Netherlands

The Netherlands is also informally known as Holland, is a country located in Western Europe.

Netherlands

Netherlands

Netherlands literally means “lower countries”, which is a reference to its low elevation compared to sea level. Around only half of the country is higher than one metre above sea level, with 26% falling below sea level. The major cities in the Netherlands include Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht.

Details

Before visiting any country make sure you know the basics. General details and important information.

  • Emergency Services: 112
  • Language: English
  • Currency: Euro
  • Capital City: Amsterdam
  • Country Code: NL
  • Travel Visa: None required
  • Population: 17,155,140
  • Driving: Right hand side

Risk Level

Researching various official sources, we perceive the risk to holiday makers and travellers are as follows;

Overall Risk 30%
Pickpickets 40%
Mugging 15%
Common Crimes 25%

Travellers Tips

Top travel advice and interesting tip bits of information from experienced travellers.

  • When you're talking to a Dutch person, don't be put off if they say something very blunt or direct. It is part of Dutch culture to say exactly what's on your mind without holding back.
  • The Netherlands, particularly Amsterdam, receive a lot of tourists throughout the year. If you want to do any particular activity then make sure you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.
  • You'll likely already know that marijuana is legal in the Netherlands. However, if you really are just after a simple hot chocolate and cake, avoid 'coffee shops' and keep your eye out for cafes instead.

Netherlands

  • What is the best time of year to travel to the Netherlands?

    Weather-wise, the Netherlands is similar to a lot of countries in north-west Europe. The country experiences warm summers and cool winters, though temperatures usually never fall below 3°C.

    You should plan your trip based on specific events that you want to experience, rather than what the weather will be like, as there are things happening all throughout the year. June-August are naturally when the country receives the most tourists, but March-April is also a great time to visit due to the plethora of events on show, such as Kings Day.

  • What are the top safety tips when visiting the Netherlands?

    Despite the abundance of bars, don’t ever be tempted to drink and drive. The Netherlands take this concept incredibly seriously and have lower blood-alcohol level requirements than other cities (just 0.5). Penalties in place include a heavy fine or even court punishment.

    Although marijuana is tolerated in the Netherlands, it is not legal to produce or deal drugs. If you get caught, you will be arrested, so please bear that in mind whilst travelling.

     

     

  • What common crimes occur in the Netherlands?

    Despite being an incredibly popular tourist destination, the Netherlands has a relatively low crime rate. That being said, in major cities such as Amsterdam, always be vigilant of pick pocketers. Ensure that your valuables are safety stored away from sight when passing through crowded areas, and make sure you only bring what you need to.

    Cybercrimes are taken very seriously in the Netherlands, as around one in six internet uses have experienced some kind of virtual fraud. If you’re connecting to public Wi-Fi, make sure the connection is secure and don’t input your personal details into any suspicious websites.

    Cycling in the Netherlands is a very popular method of transport. If you are riding a bike, make sure you leave it locked and in a safe place when unattended in order to prevent theft.

  • What are the main annual events in the Netherlands?

    January 21st is Tulip Day, where around 200,000 tulips in Dam Square where people come from all over to pick a free bouquet of tulips. This day marks the start of tulip season in the Netherlands – the flower in which this country is famous for.

    King’s Day – April 27th. This is a day many Dutch people look forward to where they celebrate King Willem Alexander’s birthday. There are many parties held across the cities, with live music, street food and a lot of pop-up bars!

    On the second weekend of September, Heritage Day occurs. This is where around 4,000 historic buildings become open to the public. This includes castles, old farmhouses, abandoned factories and ancient canal houses.

Improve Your Safety

Knowledge The more you have the better equipped you are.

Research is always number one. Any place you choose to visit usually has something about it that makes us want to find out more, ultimately the more you know the better your experience.

Awareness The more you see the safer you become.

Armed with the knowledge of the possible risks, common crimes and safety advice, your raised awareness and enables you to spot possible hazardous situations before they unfold.

Response The right reaction can change a situation.

How you handle a situation is very important and can dramatically change the outcome. If you have recognised the potential dangers early enough it will give you time to process and decide on the best course of action… Find Out More

For more country specific travel & safety information, please visit the Travel Aware website by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office.

Towns & Cities

  • Groningen

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    Groningen is the main and capital city of the Groningen province, located in the north of the Netherlands. The city has a population of around 230,000 and has a large student population, which accounts for around 25% of its population.

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  • Breda

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    Breda is a city in the Netherlands located in the region of North Brabant. The city is home to beautiful old architecture and a variety of famous historic buildings, including the Castle of Breda and Saint Anthony’s Cathedral.

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  • The Hague

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    The Hague is a city on the west coast of The Netherlands. It is the capital of South Holland and is the seat of the country’s government. Two of the most important criminal courts in the world reside here: the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court.

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  • Modern architecture at night in Rotterdam

    Rotterdam

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    Located in the south of Holland, Rotterdam is the second largest city in the country. The city is home to the largest seaport in Europe. Rotterdam hosts a very famous university, Erasmus University Rotterdam, and is well known for it’s picturesque riverside and aquatic culture and life.

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  • Amsterdam

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    Amsterdam is the capital of and most populated city in the Netherlands. With a multitude of canals and waterways running through the city, many refer to Amsterdam as the ‘Venice of the North’.

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