<h2>If you're new to biking in the Netherlands, it might be handy to know the unwritten rules. We'll give you a hand with the Dutch cycling culture and how cycling in the Netherlands works.</h2>
<h3>Dutch cycling culture</h3>
Maybe it sounds a little scary if you're not used to it: getting to work or school by bike. But in most cities, cycling is by far the fastest way to travel. Besides that, you get some exercise and fresh air, it's an eco-friendly transportation option, you avoid other car-related expenses, it reduces your stress level, and you get to know your neighborhood at a slower pace. If you don't have a headwind, all these benefits should not be too much of a burden to take the bike. In the Netherlands, it's taken for granted that you can ride a bike. Dutch children are even required to take a bicycle exam in the last year of their elementary school. Because their secondary school is often only accessible by bicycle, they are tested on&nbsp;<a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/dutch-cycling-rules">all the signs and rules for cyclists</a>. If you're new to the Netherlands, you may be amazed by the cyclists here. Bike jams at traffic lights are not uncommon and hardly anyone, including children, wears a helmet. Expat Xing Chen wrote a whole book about it:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bol.com/nl/p/learn-to-cycle-in-amsterdam/9200000079189182/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Learn to Cycle in Amsterdam</a>.
<h3>Dos and don'ts when cycling in the Netherlands</h3>
Anticipating the behavior of other cyclists partly begins with your own bicycle behavior. Not all cycling rules and habits are official cycling rules. Let's dive deeper into Dutch road etiquette:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>To be honest: wearing a helmet reveals that you're a tourist. Are you new to cycling? Better safe than sorry, of course.</li>
<li>Cycling across a (weekly) market? Don't do it. Get off your bike and walk with your bike in your hand.</li>
<li>You have bikes for men (with bar) and women (without bar). Tip if you're new to biking: get yourself a women's bike. Getting on and off is much easier without a bar.</li>
<li>If you're ready for it, keep the pace up a bit. Being continually passed is a mood-breaker.</li>
<li>Suddenly braking for no reason will not be appreciated.</li>
<li>Don't creep ahead because you think you can still make it, it's dangerous.</li>
<li>Biking with an umbrella is not recommended, as the wind knocks it over in just a few seconds and it's not safe.</li>
<li>In the Netherlands, you may carry almost everything on your luggage rack or in cycle bags. Always make sure other cyclists can still pass you.</li>
<li>You won't often hear about someone whose bike has not been stolen. Secure your bike properly by locking your frame with an extra chain lock to an immovable object. Tip: check if you're insured against bicycle theft. Read more about preventing bike theft <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/prevent-bike-theft">here</a>.</li>
<li>Transporting your bike on the train? You can take it with you only during off-peak hours (Monday to Friday between 9:00 - 16:00 and 18:30 - 6:30 and on weekends all day). A Fietskaart Dal (off-peak bicycle ticket) costs €7.50 and can be purchased in the NS app or on the website of NS. Folding bikes are free of charge. Check more info on the <a href="https://www.ns.nl/en/travel-information/bikes-on-the-train.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website of NS</a>.</li>
</ul>

Cycling in the Netherlands: Dos and don'ts

Simple, eco-friendly, and it makes you feel good: cycling! But what are the must-known dos and don’ts when cycling in the Netherlands?

<h2>Ai… What to do if your bike tire suddenly is deflated? You can take your bike to the bike shop or you can easily fix it yourself. We’ll explain the five basic steps to help you back on the road again!</h2>
A flat bike tire can always happen to you. For example, if you have cycled through something sharp or because the tire is simply worn out. Luckily, it is easy to fix by yourself! Need extra instructions?
<ul>
<li>Get a bike repair set In the Netherlands, bike tire repair kits can be purchased at supermarkets and online stores such as <a href="https://www.bol.com/nl/nl/l/onderhoud-reparatie-bandenplaksets/18000/?Referrer=ADVNLGOO002066-Q3F5DGKIXALSO-460109255671&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwr56IBhAvEiwA1fuqGvKkjPdwoFcihKIT1FJOpsmLPAsClpO7ZAlV5lpq1KiSqJYssB_akhoCWFEQAvD_BwE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bol.com</a>. These repair kits contain everything you need to fix your bike tire:
<ul>
<li>Plastic tire levers</li>
<li>Sanding paper</li>
<li>Rubber solution glue</li>
<li>Several tube patches </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Remove the inner tube
<ul>
<li>First, turn your bike upside down.</li>
<li>Remove the plastic dust cap of the tire valve and press it down to deflate your bike tire completely.</li>
<li>Use the plastic tire levers from the bike repair set to get the tire off the wheel. Carefully place the tire levers between the wheel and the tire. Thanks to the handy notch, you can attach two levers against the spokes, while using the third lever to more easily detach the rest of the tire.</li>
<li>Once the tire is free, you can push back the valve, and you can take out the inflatable tube from beneath the tire. </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Find the cause of the flat You don’t have to replace the tube immediately. Carefully inspect the tire and tube for punctures. It can be helpful to put the tube in a bucket full of water and look for any bubbles. Mark the damaged area with a pen, so you can easily find it again. If the tube has a massive crack or puncture or if the valve is cracked, you should replace the entire tube. You can just buy one at the bike shop, <a href="https://www.hema.nl/vrije-tijd-kantoor/fietsen/fietsreparatie/binnenband-28-x-1-5%2F8-x-1-3%2F8-41198001.html?utm_source=Google%20Platform&amp;utm_medium=Organic&amp;utm_campaign=FreeShopping&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwr56IBhAvEiwA1fuqGpndQNoZGqCmobe-yvh_GDfXEwRJNzQexRx4RJJ3Rjg7cSd-rb0O5hoC2fMQAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds">HEMA</a>, or online bike stores such as <a href="https://www.mantel.com/uk">Mantel</a>. Keep in mind to buy the right size! You find the right dimensions on the tire. Tip: You don’t have to remove the tire completely from the wheel. You just forward the tube through the water. Saves you a lot of time. </li>
<li>Repair the inner tube
<ul>
<li>Clean and dry the damaged spot.</li>
<li>Rough up the surface with sandpaper. This way, the glue will stick better.</li>
<li>Spread the glue out with your finger and wait a couple of minutes. Waiting for a moment ensures that the glue sticks better.</li>
<li>Apply the tube patch and hold it in place with pressure. Finally, remove the plastic sheet from the patch. </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Put the inner tube back
<ul>
<li>Partially inflate your repaired tube to give it a bit more shape and to make sure the damaged spot has been fixed.</li>
<li>First, put the valve back through the valve hole in the wheel. Then, you can put the tube back into the tire. Make sure it is placed back in the middle of the wheel.</li>
<li>Inflate the tube completely and put back the plastic dust cap of the tire valve.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

How to fix a flat bike tire

With this step-by-step guide, you’ll have a flat bike tire fixed by yourself in no time.

<h2>The Dutch infrastructure is built for cyclists and consists of a network of clearly marked cycle paths with smooth surfaces. Let's break down the cycling rules in the Netherlands and the fines if you don't follow these rules.</h2>
<h3>General Dutch cycling rules</h3>
The prejudice that those using pedal power have priority is not true. There are several rules that cyclists in the Netherlands must abide by. Luckily, the rules of the road are easy to learn. There are general cycling rules, legal rules for your lights, priority rules, and important road signs for cyclists. Let's start with the general rules. It's wise to read these before you step on your bicycle.
<ul>
<li>If there's a bike lane, always use it.</li>
<li>Stay on the right side of the bike lane, and pass other cyclists on the left.</li>
<li>If you're passing someone, always ring your bell so they know you will pass.</li>
<li>Before turning left or right, extend your arm horizontally (left or right) to signal where you will go.</li>
<li>Two cyclists are allowed to bike side by side, no more.</li>
<li>There are separate traffic lights for cyclists. You must stop at every orange and red traffic light.</li>
<li>You're not allowed to cycle on sidewalks.</li>
</ul>
Besides official cycling rules, there are a lot of do's and don'ts when you're on a bike. You'll save yourself and others a lot of frustration by reading up on the <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/cycling-netherlands">Dutch do's and don'ts for cyclists</a>.
<h3>Priority rules for cyclists</h3>
In the Netherlands, motorized traffic is often alert to cyclists around them. But that does not mean there are no rules regarding priority for cyclists − quite the contrary.
<ul>
<li>Give way to drivers coming from your right at any intersection without signs, shark teeth marks, or traffic lights.</li>
<li>Trams always have priority.</li>
<li>If you turn left or right, you must give way to all straight-going road users (including pedestrians).</li>
<li>Priority vehicles with optical and sound signals (such as police, fire departments, and ambulances) always have priority.</li>
<li>Pedestrians on a crosswalk have right of way.</li>
<li>As a cyclist, when approaching roundabouts, you give way to drivers who are already on the roundabout. On the roundabout itself, you have priority. When leaving the roundabout, signal with your arm to the right. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Important road signs for cyclists</h3>
There are a lot of road signs. If you want to get your car license, you need to know them all. Cyclists don't have to follow all the car traffic signs. However, there are bicycle traffic signs that cyclists need to follow. These are the most important road signs in the Netherlands for cyclists:
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-bike-rules-6.jpg" alt="road signs for cyclists" width="800"> <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-bike-rules-2.jpg" alt="road signs for cyclists" width="800"> <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-bike-rules-3.jpg" alt="road signs for cyclists" width="800"> <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-bike-rules-4.jpg" alt="road signs for cyclists" width="800"> <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-bike-rules-5.jpg" alt="road signs for cyclists" width="800">
<h3>Rules for bicycle lighting</h3>
There are legal rules for your bicycle lights. If you don't follow the rules, you could be fined. Before you hit the road, check if everything works. Especially in autumn and winter, as it gets dark early in the evening. You need:
<ul>
<li>A white or yellow light at the front and a red light at the back.</li>
<li>Lights that shine straight ahead or straight back. They should be visible and non-flashing.&nbsp;</li>
<li>A red reflector (not a triangle) at the back of your bike.</li>
<li>White or yellow reflectors on the wheels or tires of your bike. Spoke reflectors are not allowed.</li>
<li>Yellow reflectors on your pedals.</li>
</ul>
Do you want to attach lights to your clothing? Then you can only attach them to the upper part of your body. Attaching lights to your head, arms, or legs is not sufficient.
<h3>Fines for cyclists&nbsp;</h3>
You can be fined if you don't follow the rules as a cyclist. Bicycle fines are expensive because they ensure the safety and other road users. We give you a handy overview of the most common cyclist fines that apply from February 1, 2025 (without €9 administrative costs).&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>No reflectors on your pedals: €45.</li>
<li>No reflectors on your wheels: €45.&nbsp;</li>
<li>No working bell: €45.</li>
<li>No (working) lights: €75.</li>
<li>No working brakes: €70. </li>
<li>Turning without indicating direction with your arm: €45.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Not staying on the right side of the road: €120.</li>
<li>Not stopping for a red traffic light: €120.</li>
<li>Cycling against the indicated direction: €70.</li>
<li>Biking on the bus lane: €70. </li>
<li>Overtaking just before or on a crosswalk: €180.</li>
<li>Overtaking someone on the right: €120.</li>
<li>Biking on the highway or motorway: €200.</li>
<li>Holding a phone or other communication devices while cycling: €170.</li>
<li>Biking under the influence of alcohol: €200.</li>
<li>Not stopping at a stop sign from the police: €180.</li>
<li>Not giving priority when you need to stop for a stop (road) marking: €45.</li>
<li>Not giving priority when you need to stop for a 'stop' sign: €120.</li>
<li>Not giving priority when you need to stop for 'sharks' teeth (a row of triangles with sharp ends pointing to you): €120.</li>
<li>Not giving priority to a bus at a bus stop: €70.</li>
<li>Not giving priority to a tram: €120.</li>
<li>Not giving priority to a blind person (with a white stick): €180.</li>
<li>Not giving priority to a pedestrian at a crosswalk: €180.</li>
</ul>
 Hopefully, these rules won't scare you away. Cycling in the Netherlands is a matter of practice, practice, practice. When you get the hang of it, it becomes a natural thing. Trust us!

Cycling the Dutch way: Priority rules, fines, and signs

Let's break down the cycling rules in the Netherlands and the fines if you don't follow these rules.

<h2>Like any other language, the Dutch language has many sayings. These quirky phrases can be useful when learning the language. Let's share some of our favorite ones, their literal English translation, and their meaning!</h2>
<h3>Oost, West, Thuis Best</h3>
Literal English translation: East, West, Home Best Meaning: One may have traveled all over the world and always had a good time, but nowhere will one find oneself better than coming home.
<h3>Helaas, pindakaas&nbsp;</h3>
Literal English translation: Unfortunately, peanut butter. Meaning: Too bad. When something goes wrong or you miss out on something, you can jokingly say 'helaas, pindakaas'.
<h3>Hij stond erbij voor Jan met de korte achternaam</h3>
Literal English translation: He stood there as Jan with the short last name.&nbsp; Meaning: He had no meaningful activity.&nbsp;
<h3>Al draagt een aap een gouden ring, het is en blijft een lelijk ding</h3>
Literal English translation: Even if a monkey wears a golden ring, it is and always be an ugly thing.&nbsp; Meaning: Who dresses beautifully does not become beautiful from the inside.
<h3>Alsof er een engeltje over je tong piest As if an angel is peeing over your tongue</h3>
Literal English translation: As if an angel pees over your tongue. Meaning: Finding something very tasting.&nbsp;
<h3>Kippenvel hebben</h3>
Literal English translation: Having chicken skin. Meaning: Having goosebumps, being cold. In Dutch, 'goose' is replaced by 'chicken'.
<h3>Nu komt de aap uit de mouw</h3>
Literal English translation: Now, the monkey comes out of the sleeve. Meaning: When suddenly it becomes clear how something is, or when someone's true intent or character is finally revealed.
<h3>Door de bomen het bos niet meer zien</h3>
Literal English translation: Not seeing the forest because of the trees. Meaning: To be so involved in the details, that you miss the bigger picture. It's too much!
<h3>Een kind kan de was doen</h3>
Literal English translation: A child can do the laundry. Meaning: It goes very easily.
Which one is your favorite and are you going to use it to impress your friends?

Our favorite Dutch sayings and how to use them

Like any other language, the Dutch language has many sayings. We share some of our favorite ones, their literal translation to English, and their meaning.

<h2>Having trouble with your tilt and turn window? We've got you! Handle it yourself by following these steps.</h2>
<h3>Tilt and turn windows</h3>
Tilt and turn windows are typical European (in Dutch these are called a draai- en kiepraam). You can open these windows inwards in two ways: completely or tilted from the bottom, giving a smaller opening at the top of the window for ventilation. They work by the simple turning of a single handle.
<ul>
<li>Securely close the window by turning the handle completely down.</li>
<li>Turn the handle 90 degrees into a horizontal position to open the whole window towards you.</li>
<li>Put the window in a tilted position by turning the handle by another 90 degrees (pointing upwards).</li>
</ul>
Once in a tilted position, make sure you push the window back with one hand against the window frame and with one hand on the handle. Otherwise, the window will come loose from the hinge at the top of the window.
<h3>How to fix a blocked handle by yourself</h3>
When your window handle is blocked, you can't close your window. In that case, we have some life-saving assistance for you.
Look for the metal levers on the side of the window <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/wysiwyg/article-window-1.jpg" alt="Metal levers on side of window">
Push the metal lever back into its vertical position and turn the handle in the direction you want it to be <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/wysiwyg/article-window-2.jpg" alt="Push metal levers and turn handle"> Close the window. Done! With that, a blocked window handle should be fixed. Did this not solve your issue? Then there might be something else going on. If you are a tenant of Holland2Stay, please submit a support ticket to us through your <a href="https://holland2stay.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">online account</a>. Our caretaker on site will have a closer look at it!
Better off with video instruction? Check the video below to fix a blocked window handle.&nbsp; <iframe style="width: 837px; height: 471px;" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XaC8LOJmg-0?si=UelQE-nWLAR_FCVH" width="837" height="471" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

How to fix your tilt and turn window

Do you have trouble with your tilt-and-turn window? We provide you with some assistance.

<h2>King's Day is around the corner! Every year, the Netherlands turns orange on April 27. In 2025, we're celebrating it on a different day. Discover everything about this festive day in this guide.&nbsp;</h2>
<h3>What is King's Day?</h3>
King’s Day (or Koningsdag in Dutch) marks the Dutch monarch’s birthday and is probably the biggest birthday party you'll ever celebrate. It's a day off for most people, as it's an official national holiday in the Netherlands, Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten. King’s Day is celebrated with various festivities throughout the country, such as flea markets and festivals. Streets are decorated with orange and red-white-blue-colored decorations and Dutch flags are hung out with a festive orange pennant. Traditionally, the monarch makes a ceremonial visit to one or more municipalities in the country on this day.&nbsp; We celebrate King's Day on King Willem-Alexander’s birthday: April 27. However, things are different in 2025. As April 27 is a Sunday in 2025, the festive day is celebrated one day earlier, on Saturday, April 26. In 2026, April 27 is a Monday, meaning it will be an official day off.&nbsp;
<h3>King's Day or Queen's Day?</h3>
King’s Day started in 1885 as ‘Prinsessedag’ (Princesses Day). When Wilhelmina became queen in 1891, the festive day changed into ‘Koninginnedag’ (Queen’s Day). Koninginnedag took place on April 30, the birthday of Queen Juliana – the grandmother of our current King Willem-Alexander. It stayed that way until Queen Beatrix abdicated in 2013. Since King Willem-Alexander is on the throne, Queen’s Day (Koninginnedag) changed into King’s Day (Koningsdag). Fun fact: many tourists still come to Amsterdam dressed in orange outfits on April 30 for Koninginnedag, while Koningsdag is celebrated three days earlier. Oops!&nbsp;
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-kingsday-canals_1.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="666"> Dutch canals in cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht are packed with boats during King's Day.
<h3>History of King's Day</h3>
During the time of Queen Juliana, there used to be a big parade on Queen’s Day. The entire royal family stood on the steps of Soestdijk Palace in Baarn. People could walk by in a procession and present gifts to the royals. Queen Beatrix chose to go to the people herself, rather than have them come to her. Since then, the royal family visits a Dutch city or town on King's Day. The city and surrounding towns can present themselves festively and characteristically. Most cities do this with a parade, music performances, and contributions from associations and organizations with roots in the city or region. The visit on King’s Day is always broadcast live on television by the NOS.&nbsp;
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/koningsdag-2024-emmen.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600"> The royals visited the city of Zwolle in 2024. In 2025, they will visit Doetinchem. © RVD
<h3>Dutch people and the color orange</h3>
You're doing something wrong if you're not covered head to toe in orange on King’s Day. The reason why you should dress in orange is quite a story. All the orange madness originated from Prince William (Willem) van Oranje-Nassau. During the Eighty Years’ War, the rebels led by Willem van Oranje carried the so-called prince’s flag. This flag had a horizontal triband in the colors orange, white, and blue. The blue and white colors are derived from the uniform of Willem of Oranje and the orange color comes from his name. Over the years, the orange color disappeared from the flag and has been replaced by red. The Dutch could not get rid of the orange color.
Besides orange clothes, lots of food is also colored orange. Especially for King’s Day, bakeries sell orange-colored pastries of all kinds. Think of orange tompouces, orange cream puffs, orange petit fours, orange ‘Bossche Bollen’, and ‘Oranjekoeken’ (orange cookies).
<h3>What to do on King's Day?</h3>
On King's Day, lots of activities take place throughout the country. This ranges from huge open-air dance events like <a href="https://www.538.nl/koningsdag" target="_blank" rel="noopener">538 Koningsdag</a> (Breda),&nbsp;<a href="https://www.b2s.nl/en/events/supersized-kingsday-festival/supersized-kingsday-festival-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Supersized Kingsday Festival</a> (Best), and <a href="https://www.kralingsebosfestival.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kralingse Bos Festival</a> (Rotterdam) to big flea markets and random parties in the streets. Chances are high that you'll come across some&nbsp;<a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/traditional-dutch-games">traditional Dutch games</a>.&nbsp;
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-koningsdag-2022-538.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="666"> 538 Koningsdag in Breda. © <a href="https://www.538.nl/koningsdag" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Radio 538</a>.

