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Tax Return in the Netherlands. 5 Things you want to know this Tax Season.

Abuzer van Leeuwen 🇳🇱
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Yes, finally it’s tax-season and time to do that tax return in the Netherlands! If you’ve received the well known blue envelop from the Dutch tax offices than you’re also ‘cordially invited’ to file a tax return in the Netherlands for 2016. Are you guys all just as excited as I am? And did you all study the whole year to ace this fiscal test of adulthood?

Yeah, probably not, that’s what I thought as well. Well, there is at least some good news – despite the organizational mess the Dutch tax bureaucracy is at a higher level these last months, they did invest time and money in making the whole process a bit smoother once again. But not too much of course (it’s still tax-season, not fun-season), first things first – when’s it all due?

1. The deadline for your tax return in the Netherlands

No worries, you’ve still got ample time to get your financial act together – the ultimate date to file your (income-) tax return is the 30th of April.  Some Dutch people might be stressing that you’ve got until the 1st of April, but that’s just a lingering trauma – that date was extended a few years ago.

You do however get word and a possible refund from the tax office before the 1st of July if you did your tax return before the 1st of April.

Are you reading this somewhere in the last week of April? Don’t panic – you can get an extension of the deadline till the 1st of October. (Or better yet. Just get someone else to do it for you!)

 

2. Hypotheekrenteaftrek – Tax Return in the Netherlands when you bought a house

Buying a house certainly is a coming of age thing, and so it goes for the tax return that comes with the status of real estate ownership. Getting a mortgage may be fiscally more attractive than renting a house, but it certainly isn’t fiscally less complex.

First of all, let’s start with the jackpot-scrabble-winning word ‘hypotheekrenteaftrek’ (mortgage interest deduction). When you take out a mortgage loan the bank charges you the mortgage interest every month, it’s nice and low at some 1,5- 2% but still it will cost you. But the good news is that you can declare the interest you pay and this is deductible from your amount taxes you have to pay.

Obviously the ‘hypotheekrenteaftrek’ is a precious thing for many Dutchies, and it doesn’t look like a new cabinet will take it away from the home owners in any form.

There’s more!

Certain costs that you made when buying a house are also deductible from taxes, with an almost instant advance also possible. I’m talking valuation costs, the fee for the ‘NHG’ (National Mortgage Guarantee), mortgage advisor and some of the notary fee’s. It’s a big money safer when buying a house and personally I was so surprised that there was so much to be declared!

Especially if you’re living in Amsterdam you might have to deal with the ‘erfpacht‘, the groundlease, whatever it is you will be happy to hear that costs for that are also deductible! All in all it can be a complex affair, but definitely worth it financially.

 

 

3. Personal deductions for your tax return in the Netherlands

Well, it’s good to hear there’s a whole range of personal deductible items for your tax return in the Netherlands. The list changes frequently, every year the details are different, so it might be wise to consult a tax advisor if you’re not a 100% sure. 

 

4. 30% ruling – it’s an expat thing!

There’s a fiscal reason we Dutchies think that we’re going to outshine Britain soon once it comes to drawing in heaps of expats, it’s a tax bonus! If you’re still considering moving to the Netherlands than the 30% tax free of your gross salary might just be the thing you need. The Dutch legislative bodies in all their wisdom recognized that expats might have to make more expenses than Dutch people, thus giving them a bit more financial room. So hurray for you guys and girls that qualify for this one!

Before you go out and buy an Amsterdam apartment, better check if you actually qualify for this ruling. For instance; you have to make at least 37K per year and have a job here before you register in the Netherlands. 

Once again it’s a bit complex, which leads me to the following:

5. Have someone else do it for you and better

This picture says it all:

tax return in the Netherlands

Filing a good and quality tax return can certainly help you out a lot. But it’s already troublesome for a Dutchie, so if you’re a home-buying expat it can be quite a daunting prospect. So it makes sense to have a professional party help you out with this one. Blue Umbrella can help you out with your tax return in the Netherlands, already making life easier for certain DutchReviewers. Added bonus is that they’re specialized in expat-affairs so checking up on all this 30% business or making sure you get the info you need in English is exactly their cup of tea. 

