The Netherlands, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, cycling culture, historic cities, and vibrant tulip fields, attracts tourists from around the world. While it’s easy to be captivated by the charm of cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht, knowing what not to do can enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and regulations. Here are some essential “don’ts” for anyone planning a visit to The Netherlands.
### Don’t Walk in the Bike Lanes
In a country famous for its love of bicycles, bike lanes are sacred. To avoid receiving frustrated bell rings or stern looks from cyclists, stay clear of the red-paved bike paths that are ubiquitous across Dutch cities. These lanes are strictly for cyclists and mistakenly walking on them can be both dangerous and irritating to locals.
### Don’t Ignore the Weather
The Dutch weather can be quite unpredictable. One minute it might be sunny, and the next it can start pouring rain. Always be prepared with an umbrella or a raincoat when exploring outdoors. Additionally, it’s wise to layer your clothes as temperatures can change quickly.
### Don’t Just Stick to Amsterdam
While Amsterdam is undoubtedly beautiful and rich with history, The Netherlands offers much more beyond its capital. Venture out to smaller towns like Delft known for its pottery or Gouda famous for its cheese market. Each region has unique attractions and traditions worth experiencing.
### Don’t Overlook Local Etiquette
Dutch people are generally straightforward and appreciate the same in return. When visiting someone’s home or even in business settings, it is customary to bring a small gift such as flowers or chocolates. Furthermore, try to avoid loud conversations especially in public transport; this is considered rude.
### Don’t Neglect Museum Rules
When visiting museums – which you likely will given The Netherlands’ rich art heritage – be mindful of photography rules as they vary by establishment. Some places may allow non-flash photography whereas others might completely prohibit taking pictures. Always check signage or ask staff before snapping photos.
### Don’t Smoke Publicly
While Amsterdam is famous for its liberal policies on cannabis, smoking cannabis openly on the streets is frowned upon by many locals despite popular misconceptions among tourists. Use designated smoking areas or cafes that permit smoking indoors.
### Don’t Forget To Check-in/Check-out With Public Transport Cards
Using public transport in The Netherlands requires an OV-Chipkaart (public transport card), which you must check-in at the start of your journey and check-out when you leave the vehicle (train/tram/bus). Failing to do so accurately can lead you to incur heavy fines.
### Avoid Relying Solely on Credit Cards
Not every place in The Netherlands accepts credit cards especially in smaller towns or at local markets; some prefer cash while others might only take Dutch debit cards (Maestro). Always carry some cash with you or ensure your card will be accepted wherever you go.
Knowing these “don’ts” before visiting The Netherlands can make your trip much smoother and more enjoyable while respecting local customs and practices.