How to celebrate King's Day in the Netherlands

King's Day is around the corner! In 2025, the Netherlands will turn orange on April 26. But what is being celebrated? And why is everyone dressed up in orange? Discover everything about this festive day in this guide.

<h2>Are you moving to the Netherlands? Before you settle down here, you must check and arrange some things.&nbsp;Let’s take you along a checklist to make it easier for you. </h2>
There's a lot to arrange before your big move to the Netherlands. Prepare yourself in the best way possible by following this checklist:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Find a home It's up to you to arrange a place to live in the Netherlands. To not end up on the streets, it's smart to do this before you leave. If your employer doesn't provide you with housing, this will be the first thing that should be on your to-do list. Do your research well before you start looking for a place to live. Are you looking for a home in a big city like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, or Den Haag? Or do you prefer to live in one of the surrounding (smaller) cities, like Diemen, Capelle aan den IJssel, Nieuwegein, or Zoetermeer? Choosing to live in the big city will generally mean you'll pay more rent, for example. The choice is yours!&nbsp; If you move to the Netherlands from another country, you may want to start renting instead of buying. But – we can't deny it – in the current housing market, it can be hard to find a suitable home. Luckily, several websites and agencies can help you find a new home. One of them is us: <a href="https://holland2stay.com">Holland2Stay</a>. On our website, you can find all available residences. The best part is that you can book from anywhere in the world. The filter menu allows you to select your wishes, making it easy to find your perfect home. Filter on city, building, facilities, finishing, monthly rent, or number of bedrooms. Book directly or participate in the weekly lottery. Don't forget to check the requirements before you book. </li>
<li>Check if you need to apply for a residence permit If you need a residence permit to stay in the Netherlands depends on your situation. You can check if you need one at <a href="https://ind.nl/en/residence-permits" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Immigrations &amp; Naturalisation Service</a> (IND). You can easily apply for a residence permit <a href="https://ind.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">online</a> by filling in some forms. Once your residence permit is completed and accepted, you'll receive a letter at home with more information about when and where you can pick it up at the municipality. Good to know: temporary residence permits are valid for up to 5 years.&nbsp; There are residence permits for those coming to the Netherlands for their family or partner, work, study, au pair, or exchange, and there are differences for <a href="https://ind.nl/en/Pages/eu-eea-countries.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">EU, EEA</a>, and Swiss citizens and for long-term EU residency. For example, if you're not from any EU/EEA country, Australia, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Vatican City, UK, USA, South Korea, or Switzerland, and you intend to stay in the Netherlands for more than 90 days, you must apply for a provisional residence permit. In many cases, your future employer, future educational institution, or partner you're going to live with can apply for a residence permit from the Netherlands. In the Netherlands, we call those persons and organizations ‘sponsors’. Your sponsor will need to submit an admission and residence application (TEV) to the Immigration and Nationalisation Service (IND) in the Netherlands. This can be done <a href="https://ind.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">online</a>. </li>
<li>Check and prepare your documents If you already know where you’re going to live in the Netherlands, you can check with the municipality where you’re going to live which documents they need to register you. Whether you need to do this depends on the country where the documents are issued. Think of a proof of identity, marriage certificates, birth certificates, or a proof of deregistration with a foreign municipality. Medical records, pay slips, or school records translated into English can also be handy. Make sure that your passport or ID card is valid on the day you arrive in the Netherlands. When traveling within Europe, your passport must be valid for three months after coming to the Netherlands. For most countries outside Europe, your passport must be valid for at least the months after your departure date from the destination country. You can submit an application for a new passport or ID card at the Dutch embassy in the country where you live. </li>
<li>Check your driving license If you’ve got your driving license in another country and wish to drive in the Netherlands, you need to check how long it stays valid. Find more information about using your foreign driving license in the Netherlands <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/foreign-driving-license-in-the-netherlands" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Start your integration When you’re going to live in the Netherlands, it’s useful to start learning Dutch and to learn about Dutch culture. But don’t worry, most Dutch people can express themselves in English. It never hurt anybody to learn some basic Dutch words. Makes it all a bit easier! </li>
</ul>
Hopefully, we have given you enough information to start preparing your stay. It's of course possible that you're missing some information that's not covered above. Additional information on preparing for your stay in the Netherlands can be found on the website of the <a href="https://www.government.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dutch Government</a>.

 Moving to the Netherlands: Everything you need to do before moving

Are you moving to the Netherlands? Before you settle down here, you must check and arrange some things. Let’s break down the most important things to make it a bit easier for you.

How the Dutch celebrate their holidays in 2025

Discover all Dutch holidays that will be celebrated in 2025.

<h2>Have you come to the Netherlands and do you have a foreign driving license? Then you should exchange it after a while.</h2>
A foreign driving license allows you to drive in the Netherlands. The length of the validity can vary, depending on the country of issue. We have summarized the most important information for you.
<h3>Can I exchange my foreign driving license?</h3>
Exchanging your foreign driving license for a Dutch driving license is only possible when you meet certain conditions:
<ul>
<li>You must be registered in the Basic Registration of Persons (BRP). Are you planning to stay in the Netherlands for longer than four months? Then, registration with the BRP is compulsory. You can register at the municipality where you live. If you already have a Citizen Service Number (BSN), you are also registered in the BRP.</li>
<li>You must have a valid identity document and residence document.</li>
<li>Are you living in the Netherlands for work? Then, you can often exchange your driving license for a Dutch one, because you are suitable for the 30% rule of the tax authorities. You have to apply for this 30% rule of tax together with your employer. If you are suitable for this 30% rule of the tax authorities, you must also have a statement of this from the tax authorities.</li>
<li>The foreign driver's license must still be valid. It is okay if a European driving license has expired.</li>
</ul>
Did you get your driving license while already living in the Netherlands? Then, it is not allowed to drive with that foreign driving license in the Netherlands.
<h3>When should I exchange my foreign driving license?</h3>
How long you can continue to drive in the Netherlands with a foreign license depends on the country where you've got your driving license. Did you get your driver's license in a country of the EU (European Union) or EFTA (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland)? Then you may, after the issue date, continue to drive for 15 years in the Netherlands with the following licenses:&nbsp;&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>AM (driving license for motorized bicycles, scooters, or micro mobiles).</li>
<li>A1 (driving license for motorcycles up to 125cc and maximum 11 kW).</li>
<li>A2 (driving license for motorcycles up to 35kW).</li>
<li>A (driving license for all motorcycles).</li>
<li>B (driving license for cars).</li>
<li>BE (driving license for trailers).</li>
</ul>
 With the following driving licenses, you may only continue to drive in the Netherlands for 5 years after the issue date:
<ul>
<li>C1 (driving license for light trucks and campers).</li>
<li>C (driving license for heavier trucks).</li>
<li>D1 (driving license for motor vehicles for the transport of at least 8 and not more than 16 persons).</li>
<li>D (driving license for buses).</li>
<li>C1E/CE (driving license to drive a truck with a trailer).</li>
<li>D1E/DE (driving license for buses with a trailer).</li>
</ul>
Are you from a country outside the European Union, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland? Then, you may only drive for 185 days in the Netherlands with your driving license. You must also have lived in the issuing country for at least 185 days. You can prove this by, for example, submitting an employer's statement or tax documents on your application.
It is not always the case that you can simply exchange your driving license. You may have to take a new theory and practical exam at the <a href="https://www.cbr.nl/nl.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CBR</a>, the Central Office of Driving Certification.
The Netherlands has made an exception for people who come from the following countries and live in the Netherlands for work. Exchanging your driving license is possible if you come from one of the following countries: Andorra, Alberta (Canadian province), Quebec (Canadian province), Gibraltar, Great Britain, Guernsey, Israel, Japan, Jersey, Man, Monaco, Northern Ireland, Singapore, Chinese Taipei (Taiwan), South Korea, and the former Netherlands Antilles (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Sint Maarten).
<h3>How do you exchange your driving license?</h3>
Are you eligible to exchange your foreign driver's license for a Dutch driving license? Then, you need certain documents to perform the exchange. The costs of the exchange of your driving license vary per municipality. You need the following documents for exchanging your driving license:br&gt;
<ul>
<li>A color passport photo that meets the Fotomatrix Model 2020 requirements. These are the same requirements as for the Dutch passport and Dutch identity card. The photo may not be older than 6 months.</li>
<li>A valid (!) foreign driver's license.</li>
<li>Possibly a translation of the foreign driver's license, but that's not mandatory.</li>
</ul>
Are you not from the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland? Then you must also have a 'Verklaring van Geschiktheid' (Certificate of Suitability). This is issued by the CBR. Do you have a notation on your driving license? Then, you must also have a Verklaring van Geschiktheid. According to the law, you must have a Verklaring van Geschiktheid to drive. Meaning, that you are physically and mentally capable of driving. You can get this form from the CBR. Often, you can also obtain this form from the municipality.
<h3>And then?</h3>
Take all the documents to the municipality. Here, you fill in an application form, which you must also sign. The municipality then sends the application to RDW. They will process the application. The foreign driving license will be returned to the country where it was issued.
If the application for an exchange of driving license is approved, you will receive a letter that you can pick up the driving license at the municipality, often within 5 working days. Tip: don't forget to bring your identification when you go to pick up your driving license!
<h3>How does the Dutch driving license system work?</h3>
Enough about exchanging foreign driving licenses. What to do if you don't have a (foreign) driving license yet and would like to get one? How does the Dutch driving license system actually work?
Take driving lessons If you want to get your car driving license (driving license B) in the Netherlands, you have to take driving lessons at a driving school. You can find good driving school owners in your area <a href="https://www.cbr.nl/nl/rijschoolzoeker.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
Costs of getting your driver's license The total cost depends on the number of driving lessons you need and the number of times you have to take the exam. On average, you will need about 38 hours of lessons before you can take the exam. In addition to taking driving lessons, you must take a theory exam at the CBR. Finally, you will have to perform a driving exam. You are free to choose to do an intermediate test, which means you don't have to do special operations like parking and the slope test on the driving test.
When can I start getting my driver's license? In the Netherlands, you can get your driver's license from the age of 17. However, you can already pass the theory exam at the age of 16 and start driving lessons at the age of 16,5. Only when you are 17, you may take the driving exam. Until you are 18, you have to drive with a coach next to you. This must be someone that you know, and he also has to meet a certain number of conditions.
Once you have got your driver's license, you can apply for it at the municipality where you live.

Foreign driving license in the Netherlands

Are you living in the Netherlands and do you still have a foreign driving license? After some time, you need to exchange it for a Dutch driving license.

<h2>It’s that time again, the Netherlands is heading to the polls! On Wednesday, October 29, Dutch voters will decide who will sit in the House of Representatives (Tweede Kamer) for the next four years. Wondering how it all works, if you're allowed to vote, and what you need to bring? Let's guide you through all the details.</h2>
<h3>How the Dutch government works&nbsp;</h3>
The Netherlands is a parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy. That means:
<ul>
<li>The King, Willem-Alexander, is the head of state. His role is mostly ceremonial.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The government consists of the Prime Minister, ministers, and state secretaries. They handle the actual decision-making and daily business.</li>
<li>The parliament represents the people. It's made up of two chambers: the House of Representatives (Tweede Kamer) proposes and passes laws and checks the government's work, and the Senate (Eerste Kamer) approves or rejects laws.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 There are also 12 provinces and 342 municipalities that manage regional and local matters, like roads, nature, and public services.
<h3>Why are there elections now?&nbsp;</h3>
Normally, general elections are held every four years. But this year, we’re voting because the government fell. That means the Dutch people get to shape a brand-new Tweede Kamer. The results will decide who forms the next coalition and who becomes the next Prime Minister. The general elections are on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-dutch-elections.jpg" alt="" width="825" height="461"> The center of Dutch politics is at Binnenhof. It houses the House of Representatives and the Senate. The prime minister also has an office here, in 'het Torentje'.
<h3>How to vote&nbsp;</h3>
Am I allowed to vote? If you’re a non-Dutch resident, you can’t vote in these elections. However, you can vote in municipal and European Parliament elections. If you’re eligible, you’ll automatically receive a voting pass (stempas) in your mailbox about two weeks before election day.&nbsp; To vote in the general elections, you must:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Have Dutch nationality;</li>
<li>Be at least 18 years old. </li>
</ul>
Where and when to vote&nbsp; You can vote at any polling station (stembureau) in your municipality. The location of your nearest one will be on your stempas or on <a href="https://waarismijnstemlokaal.nl/">this website</a>. Polling stations are usually set up in schools, libraries, or community centers. There's always a recognizable flag or sign outside the polling station. On Wednesday, October 29, you can vote from 7:30 to 21:00.&nbsp; What to bring?&nbsp; Before you rush out the door, make sure you have:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Your voting pass (stempas)&nbsp;</li>
<li>A valid ID (passport, Dutch ID card, or driver's license)</li>
</ul>
 At the polling station, one of the election volunteers will ask you for your voting pass and any valid identification. Without these documents, you're not allowed to vote. You'll receive a voting paper and a red pencil. The voting paper is a (very) large sheet of paper. Choose your candidate, color the dot in front of your candidate’s name red, and fold the paper again. Finally, put your voting paper in the designated mailbox. Who to vote for? There are many candidates to vote for. Voting tools can help you make your decision. Dutch options include <a href="https://home.stemwijzer.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">StemWijzer</a> and <a href="https://www.kieskompas.nl/nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kieskompas</a>. Good to know Some things are good to know when you're going to vote:
<ul>
<li>Children are not allowed into the voting booth.</li>
<li>You may take a photo of your voting paper, but you must ensure the privacy of the other voters. </li>
</ul>
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-voting.jpeg" alt="" width="825" height="450"> During the election campaign, you see many election posters in central locations.&nbsp;
<h3>Results</h3>
By casting your vote, you’re helping decide who represents you in parliament, and therefore, what decisions shape the Netherlands over the next four years. From climate action to housing, healthcare to education, this is your chance to influence the future. On the evening of election day, the (unofficial) results will be announced on television. About two days after the voting day, the official results will be publicized.

Voting during Dutch elections on October 29, 2025

Here's everything you need to know about the Dutch general elections on October 29, 2025. Wondering how it all works, if you're allowed to vote, and what you need to bring? Let's guide you through all the details.

<h2>When you are looking for a new rental home, you have many decisions to make. One of the most important questions to start with is what kind of home you are looking for. Choosing between a studio, apartment, or loft can be difficult since all have their advantages. Let’s explain the differences between these layouts!</h2>
Searching for accommodation can be quite confusing because different terms and designations are used all the time. A studio is sometimes also considered to be an apartment and is defined as a studio apartment. And then there are lofts, which are comparable to studios, but also have their differences.
<h3>Differences between studios, apartments, and lofts</h3>
The main difference between studios, apartments, and lofts is that studios and lofts are often thought of as one-room apartments, in which that one room functions as both a bedroom and living room. Lofts often feature high walls and windows, as well as a mezzanine where a bedroom is created. Apartments have one or more separate bedrooms, completely separated from the living room. Students can also rent a room in a student house. When renting a room, the kitchen and bathroom are shared with fellow residents.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-vleuterhuys.jpg" alt="loft in Vleuterhuys, Utrecht" width="100%"> Lofts are often created in former industrial buildings, factory halls, warehouses, and so on, which have been made suitable for living, as herein Vleuterhuys in Utrecht.
<h3>Advantages of renting a studio</h3>
Although there are large studios, studios are often relatively compact. As a studio is a living room, kitchen, and bedroom in a single room, it can often appear as small and packed. But it definitely has its advantages too!
Studios are great for single people. The larger the area of accommodation, the more you pay for rent. As studios have less space, you logically pay less rent. You need less furniture and you spend less money on gas and electricity as you only have to heat one room. And as an extra advantage, less space means less cleaning!
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-dok01.jpg" alt="smart furniture in DOK01, Maastricht" width="100%"> Studios contain a bedroom, kitchen, and living room in a single room, often with smart furniture to save space. Like in DOK01 in Maastricht, where a bunk bed makes extra space for a couch.
Are you going to live on your own for the first time? Then, a studio is perfect to start with. You probably won't need any extra space anyway. Many studios are equipped with smart furniture, such as folding beds that can also be used as tables. Although storage space is limited, there are a lot of handy storage options these days. Consider drawers under your bed or boxes on top of your closet and mirrors that make the room more spacious. Or buy shelves for in the cabinets, allowing more efficient storage.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-thecube.jpg" alt="smart folding bed in The Cube, Eindhoven" width="100%"> Folding beds like in The Cube in Eindhoven are a great space-saving solution in studios.
Although studios are often less popular because of the lack of privacy, there are plenty of solutions nowadays. For example, think about a room divider or curtain next to your bed to create more privacy. With a rug under the bed, you essentially create the idea and feeling of having a different space. A room divider or curtain next to your bed can also create more privacy. Be creative!
Lastly, studios are often rented furnished. This saves you from paying for new furniture and you don’t need to move it. Studios often have excellent locations, for example in the city center. Buildings often consist of multiple studios, so you will always have neighbors to connect with! Discover all of Holland2Stay's studios <a href="https://holland2stay.com/residences">here</a>!
<h3>Advantages of renting a loft</h3>
Where studios have a bed on the same floor as the couch and kitchen, lofts have an entresol or mezzanine where a bedroom is created. Often the bathroom is attached, partially open, to this bedroom area.
The big advantages of renting a loft are that you have more privacy and that it feels like you have a separate room for your bed. Besides that, lofts have large walls and windows which makes the room more spacious. On the other hand, as the bedroom is not completely separated, this can be annoying when you want to sleep while your partner is downstairs watching TV.
Discover all of Holland2Stay's lofts <a href="https://holland2stay.com/residences">here</a>!
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-philipsbedrijfsschool.jpg" alt="loft in Philips Bedrijfsschool" width="100%"> Lofts have large windows and high ceilings, making rooms more spacious. A mezzanine creates extra room for your bed and bathroom.
<h3>Advantages of renting an apartment</h3>
Apartments have one or two rooms that function as bedrooms, separated from the living space. The biggest advantage of renting an apartment is the extra space and privacy.
Separated from the living room, your bedroom offers privacy and additional storage space. With a separate bedroom, you have less trouble with, for example, cooking smells from the kitchen. People working from home may also appreciate working from a room other than the living room. On the other hand, apartments require more furniture and logically carry a higher rent.
Discover all of Holland2Stay's apartments <a href="https://holland2stay.com/residences">here</a>!
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-theridge.jpg" alt="apartment of The Ridge" width="100%"> Bedrooms separated from the living room give you more space, but especially more privacy.
<h3>Choosing between an apartment, loft, or studio</h3>
When it comes down to choosing between an apartment, loft, or studio, you should consider your preferences on space and budget. If you don’t value extra space, a studio might fit you better than an apartment. If you value privacy, an apartment might suit you better.

Differences between studios, lofts & apartments

What are the differences between rental studios, apartments, and lofts? Check the advantages for each layout here!