Not only are some of the tax rulings in the Netherlands quite complex and bureaucratic, they can also be time-consuming. Registering with Blue Umbrella’s service of ‘Blue Tax’ can thus not only safe you money in the long run, but also safe you precious time which would otherwise go into ‘fiscal matters’. 

Oh, and they can also totally extend that tax deadline for you.

Goodluck this tax season!

 

More international students in the Netherlands then ever

Abuzer van Leeuwen 🇳🇱
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More international students in the Netherlands then ever
Great news for Dutch universities, coffeeshops and DutchReview of course. There are now more international students in the Netherlands studying then ever. A whopping 112.000 students are enjoying a Dutch education at a University or ‘Hoge School’.
University in Utrecht
 

Where are these international students in the Netherlands from?

Research from Nuffic (the Dutch organisation for internationalizing our education, how cosmopolitan of us!) shows that there are 81.000 students doing full time stuff here, the rest of them are here for shorter stints -doing Erasmus for example. There are 164 nationalities hitting the books/bong here. Most of them are Germans, with 22.000 of our neighbours from the East here. After that are the Chinese (4300) and the Italians (3300). And no, I will not make those horrible biased jokes about the different demographics of the Chinese and Italians in the University libraries and innercity coffeeshops.
 
international students in the Netherlands

Why international students in the Netherlands are a good thing

Many of the international students stick to the Netherlands after graduating here, and one of our statistical offices (the CPB) has calculated that they contribute around 450 million euro’s to the Dutch economy each year (coffeeshop spending is not even included in this!). Low costs, good quality of education and of course the fact that both our uni’s as the regular Dutch folk (pretend to) speak superawesome English are the main reason why internationals students and the Netherlands is such a successful combination. 

The Dutch being Dutch have also found that their schools can make money from international students, so it’s win win for everybody here (except for those people that long back to the coffeeshop-and-international-student- free Holland of the 50’s). 

 
The good old days. Because screw diversity and multiculturalism
 

DutchReview loves you!

Enough with the weed jokes already, seriously, DutchReview loves international students, heck for the better part we are actually made up by international students. We also wrote plenty of stuff for you!  Such as this one on studying in the Netherlands, or this one on how to find a room, or this one on Dutch life after graduation or this one on how to behave in a coffeeshop.
 
 
 

These pics of the Flower Fields in the Netherlands will (continue to) blow your mind

Abuzer van Leeuwen 🇳🇱
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These pics of the Flower Fields in the Netherlands will (continue to) blow your mind

It’s one of those clichés we don’t really want to escape from (goodbye stupid clogs!) the blooming of the flower fields in the Netherlands is one of those seasonal traditions, like Kingsday, that has grown on the country. Not for a small part is this new found appreciation because of the genuine and massive attention and pure love for our brightly colored flower fields from abroad.

So every year there are more people flocking to them and every year we get better photos with 50% more flowery magic added to them. Now it’s almost prime time for the blossoming fields, should be about a week or so and we promise to get you tons of shots and movies, no worries.

But who wants to wait that one out ey? 

So we hooked up with Roy Poots again (you might have heard from him, we also worked with him on these two insanely successful photo-reports about the Netherlands and Rotterdam) and bring you his magical shots of the flower fields in the Netherlands of the last season. So here are the Dutch tulips fields around Leiden and Lisse in their full glory. Enjoy!

 

Oh, don’t forget to like DutchReview’s Facebook page in order not to miss out on all the feature coverage of these fantastic flowers!

 

The Flower Fields in the Netherlands

This is why we wrote ‘Flower fields in the Netherlands’ and not just tulipfields. Plenty of other flowers to see!
You’ll see plenty of tourists walking around, nothing to do about that
The Netherlands looks like a giant colored testprint sometimes 😀
Some lovely lakes in this area as well, such as the ‘Kaag’
As usual, sunsets and sunrises make it look extra good!

Flower Fields in the Netherlands

Can’t get enough of the flower fields in the Netherlands?

Don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of pics, movies and reports coming. And then there’s always this article on the history of the tulip or this one of course on how to see the flower fields in the Netherlands for free.

