Practical A–Z

EU Citizens

The Netherlands is an EU and Schengen member — as an EU citizen, you need neither a visa nor a passport. A valid ID card is sufficient. No border controls when arriving from Germany (by train or car). For air travel: ID or passport for security checks.

Swiss Citizens

Same rules as EU citizens (Schengen). Passport or ID is sufficient.

Tips

In the Netherlands, no generous tipping is expected (service is included in the price), but it is customary to round up 5–10% in restaurants. In cafes: round up to the nearest euro. Taxis: round up. Compared to the USA, the tipping pressure in Amsterdam is minimal.

Amsterdam is a safe city — much safer than its reputation suggests. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. The main dangers:

Pickpockets

The biggest safety risk in Amsterdam is pickpockets, especially in the following places: Centraal Station, Dam Square, Red Light District, Albert Cuyp Market, Leidseplein, crowded trams (lines 2 and 5). Standard precautions are sufficient: carry valuables in front, keep an eye on your backpack, don't hang bags open on chair backs.

Cyclists

The second biggest danger is cyclists — for pedestrians! Amsterdam cyclists ride fast, are reluctant to brake, and expect you not to block the bike path. Always look left and right before crossing a bike path. At night, many bicycles ride without lights.

Drugs & Alcohol

Cannabis in Coffee Shops is tolerated, but smoking on the street is prohibited in the center (100€ fine). Hard drugs are illegal — no fun with the police. Avoid street dealers, no matter what they offer.

Water

The canals look romantic but are not suitable for swimming — the water is polluted. Swimming in the IJ is allowed at designated spots. Also: Drunk people and canals are a dangerous combination — every year, people drown after falling into the water at night while drunk. Be careful along the canal edges in the evening.

Emergency number: 112 (police, fire department, ambulance). Non-urgent: 0900-8844 (police).

English

The Dutch speak the best English of all non-English-speaking countries — over 95% of Amsterdammers speak fluent English. In restaurants, museums, shops, and pubs, you will always be understood in English. Many Amsterdammers automatically switch to English as soon as they hear an accent — sometimes frustrating if you want to practice Dutch.

German

Many older Dutch people speak good German, younger ones less so. German and Dutch are related languages — much is understandable. However: Prefer speaking English over German. The German-Dutch relationship is friendly, but the memory of World War II and the (good-natured) football rivalry make German not the first choice for communication.

Useful Dutch Words

• Dank je wel / Dankjewel — Thank you
• Alsjeblieft — Please (when giving) / Here you go
• Proost! — Cheers!
• Gezellig — The word that describes Amsterdam: cozy, sociable, warm, inviting. Untranslatable and ubiquitous.
• Fiets — Bicycle
• Gracht — Canal

Year-Round

• Rain Jacket: THE most important piece of clothing in Amsterdam. Lightweight, packable, always have it with you. An umbrella is impractical on a bike — a jacket is better.
• Comfortable Shoes: Cobblestones everywhere. Sneakers or flat, comfortable shoes. No heels!
• Layers: The weather changes quickly — cold in the morning, warm at noon, windy in the evening. Layering principle.
• Small Backpack: For day trips, shopping, and the camera. Wear it in front in crowds (pickpockets!).
• No special adapters needed: German plugs fit (Type C/F).
• Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water is excellent and free at drinking fountains.

Spring & Autumn

• Light Jacket + Sweater: It can be cool in the mornings and evenings (10–15°C).
• Scarf: For windy canal walks.

Summer

• Sunscreen: The sun can surprise you by the water.
• Swimwear: For the beach at Bloemendaal or the outdoor pools.

Winter

• Warm Jacket, Hat, Gloves: Wind + moisture = perceived cold.
• Windproof Clothing: The north wind from the IJ is cutting.