<h2>Moving to a new rental home in the Netherlands? Be sure to check if you’re entitled to receive housing allowance ('huurtoeslag'). In this blog, we'll share all the details and guide you through the application process, step by step.</h2>
If you have a relatively low income, most rents are too high in relation to what you earn. Upon request, the Dutch government's Tax Services can provide you with an allowance. This applies to both Dutch and international tenants, including expatriate workers and students. Housing allowance makes your rent more affordable because you'll receive a significant cost reduction from the Dutch government.&nbsp;
<h3>Terms and conditions</h3>
In 2026, there is no longer a maximum rent limit to be eligible for housing allowance. However, there are a number of requirements that you need to meet to receive housing allowance.&nbsp;We’ve listed the most important ones:
<ul>
<li>You are 18 years or older </li>
<li>You are Dutch or have legal residence status in the Netherlands </li>
<li>You’re officially registered at the City Hall As housing allowance is only granted for complete calendar months, it's important that you report your new address at the beginning of the month. If your rental agreement starts mid-month, or you register halfway through the month, you’re only entitled to housing allowance for the subsequent month. </li>
<li>You have a valid citizen service number (BSN, burgerservicenummer) You’ll receive this number about 1 week after registering with the municipality. </li>
<li>You have a valid Dutch bank account Housing allowance will only be paid to a Dutch bank account registered in the applicant’s name. You can open a Dutch bank account after registering in the Netherlands. </li>
<li>You are the main tenant During the application process, you'll need to prove that you are renting your home. Your name should be on the rental agreement. Also, you need to provide bank statements, proving that you're paying the rent. </li>
</ul>
The amount of housing allowance you receive depends on combined factors such as your basic rent (without any service costs), income, and the composition of your household.
<ul>
<li>Income The higher your income, the less housing allowance you’ll receive. It might also be that your income is too high to receive housing allowance. You can make a <a href="https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/nl/toeslagen/content/hulpmiddel-proefberekening-toeslagen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">test calculation</a> (in Dutch) on the website of the Dutch Tax Authorities to check if you can receive housing allowance. </li>
<li>Savings If you rent a home by yourself, your savings and private assets can’t exceed €38,479. If you live together, your collective savings shouldn’t be higher than €76,958. </li>
<li>Self-contained home You can only apply for housing allowance if you’re living in a self-contained home, meaning you have your own kitchen, bathroom, toilet, and living area(s). </li>
</ul>
<h3>How to apply for housing allowance</h3>
You can apply for housing allowance on the <a href="https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontentnl/belastingdienst/prive/toeslagen/inloggen_op_mijn_toeslagen">MijnToeslagen</a> website of the Dutch Tax Service Office. You can log in using your DigiD. In <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/checklist-after-arriving">this</a> blog, we explain how you can apply for a DigiD.&nbsp;Once you’re logged in, go to ‘Huurtoeslag’ and click ‘Aanvragen’. Here, you can fill out the application form. Make sure to have the following details on hand:
<ul>
<li>Basic rent There is no maximum rent limit to qualify for housing allowance. However, the amount of your housing allowance is calculated with a maximum rent. In 2026, this maximum rent is €932.93 for people above the age of 21. For young people under the age of 21, the maximum rent used for the calculation is €498.20. When you live together with someone, the age of the oldest resident determines which rent limit applies. If your rent is lower than this, they will calculate the housing allowance based on the rent you pay. Your basic rent is specified in your rental agreement. </li>
<li>Gross yearly income This is your (expected) income from employment or (social) benefits for the current year. This excludes any income that you receive from parents, scholarships, or other gifts. ‘Gross’ is the amount mentioned on your salary slip before the deduction of the wage tax. </li>
<li>Savings Here, you'll need to fill in your savings amount as of January 1 of the current year.</li>
</ul>
 On average, the government needs 8 to 13 weeks to process your housing allowance application. You’ll receive the housing allowance from the government in your personal Dutch bank account. Be sure to provide your IBAN via ‘MijnToeslagen’ to receive the payments.
<h3>Report changes on time</h3>
Housing allowance is granted per calendar year. You’ll need to update your personal details and estimates of your income and savings each year. To receive housing allowance, you must meet the above-mentioned conditions each calendar year. Does your income change during the year? Or is your partner moving in? Via ‘MijnToeslagen’, you need to inform the Tax Service Office within 4 weeks about the following changes:
<ul>
<li>Your income changes</li>
<li>Your household composition changes</li>
<li>You are moving (abroad)</li>
<li>Your rent changes </li>
</ul>
If a change has any consequences for the amount of your allowance fee, the Tax Service Office will adjust the monthly amount or stop your housing allowance. The Tax Service Office is very strict when it comes to distributing the housing allowance. If you receive allowance incorrectly, you'll need to repay it. Make sure to submit any changes in time.
<h3>More information</h3>
Do you want to know more about housing allowance, or do you need help during the application process? Visit the <a href="https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontenten/belastingdienst/individuals/benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a> of the Tax Service Office or call the <a href="https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontenten/standaard_functies/individuals/contact/calling/calling_a_tax_information_line" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tax Information Line</a>.&nbsp;

All you need to know about housing allowance in 2026

There’s a good chance that you may be entitled to receive housing allowance (huurtoeslag). Find out more about the terms and conditions and the application process.

<h2>Service costs and supplies might sound familiar to you when you're renting a home in the Netherlands. When renting a home, you need to pay an advance for general service costs and other services and supplies on top of your basic rent. Let’s explain to you what these service costs are, which costs are charged to you as a tenant, and how these costs are calculated.</h2>
<h3>What are service costs?</h3>
Your monthly rent consists of your basic rent, an advance for general services costs, and - if applicable - an advance for other services and supplies.&nbsp; You pay general service costs for services we arrange for you, on behalf of the property owner, regarding the shared areas in the building you live in.&nbsp;Everyone living in the building pays for these services. The costs vary per building. Examples of general service costs are the costs for cleaning the building, garden maintenance, the caretaker, and glass insurance. Besides the general service costs, you may pay an advance for your individual usage of heating, water, electricity, internet, and TV. If you rent a semi-furnished or furnished home, you also pay a monthly advance for the depreciation of upholstery and furnishing, a so-called user fee. All these costs together are referred to as additional services and supplies. In short, your monthly rent consists of your basic rent, an advance for general service costs, and (if applicable) an advance for services and supplies. In your rental agreement, we specify for what services and supplies you pay.&nbsp;
<h3>How does a service costs settlement work?</h3>
Advances you pay are based on average yearly usage. In the end, you pay for what you've actually consumed. Therefore, we send you a yearly settlement bill for all the costs from the previous year.&nbsp; In this service costs settlement, we first calculate how much you paid in advances in a certain year. These advances are divided into advances for general service costs and advances for other services and supplies. Next, we look at the actual general service costs for your building in that year. These costs relate to all residences in the building. Therefore, we allocate these costs with a distribution key. To determine your share in the general service costs, we first calculate the total amount of rental days in your building (number of residences * 365 days). The total general service costs are divided by this amount to determine the general service costs per rental day. We determine your share by multiplying the general service costs per rental day by the number of days you've rented your residence in that year. You only pay for the days you’ve rented your home in that year. Below we specify various cost items of the general service costs. We also describe how these costs are distributed between the tenants and the property owner, according to legal provisions and the guidelines of the Rent Committee.
<ul>
<li>Cleaning common areas &nbsp; &nbsp; Cleaning tasks in the communal areas of your building (e.g. corridors and the lobby) are carried out by an external cleaning party. These costs are charged to the tenants. Cleaning costs also include the costs for window cleaning. If an external party carries out this work, the labor costs are charged to the tenants. On the contrary, the costs for renting aerial work platforms - to access unreachable glass - are for the account of the property owner, and so are the maintenance costs for the outside lifts used to wash the windows. </li>
<li>Caretaker Caretakers carry out activities regarding cleaning, maintenance, repair, supervision, and inspection of the communal areas. Since the caretaker carries out work that's important to both the tenants and the property owners, 70% of the costs are charged to the tenants and 30% are for the account of the property owner. </li>
<li>Heating and electricity communal areas The gas and electricity costs consist of the costs for usage in the communal areas, such as the corridors, lobby, elevators, and air handling unit. The tenants pay for these costs. </li>
<li>Security These are the costs for security in (a part of) the building to ensure safety. The security costs are for the account of the tenants. </li>
<li>Various cost items are covered by 'Other costs': 
<ul>
<li>Garden maintenance Does your building have a public (meaning: accessible to everyone) garden in or around the complex? In that case, the maintenance costs are for the account of the property owner. Does your building have a garden in or around the complex that's only accessible to residents? In that case, the maintenance costs are charged to the tenants. </li>
<li>Moveable property This includes the depreciation costs of movable property in the communal areas, such as CCTVs and inventory. The common costs for fire extinguishers are also included here. Fire extinguishers are important for both the tenants and the property owner. Therefore 50% of the costs for maintenance work and periodic inspections of the fire extinguishers and fire hose reels are for the account of the property owner. The other 50% is charged to the tenants. </li>
<li>Maintenance of installations This includes the costs related to the maintenance of technical installations (entrance doors, elevators, hydrophore), which may include 24-hour service (meaning that tenants can report a malfunction 7 days a week and 24 hours a day). 20% of the costs are charged to the tenants. </li>
<li>Glass insurance The costs for glass insurance are charged to the tenants. </li>
<li>Replacing lamps&nbsp; &nbsp; If we change a lighting source in the communal areas, the costs are charged to the tenants. </li>
<li>Pest control The costs for pest control are charged to the tenants.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
 After determining your share in the general service costs, we look at your individual costs for other services and supplies, if you pay these advances through us.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Supplies If you pay in advance for individual supplies, such as heating, water, and electricity, we'll compare your advance payment to what you’ve actually consumed. If there's an individual meter in your residence that measures your gas, electricity, and water usage, we determine your usage based on the data provided to us by the energy supplier, taking into account the start and end date of your rental agreement. In some buildings, the heating, electricity, and water are arranged centrally. In that case, you don’t have a private meter, so we don't know the exact usage costs per residence. Instead, we allocate the costs with a distribution key.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Depreciation inventory If your residence is delivered including inventory (flooring, curtains, curtain rails, various equipment, and/or furniture), you pay depreciation costs for inventory in your monthly advance for other services and supplies. This is a user fee for providing a semi-furnished or fully furnished residence. In the service costs settlement, we specify what you've paid for the depreciation of inventory, based on your rental days. The amount you've paid as advance is always equal to the actual depreciation costs. Therefore, the balance is always zero. </li>
<li>Internet and TV We determine your share of the internet and TV costs for your residence based on actual rental days. First, we calculate the costs per rental day (total internet and TV costs / 365 days). Next, we multiply this amount by the number of days you rented your residence in 2022. </li>
<li>Administration costs We charge administration costs for all administrative actions required to create your service costs settlement. According to the guidelines of the Rent Committee, we charge 5% administration costs for general service costs, depreciation, internet, and TV, 2% administration costs for water, and 1% for electricity and heating.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
 At the bottom of the service costs settlement, we compare your actual usage to your paid advances. Did you use less than what you paid for? Then we'll refund the difference. Did you use more than you paid in advance? Then you need to pay extra. If we notice that the advances are not sufficient to cover the actual costs, we may decide to increase future advances.
<h3>When will I receive the service costs settlement?</h3>
You should receive the settlement bill within six months after the end of the calendar year. For example, if the service cost settlement is for the year 2023, you should receive it before July 1, 2024.

Everything about service costs and other services and supplies

Are you renting a home? On top of your basic rent, you must also pay service costs. Discover what service costs are and how these are calculated.

<h2>In the Netherlands, there are more bikes than people (23,4 million – wow). Unfortunately, lots of bikes are stolen every day. Let’s give you some ways to protect your beloved bike!</h2>
Getting back to your bike and seeing it’s stolen is, to say the least, upsetting. Although it’s a challenge to keep your bike out of the hands of thieves, you can do your best to prevent it.
<h3>Describe your bike</h3>
Let’s start with the basics: register your bike. Maybe this sounds a bit logical, but it’s important to know what your bike looks like. In case of theft, the police will need all the unique characteristics of your bike if they ever want to find it again. Start by taking a picture of it. Other things to note down:
<ul>
<li>Brand</li>
<li>Color</li>
<li>Frame number, which you can find at the bottom of the (saddle) frame or on the tube of the steering wheel</li>
<li>Kind of bike</li>
<li>Size of wheels, which you can find written on the wheels themselves. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Store it in a safe place</h3>
Put your bike in a safe space. Don't leave it in an unlit spot in the evening or at night. Parking your bike in front of a train station is safer than parking it in a dark corner in the middle of nowhere. Preferably, park your bike in a bike storage. Always close the door securely behind you. Don't let just anyone in, not even someone claiming to be a fellow neighbor.
<h3>Lock it</h3>
It’s an art to lock your bike properly. Use a proper lock to double-lock your bike. Relatively inexpensive locks are easily cut. Go for a chain lock, made of steel. Choose a bracket lock or chain lock. Secure your bike with the frame to a fixed object that thieves cannot move. For example, one of the many bike standards. If you secure your bike with the wheel, thieves can walk away with the bike without the wheel. Always use your frame.
<h3>Stolen bike</h3>
What to do when, despite all your efforts, your bike is stolen? First, check if it’s at the bike depot (Fietsdepot in Dutch). Maybe you parked it wrongly, and the bike was taken there. You can check this at <a href="https://www.verlorenofgevonden.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Verloren of Gevonden</a>. If it’s stolen, you can report it digitally to the police. You can do this via the website of the police in your municipality. Be aware that you need the frame number of your bike to report the theft to the police.

How to prevent bike theft

There are more bikes than people in the Netherlands. Let’s give you some ways to protect your beloved bike.

<h2>Energy prices have risen enormously in the past year. The Dutch government announced several measures to compensate for high energy bills. In this blog, we explain how households with a collective connection for heating and electricity (‘blokaansluiting') are compensated.</h2>
<h3> What is a collective connection?</h3>
In some buildings, all studios and apartments are connected to one central connection for heat and/or electricity. The residences don't have a private connection or private meter. Therefore, the energy supplier doesn't know the individual consumption of each household.
<h3>Price cap</h3>
The Dutch government has set a price cap for gas and electricity in 2023 for small-scale users with a private energy connection. This means that they don't pay more than the maximum price for gas or electricity up to a certain level of consumption.
For households with collective connections, it's not possible to estimate individual consumption and benefit from the price cap. Instead, these households will receive an allowance from the government to compensate for high energy costs.
There are some exceptions. For example, in some buildings, the contract for collective energy has fixed energy rates. If these fixed rates are set below the maximum tariff of the price cap for the entire year 2023 (€1.45 per m3 for gas and €0.40 per kWh for electricity, including energy taxes and 21% VAT), these households don't receive any compensation.
<h3>Compensation payments</h3>
The government has determined the compensation payments for 2023. The amount of compensation depends on the type of energy and the type of accommodation.
For the first 6 months of 2023, the compensation amounts to:
<ul>
<li>€786.45 (self-contained residence with collective connection for heating)</li>
<li>€731.13 (self-contained residence with collective connection for electricity)</li>
<li>€329.28 (non-self-contained residence with collective connection for heating)</li>
<li>€307.63 (non-self-contained residence with collective connection for electricity)</li>
</ul>
 For the last 6 months of 2023, the amounts of the compensation are:
<ul>
<li>€276.76 (self-contained residence with collective connection for heating)</li>
<li>€183.92 (self-contained residence with collective connection for electricity)</li>
<li>€116.18 (non-self-contained residence with collective connection for heating)</li>
<li>€77.33 (non-self-contained residence with collective connection for electricity) </li>
</ul>
<h3>Application for compensation</h3>
In most cases, residents can't apply for the compensation themselves. This needs to be done by the person who has taken out the contract with the energy supplier. This is usually the landlord.
Are you living with Holland2Stay and do you have a collective energy connection? Then we'll apply for the compensation. You don't have to do anything yourself.
Once the application is approved, we'll settle for the compensation in the service costs settlement of 2023 according to a distribution key. We'll take into account the number of days you've rented in 2023. You'll receive the settlement statement in the first half of 2024.
Update application process Holland2Stay:
<ul>
<li>Update July 27, 2023 We've prepared the application, and we'll submit this application as soon as the government counter opens. </li>
<li>Update September 14, 2023 We've submitted the application. Within 13 weeks, we'll be informed whether the application has been approved or not. The government can extend this period by 13 weeks. </li>
<li>Update January 3, 2024 The government has extended the assessment period to 26 weeks. We expect to get a decisive answer by mid-March. </li>
<li>Update March 26, 2024 The government has approved our application for 23 buildings so far. If your building is one of them, we'll inform you by email. We'll settle for the compensation in the service costs settlement of 2023. You'll receive the settlement in the first half of 2024.</li></ul>
<h3> FAQ</h3>
 Will you pay the compensation to my account directly? No, we'll settle for the compensation in the service costs settlement of 2023. You'll receive the settlement statement in the first half of 2024.
I don't live with Holland2Stay for the whole year of 2023. Does this affect the amount of compensation I'll receive? Yes, while determining your share of compensation, we'll take into account the number of days you've rented in 2023.
Why do I receive the compensation only in 2024? In your monthly rent, an advance payment for heating and electricity is included. This amount is based on average yearly usage. Every year, you receive an overview of the energy costs compared to your actual usage from the previous year (service costs settlement). In this annual statement, we'll settle for the compensation. You pay for what you have consumed. When you have used less than anticipated, you'll receive the extra paid fees back. When you have used more, you'll have to pay the extra costs as stated in the settlement bill. You'll receive your service costs settlement in the first half of 2024.
I pay a monthly advance of service costs for heating and electricity in the common areas of my building. Does the price cap apply to these costs? No, the price cap only applies to private consumption. Costs for, for example, lighting in the hallways are not included.

Compensation for energy costs collective connection in 2023

The Dutch government announced several measures to compensate for high energy bills. In this blog, we explain how households with a collective connection for heating and electricity (‘blokaansluiting') are compensated.

<h2>There’s no denying that the comforts of home are essential for our well-being, providing a place where we can relax, unwind, and recharge. What no one wants is noise nuisance. What’s allowed and what’s not? And how to deal with it?</h2>
 Whether it’s the blaring music from your next-door neighbor’s spontaneous party or the constant hum of traffic or maintenance outside your window, dealing with noise nuisance can be a challenge. We’ll walk you through some effective strategies to help you regain your harmonious living environment.
<h3>Noisy neighbors</h3>
It's normal to hear some sounds from your neighbors, especially when you live in a large building with many people around you. Neighbors should accept normal living sounds from each other. This includes, for example, sounds of children playing, coughing, vacuuming during the day, and slamming doors. Let's talk about the four steps you can take when you suffer from noise.
<ul>
<li>Communicate The first step in addressing noise issues is often the simplest: communication. Approach your neighbors or the source of the noise with an open and friendly attitude. They might not even be aware that their actions are causing a disturbance. A polite conversation can go a long way in finding an agreeable solution. Listen to what your neighbors tell you, sometimes you will gain more understanding this way and the nuisance will be less disruptive. Share your concerns and suggest compromises that could help reduce the noise impact. </li>
<li>Check (local) noise regulations Familiarize yourself with the (local) noise regulations, which often outline acceptable noise levels during different times of the day. Besides that, there are house rules that you and your neighbors need to follow. These house rules include rules about preventing noise nuisance for others. For example, Holland2Stay tenants are not allowed to make music or produce other kinds of hard noise between 20:00 and 8:00, as well as on Sundays and public holidays. Next to that, every tenant must ensure peace and quiet in the building and must refrain from making excessive noise. You can find the house rules in your Holland2Stay account. </li>
<li>Contact Holland2Stay Do you still experience noise nuisance after communication with your neighbor(s)? Report this in writing to Holland2Stay if it affects your daily rental experience. We'll discuss the nuisance with you, provide you with some tips and advise you on the next step to take.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Notify the authorities or the police If your neighbors or surroundings consistently violate the rules, you can report the issue to the local authorities. Keep detailed records of the noise disturbances, including dates, times, and descriptions. Many municipalities have a nuisance hotline or contact form. After reporting, a deputy may come by to inspect the situation and issue a fine, for example. Do you think that someone is committing a criminal offense or disrupting public order? Then, call the police (only via the general number: 0900 8844). The police can make an official report or confiscate the radio, speakers, or musical instruments that produce the nuisance.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>
<h3>Construction work</h3>
Noise that doesn’t come from your neighbors, such as road work, construction work, or events must abide by certain rules. There are different rules for construction work. In the Netherlands, construction companies are allowed to make noise from Monday to Saturday, between 07:00 and 19:00. However, there is a maximum number of days per noise level. For example, construction work may exceed 60 dB(A) for a maximum of 50 days and exceed 75 dB(A) only for a maximum of 5 days. The noise may not exceed 80 dB(A).
With an exemption, construction and demolition work can take place in the evening, at night, and on Sundays. Read more about the rules regarding noise from construction and demolition activities <a href="https://www.infomil.nl/onderwerpen/geluid/functies/bouwlawaai-0/regelgeving/bouwbesluit-2012/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> (only in Dutch). Sometimes it is possible that (construction) companies deviate from noise standards. For example, if a road must be widened. In most cases, the municipality decides on this. The municipality can issue customized noise regulations for companies. Depending on the situation, this can set higher noise standards, for example for pouring concrete at night to work efficiently.
Does the noise nuisance involve construction work? You can report this via <a href="https://www.verbeterdebouw.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">VerbeterDeBouw</a> (only in Dutch). You can provide feedback to its contractor, so they can implement improvements and use your tip to lift the project to another level. Is the noise nuisance too extreme or doesn’t it stop? Then you can report this to the municipality or police (only via the general number: 0900 88 44).
<h3>Events</h3>
At many events, such as concerts, there will be noise levels that can cause noise nuisance. There are also rules regarding noise for events. For example, the maximum noise level may be 50 dB(A) during the day, 45 dB(A) in the evening, and 40 dB(A) at night. Event organizers may apply for exemption at the municipality. Then, the music may be louder.&nbsp;
<h3>Traffic</h3>
Do you live near a road? Then you may be bothered by noise from cars or other vehicles. There are also noise standards for traffic noise. These standards differ per road. If you’re bothered by traffic noise, you can contact <a href="https://english.ilent.nl/contact" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Environment and Transport Inspectorate</a> (for national roads) or the municipality (for other roads).
<h3>Easy ways to reduce noise</h3>
Although complete noise elimination might not always be possible, you can significantly reduce noise and create a more peaceful environment by yourself. It's worth trying!&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Soundproofing solutions If communication and local regulations fail to bring relief, consider implementing soundproofing measures in your own space. Soundproofing materials, such as acoustic panels, weatherstripping, and heavy curtains, can significantly reduce the transmission of noise. Strategically arrange furniture or bookshelves along the walls that face the noisy area. This can help block out some sound, creating a buffer zone within your space. While not a complete solution, soundproofing can make a noticeable difference in reducing the impact of outside noise. </li>
<li>Noise-canceling technology Investing in noise-canceling headphones or earbuds can provide instant relief when dealing with intermittent noise nuisances. These devices use advanced technology to counteract and neutralize external sounds, allowing you to focus on your tasks or enjoy your free time undisturbed. </li>
</ul>
Finding a solution to noise nuisance requires patience and persistence. Keep an open mind and be willing to explore different strategies until you find what works best for your situation. By taking proactive steps to address noise issues, you can transform your home into the peaceful haven you deserve.

