijk.

These Leiden neighbourhoods have some classy 1930s houses and are very popular among both Dutch and expat families.

Or try neighbouring municipalities

Another great option is living in Leiden’s neighbouring municipalities. Leiderdorp, Voorschoten, Warmond, Oegstgeest, and Katwijk are popular with families and often offer a better space-to-price ratio.

Oegstgeest would be the most popular option as it is right next to Leiden and generally offers more spacious housing options as well as classic Dutch-style houses.

The neighbourhood is also generally safe, clean, and family-friendly. However, fair warning: the prices can be pretty steep. 💸

Katwijk (AKA Katwijk aan Zee) has more of an independent character to it.

A former fishing village, Katwijk is ideal for someone who doesn’t want to live in the middle of all the hustle and bustle and wants the beach to be just a short bike ride away.

volleyball-net-on-beach-in-katwijk-netherlands
In addition to being closer to Leiden, Katwijk is far less crowded than Scheveningen! Image: Depositphotos

However, the cost of housing isn’t that friendly here, and there’s limited availability. A lot of the accommodations here are only available temporarily for holiday-goers.

If you just want to visit Katwijk, that’s an easy 30-minute bus ride or 30-40 minute cycle from the Leiden city centre. 🚲

Good to know: As with so many Dutch regions, Leiden and its neighbouring municipalities are all conveniently within biking distance of each other with lovely bicycle paths to boot.

So now you know a bit more about potential living spots in or around Leiden. Time to properly settle yourself and register with the municipality of your new home.

Moving to a new town can be quite an ordeal. Thankfully, Leiden has an excellent Expat Centre which can help you. In partnership with Leiden’s Tourist Information Office, the ECL provides essential information about living in the Netherlands.

2. Find a job in Leiden

When it comes to finding a job in Leiden, there are multiple sectors that you can dive into. While the city may not be massive, it’s got some big names based here.

Leiden University

Leiden is famous for being a university town, its biggest and most popular one being, of course, Leiden University.

This famous university was attended by historical figures such as Rembrandt and Einstein, as well as multiple members of the Dutch royal family.

Currently, the university has a large international staff spread across seven faculties.

Due to Leiden University’s ever-growing popularity among students, this institution of higher education is constantly in search of new people to hire.

Leiden Bio Science Park

Another place in Leiden where a unique job opportunity may arise is the Bio Science Park.

photo-of-Leiden-Bio-Science-park-with-reflection-in-water
Leiden’s Bio Science Park offers many job opportunities. Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen/Supplied

It is the largest bioscience facility in the whole of the Netherlands, with a staggering number of 26,000 employees. It is Holland’s best life science research centre, which focuses on both education and business.

Leiden’s Bio Science Park offers a range of interesting jobs and is constantly looking for new great minds to join the team.

So if you want to work while simultaneously conducting crucial research, the Bio Science Park in Leiden may have some great job opportunities for you.

Creative and start-up scene in Leiden

More on the creative side of life? Leiden has more than its fair share of creative companies and promising start-ups.

Want some examples? Think about the exciting start-up venue of PLNT, where Leiden fosters dozens of young creative and innovative companies, or the media-imperium of DutchReview, which is also located in Leiden (hey, wait, that’s us 😉 ).

For some more examples of sectors to work in Leiden, you might want to check out Key Region Leiden!

Work at shops and restaurants in Leiden

Aside from a very impressive educational and creative scene, Leiden is also booming with life.

That is why this rather small town has so many different types of shops and restaurants. While finding a job in customer service in Leiden may be hard if you do not speak Dutch, it’s not impossible.

photo-of-boat-cafe-in-leiden
Imagine going to work with this view in front of you? 😍 Image: Depositphotos

After all, Leiden is a university town full of students from all over the world. This means that the town is becoming more open to English speakers in customer service, and businesses are looking for student workers.

So, people won’t be surprised if their barista doesn’t speak Dutch.

Let’s also not forget that Leiden is geographically located in a very convenient place. Big cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, and Utrecht are within a 30-minute train ride. So if you’re having a hard time finding a job within Leiden, you can always look in the nearby cities.

3. Take a moment to enjoy the museums

There is also so much to do in your free time. Leiden is home to a variety of museums, such as the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, the Wereldmuseum Leiden, and the wonderful Museum of Antiquities.