 

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Finding an English-Speaking Job in Amsterdam Needn’t be so Hard

Abuzer van Leeuwen 🇳🇱
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Finding an English-Speaking Job in Amsterdam Needn’t be so Hard

7 tips for finding an English-Speaking Job in Amsterdam

The fact that your reading this article, shows you’re seriously considering a change that will ultimately carve a career path, potentially paved in gold. Your destination – Amsterdam. Why? The Dutch are on a mission, creating Europe’s most prolific start-up community and the opportunities English speakers are endless.

 

How to Job Hunt Abroad, When You Have No Idea What You’re Doing

Being an outsider might make job hunting seem tough, but being fluent in English just gave you that competitive edge. Job hunting is never easy, golden rule of thumb is network and get noticed. Be prepared to put in real time and ready to face challenges, obstacles, possible rejection but ultimately this journey will be worth every piece of effort your prepared to commit.

Something like this, but more laptops and coffee

1. Don’t go at This Alone

Most likely you’re lucky enough to already be settled in the Netherlands, and seeing the benefits of being a global citizen. However, to get results on the job front fast, you really need to put yourself out there.  Sounds daunting, right? Well it needn’t be and you don’t even need to leave your seat.

The first part of your strategy should be letting people know you’re considering a change and outreach. Social Media is your golden ingredient, LinkedIn and twitter are your key tools, if you not already set up on the platforms, this is the first place you need to start. Get yourself a cracking profile, follow your target companies and start making connections. Forbes have written a helpful guide on ‘how to market yourself on LinkedIn’.

Twitter offers more job opportunities than any other platform and direct access to key influencers who do the hiring and the firing! It’s really that simple – LinkedIn lets you know who they are, you’ve got one opportunity and 140 characters to sell yourself to that key person, don’t be afraid just do it. Tweet ?

 

2. Upgrade Your Skills

Ongoing professional development and keeping your skills current are vital to making you stand out from the crowd. We know, easier said than done. Top tip – take your CV, and pull it apart. Look at your strengths and weaknesses and decide what and where needs improvement. It might be your looking to jump back into a previous career path, retraining completely or upgrading your current qualifications. The Netherlands and Amsterdam offers so many opportunities for the English speaker, it could in fact be just as easy as going back to basics in the UK. Let’s say your previous career in the UK was a top CEO’s Executive Assistant, well in Amsterdam Executive Assistants who are English Speaking are in high demand and we’ve got a course for that, check out the well-known International training providers Souters. See if you can land yourself the opportunity to shadow a new connection or maybe a friend in there day to day role, get a taster for what it might be like to work in a start-up.

Any experience you can gain makes a bold statement on your CV.

 

3. Take Advice from Others

The best advice you can ever take, is from someone who’s made the change a success. The old saying ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’ really can prove to be the most vital tool in securing your dream role. Many people even strangers are happy to share the success and hand out advice. What you really want to aim for is finding a mentor who can open doors and avenues that may not have been achievable without their assistance.

 

  1. Start off by working online

Since we live in the age of technology there are lots of opportunities to find an online job. A lot of it involves freelance work and will require you to get creative at times. One of the more popular alternatives, in this case, is to start your writer career at a well-established paper writing service like this one. Overall this experience can be used as the basis of becoming a content writer for various websites in the future so it is an option worth taking into consideration.

5. Get out and Visit Industry Events

Creating your own luck can be the golden ticket. Being in the right place at the right time can go a long way in meeting the right people and businesses. Industry events like VRDAYS and business groups can be exactly the right place to get that ‘Big Break’ and land a English-Speaking Job in Amsterdam. Amsterdam’s top two accelerators: Rockstart and Startupbootcamp are always on the lookout for English speaking talent.

 

6. Hit Local Co-Working Spaces in Amsterdam

People thrive and share in co-working spaces, and that means endless opportunities to show your talent. Mixing and making new business friends can offer many advantages, opportunities and job leads you might not normally come across. This helpful site launchdesk offers you the chance to grab addresses where co working space exists and possibly rent co-working space if it takes your fancy.

 

7. Finding an English-Speaking Job in Amsterdam? Job Hunting Persistence is the Key to Success

Persistence in life will always pay off in anything you do. Fortunately, there are simple ways to stay motivated and tenacious when it comes to looking for the right job.