Noise nuisance at home

There’s no denying that the comforts of home are essential for our well-being. What no one wants is noise nuisance. What’s allowed and what’s not?

<h2>Although the Netherlands is a small country, there are several airports you can fly to. Your choice of airport will depend on where you’re moving to and your travel preferences. From the airport, you can travel further to your final destination. We'll take you along which options you have to continue your journey from any airport.</h2>
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the most internationally connected and often the go-to option for many travelers. However, the other airports can be more convenient if your new home is closer to one of these. Let’s break down all five airports in the Netherlands: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Rotterdam The Hague Airport, Eindhoven Airport, Groningen Airport Eelde, and Maastricht Aachen Airport.
<h3>Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)</h3>
Schiphol is the largest and busiest airport in the Netherlands, located around 9 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam’s city center. It offers a wide range of international and intercontinental flights. No other airport in the Netherlands offers intercontinental flights. The vast majority of airlines fly to and from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. If your new home is in or around Amsterdam, Schiphol is likely the most convenient choice.&nbsp; Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has excellent transportation connections, including trains and buses, making it convenient to travel to various Dutch cities and towns.
<ul>
<li>Taking the train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol Find Schiphol Airport’s train station beneath the airport. After arriving, follow the ‘Trains’ signs to Schiphol Plaza. Schiphol Plaza is the general area of Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, after (or before) passport control. At Schiphol Plaza, take the escalator, stairs, or elevator downstairs to board your train. Plan your train journey online at <a href="https://www.ns.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ns.nl</a> or find your departure information on one of the signs at Schiphol Plaza. Buy your ticket at Schiphol Plaza, at one of the yellow and blue counters. You can also buy an e-ticket <a href="https://www.ns.nl/en">online</a> or check in and out with your debit card, credit card, or mobile (also called <a href="https://www.ovpay.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OVpay</a>). <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-schiphol-train.jpeg" alt="" width="1000" height="545"> Take one of the trains from Schiphol Plaza to continue your journey in the Netherlands. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Taking the bus from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol Hop on the bus to wherever you want from Schiphol Airport. Buses are going to various cities, like Amsterdam and Haarlem. Buses depart in front of Schiphol Plaza. After arriving, follow the signs with ‘Buses’.&nbsp; Plan your journey door-to-door on <a href="https://9292.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9292.nl</a>. You can’t pay for the bus with cash. Buy your ticket from one of the ticket machines at Schiphol Plaza. You can also pay onboard, using your debit card, credit card, or mobile (also called <a href="https://www.ovpay.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OVpay</a>). Don’t forget to check out when you leave the bus.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Taking the taxi from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol There are lots of taxis waiting for you at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. After arriving, follow the signs ‘Taxis’. It’s also possible to book an Uber from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. To book an Uber, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/uber/id368677368?uclick_id=c0442404-4284-4751-aa1c-007bdb4d0c73" target="_blank" rel="noopener">download the app</a>. Follow the directions to your pickup point given in the app. <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/schiphol-taxi.jpg" alt="taxi places at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam" width="1000"> Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has excellent transportation connections to continue your journey in the Netherlands. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)</h3>
Rotterdam The Hague Airport serves the Rotterdam and The Hague region and is about 5 kilometers north of Rotterdam’s city center. While not as large as Schiphol, Rotterdam The Hague Airport offers international flights in Europe and is particularly convenient if you’re moving to Rotterdam or The Hague. Several airlines fly to Rotterdam The Hague Airport, including British Airways, Corendon, Transavia, Vueling, and TUI.
<ul>
<li>Taking the bus from Rotterdam The Hague Airport There’s no train station at Rotterdam The Hague Airport. Follow the signs ‘Buses’, which leave just outside the airport. Take bus ‘Frequentbus 33’ to metro station Meijersplein (from where you can travel to Rotterdam Central Station) or to Overschie (taking you directly to Rotterdam Central Station). Both trips will take you around 20 to 25 minutes to Rotterdam Central Station. Plan your journey door-to-door at <a href="https://9292.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9292.nl</a>. You can’t pay for the bus with cash. Tap your debit card, credit card, or mobile to the card reader on the bus to check in (called <a href="https://www.ovpay.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OVpay</a>). Don’t forget to check out once you leave the bus. </li>
<li>Taking the taxi from Rotterdam The Hague Airport There’s an official Rotterdam Airport taxi, to and from the airport. Follow the signs ‘Taxis’ after arriving at the airport. You can book a taxi by phone by calling +31 (0)10 - 262 04 06 or via its official <a href="https://rotterdam-airport-taxi.nl/english/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>. Besides booking a taxi, you can also travel from Rotterdam The Hague Airport by Uber. Book one via its app up to 30 days before your flight or on the spot. Follow the directions to your pickup point given in the app. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Eindhoven Airport (EIN)</h3>
Eindhoven Airport is situated in the southern part of the Netherlands, near the city of Eindhoven. It serves both domestic and European destinations and is a good choice if you’re moving to the southern Netherlands or neighboring regions. Several airlines fly to Eindhoven Airport, including Corendon, Ryanair, Vueling, Transavia, TUI, and Wizz Air.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Taking the bus from Eindhoven Airport There is no train station at Eindhoven Airport. Therefore, travel to Eindhoven Central Station by bus first. The bus stops can be found in front of Eindhoven Airport. Bus lines 400 and 401 run several times an hour to Eindhoven Central Station. The ride to Eindhoven Central Station takes you about 20 minutes. You can plan your journey ahead at the website of <a href="https://9292.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9292</a>. You can’t pay for the bus with cash. Tap your debit card, credit card, or mobile to the card reader on the bus to check in (also called <a href="https://www.ovpay.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OVpay</a>). Don’t forget to check out once you leave the bus. </li>
<li>Taking the taxi from Eindhoven Airport Taxis are waiting for you in the taxi lane next to Eindhoven Airport's terminal. Travel time to Eindhoven’s city center is approximately 15 to 20 minutes.&nbsp; Uber is also available at Eindhoven Airport. After requesting a ride in the app, you’ll receive a pickup location. Book up to 30 days before your flight or directly on the spot. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ)</h3>
Located in the northern part of the country, near Groningen, this airport primarily serves domestic and European, seasonal routes. When moving to the northern Netherlands, this airport can be convenient. However, chances are high that it’s easier to fly to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Several airlines fly to Groningen Airport Eelde, including Transavia, Corendon, and TUI.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Taking the bus from Groningen Airport Eelde Groningen Airport Eelde is about 15 kilometers from Groningen. One way to get here is by bus (Qbuzz). You can hop on at the ‘Eelde Airport’ bus stop, a 350-meter walk from the terminal. Take bus line 9 to reach the center, which takes you around 40 minutes. Plan your journey door-to-door at <a href="https://9292.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9292.nl</a>. You can’t pay for the bus with cash. Pay for your ticket on the bus, by tapping your debit card, credit card, or mobile to the card reader. Don’t forget to tap your card or mobile again to the card reader to check out once you leave the bus. </li>
<li>Taking the taxi from Groningen Airport Eelde Groningen Airport Eelde offers a taxi airport service. You can book one before arriving in the Netherlands. The taxi can pick you up at the gate where you arrive, even if your flight is delayed. Book it via <a href="https://www.taxionderneminggroningen.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">this website</a>.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>
<h3>Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST)</h3>
Maastricht Aachen Airport is situated in the very south of the Netherlands, close to both Maastricht and Aachen (Germany). It mainly operates charter and cargo flights, so it might not be the best choice for regular passenger travel. Are you moving to Maastricht or another city in the south? Then, it might be more convenient to book a flight to Eindhoven Airport and travel home from there. Several airlines fly to Maastricht Aachen Airport, including Vueling, Ryanair, and Wizz Air.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Taking the bus from Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) There's no train station at Maastricht Aachen Airport, you'll have to take the bus. There's a bus stop in front of the terminal. Hop on bus line 30 (to Maastricht Station or Sittard Station). From these train stations, you can easily continue your journey by train or another bus.&nbsp; You can plan your complete journey at <a href="https://9292.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9292</a>. You can’t pay for the bus with cash. Tap your debit card, credit card, or mobile to the card reader on the bus to check in. Don’t forget to check out once you reach your destination. </li>
</ul>
<h3>OVpay or OV chipkaart?&nbsp;</h3>
Although you can check in and out with your debit card, credit card, or mobile at all public transportation (<a href="https://www.ovpay.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OVpay</a>), you can also travel with an OV chipkaart. With OVpay, you automatically pay for 2nd class without a discount. When you’re settled in the Netherlands, consider investing in an OV chipkaart. Some advantages of an OV chipkaart:
<ul>
<li>Get subscriptions for the train and/or bus, for example, discounts in off-peak hours or the weekends</li>
<li>Get discounts (only for children and seniors)</li>
<li>Insight into your travels and costs</li>
<li>Opportunities to rent an OV bike at train stations</li>
</ul>
 Find more information about OV chipkaart on its <a href="https://www.ov-chipkaart.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a>.

Getting home from a Dutch airport

We take you along the transportation options to continue your journey home from any airport in the Netherlands.

<h2>The Netherlands boasts one of the most efficient and user-friendly public transportation systems in the world. There’s a well-connected network of trains, buses, metros, and trams. Let’s provide you with all the information you need to start exploring.</h2>
<h3>Apps and websites for public transportation in the Netherlands</h3>
To start, it can be handy to have some apps and save some websites to help you navigate around the Netherlands when you’re on the road. Here are some of the must-have apps:
<ul>
<li>Plan your entire public transportation journey with 9292, <a href="https://9292.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">online</a> or in the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/nl/app/9292/id556557690" target="_blank" rel="noopener">app</a>. It offers you detailed information about trains, buses, trams, metros, and ferries. You can check its schedules, connections, and platform changes.&nbsp;</li>
<li>A traveler’s best friend is Google Maps. <a href="https://www.google.nl/maps/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google Maps</a> provides you with reliable directions for transportation, including walking, cycling, and public transport. Enter your destination and Google Maps will offer you multiple live route options, including public transportation options.&nbsp;</li>
<li>For traveling by train, the NS <a href="https://www.ns.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website</a> or its <a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/ns/id370362301" target="_blank" rel="noopener">app</a> can be useful. It provides real-time information on train schedules, platform changes, and delays. Plus, you can purchase train tickets and check in and out using the app. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Traveling by train in the Netherlands</h3>
The Dutch railway network is operated by Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS). NS offers extensive coverage in the Netherlands, connecting cities, towns, and even some rural areas. In some regions, the railway network is operated by Arriva. You can reach the other side of the country within 2 hours. It’s easy and comfortable. You can choose between two different trains: Sprinter or Intercity. A Sprinter is a train for shorter distances, it stops at all smaller stations. Intercity trains run between larger cities and don’t stop at smaller stations along the way. You have regular Intercity trains and double-deckers. There are multiple international rail connections to cities in Belgium, UK, Germany, and France. Find more information about traveling abroad by train <a href="https://www.nsinternational.com/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. All the information you need about traveling by train can be found on the website or app of <a href="https://www.ns.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NS</a> or <a href="https://www.arriva.nl/plan-je-reis/reisplanner/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arriva</a>. You can find current departure and arrival times, plan your trip, find out what facilities are available on the train, and the expected crowds on the train.
<h3>Traveling by bus in the Netherlands</h3>
For short travels, you can reach your destination quickly by bus. In the Netherlands, several different bus companies are operating per region, like <a href="https://www.arriva.nl/plan-je-reis/reisplanner/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arriva</a> (Groningen, Maastricht, Sittard), <a href="https://www.connexxion.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Connexxion</a> (Eindhoven, Arnhem, Nijmegen, Haarlem), <a href="https://www.htm.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HTM</a> (The Hague), <a href="https://www.gvb.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GVB</a> (Amsterdam), and <a href="https://www.ret.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RET</a> (Rotterdam). Start your bus journey at one of the many bus stops. Most train stations have bus lines departing from there, but there are also many bus stops scattered throughout cities and towns. Is the bus coming? Raise your hand. A bus stops at a stop only when people want to get on and off. Enter the bus through the front door. Press the stop button when you want to get off at the next stop. Exit through one of the back doors. Visit one of the bus companies’ websites to plan your route or to find more practical information about the bus lines. Buses run on a fixed route, at fixed times. The bus stops at several stops until it arrives at its final stop.
<h3>Traveling by metro in the Netherlands</h3>
In the Netherlands, there are two cities with a metro network: Amsterdam and Rotterdam. In Amsterdam, there are five metro lines (by <a href="https://www.gvb.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GVB</a>), including one towards Diemen. There are also five metro lines in Rotterdam (by <a href="https://www.ret.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RET</a>). These run in Rotterdam itself, but also to surrounding places such as Capelle aan den IJssel and The Hague. Based on the end stations, you can double-check in which direction the metro goes. In Amsterdam, you can recognize metro stations by the white letter M with a blue background. The metro in Amsterdam has five colors, corresponding to the numbers 50-54: green (M50, Isolatorweg - Gein), orange (M51, Central Station - Isolatorweg), blue (M52, North - South), red (M53, Central Station - Gaasperplas), and yellow (M54, Central Station - Gein).
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/metro-amsterdam.jpg" alt="metro in Amsterdam"> Metros in Amsterdam are operated by GVB.
In Rotterdam, you can recognize metro stations by the yellow letter M with a black background. The metro in Rotterdam has five colors, corresponding to the letters A-E: green (A, Vlaardingen West - Binnenhof), yellow (B, Hoek van Holland Haven - Niesselande), red (C, De Akkers - De Terp), light blue (D, De Akkers - Rotterdam Central Station) and dark blue (E, Slinge - Den Haag Central Station).
<h3>Traveling by tram in the Netherlands&nbsp;</h3>
You can travel by tram in Amsterdam (<a href="https://www.gvb.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GVB</a>), Rotterdam (<a href="https://www.ret.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RET</a>), The Hague (<a href="https://www.htm.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HTM</a>), and Utrecht (<a href="https://www.u-ov.info/direct-naar/english" target="_blank" rel="noopener">U-OV</a>). In these cities, trams all have a different color. Trams are white-blue in Amsterdam, grey in Rotterdam, red-dark grey or red-white in The Hague, and yellow in Utrecht. Trams run on different routes through the cities.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/tram-amsterdam.jpg" alt="tram in Amsterdam"> Not every city has a tram system. Trams only operate in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht.
Start your tram journey at one of the tram stops. Enter the tram through the front door. Press the stop button when you want to get off at the next stop. Exit through one of the back doors. Exit through one of the back doors by pushing the button on the door. Doors close automatically. Visit one of the tram companies’ websites to plan your route or to find more practical information about the tram lines. Trams run on a fixed route, at fixed times. Trams stop at several stops until they arrive at their final stop.
<h3>Paying for public transportation in the Netherlands</h3>
There are several ways to pay for your travel on public transportation: with OVpay, an OV chipkaart, e-tickets, or with a ticket from the ticket machine.
OVpay From 2023, you can travel by public transport with your debit card, credit card, or mobile phone. This is called <a href="https://www.ovpay.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OVpay</a>. Hold your contactless debit card, credit card, or mobile against the card reader and you're checked in. Don't forget to check out at your final destination. You will find the payment as a bank statement with the description 'NLOV'. Conductors check whether you are checked in by scanning your bank card. He can see where and when you checked in but does not see personal bank information. With OVpay, you’ll automatically travel in second-class on trains. In the future, discounts and season tickets can be linked to your bank card.
OV chipkaart Although you can travel with OVpay these days, the <a href="https://www.ov-chipkaart.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OV chipkaart</a> is also still widely used. In the future, the OV-chip card is going to be replaced by the OV-pas. With an OV chipkaart, you can travel with all public transport in the Netherlands. Hold your OV chipkaart against the card reader and you are checked in. Don't forget to check out once you reach your final destination. Traveling with an OV-chip card has some advantages. There is a personal (yellow) and anonymous OV chipkaart (blue) for traveling on balance.
Advantages of a personal OV chipkaart:
<ul>
<li>Order it online.</li>
<li>Possible to put season ticket(s) and (age) discounts on your OV chipkaart, for example, ‘Dal Voordeel’ where you get a 40% discount during off-peak hours and on the weekends. For more information about traveling by train with discounts, visit <a href="https://www.ns.nl/en/nsflex/webshop#/abonnementen/lijst" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NS</a>. Are you entitled to student travel products from DUO? Then you must apply for a personal OV chipkaart.</li>
<li>Automatic top-up.</li>
<li>Online insight into your trips, travel expenses, balance, and current subscriptions.</li>
<li>Rent an OV bike and use the bicycle storage.</li>
<li>In case of theft or loss, you get the balance on your card back. </li>
</ul>
Advantages of an anonymous OV chipkaart:
<ul>
<li>Order it online or get it directly at one of the NS ticket machines.</li>
<li>You can lend an anonymous OV chipkaart to someone else.</li>
<li>Online insight into your travels, travel expenses, and balance. </li>
</ul>
Online e-tickets Buy an e-ticket online on the transport operator’s website or app, for example at <a href="https://www.arriva.nl/kaartjes-abonnementen/losse-kaartjes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Arriva</a> or <a href="https://www.ns.nl/producten/en/losse-kaartjes-toeslagen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NS</a> when you want to travel by train. Online you can often pay with iDeal, Mastercard, Visa, or American Express. There is no surcharge on your ticket when you buy it online. With an e-ticket, you don't have to check-in. Are you traveling to or from a station with closed gates in the departure or arrival hall? Scan the square code on the e-ticket via your phone to open the gates.
Print a ticket at a ticket machine Buy a ticket for the train, metro, or tram at one of the ticket machines. There are ticket machines at every train station in the Netherlands. On these machines all functions are available. You can pay with your debit or credit card (V Pay, Maestro, Mastercard, Visa, and American Express) and often still with cash. Ticket machines for bus tickets are rare. However, you can still buy a ticket from the bus driver. Note that you can only board the bus with your debit card, credit card, or mobile phone. With a printed ticket you must check in. Scan your printed ticket from the machine at one of the card readers to check in and open the gates.

