Netherlands Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Amsterdam
- Currency
- EUR (Euro)
- Best time to visit
- April–May for tulip season. June–August for best weather.
Visa requirements
EU citizens travel freely. Non-EU can stay up to 90 days in Schengen zone without a visa.
Getting around
The dense NS rail network links Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and beyond in minutes, all paid via the OV-chipkaart or contactless, with buses and trams filling the gaps. Cities are compact and famously cycling-friendly, with bikes the dominant way to get around, plus trams, metro and ride-hailing apps in the larger centres.
Safety
Netherlands is very safe. Watch for cyclists — they have right of way almost everywhere.
Tipping customs
Service is included in prices, so tipping is optional and modest. Round up or leave about 5–10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and a euro or two for hotel porters and housekeeping is appreciated.
Travel tips
Rent a bike — it's how locals get around. Dutch people almost universally speak English.