READ MORE | The museum town of the Netherlands: 13 great museums to visit in Leiden

Leiden also boasts the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands, the Hortus Botanicus, dating all the way back to 1590.

Need to get a bank account, find a school, apply for a BSN number, sign up with a doctor, or even discuss setting up a mortgage? The Expat Centre can help you sort it all.

For all the science lovers out there, there is also an observatory on the grounds, which is open to the public.

photo-of-old-observatory-things-to-do-in-Leiden
The old observatory is truly the place to be if you’ve an interest in astronomy. Image: Depositphotos

Established by Leiden University in 1633, Leiden’s observatory is the oldest operating university observatory in the world.

4. Or even just take in the sights

Leiden is a very picturesque town (there’s a whole lot of Instagram material to prove it!) Filled with beautiful canals, charming cafés and restaurants, an exciting street market, and breathtaking views.

One way to get you started on a sightseeing journey through the city is to go on an expedition to find all the poems written on Leiden’s buildings.

READ MORE | Eating out in Leiden in 2026: the top hotspots to check out!

Yes, that’s right! Poems!

The “Poems and Walls” project began in 1992, and today, there are over 100 poems written in their original language scattered all around Leiden.

Also, while walking through Leiden, you can’t help but notice De Burcht.

This 11th-century fort is perfect for walks and some pretty amazing photos. People even have their weddings here, and there’s a cute café at the entrance. 💖

If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, there is also the Leidse Hout, a marvellous park located on the border of Leiden and Oegstgeest.

It’s so big that it’s pretty much like a forest, so it allows for a perfect escape from the city. 🌳

5. Join a club or society

The quickest way to make friends in Leiden? Join a club. Seriously, it’s like fast-tracking your social life.

If you’re into running (or just pretending to be), check out 071 Run Club. They meet regularly for group runs around the city, and the vibe is welcoming whether you’re training for a marathon or just trying to burn off those bitterballen.

photo-of-people-speaking-Dutch-at-cafe-table-with-friends-laughing-drinking-coffee-green-brown-background
The city is full of internationals like you who are looking to make connections. Image: Freepik

Looking for a more general expat community? Try the Leiden Social Meetup group. With over 2,000 members, they organise regular casual hangouts at different locations around town.

If you’re looking for a more female-centred space, Girls Gone International Leiden is a Facebook group that hosts social events and provides a space for women to connect with other international women in the area.

And if you’re a bookworm? The 21st Century Book Club meets monthly to discuss everything from classics to contemporary fiction — perfect if you want stimulating conversation with your coffee.

Whatever your interest, there’s probably a club for it in Leiden. And if there isn’t? Start one yourself.

Whether you’ve decided you want to move to Leiden or are already living there, we hope these tips will help you during your stay. 🤗

Can you think of any other reasons why living in Leiden is a great idea? Let us know in the comments below!

Bad news: Student rent prices in the Netherlands are among the highest in Europe

DutchReview Crew
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Bad news: Student rent prices in the Netherlands are among the highest in Europe

The latest HousingAnywhere International Rent Index has shown that Amsterdam and Rotterdam were the most expensive European cities for student rentals in Q4 of 2025.

And are we surprised? Nee. The index, which examined 59,519 listings on its site, compared rental prices across Europe. And it highlighted a well-known issue here in the Netherlands. 

The takeaway: Unlike other countries, cities in the Netherlands showed no signs of declining rent. 

Other European cities showed declines

Well, lucky them. 

After analysing data on room rental prices across 25 cities and 11 countries, HousingAnywhere found that listings (mainly aimed at students) were either declining or holding steady across Europe.

Unfortunately, Amsterdam and Rotterdam did not see a price reduction. 

In Rotterdam, single-room rental prices increased, ranging from €800 to €878, while Amsterdam’s prices stagnated at €990. 

Meanwhile, several other countries saw decreases in rent. Cities like Berlin, Bologna, and Hamburg saw declines of up to 11.2%.

Despite no rent increase in Amsterdam, it remained the city with the highest average rent for a single furnished room according to the index. 

Niet gezellig…

Housing issues in the Netherlands 

While the housing crisis in the land of tulips has many causes, a central one appears to be the large-scale sell-off of housing, according to Nu.nl. 