English-Speaking Job in Amsterdam

In the End: Stay steadfast and True to Yourself

Don’t be dishonest with yourself, it takes time to find and certainly land the job of your dreams. If you can budget for the inevitable or pick up some temporary work along the way it will lighten the load. Take a project management approach, plan your weekly efforts and stick to them, always, always remember to take time out for yourself as job hunting can be both daunting and draining experience. If you’re sending money from overseas accounts to your Dutch account then you definitely feel the fear of being jobless, never be guided by this fear, let it motivate you to find the job you’re passionate about.

And most importantly of all, Good Luck – Amsterdam’s waiting!

 

Any other tips for finding an English-Speaking job in Amsterdam? Feel free to share!

6 European destinations you can get to by night train (and how to beat the crowds!)

Lina Leskovec
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6 European destinations you can get to by night train (and how to beat the crowds!)

With summer vacations approaching faster than a Dutch cyclist, it’s time to start planning the travels we’ve been dreaming about all year long. 

But where there are travel plans, there’s stress. How do you choose the most comfortable travel option that’s also affordable — and where do you even go? 

Lucky for us, European Sleeper can take that stress off our hands. Their stunning route takes you from the Netherlands to some of the best-known and loved European destinations (as well as some unexpected hidden gems), all by night train. 

So if you’re a solo traveller eager to meet fellow explorers, or a group of friends ready for your next adventure, here are six destinations you can reach by night train from the Netherlands this summer. 👇

1. Discover the unique culture of Berlin

the-skyline-of-Berlin-on-a-sunny-summer-day-where-you-can-travel-to-Berlin-with-a-European-Sleeper-night-train-from-the-Netherlands
There’s always something to do in Berlin. Image: Dreamstime

Reaching Berlin from the Netherlands with European Sleeper is as simple as closing your eyes and tucking in for a good night’s sleep. 

Hop on board a little after 10 PM in Amsterdam Centraal, and you can sleep until you arrive in Berlin a little after 6 AM, ready for a busy day of exploring. 

As a city formerly divided between East and West, Berlin has a unique vibe that offers something for everyone, from history buffs to culture enthusiasts. 

Since you’re able to comfortably sleep while you travel, it’s very easy to make your trip to Berlin a short weekend trip. 

Good news, because it’s needless to say, if you’re looking for a party, this is your place to go. 

READ MORE | REVIEW: We slept our way from Amsterdam to Berlin on the new European Sleeper train

Tempted, but looking for a balance between comfort and affordability? European Sleeper’s couchette compartments may be the perfect fit for you. 

Or are you a solo female traveller and the idea of sharing a sleeping compartment with random people is making you a bit nervous? No worries, European Sleeper offers women-only compartments as well. 😌

Tip! July and August are the highest tourist seasons, so travel in June to avoid the biggest crowds and snag the best deals. 

🚂 Journey length from Amsterdam: Just under eight hours. 

💸 Couchette ticket price: Starting at €49.99 

2. Relax in Bad Schandau

A-photo-of-the-Elbe-running-through-Bad-Schandau-which-you-can-reach-in-the-summer-by-European-Sleeper-nighttrains
Those landscapes look like they’re straight from a fairytale. Image: Depositphotos

Bad what-now? Don’t worry, you’re not the only one who hasn’t heard of this place before — making it the perfect destination if you’re looking to avoid heaps of people on your holiday.

You can even avoid the crowds at your starting destination if you’d like. With European Sleeper, you can start your journey not only from the bustling Amsterdam Centraal but also from Amersfoort, Deventer, The Hague, Rotterdam, or Roosendaal.

Whatever your starting point is, you can settle in for the night and arrive in Bad Schandau at around 9:20 AM.

Tip! For an even more relaxing journey, you can opt for a more comfortable five-person couchette compartment, where you get more space and air conditioning (you are travelling during the summer after all). 

This small German town is home to one of the oldest health resorts in Europe. Sitting in the middle of a stunning national park, it has all the ingredients for a relaxing summer getaway.

🚂 Journey length from Amsterdam: Just under ten hours. 