Traveling by train, bus, tram and metro in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has a well-connected network of trains, buses, metros, and trams. Let’s provide you with all the information you need to start exploring.

<h2>The holiday season has brought joy, laughter, and – if you have a real Christmas tree – the sweet scent of pine into our homes. As the festivities wind down, it’s time to say goodbye to your beloved Christmas tree. As you're supposed to recycle it in the Netherlands, many municipalities have a pick-up scheme where you can get rid of your tree.&nbsp;</h2>
<h3>Remove lights and decorations</h3>
Before recycling your tree, ensure it’s stripped of all decorations, including lights, ornaments, tinsel, and any other non-biodegradable items. Remove the pot or stand as well, as these can interfere with the recycling process.
<h3>Find a local collection point</h3>
Many municipalities in the Netherlands organize special collections for Christmas trees after New Year's Day. Check your local municipality below or contact them directly to find out the designated collection dates and points. Often, there are specific days allocated for picking up old Christmas trees to be recycled.
<ul>
<li>Amersfoort On Friday, January 10 and Saturday, January 11, you can drop off your Christmas tree at a collection site in the neighborhood. <a href="https://www.amersfoort.nl/kerstbomen-inleveren-je-wijk">Here</a> you can find an overview of the collection points. Can't deliver your Christmas tree yourself? Give it to children who collect Christmas trees and earn pocket money.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Amsterdam Drop off your Christmas tree at one of the 2.000 drop-off locations between December 27 and January 17, 2025. Find the locations on the <a href="https://www.amsterdam.nl/kerstbomen/#:~:text=Laat%20na%20de%20feestdagen%20de,er%20compost%20en%20biomassa%20van." target="_blank" rel="noopener">website of the municipality of Amsterdam</a>. </li>
<li>Arnhem PreZero collects Christmas trees every January. Check the <a href="https://inzamelwijzer.prezero.nl/">digital waste calendar</a>&nbsp;to find the day they will visit your street. Put your tree next to the nearest collection container. You can also take your Christmas tree to the waste disposal station at Beijerinckweg 9a or De Overmaat 17 yourself.</li>
<li>Capelle aan den IJssel&nbsp; In Capelle aan den IJssel, you can drop off your Christmas tree on January 4, 2025. You can do this at several collection points, which you'll find&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irado.nl/nieuws/capelle/waar-laat-ik-mijn-kerstboom-in-capelle-2024" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. From Monday, January 6 through Friday, January 10, you can bring your Christmas tree to a neighborhood collection point. You can recognize a Christmas tree collection point by the Christmas tree template on the ground and a yellow sign. </li>
<li>Delft From December 27 until January 12, 2025, you can put your Christmas tree next to the underground containers. Place it next to the metal plate, so the container can still be emptied. The municipality will pick it up. &nbsp;</li>
<li>Den Bosch&nbsp; In Den Bosch, you can dispose of your Christmas tree between January 6 and January 10, 2025. Christmas trees can be placed next to the underground container. Put it outside before 7:00. Check the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.afvalstoffendienst.nl/Bewoners/search?search-list=kerstbomen#:~:text=Inzameling%20kerstbomen%202025%20%2D%20in%20week,bij%20elkaar%20en%20duidelijk%20zichtbaar.">calendar</a> to see on which day they will come by. </li>
<li>Den Haag Put your Christmas tree on the curb during one of the collection days in January, 2025. The municipality will come by once a week. Check the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.denhaag.nl/nl/afval/huisvuilkalender/">digital waste calendar</a> when they visit your street. Place it outside before 7:45. You can also bring your tree to one of the disposal stations at Plutostraat or De Werf. In some city parts of Den Haag, they have a collection campaign, especially for children: ‘Verloot je boompje’. Children get a ticket and stickers, with which they can win prizes. Check where you can drop off your Christmas tree for this campaign <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/viewer?mid=16Fz68Ul5_0UyQu7zZ5kU8PyhW8hbMhID&amp;ll=52.07081514816177%2C4.290527730859379&amp;z=13">here</a>. </li>
<li>Diemen In Diemen, you can drop off your Christmas tree at the recycle square or one of the other collection points. The recycle square is open between January 2 and January 10, 2025. Find when and where you can say goodbye to your tree <a href="https://www.diemen.nl/Onderwerpen/Nieuwspagina_s/NIEUWS/Nieuwsberichten_per_maand/December_2024/Kerstbomen_en_vuurwerkinzamelactie" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Dordrecht Dordrecht facilitates many places where you can drop off your Christmas tree. You can do this on January 2 between 11:00 and 16:00 and on January 8 between 11:00 and 16:00. Find all collection points in Dordrecht <a href="https://www.hvcgroep.nl/vuurwerk-en-kerstbomen-inleveren-dordrecht#:~:text=Wil%20je%20jouw%20kerstboom%20na,09.00%20tot%2018.15%20uur%20geopend.">here</a>. Would you like to turn in your Christmas tree after Wednesday, January 8? Then you can bring your tree to the Dordrecht waste disposal station at Baanhoekweg 8-12. The waste disposal station is open Monday through Saturday from 09:00 to 18:15. </li>
<li>Eindhoven Cure will pick up Christmas trees on January 11, 2025, between 10:00 and 16:00. There are several collection points in every neighborhood. Find an overview of every collection point <a href="https://www.cure-afvalbeheer.nl/media/d2zc2mgb/locatie-kerstbomen-inzameling-2024.pdf">here</a>. </li>
<li>Groningen In Groningen, they will pick up Christmas trees which are placed next to the underground containers. Don’t place it on the metal plate, but next to it. Check the <a href="https://prod.midgron.hosted-temp.com/afvalwijzer-en-app-afval-midden-groningen">digital waste calendar</a> for the exact collection dates. </li>
<li>Haarlem The municipality of Haarlem organizes a Christmas tree collection campaign. You can bring your Christmas tree to the collection point on January 8 and January 15, 2025, between 13:30 and 17:00. Check&nbsp;<a href="https://haarlem.nl/oude-kerstboom-inleveren">this website</a> to see the exact dates, times, and collection points where you can say goodbye to your tree. Children until 15 years old get €0,50 for each tree and a ticket. With this ticket, they get a shot at one of the gift cards. </li>
<li>Helmond The municipality of Helmond comes to fetch your Christmas tree between January 6 and January 10. You can place it on the curb in front of your home. Check the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.deafvalapp.nl/">digital waste calendar</a> to see when they exactly come by. </li>
<li>Maarssen From January 6 through January 17, 2025, the municipality will collect your Christmas tree on collection days. On these days, the municipality will collect Christmas trees separately from other trash. Place your Christmas tree outside before 8:00 on the collection day. This can be done at the normal drop-off location for your garbage. Check the <a href="https://www.mijnafvalwijzer.nl/">digital waste calendar</a> to see when they come by your home.&nbsp;On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, there will be special drop-off points at 25 locations in the municipality where children up to the age of 16 can turn in their old Christmas trees. For each tree handed in, they will receive a compensation of €1. </li>
<li>Maastricht In January, you can put your Christmas tree outside at the curb of the street, together with your organic waste. They collect it on the <a href="https://www.besteuitafval.nl/milieu-app">regular collection days</a>. You can also bring your Christmas tree to one of the tree <a href="https://www.besteuitafval.nl/milieu-app">waste disposal stations</a> in Maastricht. </li>
<li>Nieuwegein Cleaning company Midden Nederland (RMN) will start collecting Christmas trees after January 6. Check the <a href="https://21burgerportaal.mendixcloud.com/p/rmn/landing/">digital waste calendar</a> to see when RMN will visit your street. Put your Christmas tree at least 5 meters from the underground container, before 7:30 in the morning. You can also take your Christmas tree to the waste disposal station yourself. </li>
<li>Nijmegen In Nijmegen, the company Dar picks up old Christmas trees. Put it next to the underground container. Check the <a href="https://afvalkalender.dar.nl/afvalstroom?2&amp;Kerstbomen">digital waste calendar</a> to see when they will pick them up. You can also bring your Christmas tree for free to the waste disposal station. </li>
<li>Rijswijk You can put your Christmas tree next to the underground container until January, 8. Don’t put it on the metal plate, otherwise, they can’t empty the container. The municipality’s cleaning service collects these Christmas trees from Monday to Friday.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Rotterdam Get rid of your Christmas tree from December 28 and December 30, 2025, and on 2, 3, 4, 8, and 11 January, 2025. You can take it to one of the <a href="https://www.rotterdam.nl/kerstbomen">collection points</a> in the city. For every Christmas tree, you’ll get €0,50. You can also take it to one of the sports and playground places that have signed up. Here, you can donate the €0,50 you receive to the place you bring it to. You can also put your Christmas tree next to an underground container nearby, between December 27 and January 31. Put it at least one meter next to the underground container. </li>
<li>Sittard RWM will pick up old Christmas trees in Sittard in January. You can check the&nbsp;<a href="https://rwm.nl/wanneer">digital waste calendar</a> to see when they will pass by your home. You can put your Christmas tree on the curb in front of your home. </li>
<li>Tilburg You can place your Christmas tree at the curb of your street from January 7 to January 13. Put it out before 8:00 in the morning. The municipality’s cleaning company will come by and collect it. You can also bring your waste disposal station yourself for free. </li>
<li>Utrecht The municipality of Utrecht picks up the trees at Christmas tree collection points several times a week. You do not have to put the tree down before a certain time. You will recognize the points by prominent banners that say 'Kerstboom inzamelpunt'. Check the <a href="https://www.mijnafvalwijzer.nl">digital waste calendar</a> to see where the Christmas tree collection point is in your area. From January 6 through January 17, 2025, the municipality also collects your Christmas tree on collection days. Place your Christmas tree outside before 8:00 on the collection day. This can be done at the normal drop-off location for your garbage. Check the <a href="https://www.mijnafvalwijzer.nl/">digital waste calendar</a> to see when they come by your home.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Zeist Cleaning company Midden Nederland (RMN) will start collecting Christmas trees after January 6, 2025. Check the <a href="https://21burgerportaal.mendixcloud.com/p/rmn/landing/">digital waste calendar</a> to see when RMN will visit your street. Put your Christmas tree at least 5 meters from the underground container, before 7:30 in the morning. You can also take your Christmas tree to the waste disposal station yourself. </li>
<li>Zoetermeer Christmas trees are collected in Zoetermeer on January, 11. Bring it to one of the collection points and you'll have a chance on prizes. Find all collection points <a href="https://www.zoetermeer.nl/lever-uw-kerstboom-in-en-win" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>
Is your city missing from this overview? Your municipality’s website might have more information about the collection of used Christmas trees.&nbsp;

How to recycle your Christmas tree in the Netherlands

Don't toss your Christmas tree out and leave it somewhere on the streets. Check how you should recycle your Christmas tree in your city here.&nbsp;

<h2>As King’s Day approaches, the excitement in the Netherlands is growing. Let’s introduce you to five must-do traditional Dutch games to play on April 26.</h2>
King’s Day is marked by eating tompouces, visiting bustling flea markets, and enjoying big festivals. A highlight of many street parties and flea markets is the opportunity to engage in traditional Dutch games. Gather your loved ones, dress up in orange, and get ready to immerse yourself in the festive spirit of King’s Day. Fun guaranteed!
<ul>
<li> Sjoelen Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned local, you’re sure to come across the game ‘sjoelen’. Sjoelen is a traditional Dutch tabletop game where players try to slide wooden pucks down a smooth wooden board and into numbered compartments. It requires skill, precision, and a bit of strategy to rack up the highest score. <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/RVD-sjoelen-koningsdag-emmen-2024.jpeg" alt="" width="1000" height="666"> Princess Amalia took a shot at sjoelen during the royal family's visit to Emmen in 2024. © RVD </li>
<li>Spijkerpoepen Spijkerpoepen continues to bring joy and laughter to people of all ages. Translated, it means ‘nail pooping’. And that’s exactly what this game is. Players tie a string around their waist with a nail dangling at the end. The goal? To maneuver the nail and drop it into a bottle without using your hands. It's trickier than it sounds! </li>
<li>Stoelendans Always a big success: stoelendans – also translated as musical chairs. Put the chairs in a circle and make sure there is one less chair than there are persons participating. Dance and walk around the chairs until the music suddenly stops. Get on a chair as quickly as possible. Anyone without a chair is out of the game. The last person left standing is the winner. </li>
<li>Blik gooien Aka the old-fashioned version of the popular Swedish game Kubb. Stack some cans on each other and let all players spin around a few times. Count down and see who can knock over the most cans. </li>
<li>Koekhappen This game has been cherished for generations. It’s a hilarious game in which you need to try to eat a gingerbread from a wire – blindfolded and without using your hands! Cut some slices of gingerbread or use 'oranjekoek' and thread them on a wire. Blindfold the players, let them put their hands behind their backs, and bite! The first one to eat the gingerbread from the wire wins. 
<div><img class="img-fluid" src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-kingsday-koekhappen.jpg" alt="" width="1000"></div>
Queen Máxima and King Willem-Alexander know how to play the game 'koekhappen'. The goal is to eat the gingerbread or cookie from the wire. © RVD</li>
</ul>
 These are just a few examples of the many traditional Dutch games you can enjoy during King's Day. Whether you're hosting a neighborhood party or spending the day with family and friends, incorporating these games into your celebrations is sure to make the day even more memorable.

Playing traditional Dutch games during King’s Day

Playing traditional Dutch games is a highlight of many flea markets during King's Day. Let’s introduce you to five must-do games to play on King's Day.

<h2>One of the questions you might have before you start renting is whether you want it to be furnished or unfurnished. Let’s dive into the different furnishing types − unfurnished, semi-furnished, furnished, and fully furnished − and their pros and cons, so you’ll find the perfect fit for your needs.</h2>
In the Netherlands, you can rent homes with different types of furnishings. Most common are unfurnished, semi-furnished, furnished, and fully furnished homes. All have pros and cons, depending on your personal preferences.
<h3>Unfurnished homes</h3>
When you rent an unfurnished residence, you need to start from scratch. You'll have to install your own flooring, or you can take it over from the previous residents. Lights, curtains, and furniture are not included, so you can truly bring your personality into your interior design.
Advantages of unfurnished homes&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Decorate and furnish the space according to your preferences and liking.</li>
<li>Rents are lower compared to furnished rentals. </li>
</ul>
Disadvantages of unfurnished homes
<ul>
<li>You need to invest in furniture and lay the floors yourself. However, sometimes, you can take over the flooring from the previous resident.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Moving furniture in and out can be a burden. </li>
</ul>
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/GLN-A-4.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667"> When you rent an unfurnished home, you need to lay your own flooring. The kitchen and bathroom are both installed.&nbsp;
<h3>Semi-furnished homes</h3>
In between unfurnished and (fully) furnished residences, you’ve got semi-furnished residences. This basically is comparable to an unfurnished residence, but usually includes flooring, lights, and curtains. Like unfurnished residences, you need to bring your own furniture.
Advantages of semi-furnished homes&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Like unfurnished residences, you’re free to decorate your home the way you like it.</li>
<li>Appliances in the kitchen and bathroom are usually included. </li>
</ul>
Disadvantages of semi-furnished homes
<ul>
<li>You need to invest in furniture.</li>
<li>Flooring, lights, and curtains may be subject to wear and tear and require regular upkeep.</li>
<li>Semi-furnished residences may come with higher rent compared to unfurnished residences, due to the inclusion of some furnishing and appliances. </li>
</ul>
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/semi-furnished-hrk.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667"> Semi-furnished rentals include a kitchen with appliances and flooring. Usually, curtains and lights are included.&nbsp;
<h3>Furnished homes&nbsp;</h3>
Furnished homes save you time and effort, especially when you transition quickly or without your own furniture. Furnished homes include flooring, curtains, and lights, but also essential furniture. Think of a bed, a table, chairs, and a closet. You can settle in with a minimal setup!&nbsp;
Advantages of furnished homes
<ul>
<li>No worries about moving big furniture. Everything is already set up in the residence.&nbsp;</li>
<li>By providing only the basics, furnished rentals often come at a lower price point than fully furnished options.</li>
<li>Furnished rentals suit various renters, from students and young professionals to families looking for a temporary home, offering just enough to start building a cozy environment.</li>
<li>In case you have your own taste in kitchen utensils, you save a lot of unnecessary utensils in your drawers and cupboards.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>
Disadvantages of furnished homes
<ul>
<li>Unlike fully furnished homes, furnished rentals don’t include everyday necessities like tableware, cooking utensils, or linens. However, often this can be easily addressed with add-on packages.</li>
<li>Ordering and managing additional items such as linens and kitchenware requires extra planning, such as placing orders on time before your move-in date. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Fully furnished homes&nbsp;</h3>
Let’s face it, fully furnished rentals are convenient for those who want to move quickly and easily. All essentials are included. Besides the basics (such as a bed, table, chairs, closet, and lighting), you’ll be provided with glasses, plates, cutlery, pots and pans, and cleaning equipment. Basically, your home contains everything you may need during your stay. You might want to decorate and personalize it, though.
Advantages of fully furnished homes
<ul>
<li>Move in with your personal belongings and start living right away, saving you the hassle of buying or moving big and expensive furniture.</li>
<li>All essentials are available from the moment you walk in. There’s no need to worry about missing something the day you moved. That’s a relaxing start to your rental adventure.</li>
<li>Fully furnished residences are great if you’re not sure how long you want to stay somewhere. Why buy expensive furniture if you’re moving after a year?</li>
<li>Is something worn or broken? Big chance that it will be replaced, sometimes even for free. </li>
</ul>
Disadvantages of fully furnished homes
<ul>
<li>It’s more difficult to customize the space to your liking. Replacing furniture? You need to put it back once you move. Extra work!</li>
<li>As a fully furnished home includes everything you need, the rent will be higher compared to unfurnished and semi-furnished residences. Consider your budget if the extra costs are worth it for you.</li>
<li>As a tenant, you’re responsible for the upkeep of the provided furnishings, which can add to your costs. </li>
</ul>
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/fully-furnished-hmf.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667"> Fully furnished homes include all the furniture you need to start. Think of the couch, table, chairs, television, and bed. Note: the decoration in the picture above is not included!