Rental properties, in particular, are being sold at more affordable prices, attracting first-time buyers. 

So, homes are being bought for cheaper. This isn’t necessarily bad, as people who would not otherwise be able to afford to buy are able to own. 

On the other hand, the affordability of buying is making renting less affordable. Rooms for rent disappear as large-scale investors sell off individual units.

Ultimately, costs are shifted from first-time buyers to renters.  

Students are prime victims

A severe shortage of student rooms in the Netherlands leaves students incredibly vulnerable to price gouging. 

And as universities themselves are not required to provide housing for their students, the market becomes even more flooded with desperate room hunters. 

The very tangible lack of alternatives in these major cities leads to scams, discomfort, and high prices overall. 

READ MORE | Internationals do NOT cause the Dutch housing crisis, says UN official: Here’s what is to blame

In this fend-for-yourself environment, students are at the bottom of the pyramid, often with limited funds and no rental history or experience. 

Essentially, it’s no wonder the prices are so unkind to our fledgling adults. 

Here’s hoping 2026 brings the studenten a much-needed price decrease. 

What are your thoughts on the high prices? Let us know in the comments!

Dutch police chase man for stealing vehicles, then have their own car stolen

Sarah O'Leary 🇮🇪
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Dutch police chase man for stealing vehicles, then have their own car stolen

If you think you had a long day at work this Monday, perhaps this story will make you feel a bit better. Police responding to a stolen car report yesterday experienced quite an ordeal.

Why? Because the 34-year-old suspect managed to not only steal an ANWB vehicle, but also the responders’ own police car.

It all started with the ANWB vehicle

According to the NOS, the man, who comes from Breda, began his morning yesterday by taking photos at a defence site near the Gilze-Rijen air base.

When he was asked to leave by security, he decided to abandon his own vehicle. According to Omroep Brabant, instead of using his own wheels, the man attempted to steal a car from a woman outside the property.

While he failed to steal the woman’s car, he did somehow succeed in stealing an ANWB vehicle instead. With his trusty new ride, he began driving in the direction of Dongen.

Then, it was just chaos

This is usually the part where the story ends. We’d say the police gave chase, the man was apprehended, and everyone continued on with their day.

But alas, dear reader, that’s not what happened yesterday. Instead, the story goes like this:

  • The police gave chase, attempting to follow the man in his stolen ANWB vehicle
  • Due to the man’s dangerous driving (including driving on a cycle path), the police abandoned the pursuit
  • The police switched to pursuing in an unmarked vehicle
  • They then tried to arrest the man at some traffic lights in Breda-Noord, but he crashed into their car and drove away
  • Officers then spotted the man trying (and failing) to steal yet another car near the NAC stadium
  • While officers attempted to help the owner of the vehicle and stop the man from stealing the car, he took his chance and stole the police’s own car.

Now, we can only imagine how the officers were feeling in that moment, but it certainly put our rough Monday in perspective.

What happened next?

You’d think the man would have curbed his craving for auto theft once he managed to steal the police’s own car, but believe it or not, he wasn’t done.

READ MORE | Police find hundreds of kilos of illegal fireworks — beneath Amsterdam police station

As the man fled in the police car towards Etten-Leur, he tried to steal yet another vehicle from someone who was still inside.

This time, the man was not successful. Officers managed to stop the man, and he was taken into custody.

His motive? That hasn’t been released (probably because police have no idea).

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

National Tulip Day in Amsterdam: where to get free flowers in 2026

Fabrizia Sbrega
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3
National Tulip Day in Amsterdam: where to get free flowers in 2026

This January, Amsterdam celebrates National Tulip Day (Tulpen Dag), so if you’re in the city or its surroundings, you have the chance to pick your own bouquet in front of the Museumplein!

Mark January 17, 2026, down in your agenda — you’ll be able to create your own bouquet with up to 10 tulips from a specially designed garden in the heart of Amsterdam.

With around 200,000 tulips for the picking, you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice!

How National Tulip Day in Amsterdam works

The garden will be open from 1 PM this Saturday, at the Museumplein area in Amsterdam.

You’ll be given a biodegradable bag to put your tulip bouquet in, so don’t bring your own shopping bag, as you won’t be allowed to use it.