💸 Couchette ticket price: Starting at €59.99 

3. Get lost in the charm of Prague

A-historic-street-in-Prague-on-a-summer-evening-where-you-can-travel-with-a-European-Sleeper-night-train-from-the-Netherlands
We wouldn’t mind getting lost here. Image: Dreamstime

From a hidden gem to a certified classic — and with its stunning historic architecture, the magnificent Vltava, and charming narrow streets, we get why. 

This is the longest journey from the Netherlands, departing Amsterdam at around 10:30 PM, you’ll arrive in Prague around midday the next day — which means you can sleep in and arrive energised.

You can also include a breakfast in your booking and enjoy a hot drink, juice, yoghurt with granola, crackers with various toppings and a bun for an additional €14. 

If you’re looking for a place to have a fun holiday, but Berlin-style techno clubs sound a bit intense, Prague is a great option for more relaxed nightlife. 

Travelling solo? Sleeper trains are a fun way to meet people to go out with if you’re travelling alone or simply looking to expand your circle. 

After all, what’s a night of partying when you’ve already spent a night together?  

Tip! Prague is also famous for its delicious and affordable food. If you go, make sure to eat at least one honey cake per day (or drink one Czech beer if it’s that kind of holiday). 

🚂 Journey length from Amsterdam: Just under 13 hours. 

💸 Couchette ticket price: Starting at €69.99 

4. Take in the beauty of Dresden

A-view-of-historic-churches-in-Dresden-from-the-Elbe-on-a-sunny-summer-day-when-you-can-reach-it-with-a-European-Sleeper-night-train-from-the-Netherlands
Germany has some serious stuff to offer. Image: Depositphotos

Sometimes called ‘the Florence of the Elbe’, this German city is another treat for architecture lovers. 

Travelling with a night train isn’t just about the destination you reach, though. The environment is comfortable, as well as sociable, so you can meet fellow travellers or simply decide to doze off during the night. 

However, it doesn’t hurt if the destination you reach is also stunning — the train brings you to Dresden at around 8:20 AM. 

Despite being bombed heavily during World War II, Dresden is home to some of the most beautiful baroque buildings in Germany. 

But it doesn’t just look classy — it has the activities to go with it. Dresden is one of the best spots in Germany to enjoy opera, classical music, and theatre. 

Want to travel to the opera in style? European Sleeper also offers luxury sleeper compartments that come with three comfortable beds, a table, and a complimentary breakfast. 

🚂 Journey length from Amsterdam: Just under ten hours. 

💸 Couchette ticket price: Starting at €59.99 

5. Get active in Dečín

A-view-of-Dečin-from-one-of-the-nearby-hills-on-a-summer-evening-when-you-can-travel-there-with-a-European-Sleeper-night-train-from-the-Netherlands
Hike all the way up to this view. Image: Dreamstime

If you’re not just looking to relax, but also get active this summer, Dečín is a great choice. 

You won’t get busy city streets or crowds of tourists here — but you will get gorgeous landscapes, loads of hiking spots, and rafting or canoeing on the Elbe. 

Sounds like the perfect place to have a bike, right? Good thing European Sleeper allows you to bring yours on board. 

🚂 Journey length from Amsterdam: Just over eleven hours. 

💸 Couchette ticket price: Starting at €59.99 

6. Keep it simple and chic in Brussels

A-photo-of-the-main-square-in-Brussels-on-a-sunny-summer-day-when-you-can-reach-it-with-a-European-Sleeper-train-from-the-Netherlands
You don’t need to go far to see some serious beauty. Image: Depositphotos

Unfortunately, we sometimes don’t get to take a lot of time off during the summer and travel far. How lucky then, that the Netherlands is so close to the perfect weekend getaway spot — Brussels.

The journey won’t take long, so sleeping compartments aren’t always necessary. Thankfully, European Sleeper also offers cosy six-person seat compartments perfect for covering short distances. 

Brussels is close (great), which means the journey is affordable (even more great), but it still has a lot to offer (will the greatness ever end?); you have everything from important EU institutions, to adorable flea markets, to the silly Manneken Pis.

Oh, and the waffles. Do not forget about the waffles.  

🚂 Journey length from Amsterdam: Approximately three hours.