Differences in type of furnishing

Let’s dive into the different furnishing types and their pros and cons, so you'll find the perfect fit for your needs.&nbsp;

<h2>Have you arrived in the Netherlands? Besides arranging a place to stay, there’s more to organize once you come here. To help you out, here’s a checklist with everything you need to do after arriving in the Netherlands.</h2>
Before you relocate to the Netherlands, you must <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/arrange-before-moving">check some things beforehand</a>. This includes finding a place to live, organizing your documents, and starting your integration. After that, you've got quite a to-do list.&nbsp;During your move, you’ll come across several Dutch organizations and websites that can be helpful:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>DigiD <a href="https://www.digid.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DigiD</a> is the Dutch secure online communication system, like a digital passport. You use your DigiD to log in to websites that have anything to do with the government, your education, healthcare, or pension fund. Scroll below to discover how to apply for a DigiD.&nbsp;</li>
<li>MijnOverheid <a href="https://mijn.overheid.nl/about-mijnoverheid/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MijnOverheid</a> is your personal digital mailbox for mail from the government. You can use this website after creating a DigiD, as you need your account to log in to the website. At MijnOverheid, you can find all your personal information in one place. You have insight into your identity data, finances (income, benefits, contributions, and taxes), work (employment data and pension), health (donor registry), housing (energy label of your rental property and messages about developments in your neighborhood), data on vehicles in your possession, and data on your diplomas and study financing or debt.</li>
<li>Mijn Belastingdienst Belastingdienst is the Dutch tax office that is responsible for the assessment and collection of taxes. You can arrange tax matters online via <a href="https://mijn.belastingdienst.nl/GTService/#/inloggen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mijn Belastingsdienst</a>. You need a DigiD to log in.</li>
<li>Mijn toeslagen <a href="https://gtmt.toeslagen.nl/tmx-aik-web/#/inloggen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mijn toeslagen</a> is your personal webpage to arrange benefits from the government. You can apply for benefits for health care allowance, childcare allowance, and housing allowance. You need a DigiD to log in.</li>
<li>Immigration &amp; Naturalisation Service (IND) The Immigration &amp; Naturalisation Service (IND) takes care of all applications from those who want to live in the Netherlands or want to become Dutch citizens. If you want to apply for a residence permit, you need to use the <a href="https://ind.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website of IND</a>. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Register with the municipality</h3>
A smart move to start with when relocating to the Netherlands is to find a place to stay. Once you've found a place, check if you need to register with the municipality where you’ll be living.
<ul>
<li>Are you going to live in the Netherlands for longer than 4 months? You need to register with the municipality.</li>
<li>Are you going to live in the Netherlands for less than 4 months? You don’t need to register with the municipality. However, if you need a citizen service number (BSN) to communicate with the government, it’s possible to register at a municipality with a counter for non-residents (a so-called <a href="https://www.netherlandsworldwide.nl/non-residents-records-database/contacting-rni-desk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RNI municipality</a>). Which municipality you register at is up to you.</li>
<li>If you haven’t found somewhere to live, you can ask the municipality to register at a temporary correspondence address. </li>
</ul>
You need to register within 5 days after arriving in the Netherlands. In the Netherlands, registration with the municipality is free of charge. Contact the municipality where you're going to live. In most cases, you'll need an appointment to register, and you'll need to go in person. You need to bring the following documents to be able to register:
<ul>
<li>A valid proof of identity (passport or ID card).</li>
<li>Your rental contract of your new home address or a consent form signed by the main tenant.</li>
<li>Proof of de-registration if you’re moving from another part of the Koninkrijk der Nederlanden (Aruba, Curacao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Saba, or Sint Eustatius).</li>
<li>Birth certificate and any other certificates you may have, such as a marriage certificate, divorce certificate, and adoption certificate.</li>
<li>Are you a student? Bring proof that you’re a student at a Dutch school or university, like proof of registration. </li>
</ul>
If your partner and/or children also come to the Netherlands, they must register in person at the municipality too. Bring a valid proof of identity (passport or ID card) and the child's original birth certificate or acknowledgment certificate to register any child under 16 years old. After registering, you'll receive a citizen service number (BSN) from the municipality. You need this number to create a DigiD account, which you need to communicate with the government, apply for benefits, open a Dutch bank account, and more. Good to know: your (personal) data is automatically stored in the Personal Records Database (BRP) when you register with a municipality. If you move within the Netherlands, your data in the BRP moves with you to the next municipality you’re moving to.
<h3>Apply for a DigiD</h3>
After registering at the municipality, it’s time to create a <a href="https://www.digid.nl/en/apply-and-activate/apply-digid/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DigiD account</a>. You need a DigiD account to digitally identify yourself when making arrangements, such as with the government, educational institutes, healthcare, or pension fund(s). To apply for a DigiD, you need:
<ul>
<li>Your citizen service number (BSN), which you received from your municipality after registering there.</li>
<li>Your (new) address at which you’re registered with your municipality.</li>
<li>A (mobile) phone to securely log in.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>
After your application, you’ll receive a letter in your mailbox with an activation code to activate your DigiD account. DigiD sends this letter to the address registered by your municipality.
<h3>Check if you can apply for a housing allowance</h3>
After you find a home in the Netherlands, be sure to check if you’re entitled to receive a housing allowance (huurtoeslag). If you’re entitled depends on your situation. If you have a relatively low income, most rents are too high in relation to what you earn. On request, the Tax Administration (Belastingdienst) can provide you with a benefit, making your rent more affordable. This applies to both Dutch and international residents, including expatriate workers and students. If anything changes in your situation, it’s important to notify the Tax Administration (Belastingdienst) via <a href="https://gtmt.toeslagen.nl/tmx-aik-web/#/inloggen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mijn toeslagen</a> about these changes. You can check if you’re entitled and apply for a housing allowance via <a href="https://gtmt.toeslagen.nl/tmx-aik-web/#/inloggen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mijn toeslagen</a>. This website is only available in Dutch. Alternatively, you can also make an appointment at a tax office by calling a <a href="https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontenten/standaard_functies/individuals/contact/calling/calling_a_tax_information_line">Tax Information Line</a>. You need a citizen service number to apply for a benefit, which you received from your municipality after registering there. To log in at Mijn toeslagen, you need to use your DigiD account.

<h3>Open a Dutch bank account</h3>
In the Netherlands, most daily payments are made by cash, debit cards, or internet banking. By opening a bank account, you automatically get access to internet banking.&nbsp;Costs for a bank account depend on the bank and the type of account you prefer. In most cases, a Dutch bank account costs between €2 and €20 per month. Students can open a bank account for free (studentenrekening). Opening a Dutch bank account is not difficult. There are many options for banks in the Netherlands. Big banks with English information and communication are <a href="https://www.abnamro.nl/en/personal/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ABN Amro</a> or <a href="https://www.ing.nl/particulier/english" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ING</a>. <a href="https://www.rabobank.nl/particulieren" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rabobank</a>, <a href="https://www.snsbank.nl/particulier/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SNS Bank</a>, and <a href="https://www.asnbank.nl/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ASN Bank</a> are other popular options. You can apply for a Dutch bank account online or by visiting one of their offices. Most banks have an office or service point to visit in the bigger cities of the Netherlands.
<ul>
<li>If you want to open a Dutch bank account with a non-Dutch passport or ID, you need to prove that you live in the Netherlands. Do you want to open a Dutch bank account without having a citizen service number (BSN)? Open an account via <a href="https://www.abnamro.nl/en/personal/payments/open-an-account/your-own-account.html?utm_id=cp6625720899&amp;utm_campaign=iamexpat&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_source=direct-deal&amp;url_id=tid2879796338">ABN Amro</a>. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Arrange your Dutch healthcare insurance</h3>
Dutch healthcare is rated among the best in Europe. It’s managed by the Dutch government and therefore accessible to everyone. The system is based on social solidarity; everyone contributes to the overall cost of healthcare for everyone. The government decides what is covered in basic health insurance. All insurers offer the same basic health insurance package, but the monthly premium differs per health insurer. In 2024, the general deductible is €385. Besides paying a monthly premium, you pay the first €385 of healthcare costs yourself. When the costs are higher than that, your health insurer pays the remaining amount. There are two types of health insurance in the Netherlands:
<ul>
<li>Basic health insurance Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands is legally obliged to take out basic health insurance. Basic health insurance covers the costs of consulting a general practitioner, hospital treatment, and medication.</li>
<li>Additional insurance You may opt to take out additional insurance to cover costs not included in your basic health insurance, for example, costs for physiotherapy or (extra) dental care. It's not mandatory to take additional insurance.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>
Your insurance policy for basic health must be effective within four months after you arrive in the Netherlands. If you neglect to arrange your healthcare insurance, the <a href="https://www.hetcak.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Central Administration Office</a> (CAK) will register you with an insurer, and the costs will be withheld from your pay. If you need medical care, you need to pay the costs yourself. You can take out basic and additional health insurance from an insurance company. You're free to choose an insurance company yourself. You can compare different insurance companies on the <a href="https://www.independer.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website of Independer</a> (only in Dutch). Good to know: it’s not obligatory to take out both insurances at the same insurance company.
<h3>Check if you can apply for healthcare benefit</h3>
Secured your healthcare insurance? Be sure to check if you’re entitled to receive a healthcare benefit (zorgtoeslag). This financial benefit supports you in paying the monthly premium for basic healthcare insurance and the first €385 of healthcare costs (deductible). If you’re entitled depends on your personal situation. You can check if you’re entitled and apply for a healthcare benefit via <a href="https://gtmt.toeslagen.nl/tmx-aik-web/#/inloggen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mijn toeslagen</a>. This website is only available in Dutch. Alternatively, you can also make an appointment at a tax office by calling the <a href="https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontenten/standaard_functies/individuals/contact/calling/calling_a_tax_information_line">Tax Information Line</a>. You need a citizen service number to apply for a benefit, which you received after registering with the municipality. To log in to Mijn toeslagen, you need to use your DigiD. If anything changes in your situation, it’s important to notify the Tax Administration (Belastingdienst) via <a href="https://gtmt.toeslagen.nl/tmx-aik-web/#/inloggen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mijn toeslagen</a> about these changes.

Moving to the Netherlands: Checklist with everything to arrange after arriving

To help you out, we've got you a checklist with everything you need to do after arriving in the Netherlands.

<h2>A few insurances, such as basic health insurance, are mandatory in the Netherlands. Others are not mandatory, but advisable to take out. Here’s an overview of the different insurances in the Netherlands.</h2>
There are several types of insurance and many insurance companies. You might want to compare all insurers. You can do this on the website of <a href="https://www.independer.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Independer</a>.
<h3>Healthcare insurance (zorgverzekering): compulsory </h3>
Dutch healthcare is rated among the best in Europe. It’s managed by the Dutch government and therefore accessible to everyone. The system is based on social solidarity; everyone contributes to the overall cost of healthcare for everyone. The government decides what is covered in basic health insurance. All insurers offer the same basic health insurance package, but the monthly premium differs per health insurer. In 2024, the general deductible is € 385,-. Besides paying a monthly premium, you pay the first € 385,- of healthcare costs yourself.
<ul>
<li>Basic health insurance Everyone who lives or works in the Netherlands is legally obliged to take out basic health insurance. Basic health insurance covers the costs of consulting a general practitioner, hospital treatment, and medication.</li>
<li>Additional insurance You may opt to take out additional insurance to cover costs not included in your basic health insurance, such as physiotherapy or (extra) dental care. It's not mandatory to take additional insurance. </li>
</ul>
Your insurance policy for basic health must be effective within four months after you arrive in the Netherlands. If you neglect to arrange your healthcare insurance, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hetcak.nl/en/">Central Administration Office</a> (CAK) will register you with an insurer and the costs will be withheld from your salary. If you need medical care, you need to pay the costs yourself. You can take out basic and additional health insurance from any insurance company. You're free to choose an insurance company yourself. You can compare different insurance companies on the <a href="https://www.independer.nl/">website of Independer</a>&nbsp;(only in Dutch). Good to know: it’s not obligatory to take out both insurances at the same insurance company.
<h3>Household contents insurance (inboedelverzekering): not compulsory, but wise</h3>
Accidents can always happen. That's why it's wise to take out household contents insurance. With contents insurance, you're insured against damage to the contents and personal belongings in your home. You insure large furniture, but also jewelry, for example.&nbsp;&nbsp; If you take out household contents insurance, you're covered against damage caused by fire, burglary and robbery, storm (from wind force 7), flood, and lightning strikes. In case of irreparable damage to your household contents, you will be compensated for the new value (which often is the purchase price). If the current value is less than 40% of the new value, you will usually be paid the current market value. If you go for all-risk coverage, the damage you caused yourself is also covered. For example, if you knock something over or break it. When taking out household contents insurance, you can include your family in the insurance. You can only co-insure a partner and/or children. Household members must take out their own household contents insurance. The cost of contents insurance depends on the size of your home, your family composition, and where you live. As with taking out health insurance, with household contents insurance you can choose to increase the deductible. This keeps your insurance premium lower. &nbsp;&nbsp;
<h3>Personal liability insurance (aansprakelijkheidsverzekering): not compulsory, but wise&nbsp;</h3>
This insurance covers the costs if you (or a member of your family) accidentally cause damage to a third party and are held responsible. Some damages are excluded from your insurance and will not be covered, for example in case of intentional damage or if you cause damage to your vehicle. Your liability insurance covers damage that you've caused with your vehicle (WA-verzekering voor motorvoertuig). See below for more about this insurance. When taking out personal liability insurance, you can choose who is covered. For example, you can also co-insure your partner (and children if you have them). Good to know: you are also insured if you cause damage while on vacation outside the Netherlands.
<h3>Term life insurance (overlijdensrisicoverzekering): not always compulsory</h3>
Term life insurance is a life insurance that pays a one-off amount if you or your partner dies. Although this insurance is not mandatory, a mortgage lender can oblige it if you want to take out a mortgage when buying a house. If you rent a home, it can be interesting to take out term life insurance as well. In the event of death, the rent must suddenly be paid by only one person. With term life insurance, you ensure that in such a situation money becomes available so that you can handle these costs more easily.&nbsp; When you take out term life insurance, you choose the amount you want to be paid out if you should die. You pay premiums for this during the number of years you want to be insured. You can decide how long this term is. If you die during the term of the insurance, the amount you choose will be paid out to your partner (or children). It can be beneficial to compare premiums from different insurers. How high your premium will be depends on your age, income, and smoking habits. If you are not completely healthy, you have a (slightly) higher chance of dying than an average healthy person. In extreme cases, the insurer may even refuse you.
<h3>Legal expenses insurance (rechtsbijstandverzekering): not compulsory</h3>
As mentioned before, accidents can always happen. Imagine you get into an argument after a traffic accident for which you are held responsible, or you get into a conflict over benefits or with your employer over a dismissal, or if you are a witness in a court case. That's when legal expenses insurance can come in handy. Here you are assured of legal help when you need it. You can opt for basic coverage, or supplement it with multiple coverages. You never know!&nbsp;
<h3>Liability insurance for your vehicle(s) (WA-verzekering voor motorvoertuig): compulsory </h3>
If you have a car, it's mandatory to have car insurance in the Netherlands. Liability insurance for your vehicle(s) means that everyone who drives this vehicle is insured. Without liability insurance, you are not allowed on the road and can be fined. Do you drive and cause damage without liability insurance? Then the insurer will recover the damage of an involved person or object (think of a lamppost or guardrail of the municipality) from you. Good to know: Damage to your car is, in any case, not insured by third-party insurance.
<h3>Travel insurance (reisverzekering): not compulsory </h3>
Travel insurance is not compulsory. There are two types of travel insurance: short-term (kortlopend) and continuous (doorlopend) travel insurance. Short-term travel insurance is taken out for one vacation. The insurance stops automatically after that. Continuous travel insurance is for the entire year.&nbsp; Loss, theft, or damage to your luggage falls under the standard coverage of travel insurance. In addition, you can expand your travel insurance with different coverages. Depending on your vacation and what you have already covered with other insurances, you can expand your travel insurance with coverage for medical expenses, roadside assistance, and winter sports.
<h3>Cancellation insurance (annuleringsverzekering): not compulsory</h3>
Are you unable to go on vacation unexpectedly? For example, because you are sick, suddenly lose your job, or have to deal with a death in the family? Cancellation insurance reimburses the nonrefundable costs you already made. This insurance is not mandatory to take out, but it is wise. You can not take out cancellation insurance afterward, so it's wise to think about this before you go on holiday.&nbsp;
<h3>Funeral insurance (uitvaartverzekering): not compulsory</h3>
With funeral insurance, you insure (part of) the cost of your funeral. This means your relatives won't have to worry about high funeral costs. The monthly cost of funeral insurance increases when you take out funeral insurance later in life. In the Netherlands, funeral insurance is not compulsory.&nbsp;

Arranging your insurances in the Netherlands

Some insurances, like basic health insurance, are mandatory in the Netherlands. Others are not mandatory, but wise to take out. Here’s an overview of insurance in the Netherlands.

<h2>Learn Dutch, they said. It will be easy, they said… Don’t get me wrong – I’m a native Dutch speaker – but I know it takes a lot of effort and time to get comfortable with speaking Dutch. Here are some tips to get you started on your Dutch language journey!</h2>
You won’t necessarily need to be a fluent Dutch speaker to enjoy living in the Netherlands. However, it’s advisable. Learning Dutch will make it easier for you to read official documents and communication, plus it will change your living experience. It opens up the culture and it’s nice to be able to connect with people around you.
<ul>
<li>Let people know that you’re learning Dutch Many Dutch people are used to easily switch to English. It takes them little effort, as children are taught English from a young age and many words are similar due to some common root words. Many non-natives appreciate this, but it won't help you when you're learning Dutch. Make Dutch people aware that you’re learning the language. Although the conversation will run less smoothly, they will be willing to speak less quickly and with words that are easier to understand. </li>
<li>Start with the basics Don’t start with learning the grammar – it’s hard and complex. Hence why it’s obvious to start with the basics. Focus on essential sentences and vocabulary that will help you navigate daily life. Think of greetings, common expressions, and simple questions.&nbsp;&nbsp; </li>
<li>Listen, listen, listen Best practice is to surround yourself with Dutch as much as possible. Listen to Dutch radio stations, watch Dutch TV shows or movies with Dutch subtitles, and read Dutch children’s books. The more you hear and see the language in use, the more familiar it will become. Listen to the rhythm of the sentences, the order of the words, and the pronunciation of words with consonants like ch, sch, ng, and nk. By listening, you get used to the language without actively noticing. </li>
<li>Use learning apps Start learning Dutch by installing Duolingo or Babbel on your phone. These apps are perfect for fitting in a quick study session during your lunch break. You learn the basic words and how to pronounce them. Or listen to Dutch songs or podcasts, like the podcast ‘<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1oLBjGwX7TcLRuFI4Gyjbe" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Een Beetje Nederlands</a>’ and ‘<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2dKcJRyT4NNA0inTGHTLlo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dutch Today</a>’. </li>
<li>Practice your speech Speaking practice is crucial for learning a language. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – practice makes perfect! Try to use Dutch in your daily interactions, whether it’s ordering food at a restaurant, chatting with neighbors, or asking for directions. Find yourself a language partner at work who can provide you with valuable speaking practice. By learning it directly from native Dutch people, you will quickly understand Dutch customs, traditions, and social norms. The more you immerse yourself in the culture, the more natural it will become.</li>
</ul>

Start learning Dutch: 5 tips

It takes a lot of effort and time to get comfortable with speaking Dutch. Here are some tips to get you started on your Dutch language journey.

