About
The Netherlands is a country in Western Europe known for its flat landscape, canals, and rich cultural heritage. It is an economically developed kingdom with a high standard of living and significant population growth driven by migration.
The Netherlands is a country in Western Europe known for its flat landscape, canals, and rich cultural heritage. It is an economically developed kingdom with a high standard of living and significant population growth driven by migration.
faq.subtitle Netherlands
Netherlands is part of Schengen Area and EU. EU citizens enter freely. Russians, Chinese, etc. need Schengen visa (€90). From October 2025, EES biometric registration at borders. US, Canada, Australia citizens — up to 90 days visa-free. Stay limit: 90 days in 180-day period for entire Schengen Area.
For transport use OV-chipkaart (€7.50 + top-up) or contactless card. Amsterdam tourist tax is one of Europe's highest (€14.50 + 7% of accommodation cost for cruises). Chip-and-PIN cards required — magnetic strips not accepted. Bicycle is best transport, rental from €12/day. Cash rarely needed.
Watch for pickpockets in tourist areas and transport. ATTENTION to bike lanes — walking on them is dangerous and annoys locals! Don't buy drugs on street — only in licensed coffeeshops. Red light district: photographing workers is forbidden. Don't stand on bike lanes when taking photos. Canals have no railings — careful at night!
SIM from KPN, T-Mobile or Vodafone costs €10-20 for 10-30GB. EU roaming included. 5G available in major cities.
European plugs Type C and F (Schuko). Voltage 230V. Standard European system. US/UK travelers need adapter
Netherlands is tiny—trains best for everything. NS operates frequent Intercity trains. Amsterdam to Rotterdam in 40min with Intercity Direct (+€3 supplement). Trains every 10-15 min on major routes. OV-chipkaart needed. Buses slower and less convenient. Flying unnecessary—country too small. Bikes extremely popular for local travel.
Tipping (fooi) in Netherlands is not obligatory. Service charge often included. Round up or leave 5-10% for good service.