💸 Seat ticket price: Starting at €19.99 

One-young-man-and-two-young-women-passengers-smiling-and-getting-their-pillows-ready-to-sleep-on-a-European-Sleeper-night-train-from-the-Netherlands
Time to make friends and memories. Image: European Sleeper/Supplied

If you’re ready to start planning your summer vacations, European Sleeper offers some amazing options for every traveller. 

Travelling by night train means even far-away destinations are easier to reach, and the fun doesn’t start when you reach your destination — the journey is already part of the experience. ✨

Which of these destinations sounds the best to you? start your journey and check out tickets on European Sleeper.

Why more expats are ditching Amsterdam for smaller Dutch cities

DutchReview Crew
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Why more expats are ditching Amsterdam for smaller Dutch cities

For years, Amsterdam has reigned supreme as the Netherlands’ darling among expats, with its bustling streets, historic canals, and a vibrant international vibe.

But a new trend is emerging: more and more internationals are swapping the hustle and bustle of the capital for the calm and character of smaller Dutch cities. But… why?

Big dreams, small cities

Sure, Amsterdam has its charm, but let’s be real: the cost of living is sky-high, the rental market is a blood sport, and the crowds are… relentless.

photo-of-rental-sign-on-house-in-Netherlands-that-is-protected-by-rental-committee
Renting in Amsterdam? Good luck… Image: Depositphotos

Enter the new wave of expat hotspots: cities like Eindhoven, Groningen, and Dordrecht, which are are stepping up as seriously attractive alternatives.

These smaller cities are ticking all the boxes — more affordable housing, a stronger sense of community, better work-life balance, and access to nature.

Space to breathe (and maybe even buy)

Housing in Amsterdam? Let’s just say you’d better have a solid income, a bucket of luck, and the patience of a saint. But in cities like Groningen, you can sometimes find rentals up to 50% cheaper.

READ MORE | 7 underrated places to live outside of the Randstad

Expats moving to these towns are discovering they can rent spacious apartments, or even buy property, while still enjoying a high quality of life.

And let’s not forget: being able to host a dinner party without your guests sitting on your bed? Priceless.

Peace, parks, and people who smile at you

Beyond the euros and square meters, there’s something deeper pulling expats to smaller cities: the quality of life. Think less traffic, more greenery, fewer tourists, and friendly locals who might actually say hoi to you on the street.

Dutch-man-laying-down-in-park-reading-near-bike-in-summer
Who doesn’t love a good park? Image: Depositphotos

Cities like Eindhoven and Dordrecht offer a quieter, slower-paced life without sacrificing culture or convenience. You’ll still find great cafés, museums, and local markets, just with shorter queues.

These towns often have strong community initiatives too, making it easier for expats to settle in, meet people, and feel at home.

Not to mention, access to nature trails and parks gives your brain some much-needed space from everyday life (and the many casino’s zonder Cruks online).

Careers beyond the capital

Think all the good jobs are in Amsterdam? Think again. Cities like Eindhoven are booming, especially in the tech and innovation sectors; it’s not called the “Silicon Valley of Europe” for nothing.

READ MORE | 21 best day trips from Amsterdam: the ultimate travel guide

With strong local economies and plenty of international companies setting up shop, these smaller cities are becoming serious career hubs.

Plus, the work-life balance? Chef’s kiss. You might even have time to pick up that Dutch hobby you keep putting off (hello, cycling club or pottery class!).

Amsterdam, just a train ride away

Of course, leaving the capital doesn’t mean cutting ties with it completely.

Thanks to the Netherlands’ world-class public transport system, cities like Utrecht, Leiden, and Amersfoort are just a quick train ride from Amsterdam.

photo-of-outside-of-Amsterdam-centraal-Netherlands
The capital will always be there! Image: Dreamstime

So whether you need to commute occasionally or just want a weekend museum fix, it’s all within reach.

As the cost of living rises and the desire for balance grows, it’s no surprise that expats are rethinking where they put down roots.

So, if you’re dreaming of life in the Netherlands, don’t be afraid to think smaller. You might just find everything you’re looking for outside the Amsterdam spotlight.

Do you live in a smaller Dutch city? How does it compare to Amsterdam? Share your thoughts in the comments.

