Netherlands Travel Guide For Backpackers & Digital Nomads

Although being but a tiny dot on a world map, the Netherlands has a beautiful cultural heritage and unique pieces of architecture. Picturesque cities and an abundance of art museums display the history of this Western European nation. You will find just about everything, from a music scene, lively festivals, and on the other hand, quiet pieces of nature, making the Netherlands a year round destination. Grab your backpack and start exploring the cobbled streets, canals, and flower fields of this country. Before hitting the road, read our travel guide to better enjoy your time in the Netherlands.

Netherlands at a Glace

Language

Dutch

Currency

The Euro

Best Money Exchange

ATM

Local Dishes

Hollandse Nieuwe

Drones Allowed

Top Phone Providers

KPN & Vodafone

Is water safe to drink

Yes

Vaccinations

Check CDC

Power Plug Type

C and F

Car Sharing Options

Enterprise, Uber

Peak Season

July and August

Country Code

+31

Backpacker Friendly

Yes

Hitch hiker Friendly

Yes

Credit Cards Accepted

Yes

Preffered Payment Method

Cash

Low Season

January - March

Police Number

112

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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Netherlands

1. Amsterdam

Although unpleasantly packed, the capital draws tourists for a reason; age-old architecture, museums, and charming canals that can be found all over the city.

2.Rotterdam

A multicultural vibe, the Markthal food hall, and modern architecture have sky-rocketed Rotterdam’s popularity recently.

3.Gouda

Besides its prominent cheese produce, this city has a beautiful core with canals, vibrant markets, and a gorgeous city hall.

4. Wadden Island

Sand dunes, cycling trails, and countless marine animals make this cluster of islands in the north a favored getaway.

5. De Hoge Veluwe National-Park

This gorgeous area is home to a wide array of wildlife, forests, dunes, and magical blooming weather in August.

Other Things to See and Do in Netherlands

1. Den Haag

Mainly known as the city where an international court and Dutch government are seated, this coastal city has dazzling state buildings and a long stretch of golden beaches.

2. Volendam

This formerly anonymous village gained fame for preserving its fishing culture, from showcasing wooden boats to traditional clothing.

3. Weerribben – Wieden National Park

This gem of nature is often overlooked, but true peace lies in paddling along the forests and swamps. Giethoorn – famous for its canals and enchanting houses – is only a stone throw away.

4. Kinderdijk

As a witness of the Netherlands’ eternal fight against the water, the water mills of Kinderdijk nowadays are an exceptional example of Dutch culture.

5. South Limburg

The southern tip of Limburg province has many features; the energetic city of Maastricht, caves, and – since it’s the only elevated area in the country – mountain biking.

6. Lisse

In the Spring, the flowers pop up in the fields of this town near Amsterdam. Don’t forget your camera because the vivid scenery is incredible.

7. De Biesbosch

Underrated and unknown isn’t always a bad thing; the happy few that visit this inland river delta will be greeted by kingfishers, beavers, and calm streams. Renting a canoe is therapeutic!

8. Groningen

Groningen is a university city, and the presence of thousands of students probably makes this place the party capital in the Netherlands. Pubs and clubs come alive from Thursday to Sunday.

Typical Costs

Transportation

Towns and even the smallest villages are connected with an extensive bus network. You’ll pay around $2.5 for a city ride, and a trip from Rotterdam to Utrecht about $11. Flixbus is an excellent company for longer distances.

For connections between larger cities, the train is a better alternative. Rates are steep though; a 40-minute journey from Amsterdam to Rotterdam costs $18.

Metros and trams are solely operating in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Den Haag. Traveling by rail is the cheapest way to explore these cities, with rates starting at $20 cents .

Accommodation

There aren’t as many hostels in Amsterdam as other cities but you will find a few. Amsterdam is a hotspot for social places, with loads of travelers to meet, and dorm beds starting at $20.Rotterdam has a decent assortment of hostels too, but going to other parts of the country often requires booking through Airbnb. Prices range from $40 for a private room to over $100 for your own apartment. Accommodation will take up most of your budget when visiting.

Food

Having your own kitchen in your hostel or apartment is the key for an economical trip. Groceries are very affordable, at roughly $35 per person per week. Street food, such as fried snacks, caramel waffles, and Vietnamese spring rolls, usually go for $1.5.

A large sandwich combined with a drink is about $10, while a 3-course meal in a restaurant generally sets you back $40.

Activities

The Netherlands has tons of things to do, but a must-try is riding a bicycle. Renting a bike for a day costs $12, and gives you freedom. Prices for attractions and museums vary. You can soak up views of Kinderdijk’s water mills for free, but entering the Rijksmuseum to view paintings by Van Gogh and Vermeer has a $22 price tag. Strolling around the Hoge Veluwe National Park doesn’t cost a thing, the best kind of view, free!

Suggested Budget

Planning to visit Netherlands in 2020 but no idea how much should you spend there? Use the following table to get an idea on how much money you need to spend daily as per your travel style:

Budgeting Tips

1. Walk or Bicycle

Most cities are compact enough to explore on foot, and you can discover the countryside with a cheap rental bike. Take buses or trains only to travel long distances.

2. Do Grocery Shopping

The pricing difference between eating out and buying groceries in the supermarket is significant in the Netherlands. Look for a hostel with a kitchen and prepare your own meals.

3. Try Couch-surfing

This online community lists hosts who can receive travelers in their home for free. It’s not only a way to save money but a gateway to a local experience and new friends at the same time.

4. Avoid taking taxis

Hopping in a taxi will really make a hole in your wallet. Instead walk or take the bus.

