Netherlands travel Tips

Travelling in the Netherlands is generally safe and hassle-free. Due to the flat topography, exploring by bike is often the best way to see the country – and is how the locals get around. The country is well known for its liberal policies, but such policies are strictly controlled, making the Netherlands a fascinating mix of tradition and liberalism.

• Spring and summer are the best times to visit the Netherlands, if only for the flowers. If you want to avoid the hordes, come at either end of the season when numbers are fewer; or if you’re not interested in the outdoors, come in winter when the museums and galleries are quiet.

• Don't even think about mailing any illegal substances home from the Netherlands. Illegal contents will almost certainly be confiscated, and the addressee can be prosecuted.

• For longer distances, the train is the best way to get around and you can take your bike on as well. When cycling around, look out for bicycle stop lights.

• Don't call the Netherlands ‘Holland’, since that term specifically refers to only two of the 12 provinces that make up the country.

• Don't take a camera if you tour Amsterdam's red-light district – the women have been known to throw photographers into canals, camera and all.

• Don't buy any tulip bulbs unless there's a customs declaration form included that will allow them to be imported into your home country.

• Tipping is not compulsory in the Netherlands, but rounding up the bill is always appreciated in taxis, restaurants and pubs with table or pavement service.

Useful travel tips resources

Footprint Guides - The Netherlands
Excellent resource on the Netherlands from this well-known travel guide publisher.
http://www.footprintguides.com/

Holland
Official tourist site packed with useful information and advice on travelling in the Netherlands.
http://www.holland.com

Visit Holland
Offers handy tips and general information for travelling in the Netherlands.
htp://www.visitholland.com

More topics on this site…
Netherlands travel information
Netherlands health and safety
Netherlands maps and geography

Essentials

Visas: Not required for most nationals for stays up to three months
Season: Summer (June – August)
Money: Euro
Language: Dutch and Frisian, English understood widely
Emergency #: 112

Netherlands