7 things to do in Gorinchem: the Dutch fortified town you’ve (probably) never heard of

Lyna Meyrer 🇱🇺
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7 things to do in Gorinchem: the Dutch fortified town you’ve (probably) never heard of

Let’s be honest — unless you’re a medieval history nerd or got stranded on the wrong train from Utrecht, you probably haven’t spent much time thinking about Gorinchem (pronounced Gore-in-khem).

…But maybe you should! This under-the-radar gem in the province of South Holland is the largest fortified city in the Netherlands, and it was recognised by the Royal Dutch Touring Club (ANWB) as the country’s most beautiful fortified town in 2021.

The town blends historical charm with modern vibrancy, and is a great place to visit for anyone — from history buffs to culture enthusiasts or those simply seeking a picturesque escape.

1. Traverse the historic fortifications of the city

You can start your visit by literally walking around the entire town, following the 5-kilometre-long ‘Vestingwandeling‘, which follows the original 1600s city walls.

people-walking-fortress-walk-in-gorinchem-netherlands
Image: Dreamstime

This self-guided fortress walk provides panoramic views of the rivers and leads you past landmarks such as the Tolhuis, Dalempoort, and two historic flour mills. 

2. Climb the Grote Toren for breathtaking views

Dominating the skyline of Gorinchen is the Grote Toren (big tower), inviting visitors to climb its 256 steps. 

Why would you do that to yourself, you ask? Well, because brave climbers are rewarded with the best sights of the town, and a view that stretches all the way to the Dom Tower in Utrecht on a clear day.

READ MORE | 19 best things to do in Utrecht in 2025

Guided tours are available on Saturdays from May to September, offering insights into the tower’s construction, history, and charming tilt. (Yes, it leans ever so slightly. Kind of like Pisa, but Dutch and way less crowded.)

3. Enjoy the lively Lingehaven

No Dutch town is complete without a picture-perfect canal, and Lingehaven delivers. Situated in the heart of the city, this little marina buzzes with activity. 

charming-marina-in-gorinchem-netherlands
Image: Dreamstime

Surrounded by waterside cafés and terraces, it’s the perfect spot to relax, watch boats navigate the locks, or partake in annual events like the Open Harbour Day in May and the Boat Show in September. 

4. Shop and stroll along Langendijk

You didn’t think you’d escape without a bit of boutique browsing, did you? Hey, at least getting a nice souvenir is better than spending all your cash at a no cruks casino.

To do so, head to Langendijk — one of Gorinchem’s oldest streets, and also one of its trendiest.

This is where centuries-old facades meet modern design, indie stores, and charming cafes — all wrapped up in cobblestones and history.

5. Take a break at a local museum

Need a break from all that walking? We getcha: time for a quick museum visit.

Housed in the former city hall and dating all the way back to 1860, the Gorcums Museum showcases Gorinchem’s rich history and artistic heritage. 

READ MORE | The museum town of the Netherlands: 14 great museums to visit in Leiden

Exhibits highlight tales of the ‘Martyrs of Gorkum,’ Hugo Grotius, and the city’s Renaissance painters, offering a comprehensive look into the events and figures that shaped Gorinchem. 

Alternatively, you can explore the Hendrick Hamel Museum to discover the adventures of Hendrick Hamel, a Gorinchem native who became the first Westerner to document life in Korea after being shipwrecked there in 1653.

The museum, located in his birthplace, offers insights into his 13-year captivity and the cultural exchanges that ensued.

6. Hop on a ferry and explore the Fortress Triangle

Gorinchem is part of a historic “Fortress Triangle” with Woudrichem, Loevestein Castle, and Fort Vuren — and getting between them by foot ferry or water taxi is half the fun.

The journey itself feels like a step back in time, with river landscapes, castle towers, and ancient fortresses straight out of a Dutch fairy tale.

Do it all in a day or space it out, but whatever you do, don’t skip Slot Loevestein. It’s got moats, turrets, and just the right amount of medieval drama.

7. Visit Molen Nooit Volmaakt

“Molen Nooit Volmaakt” (yep, quite a mouthful) literally means “Mill Never Completed,” but don’t let the name fool you.

