Europe · Destination guide
Netherlands
Capital: Amsterdam
🛂Visa requirements
💳Money & payments
Cards: Cards very widely accepted. Contactless is universal. Some stroopwafel and herring stands: cash only.
ATMs: ING and ABN AMRO ATMs are most reliable for foreign cards.
Tipping
Not culturally required. 5–10% for good restaurant service. Rounding up for taxis. No obligation.
💬Language
Dutch
The Netherlands has one of the highest English proficiency rates in the world. English spoken universally.
Useful phrases
- ·Dank je wel — Thank you
- ·Alsjeblieft — Please / Here you go
🔌Electricity & plugs
Standard European plug. UK visitors need an adapter.
🤝Local customs & etiquette
- 1.Cyclists have absolute priority — they do not stop for pedestrians. Look carefully before crossing cycle paths.
- 2.The Dutch are famously direct — bluntness in conversation is normal and not considered rude.
- 3.Going Dutch (splitting bills equally) is genuinely practiced — expect to pay your exact share.
- 4.Cannabis is tolerated in licensed coffeeshops but illegal elsewhere. Public consumption outside designated areas is not tolerated.
- 5.Quiet voices on public transport. Loud talking is frowned upon.
📶SIM cards & connectivity
Local SIM: KPN, T-Mobile Netherlands, and Vodafone NL. EU visitors: free roaming included.
WiFi: Excellent in Amsterdam and major cities. Trains have WiFi.
🛡️Safety
Very safe. Bicycle theft is rife in Amsterdam — use two locks. Canal safety: the canals have no barriers in many areas.
💉Health
No vaccinations required. Tap water excellent. EU visitors: EHIC/GHIC valid.
🚨Emergency numbers
emergency
112
non urgent
0900-8844
🚗Driving
🚆 Getting to the circuit in Netherlands
Train, shuttle, and race day transport guide
Explore Netherlands