Money & Payment
The Netherlands uses the Euro (€) — no currency exchange needed. However, the Dutch are extreme when it comes to cashless payments compared to almost any other European country:
- PIN payment (debit card/Giropay) is the most common method. Accepted almost everywhere, even for small amounts (coffee for 2.50 €).
- Credit cards are increasingly accepted, but not everywhere. Many small shops, cafés, and markets accept ONLY PIN/debit card or cash. Visa and Mastercard work in hotels, larger restaurants, and chains. American Express is rare.
- Cash is becoming less common — but at flea markets (King's Day!), market stalls, and some coffeeshops, cash is still needed. ATMs are everywhere.
- Tikkie — The Dutch app for splitting bills. If a Dutch person sends you a "Tikkie," they expect repayment for their beer. The Dutch share EVERYTHING — "Going Dutch" is no coincidence.
💡 Tipp
Bring a debit card (Girocard/Maestro) — it works better in the Netherlands than any credit card. For emergencies: 50–100 € cash for markets and small shops. "Heeft u een pinpas?" (Do you have a debit card?) is the most common phrase at the checkout.