READ MORE | Best windmill site in the Netherlands: Kinderdijk or Zaanse Schans?

This charming 18th-century windmill is a total gem. It’s still grinding flour the old-fashioned way, and you can pop in to learn about traditional Dutch milling or snag a bag of fresh flour and cookies from the on-site shop.

Because nothing says “authentic Dutch experience” quite like eating a biscuit made from wind-powered grain. 🇳🇱

Gorinchem’s charming blend of historical depth, cultural richness, and scenic beauty makes it a must-visit destination. We’ll see you there!​

Do you know of any more things to do in Gorinchem? Share them in the comments.

How the Netherlands shows off its culture — and why the world is loving it

DutchReview Crew
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How the Netherlands shows off its culture — and why the world is loving it

The Netherlands might be small, but when it comes to sharing its culture with the world, this little country punches well above its weight. 

From orange-soaked King’s Day celebrations to innovative architecture, quirky humour, and a surprisingly forward-thinking education system — the Dutch have plenty to offer, and they’re not shy about putting it out there (in English, of course).

Here’s how the Netherlands is showing off its best bits — and why that’s a win for all of us.

Festivals: Putting Dutch culture on the global stage

Let’s start with the obvious: the Netherlands is famously gezellig, slightly chaotic on King’s Day, and suspiciously good at throwing a festival for just about anything (flowers, fish, fries — you name it). 

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The Dutch would never say ‘nee’ to a celebration. Image: Depositphotos

But beyond the stroopwafel stereotypes, Dutch culture is a fascinating mash-up of tradition, innovation, and international flair.

Events like Dutch Design Week, Pride Amsterdam, and, yes, even Eurovision, show off the country’s creative side, but not just for the locals, but for a global audience. 

Education: It’s not just windmills and wooden shoes

The Netherlands is home to some of the most international universities in Europe — and no, it’s not just because everything is in English (though that definitely helps). 

READ MORE | Studying in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide

Dutch higher education is full of forward-thinking approaches, digital classrooms, and tech-savvy tools that are reshaping how we learn.

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Dutch universities are among the best in the world. Image: Freepik

But it’s not all shiny apps and robot tutors. There’s also plenty of debate happening here about the balance between Dutch identity and internationalisation. 

How much English is too much English? Can AI improve learning without turning students into zombies? The Dutch are asking all the right questions — and actually trying to answer them.

Satire: The Dutch way of saying “we care” (with a side-eye)

Let’s be honest — the Dutch have a unique sense of humour. It’s dry, direct, and often hilariously (or painfully) blunt. 

And that humour shows up everywhere: in news commentary, in late-night shows, in memes, and in those weird-but-wonderful editorial cartoons that say more in a doodle than some politicians say in a year.

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Nobody does social commentary like the Dutch. Image: Freepik

Satire plays a surprisingly big role in how the Dutch process politics and social issues. It’s a cultural tool that helps break down complex topics, challenge the status quo and, perhaps most importantly, keep things from getting too serious.

READ MORE | The ultimate list of Dutch Quirks

So if you ever wondered how a nation can laugh its way through housing crises and climate debates, you’ve clearly never seen a Dutch comedian in action.

Tech, tulips, and the future…well, of everything

Innovation is kind of a national sport in the Netherlands. Whether it’s creating sustainable floating neighbourhoods or rolling out a flashy online casino with quick payouts, the Dutch are quietly (or not-so-quietly) shaping the future.

You’ll also find that the latest tech trends often show up first in education. From AI in classrooms to digital administration systems that actually work (imagine!), Dutch schools and universities are busy experimenting with what learning might look like in the future. 

Why does all this matter?

Because sharing culture isn’t just about exporting Gouda and tulips (though we fully support both), it’s about building bridges, sparking conversation, and creating space for global perspectives. 

The Netherlands is doing that — not just through news articles and events, but through everyday openness, curiosity, and yes, a bit of Dutch directness.

Whether you’re an expat, a student, a tourist, or just a curious human scrolling the internet, there’s something refreshing about how the Dutch show up on the world stage — candid, clever, and always a little bit quirky.

And if you ever want to dive deeper into that world, you’re in the right place. 😉

How do you feel about Dutch culture as an international? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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