To ensure that as many people as possible can come by and enjoy the flowers, you’ll only be allowed to select up to 10 tulips.

Where: Museumplein, Amsterdam
When: From 1 PM onwards this Saturday, January 17, 2026

young-girl-holding-a-bouquet-of-tulips-she-got-for-free-on-national-tulip-day-netherlands
Free tulips? Hop on, friends — we’re off to Amsterdam this weekend. 🌷 Image: Freepik

Visit the Amsterdam Tulip Museum for a trip through history

If you’re curious about tulips and their history, then you absolutely can’t miss The Amsterdam Tulip Museum.

Located in the Jordaan, visiting this museum means you’ll also catch a glimpse of one of the most beautiful areas of the Dutch capital. Leuk! 😍

The museum allows visitors to learn more about tulip history, offering snapshots of its path through Europe in video and photography. And, of course, the museum has a range of tulip-themed products in its gift shop.

Address: Prinsengracht 116, 1015 EA Amsterdam
Opening times: Mondays to Sundays from 10 AM to 6 PM

Can’t make it to National Tulip Day? Check out the Amsterdam Flower Market

Even if you can’t visit the gardens to pick your own tulips, you can still buy your very own Amsterdam tulips.

The world-famous Amsterdam Flower Market is located in the city centre. It’s not only about tulips; you can also find seasonal flowers and a variety of tulip bulbs throughout the year.

READ MORE | 34 best things to do in Amsterdam in 2026

Despite being a relatively touristy location, it’s well worth the visit for its special set-up and its peculiar mix of colours, shapes and smells.

Oh, and did we mention the fact that it’s the only floating flower market in the world? ✨

Address: Singel 630 to 600, 1017 AZ Amsterdam
Opening times: Mondays to Saturdays from 9 AM to 5:30 PM, Sundays from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Visit Keukenhof for the ultimate tulip tourism destination in the Netherlands

Maybe you haven’t had enough of Dutch tulips, and you’re itching for more? Well, then you need to add De Keukenhof, the world’s largest tulip garden, to your bucket list.

Open from March to May (in line with tulip season), the garden is 32 hectares large and is home to seven million bulbs and 800 varieties of tulips.

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Time to stop and smell the tulips. Image: Depositphotos

You can also enjoy flower sculptures, events, and children’s activities while browsing some of the world’s rarest and most beautiful tulips.

Address: Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse
Opening times: March 19 to May 10, 2026, from 8 AM to 7 PM

Are you going to visit Amsterdam for National Tulip Day? Have you been there before? Tell us in the comments!

‘Gezellig’ or ‘hygge’? The real differences between the Netherlands and Denmark

Christine Stein Hededam 🇩🇰
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8
‘Gezellig’ or ‘hygge’? The real differences between the Netherlands and Denmark

Bikes, beers, and canals — am I describing the Netherlands or Denmark? The two countries share many similarities, but to the trained eye, they are full of subtle (and not-so-subtle) differences!

As a native Dane now living in the Netherlands, I usually say that the Netherlands is different enough from Denmark to be interesting, yet similar enough to feel comfortable. So, what are those ✨ interesting ✨ differences?

Red means stop, green means go — Nee hoor 

Both Denmark and the Netherlands are known for their cycling culture, and whilst there are more bikes than people in the Netherlands, Denmark is following right behind, with Copenhagen being one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. 

READ MORE | How the Netherlands became a cycling country

One indicator in the Global Bicycle Cities Index is the level of respect cyclists have for the law — and Copenhagen scores higher here than Amsterdam. 👀

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Anything can be a bike path if you’re Dutch enough! Image: Freepik

After all, where you need to jump back in fear when a Dutch person comes whizzing down the streets of Amsterdam, you’ll often see cyclists in Copenhagen wearing helmets — and actually braking for red lights! 

Meanwhile, if you wear a helmet in the Netherlands, you might be asked whether you can’t cycle properly, whether you recently learned to cycle, or hear the comment, “Oh yeah, I wore a helmet once as well — when I was a kid!” 🙄

Degrees of directness

Thanks to a heavy-handed dose of directness, there’s a common stereotype that the Dutch are rude. Though they might be direct — no need to sugarcoat it — but they can also be very welcoming people. 

