Koninkrijk der Nederlanden
The Netherlands literally means “lower countries”. Often also called Holland, it is a mostly flat country with more than 25% of its territory below sea level.
Despite its small area, it is the second most densely populated country in Europe. It is famous for its very progressive and liberal policies and is also well-known for its economic prosperity, great education system, and friendly and welcoming people. It’s a leading industrial, cultural, and economic center, and its economy is the fifth largest in the European Union.
Info & Stats
- Language: Dutch is the official language.
- Population: 17+ million (2019 est.)
- Timezone: UTC +1
- Ethnic Make-up: Dutch 83%, other 17% (of which 9% are non-Western origin mainly Turks, Moroccans, Antilleans, Surinamese, and Indonesians)
- Religions: Roman Catholic 31%, Protestant 21%, Muslim 4.4%, other 3.6%, unaffiliated 40%
- Political System: Constitutional Monarchy
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Credit Cards: Almost anything can be paid with credit cards and ATMs are extremely common.
- Electricity: Socket types E and K, 230 volt / 50 hertz
- Tipping Customs: 10-15% in restaurants and bars
- Haggling Culture: Not common
Articles
Keukenhof Gardens – Essential tips to enjoy the Garden of Europe to its fullest
Amsterdam
Spring blossom at Keukenhof Gardens
Climate & Seasons
The Netherlands has a temperate climate with cool summers and mild winters. The country experiences quite a lot of rainfall on average, with rain occurring every month of the year.
April and summer are the best times to visit, although in spring, temperatures vary greatly and frost can occur until the start of May.
In autumn, temperatures decrease, but in September and October, the temperature is still a pleasant 15-19°C,
In winter, temperatures are around 0-6°C most of the time.
Entry Requirements
Holland is a member of the Schengen Agreement.
Click the map to see details on the visa requirements of the Schengen Zone for each country.
Safety
Natural risks: There are no concrete natural risks, although the country is below sea level and is prone to extreme flooding. That being said, the country has invested heavily in infrastructure to prevent and contain these events.
Natural risks: There are no concrete natural risks, although the country is below sea level and is prone to extreme flooding. That being said, the country has invested heavily in infrastructure to prevent and contain these events.
Emergencies number: 112 (European common emergency service), 911
See more safety info on the Global Safety Indices page