Netherlands
Western Europe • NLD
Last updated: October 5, 2026
The Netherlands is a vibrant country known for its picturesque canal networks, historic windmills, and world-class art museums. It offers a unique blend of charming medieval architecture and progressive, modern urban living that is best explored by bicycle.
Visa Requirements
The Netherlands is part of the Schengen Area, allowing citizens of many countries to enter for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism.
Typically Required Documents
- Valid passport with at least three months of remaining validity
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of stay
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Travel medical insurance covering at least 30,000 euros
Popular Attractions
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam houses an extensive collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Keukenhof Gardens is one of the world's largest flower gardens, famous for its breathtaking displays of millions of blooming tulips.
Zaanse Schans provides an authentic glimpse into Dutch life with its collection of historic windmills and traditional wooden houses.
The Anne Frank House offers a poignant look at history, located in the original canal-side building where Anne Frank hid during World War II.
Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 19 iconic 18th-century windmills that showcase the country's historic water management systems.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dutch people are known for being very direct and honest in their communication, which may come across as blunt to some visitors.
It is common to greet friends and acquaintances with three kisses on the cheeks, starting with the right side.
Punctuality is highly valued in the Netherlands; arriving on time for both professional and social appointments is expected.
Always remember to lock your bicycle securely, as cycling is the primary mode of transportation and theft can occur in busy areas.
When using public transport, always remember to check in and check out with your OV-chipkaart or contactless payment method.
Tipping is not strictly mandatory, but it is customary to round up the bill or leave about 5-10% for excellent service in restaurants.
Safety Tips
Beware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation, especially around Amsterdam Central Station.
Be cautious when walking in bicycle lanes, as cyclists move very quickly and have the right of way over pedestrians.
Only purchase items in licensed shops and avoid street dealers, especially regarding substances or fake goods.
Keep your belongings secure in crowded settings, using bags with zippers worn in front of your body.
Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, which works for police, fire, and ambulance services throughout the country.
Use only official taxis or licensed ride-sharing services to ensure a safe and regulated travel experience.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (such as influenza)
Source: CDC
Travelers should be up to date on routine vaccinations.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Adult travelers should have a Tdap booster every 10 years.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety
Source: CDC
General precautions to prevent foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
Tap water is generally safe to drink in the Netherlands.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, particularly if you might have sexual contact with a new partner or get a medical procedure.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those who may be exposed to contaminated food or water.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Practice food and water safety to prevent gastrointestinal infections.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease in forested or grassy areas.
Use repellent, wear long sleeves, and check for ticks.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers who may be exposed through food or water.
View sourceHepatitis B vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to the Netherlands. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to the Netherlands.
Sex and Travel - CDC Yellow Book
View sourceHepatitis A vaccination
Source: CDC
Consider hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers, especially those who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water, or who plan on eating street food.
Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book Vaccine dosing information - Hep A
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered for travelers who might have exposure to blood or bodily fluids.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Rabies
Source: CDC
Considered for those involved in outdoor activities or contact with animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who might have sexual contact with new partners or get a tattoo or piercing.
View sourceTick-borne encephalitis
Source: CDC
Recommended for individuals spending significant time outdoors in endemic areas.
Risk is primarily in certain forested areas during warmer months.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers involved in outdoor or animal-related activities (e.g., camping, hiking, caving).
View sourceCOVID-19 precautions
Source: CDC
Stay updated with vaccination and safety guidelines related to COVID-19.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination if you plan to eat or drink in areas where sanitation is in doubt.
View sourceTick-borne Encephalitis vaccination
Source: CDC
Avoid bug bites to reduce the risk of tick-borne encephalitis.
Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book
View sourceRabies pre-exposure vaccination
Source: CDC
Consider rabies pre-exposure vaccination if you will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.
Rabies - CDC Yellow Book
View source