READ MORE | Dutch Quirk 42: Be overwhelmingly direct and never beat around the bush

The Danes, on the other hand, are much colder when you first meet them.

Some put this down to the Danes generally being introverted and the Dutch generally extroverted, but who knows? It could even be the weather. ❄️

group-of-young-people-celebrating-kings-day-drinking-lots-of-beer-at-pub
Dutchies may hit you with their famous ‘Dutch directness’, but they can also be very warm and welcoming. Image: Freepik

In our defence, it’s not that Danish people are mean; it just takes us some time to warm up to people.

And if we are walking on the street (no doubt looking unapproachable), well, don’t get in our way. 😂 (We’re usually very happy to help if people actually stop us, though!).

Overall, the consensus is that the Dutch are direct but warm, whilst the Danish are polite but cold-ish.

Let’s get that bread! (but should it be rye — or brown?!)

The Netherlands and Denmark are two countries that both really love their bread. However, they have different staples. 

The Dutch lunch staple is the boterham — a slice of brown bread most likely topped with some butter and cheese. 

READ MORE | What’s on that ‘boterham’? 6 weird Dutch bread toppings 

Denmark has a similar lunch situation: ‘Smørrebrød’ (open-faced sandwiches) can be considered the fancy version of a lunch bag, consisting of rye bread with a simple topping. 

However, in recent years, ‘smørrebrød’ has gained popularity and creating a well-made ‘smørrebrød’ is now often branded as a “craft.”

☝️ I’d say that beats a boterham (but I might be biased).

Fun tidbit: As a kid, I once told my parents that my favourite thing about vacationing abroad was that we didn’t have to eat rye bread (since it couldn’t be purchased in most places)! Now, rye bread is the number one food I miss from Denmark.

Geographically similar — mostly

As a Dane, I always thought Denmark was a flat, somewhat boring country geographically. That was until I arrived in the Netherlands. 

It took a road trip from the Netherlands to Denmark to realise how different the geography actually is — or rather, how flat the Netherlands is.

READ MORE | Dutch Quirk #73: Not have any mountains…or hills…or bumps

The Danish geography features naturally tall beauties such as ‘Himmelbjerget’ (The Sky Mountain or The Mountain of Heaven), which is a whopping 147 meters high! While ‘Himmelbjerget’ isn’t actually the tallest point in Denmark, you have to give us credit for at least trying with the name. 😆

So what can the Dutch boast of? Well, turns out the Netherlands has mountains (kind of)! Vaalserberg is the highest natural point in the Netherlands and a tripoint where the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany meet. At 322.7 meters, it technically only qualifies as a hill, but apparently the Dutch, as well as the Danish, like to exaggerate. 🙈 

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Vaalserberg seen from Limburg. Image: Romaine/Wikimedia Commons/CC1.0

Not that this is a competition, but if one Danish “mountain” isn’t impressive enough, what about a series of “Alps”? Svanninge bakker is a technically series of hills near the town of Svanninge on Funen, but has ironically been named “the Funen Alps.” 

Save for Vaalserberg on the edge of the country, the Netherlands’ flatness has to be seen to be believed: as flat as a pannenkoek!

What other differences have you noticed between Denmark and the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!

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

Annabelle Willeme
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7 things that will get you fined while cycling in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is often called a ‘cycling paradise‘. But to make sure it stays that way, there are a whopping 53 different ways you can get fined while biking in the Netherlands!

I was cycling through the streets of Utrecht one evening when I was suddenly flagged down by the police. Before I knew what was happening — BAM, a fine of €55 for not having bike lights.

I also got a €90 fine for not carrying my ID, which I left at home for the day, together with my wallet.

So, this little bike adventure cost me a nice lump sum of €145. Rough.

READ MORE | Do’s and don’ts of riding a bicycle in the Netherlands

To ensure that your biking trip doesn’t wind up as expensive as mine, here’s a basic guide to fines while cycling in the Netherlands.

Make sure you’re familiar with at least some of the laws before jumping on your favourite two-wheeler. 👮

1. Cycling without lights or reflectors

Cycling in the dark without bike lights is probably the most common reason for getting a fine. Like me, some people forget to buy new bike lights, and they also frequently get stolen. 😅

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Biking at night? No problem — just don’t forget your bike lights! Image: Depositphotos

You need to have both front and backlights for it to count; otherwise, you can still get a fine of €75. You can also get a €45 fine for not having reflectors on your bike.