<h2>New to the Netherlands? Make sure you download these essential mobile apps to navigate life in the Netherlands like a pro. In this guide, we’ll unveil the must-have mobile apps that will enhance your Dutch experience and make daily life here easier.</h2>
<ul>
<li>9292, NS, and Google Maps Want to travel in the Netherlands by public transportation? A traveling mobile app is essential for when you need to get around. 9292 (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/9292-reisplanner-ov-e-ticket/id556557690">App Store</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nl.negentwee&amp;hl=nl">Google Play</a>) contains all the traveling information you need, from up-to-date schedules and delays to useful details about your journey. This app is very easy to use; you only need to type in your destination and current address and voila! 9292 will let you know what the quickest route is and which public transport you need to use. Although you can plan your entire trip in the 9292 app, you can also use the NS app (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/ns/id370362301">App Store</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nl.ns.android.activity&amp;hl=nl">Google Play</a>) for planning your train trips. It gives you notifications if any train has a delay or is canceled. You can buy an online ticket in the app and see if the train will be busy or not. Besides 9292 and NS, we recommend using Google Maps (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/google-maps/id585027354">App Store</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.maps&amp;hl=nl">Google Play</a>). Not only for directions but mainly for getting to know your neighborhood. Google Maps proactively displays the best-rated locations on the map, like restaurants and shops. Checking the reviews is an easy way to quickly check what people think about the place. Many people upload their pictures of a restaurant’s food and menu, which makes it reliable. If you have a specific request, for example, ‘Mexican restaurant in Amsterdam’, it gives you options nearby. </li>
<li>Google Lens&nbsp; Need to translate something on the spot? Google Lens (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google/id284815942">App Store</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.ar.lens&amp;hl=nl">Google Play</a>) is the app you need. It allows you to perform visual searches using your phone’s camera, providing information on objects, text, or barcodes. The real-time translation feature is particularly useful for non-Dutch speakers, enabling them to understand signs, menus, or documents easily. Google Lens also helps you explore local landmarks by providing information about buildings and points of interest, enriching your cultural and historical knowledge of the Netherlands. Additionally, it assists with shopping by finding similar products online, reading reviews, and comparing prices, helping you make informed decisions. </li>
<li>Tikkie Are you living in the Netherlands and want to split the bill like any other Dutch person? Then it’s time to get your money management in order. Tikkie (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/tikkie/id1112935685">App Store</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.abnamro.nl.tikkie&amp;hl=nl">Google Play</a>) is an app for anyone who frequently needs to request or send payments to friends and family. It simplifies the process of splitting bills, paying for group activities, or settling small debts. With just a few taps, users can create a payment request and send it via WhatsApp, SMS, or email. Given that Tikkie is an initiative by ABN AMRO, one of the leading banks in the Netherlands, it ensures secure and reliable transactions. The app is also free to download and use. </li>
<li>Buienradar and Buienalarm In case you haven’t experienced it already, the weather in the Netherlands is unpredictable, to say the least. For this reason, it's good to be up to date in case any storms or strong winds may happen in your area. Buienradar&nbsp;(<a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/buienradar-weer/id621542526">App Store</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.supportware.Buienradar&amp;hl=nl">Google Play</a>) is one of the most reliable weather sources that you can use in the Netherlands. And it gets even better. Not only can you use Buienradar for your weather updates, but you can also get information regarding air quality, humidity, pollen, and even mosquito activity. Buienalarm (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/buienalarm/id598509141">App Store</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.yoki.android.buienalarm&amp;hl=nl">Google Play</a>) is a handy app that can give you timely warnings of showers in your location. </li>
<li>Duolingo&nbsp; Duolingo (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/duolingo-language-lessons/id570060128">App Store</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.duolingo&amp;hl=nl">Google Play</a>) is a welcoming app for expats or non-native speakers looking to learn Dutch. It offers a fun and effective way to learn the language, which is crucial for better integration into Dutch society. Besides Dutch, Duolingo offers a wide range of other languages, making it useful for traveling or expanding your linguistic skills. The app's gamified learning experience, including levels, rewards, and streaks, keeps learners motivated. With the flexibility to learn at your own pace, Duolingo easily fits into any schedule, whether you have a few minutes or a longer period to dedicate each day. </li>
<li>DigiD DigiD (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/digid/id1208460960">App Store</a> or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nl.rijksoverheid.digid.pub&amp;hl=nl">Google Play</a>) is an essential app for accessing a wide range of Dutch government services online. Find out more about DigiD <a href="https://www.digid.nl/en/">here</a>. This app provides secure access to services such as tax returns, healthcare records, and more. Once set up, DigiD simplifies many administrative processes, allowing you to handle them from the comfort of your home without needing to visit physical offices. The app integrates with numerous government and municipal websites, making it a one-stop solution for identity verification and service access. By using DigiD for digital signatures, applications, and other official tasks, you save time and avoid the hassle of traditional paperwork.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Best mobile apps to use in the Netherlands

New to the Netherlands? Make sure you download these essential mobile apps to navigate life in the Netherlands like a pro.&nbsp;

<h2>This Summer, we welcomed 915 new students from 67 different nationalities. Starting your student life in the Netherlands is an exciting adventure. We'll help you with the basics. Let's explore how to find student accommodation, navigate Dutch social life, juggle your finances, and get around.</h2>
<h3>Finding student accommodation</h3>
Let's kick-start your student life by finding a place to stay − one of the most important things if you ask us. Finding student accommodation is not easy, especially in the bigger student cities, like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Groningen, Nijmegen, and Eindhoven. Be prepared to explore various options, including shared apartments and studios, and keep in mind that Dutch landlords typically require a deposit and proof of enrollment at a Dutch university.&nbsp; As a student, you can stay in different types of accommodation:
<ul>
<li>A room in a student house In the Netherlands, it's common to rent a room in a student house. Student houses have advantages like meeting fellow students and sharing the costs of living. However, you're responsible for the household, it's not always quiet, and you share the bathroom, toilet, and kitchen with your housemates. Something to consider! A common way to find a room is through Facebook pages and groups, via websites like <a href="https://kamernet.nl/">Kamernet</a>, or word-of-mouth from other students. However, be aware of scams! Watch out for paying large sums of money before you have seen the room and review the contract carefully before signing it. </li>
<li>Student studios If you decide to rent a student studio, you'll benefit from having privacy and independence. However, keep in mind that it tends to be more expensive. Some property managers − like <a href="https://holland2stay.com/residences">Holland2Stay</a> − offer housing options for students only. Surrounded by other students, it’s easy to connect with fellow students. Big advantage! <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/shared-living-benjamin.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667"> Most Holland2Stay student complexes feature a shared living room where you can study and meet other students, like here at Benjamin in Amersfoort. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Navigating Dutch social life&nbsp;</h3>
Nailed the introduction week in your city? Great! Hopefully, you learned a bit more about your study and started bonding with your fellow students. Maybe you already explored a bit of the city as well. Adapting to a new social environment can feel both exciting and a bit daunting, especially when you're far from home. Fortunately, Dutch culture is generally open, straightforward, and full of opportunities to connect with new people. One of the first things you’ll notice about Dutch social life is the famous word 'gezelligheid'. This word, which is hard to translate into English, encompasses a sense of coziness, togetherness, and fun. Whether it's a casual gathering with friends, a study group session, or even a night out, 'gezelligheid' is at the heart of how the Dutch socialize. It's about making the most of shared moments, no matter how big or small, and embracing a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Let's see how you can dive into the Dutch 'gezelligheid'. Join a student association Student associations are a big part of university culture here. Many Dutch universities have various student organizations ranging from academic groups to sports teams, cultural clubs, and social associations. These organizations not only offer great ways to meet people but also give you a taste of Dutch customs and traditions. Don’t hesitate to join one! The Dutch are very welcoming and they appreciate the initiative, so stepping forward and showing interest in meeting new people will go a long way. Look for a sport or hobby nearby&nbsp; One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Dutch social life is by joining a local sports club or picking up a hobby. It’s common for students to balance their academic life with an active lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in competitive sports or simply looking for a fun way to stay fit, there’s something for everyone. Most universities have sports associations with facilities that offer everything from football and tennis to swimming, rowing, and even less common activities like bouldering. Joining a university sports club is a good way to meet other students. Many of these clubs host social events, matches, and trips, making it easy to bond with teammates. If sports aren’t your thing, or if you’re looking for something more low-key, consider picking up a hobby that interests you. From photography classes and art workshops to language exchange groups, there are many ways to explore your interests while meeting like-minded people.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/bouldering-sport.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667"> Bouldering is a popular student sport. Did you know that you get a student discount at many facilities? Dutch nightlife&nbsp; When it comes to nightlife and social gatherings, Dutch students enjoy both laid-back get-togethers and lively parties. Bars and cafes are popular spots for informal meetups, often with a beer in hand. Just keep in mind that socializing in the Netherlands often revolves around scheduled plans. While spontaneous meetups do happen, it’s common to plan things in advance. Be prepared to whip out your agenda or phone calendar to lock down a time to hang out! Meet your neighbors If you’re living in student housing, like the ones managed by Holland2Stay, you’ll also find socializing in communal spaces to be a great way to connect with others. If your new neighbors don't organize it already, organize some events like game nights, movie screenings, and potluck dinners, where you can meet people from all over the world. Engaging in these activities is a fantastic way to make friends and ease the transition into a new country. Don’t underestimate the value of a simple chat in the kitchen or common room − it can lead to meaningful connections and long-lasting friendships. Start learning Dutch Finally, learning a bit of Dutch can go a long way in making connections. While most Dutch people speak English fluently, and you'll likely find no language barriers in university settings, making an effort to learn a few Dutch phrases will be appreciated. Even simple greetings like 'hoi' (hi) or 'tot ziens' (see you later) can make a positive impression and show that you're making an effort to adapt to the local culture. Read some tips about learning Dutch <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/start-learning-dutch">here</a>. 
<h3>Juggle your finances as a student</h3>
Find a side job We know − every student is struggling with their finances. Time to earn some money! Whatever you like to do is completely up to you. It's common sense that it's hard to combine a side job with your studies, so it's wise to search for a flexible job. Besides that, there are lots of fun ways to earn some money. Do you love going out? Maybe you can work some shifts in a bar. Do you love pets? Maybe you can walk dogs via <a href="https://www.petbnb.nl/en/">Petbnb</a>. Do you want to get fit? Maybe you can become a bicycle courier. It can also be valuable if you have a job that's close to your interests or study goals. Check for example if your study needs any student assistants. How to get that job you've got your eyes on? Just go in and ask, or send that email. Dutch people are direct, so there's nothing to be ashamed of. Good to know: In most student cities, it's not uncommon if you only speak English and not Dutch. Housing allowance (huurtoeslag) It’s important to check if you’re entitled to receive a housing allowance (huurtoeslag) from the Dutch government. We’ll share all the details and guide you through the application process in our <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/housing-allowance">blog about housing allowance in 2025</a>. Do you want to know more about housing allowance or do you need help during the application process? Visit the website of the <a href="https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontenten/belastingdienst/individuals/benefits/">Tax Service Office</a> or call the <a href="https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontenten/standaard_functies/individuals/contact/calling/calling_a_tax_information_line">Tax Information Line</a>.
Student finance (studiefinanciering) If you're registered as a student at an MBO, HBO, or university study, you can get money for your education: student finance. Whether you qualify for student finance depends on your age, course, and nationality or residency status. The amount you can receive depends, among other things, on your parents' income and whether you live at home or independently. You can apply for student finance via <a href="https://mijn.duo.nl/isam/sps/MijnDUO-2-DigiDCC/saml20/logininitial?NameIdFormat=Transient&amp;Target=https://mijn.duo.nl:443/particulier/portaal/dashboard&amp;&amp;ForceAuthn=true&amp;RequestBinding=HTTPPost&amp;AuthnContextClassRef=urn:oasis:names:tc:SAML:2.0:ac:classes:PasswordProtectedTransport&amp;AuthnContextComparison=minimum">Mijn DUO</a>.
<h3>Getting around in the Netherlands&nbsp;</h3>
One of the most important things to figure out is how to get around in your city. Lucky you, this country is known for its excellent public transportation. Thanks to its compact size, you can start exploring effortlessly. Our tip is to consult Google Maps for your go-to route, invaluable for finding the best walking, cycling, or public transport routes around the city.&nbsp; Cycling Cycling is practically synonymous with Dutch culture, and for students, it’s often the most practical way to get around. It's not only affordable − especially if you invest in a second-hand bike or use a service like Swapfiets, which offers student-friendly rental plans − but it’s also incredibly convenient. Dutch cities are designed with cyclists in mind, boasting dedicated bike lanes, bike racks, and even special traffic signals for bicycles, making it both safe and efficient. Cycling is also a great way to stay active and environmentally conscious, reducing your carbon footprint as you zip through the city. And with the Netherlands’ flat landscape, cycling longer distances is often easier than you’d expect. As a student, cycling gives you the flexibility to move around without being tied to public transport schedules. Just remember to invest in a good lock, as bike theft is a common issue in student cities.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/cycling-in-eindhoven.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667"> Want to read more about cycling in the Netherlands? Check our blogs about the <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/cycling-netherlands">do's and don'ts when cycling</a> and everything about the <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/dutch-cycling-rules.html">Dutch cycling rules</a>.
Public transportation&nbsp; When cycling isn't an option and you don't have a car, public transportation is your best friend. The Dutch public transport system is among the best in Europe, with trains, buses, trams, and metros connecting every corner of the country. 9292 is a handy online platform for all public and shared transport in the Netherlands with up-to-date travel information and e-tickets. You need to check yourself in before stepping onto a train, bus, tram, or metro. You can do this with an <a href="https://www.ov-chipkaart.nl/en/apply-for-personal-ov-chipcard">OV-chipkaart</a>, debit card, credit card, or with your mobile (called <a href="https://www.ovpay.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">OVpay</a>).&nbsp; Students get lucky, because they may use the student travel product (studentenreisproduct) to travel for free or with a discount on public transportation (train, bus, tram, and metro) at certain times. You can choose to travel for free during the week (Monday to Friday for free and a discount on the weekends) or during the weekend (Saturday and Sunday for free and a discount during the week). You need a <a href="https://www.ov-chipkaart.nl/en/apply-for-personal-ov-chipcard">personal OV-chipkaart</a> to use your student travel product. Read more about traveling with a student travel product <a href="https://www.studentenreisproduct.nl/#">on this website</a>.
<ul>
<li>Train&nbsp; If you need to travel between cities, the train is often the fastest and most comfortable choice. Many people use the train to go to school or work. For instance, traveling from Amsterdam to Utrecht takes less than 30 minutes by train. <a href="https://www.ns.nl/en">NS</a> (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) is the biggest railroad company in the Netherlands. Plan your train journey online at <a href="https://www.ns.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ns.nl</a> or find your departure information on one of the signs at any train station. </li>
<li>Bus&nbsp; When there is no train service available, there likely will be a bus operating. There are different bus providers in every region. Services run frequently, especially during peak hours, when students are commuting. Even in smaller towns or less densely populated regions, buses are a dependable means of travel, with timetables that sync with train schedules, allowing smooth transitions between different modes of transport. </li>
<li>Tram and metro&nbsp; Not all Dutch cities have a tram and metro network. You can travel by tram and metro in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague. These services provide an efficient way to move around key neighborhoods and university districts. </li>
<li>E-scooters and e-bikes&nbsp; E-scooters and e-bikes have become increasingly popular among students, offering a fast and eco-friendly way to get around. They’re particularly useful for longer commutes within the city, where walking or public transport might take too long. Companies like <a href="https://felyx.com/products/our-locations/">Felyx</a> and <a href="https://nl.go-sharing.com/en/locations/">Go Sharing</a> allow you to rent electric scooters by the minute. Like cycling, these electric options help reduce your carbon footprint while providing speed and convenience, especially during rush hour.</li>
</ul>

Student guide: Get your Dutch student life sorted & started

Starting your student life in the Netherlands is an exciting adventure. We cover everything you need to know to start your student life!

<h2>Discover shared living at its best with the launch of our <a href="https://holland2stay.com/building/ceylonpoort">FRIENDS shared living apartments</a> in Haarlem, coming your way this September. In this blog, explore what shared living is, why it’s gaining popularity, and the many advantages of this way of living.</h2>
<h3>What is shared living?&nbsp;</h3>
Shared living, also known by many as co-living, is an increasingly popular housing model where two (or more) individuals share a living room, kitchen – and often the bathroom too – while having their own private bedroom. This way, it's suitable to live together with someone other than a partner. Think of living with a friend, sibling, cousin, or colleague. Great if you're looking for both companionship and personal space while balancing social interaction and privacy. At Holland2Stay, we tuned this shared living concept into FRIENDS apartments at <a href="https://holland2stay.com/building/ceylonpoort">Ceylonpoort</a> in Haarlem. As the name suggests, you can live here together with a friend. However, it's also allowed to team up with your brother, sister, cousin, or colleague. Ceylonpoort houses 20 of these FRIENDS apartments. The apartments feature a living room, kitchen, and balcony to be shared, and two private bedrooms – both with ensuite bathrooms.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/Ceylonpoort_-_Modelwoning_gemeubileerd_27.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667"> Model apartment at Ceylonpoort in Haarlem.&nbsp;
<h3>Shared living is trending</h3>
In today's housing market, shared living is gaining in popularity. One of the main reasons is the rising cost of housing, especially in big cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. Shared living provides an affordable alternative, allowing you to split rent and utilities while still enjoying a comfortable space.&nbsp; Additionally, the shift towards more flexible, community-oriented lifestyles has made shared living attractive, especially to young professionals, students, and expats. People are more and more looking for housing options that offer both a sense of community and personal privacy. Shared living is the perfect balance between these two.&nbsp; In addition to sharing a home, sharing other spaces in the building with your fellow residents has been an ongoing trend for years too. Shared spaces make it a lot easier to meet others. Meeting points, roof terraces, and in-house gyms are ideal places to connect with neighbors or build a circle of acquaintances in a new city. As an example, Ceylonpoort features a shared in-house gym and shared laundry facility.
<h3>Why shared living works so well</h3>
Everyone knows that living together with someone is practical, more affordable, and (mostly) a socially rewarding experience. Let's break down some of the advantages of shared living.
<ul>
<li>Cost-saving Shared living allows tenants to split the cost of rent and utilities, making it an affordable housing option. In cities where housing costs are rising, such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Utrecht, this makes a significant difference. You get more space for less money by sharing common areas like kitchens and living rooms while enjoying your own private sanctuary when you need it. </li>
<li>Living better, together One of the major benefits of shared living is the sense of community it fosters. Living with someone else creates a support system at home. Whether you’re new to the city or simply enjoy the company, living together can make your day-to-day life more enjoyable. Besides that, being surrounded by other shared living apartments encourages social interactions.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Choose who you want to live with There are many different types of people with whom you can live. This freedom allows you to pick someone you already have a connection with, making the living experience smoother and more enjoyable. If your co-tenant leaves, you're free to choose a new person. However, keep in mind that the rent will still be due, which may be a challenge. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Interested in shared living?</h3>
Renting a place together with a friend, colleague, or family member may be an interesting possibility for you.&nbsp;If shared living sounds like the perfect lifestyle for you, don’t hesitate to explore our options at Holland2Stay. Our new two-bedroom apartments at Ceylonpoort are <a href="https://holland2stay.com/residences?page=1&amp;building_name%5Bfilter%5D=Ceylonpoort%2C6247&amp;tenant_profile_restrictions%5Bfilter%5D=Shared-living%2C6130&amp;available_to_book%5Bfilter%5D=Available+to+book%2C179">available for rent</a> from this September. You can discover the floorplans on our website.

Shared living: A smart way to rent together

Explore what shared living is, why it’s gaining popularity, and the many advantages of this way of living.