5. Drink tap water

It’s absolutely safe to drink water from the tap; all the Dutchies do it. Save some money by using your reusable water bottle.

Where To Stay

All around Europe, I used hostels, so that I can make some friends, here are some places that I stayed at and really enjoyed.

Rotterdam

King Kong Hostel

Amsterdam

Flying Pig Downtown

Gouda

TBD

Wadden Island

TBD

De Hoge Veluwe National-Park

TBD

Other

TBD

Nomad Coworking And Working Spots

You cant be a digital nomad without wifi. So below are some spots where one can work comfortably. Dont forget to check my nomad lunch break section for places you can still visit and/or work from during lunch. #nomadworkspace

Grand Cafe Kruller: Address

Wadden Island

TBD

Gouda

TBD

Other

TBD

Nomad Lunch Breaks

Balancing work and exploring can be tough, here are some activities or places you can visit during a lunch hour. You will see the words hotspot, wifi, or break which indicates what you can use to work there, or if you cant and its time for a work break. #nomadlunchbreak

Rotterdam

TBD

Amsterdam

TBD

Gouda

TBD

Wadden Island

TBD

De Hoge Veluwe National-Park

TBD

Other

TBD

How To Get Around

Tram

Cheap, relaxed, and pleasant views; riding a tram is an enjoyable experience in Amsterdam, Den Haag, and Rotterdam. A 30-minute ride costs only $1.75. Hungary’s largest cities have an extensive system of above-ground trams which are really quick. The most famous lines are the four and six lines which run to the city center.

RideSharing

Uber and lyft are avaible via their app!

Trains

Your best friend during journeys across the Netherlands. All major cities and many towns have a train station. ‘Intercity’ trains are quick and stop in bigger cities only, and ‘Sprinters’ stop in lesser-frequented stations.

Bus

Reaching every corner of the country, buses are comfortable and spacious because they’re built to seat the tallest people in the world (fun fact). Buy the ‘OV-chipkaart’, a rechargeable card that’s commonly used for all types of public transportation.

Metro

Metros are the most budget-friendly way to travel in Rotterdam and Amsterdam. With a network that lies mostly under the ground, it’s not a perfect sightseeing vehicle though. Budapest is the only city in Hungary to have an efficient and extensive metro system which is composed of three color-coded lines M1(Yellow), M2(Red), and M3(Blue), intersecting in the center of town. The metros operate from 4:45 AM-11:45 PM after every 3-5 minutes.

Resources

When To Go

Dutch weather is unpredictable, but from June to September, it’s not going to be cold. July generally is the sunniest month and August is the hottest month. This is usually the best time to visit for most visitors. Bar terraces are alive, and music festivals pop up throughout the country.

If the sight of tulips and blossoms blooming is something that makes you smile, visit this country in the second half of April or the first half of May.

Common Questions About Netherlands

What are the must-visit attractions in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands offers a range of attractions, but some must-visit places include Amsterdam’s canals, Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Keukenhof Gardens, Zaanse Schans, the windmills of Kinderdijk, and the picturesque village of Giethoorn.

What is the best time to visit the Netherlands?

The best time to visit the Netherlands is generally during the spring (April-May) when the tulips are in bloom, or during the summer (June-August) for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. However, each season has its own charm, so it depends on your preferences.

Do I need a visa to visit the Netherlands?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens from many countries can enter the Netherlands for tourism purposes without a visa for up to 90 days. However, it’s important to check the visa requirements based on your specific nationality before traveling.

What is the currency used in the Netherlands?

The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (€).

What are some traditional Dutch foods I should try?

Some traditional Dutch foods to try include stroopwafels (syrup-filled waffles), bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), herring, cheese (such as Gouda and Edam), and poffertjes (mini pancakes).

Is it easy to get around in the Netherlands?

Yes, the Netherlands has an excellent transportation system. You can easily get around using trains, trams, buses, and bicycles. The cities are well-connected, and the public transportation network is efficient.

Can I use English in the Netherlands?

Yes, most Dutch people speak English fluently, especially in tourist areas and larger cities. You should have no trouble communicating in English during your visit.

Are credit cards widely accepted in the Netherlands?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in the Netherlands, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it’s always good to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street markets.

What are some popular souvenirs to buy in the Netherlands?

Popular souvenirs from the Netherlands include Dutch cheese, Delftware (blue and white ceramics), stroopwafels, wooden clogs, tulip bulbs, and Dutch gin (jenever).

Are there any cultural etiquettes I should be aware of in the Netherlands?

When visiting the Netherlands, it’s polite to greet people with a handshake, maintain direct eye contact during conversations, and be punctual. Additionally, it’s common to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home and to say “Dank u wel” (thank you) after a meal or when receiving something.

How To Stay Safe and Aware of Scams

1. Pickpockets

Metro stations and metro buses are popular targets among robbers. Bring small amounts of cash, and carry it in a money belt or backpack in front of you.

2. Taxi touts

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport – the arrival port for most tourists – is known for touts who approach travelers outside the terminal and try to lure them into their un-metered cabs. They’re officially banned but still hang around the airport. Take the train or look for official taxis to save money and stay safe.

3. Bicycle theft

As this is one of the most common crimes, take good care of your (rental) bike. Ask the company for an extra padlock on top of your regular lock. This is also a reason why you should never buy a cheap bicycle on the street. It might have been taken stolen from it’s rightful owner

4. Unsafe drugs

Many travelers come to Amsterdam for easy access to fantasy worlds and other universes through drugs. Beware of drugs sold on the streets; the quality and substances are unknown, and it might very well be overpriced.