🇳🇱
Essential apps for
Netherlands
Nederland
Dutch & EnglishEUR4 apps
Most Dutch speak excellent English. Bikes rule — and you'll want maps optimized for cycling.
🔌
Power & Plug
TypeC / F
Voltage230V
Freq50Hz
Same as Germany.
💬
Basic phrases
Dutch
- HelloHalloHah-loh
- Thank youDank jeDank yeh
- SorrySorry / PardonSorry / Par-don
- YesJaYah
- NoNeeNay
+3 more below
🎎
Tipping
Tipping is modest and not obligatory, as service is included in the bill. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants for good service is appreciated.
🚖Rideshare & Taxi
See all →💳Payments & Wallets
See all →🗺️Navigation & Maps
See all →Phrases
All Dutch phrases
Hello
Hallo
Hah-loh
Thank you
Dank je
Dank yeh
Sorry
Sorry / Pardon
Sorry / Par-don
Yes
Ja
Yah
No
Nee
Nay
Please
Alstublieft
Als-too-bleeft
How much?
Hoeveel?
Hoo-vayl
Cheers
Proost
Prohst
Briefing
What to know before you go
✓ Do
- The Dutch value directness and honesty; blunt opinions are normal and not meant to offend
- Be punctual for appointments and social meetings, as lateness is seen as rude
- Always watch for and yield to cyclists; never walk or stand in red-painted bike lanes
- Split the bill ('going Dutch') is common and expected among friends
- Greet with a firm handshake, or three alternating cheek kisses among friends and family
- Keep your tone calm and avoid loud or boastful behavior in public
✕Don't
- Don't assume cannabis is legal everywhere; it is tolerated only in licensed coffeeshops, and public use elsewhere can draw fines
- Don't photograph people in the Red Light District; it is prohibited and can provoke confrontation
- Don't refer to the whole country as 'Holland', which is just two provinces
- Don't be overly flattering or use excessive small talk, as it can seem insincere
⚠️ Common scams to know
- Fake charity petitioners with clipboards who distract you while an accomplice picks your pocket, common around Amsterdam's Dam Square
- Bike rental shops charging excessive damage or repair fees for pre-existing wear
- ATM skimming and 'helpful' strangers near cash machines in tourist areas
- Overpriced 'coffeeshop' tourist traps and street dealers selling fake or adulterated product
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