On the bright side (as the officer who fined me also, ironically, said), bike lights are only like €4 or €5 at HEMA. A pretty small price to pay for safety, right?

Note: Don’t put the little lights you buy in the flickering light function! This nifty little detail can also result in a €60 fine.

2. Cycling under the influence

This one is a little more than self-evident. Clearly, you shouldn’t step into any kind of vehicle drunk.

In the Netherlands, this also applies to cycling (not that this stops people from cycling drunk, anyway). You can be fined up to €200 if your blood alcohol level is above 0,5 g per litre of blood.

photo-of-dutch-people-drinking-beer-things-not-allowed-cycling
Count those biertjes — one too many and you could be fined for cycling. Image: Depositphotos

This translates to roughly two and a half beers, so watch out! In addition to this, you can get a €120 fine for not cooperating with the alcohol test.

Next time you’re coming home after drinking, consider walking your bike instead.

3. Not indicating the direction

If you’ve ever cycled in the Netherlands, you’ve seen people sticking their arms out when changing direction on a bike. While it may sometimes seem extravagant, it is actually very handy to avoid accidents.

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Stick out those arms and indicate which direction you’re going! Image: Freepik

Beyond this, failing to indicate direction can land you a €45 fine. So stick those arms out, people!

4. Not having a bell (and other stuff)

There’s a scarily long list of fines that you can get for a badly maintained bike. If you take one look at bikes in Utrecht or Amsterdam, you can conclude that the police don’t check most of these.

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You’re not going to want to use this bike…Image: Pixabay

In principle, however, you could be fined for the following:

  • Brakes that don’t work: €45
  • Broken pedals: €70
  • Not having a bell: €70
  • Broken bike frame: €120

5. Texting while cycling

Texting while cycling might be a more recent addition to the list of infractions you can commit while cycling in the Netherlands; however, it’s far from a rare occurrence.

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If you’re seen using your phone while biking, you’ll get an instant fine! Image: Freepik

Since 2019, you can get a fine for this — the amount of which has changed over the years and has now gone up to a whopping €170.

READ MORE | Fined for phoning while ‘fietsen’: over 850 cyclists caught on the phone every week

Luckily, Google Maps has a speaker function — so listen closely to directions through your earphones and let Maps guide you verbally.

Pas op, though! The fine can be given just for holding your phone on a bike, even if you’re not actually texting — so make sure you keep your phone in your pocket or attached to your steering wheel.

6. Not following traffic rules

While it may seem that cyclists in the Netherlands think they’re above traffic rules, on paper, at least, they’re not.

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Put the phone away. Image: Depositphotos

You can get a €120 fine for running a red light, a €70 fine for driving on the bus lane, and a €45 fine for driving on a road where bikes aren’t allowed.

READ MORE | Cycling like a Dutchie? First, you have to pass their bike exam!

The bottom line: follow the traffic signs, and you should be fine. 🚦

7. Parking in the wrong place

If you don’t want your bike removed, remember this: you can get a €40 fine for parking it in the wrong place, so just head to the nearest bike stall to park instead.

Bike-parking-in-the-netherlands
Make sure to park your bike where it’s acceptable! Image: Depositphotos

In some places in the Netherlands, you can even get a €40 fine for not locking your bike. (Although the risk of getting your bike stolen or thrown into a canal should be reason enough.)

READ MORE | Bike fishing: a Dutch occupation you never knew existed

In a country with so many cyclists, it makes sense that there are many laws for them, too. While overwhelming, most of these rules aren’t usually policed.

As long as you have good lights and follow the general traffic rules, you won’t have any problems.

Keep safe and happy fietsen (cycling)! 🚲

Have you ever been fined while cycling in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!

Johan de Witt: That time the Dutch people ate their prime minister

Vlad Moca-Grama
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Johan de Witt: That time the Dutch people ate their prime minister

The Dutch may seem civilised now, but anyone with some knowledge of European history knows that was not always the case. 

