Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Netherlands is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months. Spring is particularly charming as it is the season for tulips, with fields in bloom and the famous Keukenhof Gardens showcasing a stunning array of flowers. The weather in spring is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring cities, cycling, and visiting outdoor attractions. Autumn offers a similar mild climate with fewer crowds, making it perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the changing foliage. Summer (July to August) is the peak tourist season with warm weather and longer daylight hours, but it can be crowded and more expensive. Winter (December to February) is the off-season, with cold and damp weather, but it offers a cozy atmosphere and opportunities to experience Dutch holiday traditions and ice skating on frozen canals if the weather permits.

What to expect

Language: The official language of the Netherlands is Dutch. It is spoken by the vast majority of the population. In the province of Friesland, Frisian is also an official language and is widely spoken.

Currency: The official currency of the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR).

Safety: The Netherlands is considered a very safe country for travelers. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. The country has a well-functioning legal system and a strong police presence, contributing to its overall safety. However, as with any destination, tourists should exercise standard precautions to safeguard their belongings and be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in busy places, so it is important to keep valuables secure.

Cuisine: Dutch cuisine is hearty and straightforward, reflecting the country's agricultural heritage and maritime traditions. Some traditional Dutch dishes include stamppot (mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables like kale or sauerkraut), erwtensoep (pea soup), and haring (raw herring often eaten with onions and pickles). Dutch cheeses, such as Gouda and Edam, are famous worldwide and are commonly enjoyed in the Netherlands. Pancakes (pannenkoeken) and small, fluffy pancakes (poffertjes) are popular treats. The Netherlands is also known for its baked goods, including stroopwafels (thin waffle cookies with caramel filling) and speculaas (spiced cookies). Indonesian cuisine, a remnant of the colonial past, is also popular, with dishes like rijsttafel (a spread of small dishes served with rice) being a favorite.