Europe, including the Netherlands, was not an easy place to live in back in the day. The continent was ravaged by wars, conflicts, and assassinations — a complete geopolitical mess.

One story from the past that best exemplifies this is the tragic tale of Johan de Witt, an especially dark chapter in Dutch history.

Historical background

In 1672, the Netherlands (then known as the Dutch Republic) was at war with England, France, and the two German cities of Cologne and Münster.

This year would enter Dutch history books as the Rampjaar (Disaster Year), which marked the end of the Dutch Golden Age.

The Rampjaar even has its own slogan: “het volk was redeloos, de regering radeloos, en het land reddeloos.” Translated to English, it means, “the people were irrational, the government helpless, and the country beyond salvation.”

What a stressful time to be alive. Or, worse yet, what a stressful time to be leading a country.

READ MORE | The history of the Dutch national anthem: the Wilhelmus

Johan de Witt was the (unlucky) Prime Minister at the time. For almost 20 years, he was one of the few non-royal leaders in Europe.

This displeased many Dutch citizens who disliked him and would have rather seen the famous William III of the House of Orange-Nassau take office. The House of Orange was the closest thing the Republic had to a royal family at the time.

Portrait-painting-of-johan-de-witt-former-dutch-prime-minister-from-the-seventeenth-century
Johan de Witt in better days. Image: Adriaene Hanneman/Wikimedia Commons/Public domain

Johan de Witt, on the other hand, represented Republican interests alongside a strong and wealthy merchant class.

The De Witts have governed the city of Dordrecht since medieval times, and the powerful family holds high political positions throughout the Netherlands.

For example, Johan’s brother, Cornelis de Witt, was a highly ranked naval officer and governor of Dordrecht.

The (violent) downfall of Johan de Witt

On June 21 of the Rampjaar, an assassin stabbed De Witt, hurting him gravely. De Witt then resigned after 20 years of leadership, but the conspirators against him were not yet satisfied.

At the same time, his brother Cornelis was arrested for treason, taken to a prison in The Hague (now a museum — more on that later), and tortured.

As it was the custom at the time, torture was just a normal part of imprisonment, used as a means to force a confession out of those convicted.

READ MORE | Myths about Dutch history and the truth behind them

Sure, it didn’t really matter if the confession was true or not — as long as the person confessed to whatever, the torture was considered justified.

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Murder of the Witt brothers. Image: Hague Historical Museum/Wikimedia Commons/Public domain

Being a strong lad and not intending to conspire against his own brother, Cornelis refused to confess. He was, however, sentenced to exile.

Johan went to the prison his brother was staying at to help him prepare for the trip. As they both departed, they were captured by a militant mob, which shot both of them and then left them to the crowds.

The crowds did what crowds do best: lose all sense of sanity. According to some reports, the two brothers were stripped naked, mutilated, and had their livers removed and eaten.

@dutchreview Remember that time the Dutch ate their prime minister? #fyp #dutchreview #dutchhistory #dutchfunfacts #crazydutchfacts #netherlands #nederland #holland ♬ original sound – DutchReview

It’s important to note that crowds always liked to pick a souvenir back in the days of public lynchings. Maybe pop some teeth off and put them in your pockets, or perhaps a finger or two.

Heck, why not be a legend and take the whole arm? Sure, eating the liver sounds a bit intense, but hey, war makes people do desperate things.

It’s unknown whether William III of Orange was involved in the assassination. Whatever the case, he wasn’t the one eaten by the crowd, so it must have been a win-win situation for him.

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You have probably walked past this historic site in the Hague before! Image: Depositphotos

Nowadays, curious visitors can go to the prison where Cornelius was tortured. It’s called Gevangenpoort, and it’s now a museum in The Hague. Part of it is dedicated to its glorious prison days, and the rest serves as a refurbished art gallery.

It is situated right next to the square where both the brothers were killed, and you can even find a commemorative statue of Johan de Witt there, in a more dignified state than during his final moments.

Have you heard of this dark chapter in Dutch history before? Let us know in the comments!

Feature Image: Hague Historical Museum/Wikimedia Commons/Public domain

The majority of Dutch people believe the Netherlands should intervene if the US tries to take Greenland

Ida Allen-Auerbach
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1
The majority of Dutch people believe the Netherlands should intervene if the US tries to take Greenland

In a survey of 20,000 people, the Dutch have given their stance on Trump and Greenland: The majority support European intervention if the US tries to take Greenland by force. 

The survey, carried out by EenVandaag, found that a majority (68%) of those surveyed expressed concern about an invasion of Greenland, and that over half (54%) agreed that the Netherlands should be compelled to assist Denmark in this situation. 

The survey also showcased support for a European army and a more comprehensive approach to protecting NATO interests. 

First Maduro, now this?

Following the unprecedented capture of former President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela, the US shows no signs of stopping its international intrusions.

The interest in Greenland, Trump has stated, lies in its strategic military position regarding Russia. 

The Netherlands is already being forced to balance its Caribbean interests with the American seizure of Venezuelan power — now, it must decide whether intervention on behalf of Greenland is necessary. 

NATO at risk

As the US administration continues to push its narrative on the necessity of Greenland, European allies grow weary. 

Trump recently refused to rule out military action to pursue this goal. In other words, things are looking more than a little problematic for NATO’s member nations. 

However, 22% of those surveyed said they prefer Denmark ceding Greenland to the United States rather than risk the end of NATO. 

If the US invades Greenland, we’re in uncharted territory. Keep in mind that the NATO agreement states that if any member is attacked, all other members must provide military aid and support. 

As both are members of the alliance, the central agreement of NATO becomes unenforceable, risking major instability. 

It’s time for the Netherlands to stand up

After the, quite frankly, schmoozing behaviour of former Dutch PM and current NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte this past June, many Europeans feel NATO might be better off with a hardline approach to the US.

READ MORE | From calling Trump “Daddy” to increased defence spending: Here’s what happened at the NATO Summit

Confidence in NATO has been low since the re-election of the world’s latest imperialist in 2024 — and it’s not looking better, with only 45% reporting confidence. 

Europe is seeing a swell in anti-US sentiment and a desire for a European army. As Eenvandaag’s survey indicates, 81% of respondents reported a desire for stronger unity against countries such as Russia, the US, and China. 

The message is clear: Dutchies want to keep Greenland out of Trump’s (make-up-covered) hands. 

What are your thoughts on this latest data? Let us know in the comments!

Dutch authorities warn to stay home as ice causes treacherous road conditions

Kriti Swarup
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0
Dutch authorities warn to stay home as ice causes treacherous road conditions

After the snowiest conditions the Netherlands has seen in a decade, a bout of freezing rain triggered a code orange warning, turning the country (and a gritter truck) upside down. 

With road closures, disruptions in public transport, cancelled classes, and Rijkswaterstaat’s call to stay home unless it’s absolutely necessary to leave, life in the Netherlands has come to a slippery halt.  

A frosty start to the week

To start our Monday, the KNMI has extended the code orange warning for freezing rain in Groningen and Drenthe until 11 AM.

Meanwhile, the warning was downgraded to code yellow for North and South Holland, Utrecht, North Brabant, and Limburg. 

Zeeland managed to escape with no alert at all.

Highways turn into hazard zones

Even though the Monday morning rush hour was quiet, AD reports a 100-kilometre traffic jam on Dutch roads this morning. 

ANWB reports several highway closures due to slippery conditions and jackknifing trucks. 

READ MORE | Why does snow cause the Netherlands to grind to a halt?

On the A59 near Den Bosch, even a gritting truck couldn’t handle the ice and overturned. 

Elsewhere, cars slid into ditches on the A7 near Heerenveen and the N33 near Assen, with at least one driver taken to hospital.

As of 8:30 AM, the Rijkswaterstaat has reported no fewer than 30 accidents on the roads this morning. 

Trains, buses, and reduced services

Public transport is faring slightly better this morning, though not without hiccups. 

Fewer trains are running between Arnhem and Doetinchem, with peak-hour services cut in half. 

Signal failures and rolling stock shortages caused delays around Amersfoort, while one bus line in Oldenzaal was suspended due to slippery roads, reports AD.

The good news? Conditions will improve

According to the NOS, the ice should disappear later today. Temperatures are expected to climb to between 3 and 8 degrees Celsius, with occasional rain. 

The lows will also now remain above freezing. 

To no one’s surprise, it will remain mostly grey and damp over the coming days. 

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