<h2>There's one challenge every newcomer faces in the Netherlands: the bone-chilling, wind-slapping, and rain-drenched Dutch autumn and winter. Let's get you prepped to battle the cold, dark months ahead.</h2>
<h3>Layer up</h3>
Dutch winters are chaotic. One minute it’s chilly, the next it’s pouring, and then suddenly the sun makes a guest appearance. Prepare yourself by layering up. Wear a thick sweater, grab some thick socks, and cozy up with a blanket. Are you braving the cold weather outside? Invest in a solid rain jacket, pants, boots, and maybe even a waterproof backpack − your laptop will thank you.
<h3>Stay social</h3>
When it's grey and miserable outside, it's tempting to stay inside. Winter blues are real and can affect your well-being. Everyone needs social connections to keep thriving! Some tips to help you stay social through the colder months:
<ul>
<li>Take care of yourself first&nbsp; Eat nutritious meals, move your body, and make sure you get those full nights of sleep. Your body needs it more in these colder months. If you take care of yourself, it will not only boost your mood but also give you enough energy to enjoy the winter months.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Join a club or group Find a club that interests you, like a book club or gaming group. Shared hobbies are a great way to meet like-minded people! Ask around in your friend group or search online for interesting groups nearby.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Make use of shared spaces in your building&nbsp; Living in a building with a meeting point, a gym, or even a laundry room? Those spots are low-key perfect for casual chats.&nbsp;Or just knock on someone's door to exchange a holiday treat or simply introduce yourself. You might discover a new friend just a few steps away. Need more tips on how to connect with your neighbors? Check <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/neighbors">this blog post</a>. </li>
<li>Host a cozy get-together&nbsp; Gear up, stock your fridge with your favorite comfort food, and let winter do its thing. Invite friends or neighbors over for a simple gathering. Organize a board game night or movie night. It's easy to organize, and it feels just as rewarding as a night out. </li>
<li>Volunteer Have you ever considered volunteering? It not only helps your community but also provides a fulfilling social outlet. It boosts your sense of purpose! Do you have no clue where to look for a place to volunteer? On the website of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nlvoorelkaar.nl/en/hulpvragen/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NLvoorelkaar</a>, you can browse through an extensive offer throughout the Netherlands. </li>
<li>Get outside with a companion&nbsp; Not in the mood for human interaction? Head outside for a walk and consider bringing a furry friend along. Websites like <a href="https://hondjeuitlaten.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hondjeuitlaten.nl</a> can connect you with dog owners who need someone to take their pup for a stroll. It's a win-win-win: you get fresh air, companionship without committing to a long social interaction, and you do volunteer work. You can create an account for free, and it's non-committal. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Visit Dutch winter events&nbsp;</h3>
Want to level up your winter experience? Lean in. The Netherlands is packed with magical seasonal events that make the dark months way more fun.&nbsp;Some of the highlights in the Netherlands:
<ul>
<li>Winter Efteling in Kaatsheuvel One of the most magical places in the Netherlands is, without a doubt, the <a href="https://www.efteling.com/en/park/events/winter-efteling" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Winter Efteling</a> in Kaatsheuvel. Known for its fairytale forest and theme attractions, it's one of the most popular theme parks in the Netherlands. Decorated with twinkling lights, snow-covered trees − even if it hasn't snowed yet − and bonfires, it transforms into a winter wonderland. There's extra entertainment, an ice rink, and lots of winter treats. In 2025, it's Winter Efteling from November 10, 2025, until February 1, 2026. <img style="width: 100%; height: auto;" src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-winter-efteling.jpg" alt="Winter Efteling"></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Magisch Maastricht Every winter, the charming city of Maastricht lights up with holiday cheer during <a href="https://www.bezoekmaastricht.nl/magisch-maastricht" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Magisch Maastricht</a>. From November 28 until December 29, 2025, the historic city center is filled with festive markets, sparkling lights, and a giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city. Stroll through Vrijthof square, where there are wooden stalls selling seasonal treats and handcrafted goods, or go ice skating. </li>
<li>Dickens Festival Step back into Dutch history at the <a href="https://dickensfestijn.nl/english/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dickens Festival</a> in Deventer on December 13 and 14. For this weekend, the streets come alive with characters straight out of a Charles Dickens novel. Meet chimney sweeps, orphans, Victorian ladies, and Christmas Carol singers. You can visit the city for free, but keep in mind that it can be busy.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Amsterdam Light Festival The <a href="https://amsterdamlightfestival.com/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amsterdam Light Festival</a> brings the city's canals to life with stunning light installations by artists from November 27, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Each year features a unique theme. This year, the theme is Legacy. The best way to experience the festival is by boat, but the walking routes allow you to admire the artwork from a different perspective. It's a highlight for locals and tourists!</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Go ice skating Ice skating is deeply integrated into Dutch culture. There are plenty of opportunities to lace up your skates. Iconic locations are the ice rink at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ijsbaanmuseumplein.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Amsterdam's Museumplein</a> or <a href="https://www.schaatsbaanrotterdam.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Schaatsbaan Rotterdam</a>. However, when temperatures dip low enough, you must take the opportunity to skate on frozen canals and lakes. Don't worry about missing out, it will be on the news when it's possible to ice skate on natural ice. <img style="width: 100%; height: auto;" src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-amsterdam-ice-rink.jpg" alt="Ice rink at Museumplein"> The ice rink at Museumplein in Amsterdam is open from November 8, 2025, until January 30, 2026. </li>
</ul>
<h3>Embrace Dutch winter comfort food&nbsp;</h3>
Keep your spirits warm during the cold weather with typical Dutch comfort food. Some Dutch comfort foods are part of Dutch culture, and winter is not complete without any of these:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Erwtensoep (split pea soup) A steaming bowl of soup is always a treat in winter. Erwtensoep (split pea soup) is made of split peas, pork, and smoked sausage (rookworst), accompanied by chunks of carrots, celery, and leeks. The consistency is so thick that the spoon should be able to stand upright in it. Served with a slice of rye bread and bacon, this dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up after a frosty day!&nbsp; </li>
<li>Stamppot Stamppot is mashed potatoes mixed with one or more vegetables, such as kale (boerenkool), sauerkraut (zuurkool), or carrots and onions (hutspot). Traditionally, stamppot is served as dinner and includes a juicy sausage and a generous drizzle of gravy.&nbsp; </li>
<li>Oliebollen As New Year's Eve approaches, the Dutch indulge in oliebollen. Oliebollen are deep-fried dough balls that are often filled with raisins and dusted with powdered sugar. They're typically sold at food stands throughout December, filling the air with their typical sweet smell. They should be crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. </li>
<li>Kaasfondue (cheese fondue)&nbsp; Although fondue might be more commonly associated with Switzerland, cheese fondue has found a special place in Dutch winter cuisine − maybe because of the cheese part. Using a blend of cheeses like Gruyère, Emmentaler, and Goudse, this dish turns simple bread and vegetables into a warming feast. You can make it as crazy as you'd like. Perfect for sharing! <img style="width: 100%; height: auto;" src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-cheese-fondue.jpg" alt="Cheese fondue"></li>
</ul>

Surviving colder days in the Netherlands

There's a challenge you can't avoid when living in the Netherlands: the bone-chilling, wind-slapping, and rain-drenched Dutch autumn and winter. Fear not! Let's get you ready to battle the colder, darker days.

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Forget pizza, paella, or gyros: it's all about stamppot and stroopwafels! In this blog, you'll discover everything there is to know about Dutch cuisine. Which dishes do the Dutch truly love, and which snacks are a must-try? I can't promise you won't be hungry after reading this blog!</h2>
<h3>Stamppot</h3>
We have to start with one of the most traditional dishes of the Netherlands: stamppot. This dish is made in many variations throughout the Netherlands. The base of the dish is mashed potatoes, which can be combined with different vegetables such as kale (boerenkool stamppot), sauerkraut (zuurkool stamppot), or with carrots and onions (hutspot). This dish is usually served with smoked sausage and gravy. Stamppot is perfect for cold winter days.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/Dutch-Food-Stamppot.jpg" alt="Picture: stamppot" width="830" height="553">
<h3>Bitterballen</h3>
Bitterballen are a favorite Dutch bar snack, perfect to enjoy with a drink. These snacks are filled with a creamy beef ragout and deep-fried into crispy balls. They’re usually served with mustard for dipping. You always order bitterballen in a portion or on a ‘borrelplank’ (a platter) with various snacks. The most common question when sharing a portion of bitterballen is: “who wants to take the last one?”.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/Dutch-Food-Bitterballen.jpg" alt="Picture: bitterballen" width="830" height="553">
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Pannenkoeken en poffertjes</h3>
In the Netherlands, pancakes are typically eaten for lunch or dinner. Dutch pancakes are very thin and can be served in various ways, both sweet and savory. The base of a pancake is simple: flour, milk, eggs, and a pinch of salt. Besides pancakes, Dutch people are also very fond of poffertjes. These small, fluffy pancakes are a delightful twist on the traditional pancake. Poffertjes are made in a special cast-iron pan with multiple small, round indentations. Unlike regular pancake batter, poffertjes use yeast, giving them their fluffiness. Almost everyone in the Netherlands loves both pancakes and poffertjes; they are a hit with both children and adults.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/Dutch-Food-Pannenkoeken.jpg" alt="Picture: pannenkoeken" width="830" height="553">
<h3>Stroopwafels</h3>
Stroopwafels are perhaps the most famous cookies from the Netherlands. Stroopwafels consist of two thin waffles with a layer of caramel in the middle. You can buy them at the supermarket, but they taste best when freshly made at the market.These waffles are a popular souvenir choice, as they are a traditional Dutch treat.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/Dutch-Food-Stroopwafels.jpg" alt="Picture: stroopwafels" width="830" height="553">
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Hollandse haring</h3>
A 'Hollandse Nieuwe' herring is at least 3 years old and is caught between May and July, during a six-week period. Herring caught during this time, which is traditionally filleted and immediately frozen, is called 'Hollandse Nieuwe'. This type of herring is often eaten by holding the fish by the tail and taking a bite while tilting your head back. It’s served with chopped onions and pickles. Not a fan of this idea? You can often buy the herring cut into pieces at the market. This way, you can still enjoy the taste without eating the fish all at once.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/Dutch-Food-Haring.jpg" alt="Picture: Hollandse haring" width="830" height="553">
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Erwtensoep</h3>
Erwtensoep, or in English pea soup, is a thick soup made with split peas, pork, and vegetables like carrots, celery, and leeks. Traditionally, it’s served with slices of smoked sausage on top. The soup is so thick that a spoon can stand upright in it. Pea soup is often called 'snert' by Dutch people. It’s especially popular on cold days or after winter activities like ice skating.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/Dutch-Food-Erwtensoep.jpg" alt="Picture: erwtensoep" width="830" height="553">
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Beschuit met muisjes</h3>
When a baby is born in the Netherlands, it's celebrated by eating 'beschuit met muisjes'. This is a toasted biscuit topped with colorful sugar-coated aniseed seeds. Pink 'muisjes' are used for girls, and blue 'muisjes' are used for boys. Recently, new parents have started to break from tradition by using 'muisjes' in the city's colors on the biscuits. For example, babies born in The Hague get green and yellow aniseed seeds. Don’t be surprised if you're served a biscuit when visiting a newborn because it’s a true tradition.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/Dutch-Food-Beschuit.jpg" alt="Picture: beschuit met muisjes" width="830" height="553">
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Kaas</h3>
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We’ll end this list with cheese. The Dutch are often called 'kaaskoppen' (cheese heads), and for good reason, whether it’s a cheese platter or a simple sandwich, the Dutch love their cheese. The Netherlands has been producing cheese for centuries and is now one of the largest cheese exporters in the world. Some of the most popular Dutch cheeses include Gouda, famous for its creamy, nutty flavor; Edam, a mild, semi-hard cheese with a red wax coating and Maasdam, a sweet, nutty cheese with large holes.The Dutch city of Gouda is known as the cheese capital of the Netherlands. From April to the end of August, it hosts a cheese market every Thursday, where farmers and traders negotiate the price of cheese.&nbsp;
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Typical food Dutch people love to eat

Discover which dishes are truly traditional in the Netherlands and which ones are a must-try.

<h2 class="MsoNoSpacing">Sinterklaas is one of the most cherished Dutch traditions. Warming up to Christmas, this tradition is a time filled with songs, sweets, and presents. If you're new to the Netherlands, here's your crash course on celebrating Sinterklaas the right way. Who is he, and what are the Dutch traditions?</h2>
<h3 class="MsoNoSpacing">Who is Sinterklaas? </h3>
Sinterklaas or Sint (or Saint Nicholas, if you want to get formal) is thé man of the season in the Netherlands. Widely celebrated in the Netherlands, his arrival from Spain and the celebrations around it are an exciting time, especially for children. Together with his trusty helpers, the Pieten, he spreads candy, gifts, and lots of joy − kind of like Santa Claus. The story of Sinterklaas actually goes way back. Sinterklaas is inspired by a 4th-century Greek bishop, Saint Nicholas of Myra, known for his generosity and miracles. In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas has been celebrated for more than 700 years. With the rise of Protestantism (and the prohibition of saint worship with it), many countries shifted toward Santa Claus or Father Christmas. The Netherlands kept the Sinterklaas tradition alive. So yes, Dutch December means double the celebrations: Sinterklaas ánd Christmas. But, side note: the reference to Santa Claus is, thanks to Sinterklaas, less strong in the Netherlands than in other countries. <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/sinterklaas-piet.png" alt="" width="800" height="533"> In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas is depicted as a rather stately man with a long white beard and white hair. He looks like a bishop, wearing a purple underdress, white overdress, white gloves, a red cloak, and a miter. He carries a golden staff with a curl at the end. He rides a white horse Ozosnel, and has a lot of helpers: Pieten. These Pieten leave candy and presents by going through the chimney. That's why they're covered in soot.
<h3 class="MsoNoSpacing">The big arrival of Sinterklaas</h3>
The festivities kick off in mid-November when the program Sinterklaasjournaal starts – five days before the arrival of Sinterklaas and his Pieten. In this fictive news program, children are informed about the journey from Spain to the Netherlands and the preparations for his arrival. At elementary schools, they pay a lot of attention to Sinterklaas and Sinterklaasjournaal. They chat about the news, sing Sinterklaas songs, and Sinterklaas and his Pieten often visit the school. Every year, Sinterklaas arrives on the first Saturday after November 11. This event (intocht van Sinterklaas) is broadcast nationally, and each year, a different village or city hosts the official entry. Local parades pop up everywhere, often with boats, horses, and happy chaos. In most places, Sinterklaas and his Pieten arrive by boat: the Pakjesboot. In 2025, Sinterklaas arrives on November 15 on the island of Texel.&nbsp; <img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-sinterklaas.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="534"> 
<h3 class="MsoNoSpacing">The shoe tradition</h3>
Once Sinterklaas is in the Netherlands, the tradition of placing one shoe by the fireplace (or modern heating system if you don't have a fireplace) begins. Children leave drawings, wish lists, or even a carrot for the horse. Overnight, Sinterklaas might drop by with chocolate, a small toy, or traditional sweets. In most families, children can place their shoes once a week until December 5. Rumor has it that Sinterklaas keeps a big red book where he notes how every child behaved throughout the year and what is on their wish lists.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/sinterklaas-3.png" alt="" width="800" height="533">
<h3 class="MsoNoSpacing">The main event: Pakjesavond</h3>
December 5 is Pakjesavond, the night everyone's been waiting for! You can compare this evening with Christmas morning. Traditionally, this is when Sinterklaas and his Pieten deliver all the gifts to children. Children will eagerly await a knock on the door from the Pieten, dropping off the presents in front of the door. Most times, the gifts are gathered in a large burlap sack. The Pieten will be nowhere to be found when the door is opened. For adults, Pakjesavond is often celebrated with a gift exchange, also known as a surprise. Each participant draws the name of another person in the group, keeping it a secret. Everyone buys some small gifts and hides them inside a handmade craft. This craft often symbolizes an inside joke or hobby and should be accompanied by a poem. After Pakjesavond, Sinterklaas and his crew head back to Spain on December 6.
<h3 class="MsoNoSpacing">The sweet stuff</h3>
No Dutch holiday is complete without a sugar rush. The candy can be found in supermarkets months in advance – an annual point of discussion. Here’s your Sinterklaas candy survival guide:
<ul>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Pepernoten and kruidnoten: Small spiced cookies, which are also available with a chocolate coating (white, milk, or dark) and in many different flavors. The difference between these two sorts is that pepernoten are chunks of gingerbread that are a little tough, while kruidnoten are small cookies of speculoos that are crunchy. Many people confuse the designation and generally call them pepernoten. </li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Snoepgoed: A mix of kruidnoten with schuimpjes, a sweet and foamy candy, and other sweets.</li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Taai taai: Chewy, spiced cookies shaped like Sinterklaas figures. Taai taai tastes like speculoos combined with anise.</li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Banketstaaf: Puff pastry filled with almond paste. You've got straight ones in the supermarkets, and bakeries mostly sell them in the letter S from Sinterklaas.</li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Marzipan: Sweet, almond-based confection, often shaped into fun designs.</li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Chocolate letters: Large chocolate initials. Supermarkets and bakeries sell them in all shapes and sizes, and different flavors. You buy the first letter of someone's name, or the S from Sinterklaas or the P from Piet. It's a common gift in children's shoes in the period leading to Pakjesavond on December 5. </li>
</ul>
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/sinterklaas-2.png" alt="" width="800" height="533"> Sinterklaas 'snoepgoed', including kruidnoten and schuimpjes, is very popular during the celebration of Sinterklaas.

Celebrating Sinterklaas in the Netherlands

Sinterklaas is one of the most cherished traditions in this country. Let's guide you through the traditions and how to celebrate Sinterklaas properly.

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Happy birthday to you! In the Netherlands, we traditionally celebrate our birthdays with a&nbsp;'kringverjaardag'. Follow this guide and you’ll be fully prepared to survive a Dutch birthday celebration.</h2>
<h3>Dutch birthday basics</h3>
What is a 'kringverjaardag'? Kringverjaardagen.&nbsp;Literally translated into English, this a birthday party celebrated in a circle. It's a Dutch term for a small birthday celebration with your closest family and friends.&nbsp;A&nbsp;kringverjaardag&nbsp;is all about the birthday person’s inner circle, family, close friends, and maybe a few colleagues. Don’t be surprised if the guest list is small. This setup gives you the chance to chat with everyone and enjoy a more personal celebration.&nbsp;The guests often mingle, so you may end up sitting next to people you don’t know, like a colleague or the birthday person’s grandmother. It’s common to sing for the birthday person, with well-known Dutch birthday songs such as&nbsp;'er is een jarig, hoera!' and 'lang zal ze leven'. However, 'Happy birthday to you' is also frequently sung. Good to know: it's appreciated when guests bring a gift. You don’t need to go overboard, but a small, meaningful present is enough. Some typical gifts include gift vouchers, flowers, chocolate, wine, books, or care products. Keep in mind that in Dutch culture, the gift is usually opened in front of everyone, so pick something appropriate.&nbsp;
Preparing for a birthday Before a birthday celebration begins, flag lines and balloons are hung to make the room look festive. The living room will be rearranged with chairs, stools, and poufs placed in a circle.&nbsp;Kringverjaardagen&nbsp;can be held in the afternoon or evening, but the way the party is celebrated doesn't differ. Sometimes, hanging tables are set up if the guests won't fit in one big circle. 
Birthday food and drinks Of course, no Dutch birthday would be complete without a birthday cake. At the beginning of the party, the host will usually offer everyone a slice. Popular Dutch cakes include appeltaart (apple pie), slagroomtaart (whipped cream cake), and vlaai (fruit tart). The cake is typically served with coffee, tea, or soft drinks. Later, the host will bring out a variety of snacks, such as cheese cubes, sausages, nuts, and crisps. Beer and wine may also be served, and a toast is often made to celebrate the birthday person.&nbsp; 
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/Dutch_birthday_1.jpg" alt="Birthday celebration" width="830" height="553">
<h3>Birthday practices</h3>
When attending a Dutch birthday party, there are some customs to follow. Here's how to navigate Dutch birthday etiquette:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li class="MsoNormal">Congratulating everyone Upon arrival, the first thing to do is congratulate the birthday person, typically with a handshake and three kisses on the cheek – starting on the left cheek. In Dutch, you congratulate someone by saying 'gefeliciteerd'. After congratulating the birthday person, it's common for you to congratulate everyone present at the party. Some families follow the tradition of giving three kisses to all guests, while others stick to handshakes or verbal greetings. If you're unsure of what to do, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask the birthday person or observe what others are doing to avoid any awkwardness.&nbsp; </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Bringing gifts Guests often bring small gifts, such as flowers, wine, or chocolates, which are handed to the host upon arrival. Keep in mind that in Dutch culture, the gift is usually opened in front of everyone, so pick something appropriate. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Get yourself a seat in the circle&nbsp;&nbsp; When it's a kringverjaardag, all seats are placed in a circle. Once seated, you'll find yourself offered coffee, tea, and a slice of cake or pie. Now, you're ready to interact with the other guests!&nbsp; </li>
</ul>
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Milestone birthdays </h3>
Certain ages carry particular significance in the Netherlands, each with its own way of being celebrated. Let’s dive into these traditions:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">16 The 16th birthday is often celebrated with a Sweet 16 party. This is a celebration where you can invite friends from high school or your sports club. Parents are usually present at this party to keep an eye on things and ensure everything goes smoothly. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">18 The 18th birthday is often celebrated with a big party. According to the law, young people become adults at the age of 18. In the Netherlands, you can enter most clubs, drive a car without a supervisor, and drink alcohol starting at 18. Therefore, it is common to throw a party for friends to celebrate this milestone. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">21 When you turn 21, it’s customary to organize a 21st dinner. This is a multi-course meal served by the birthday person’s parents. You invite your closest friends for a long evening of chatting and eating. Friends often prepare speeches for the birthday person, which are read aloud to you and your parents. During these speeches, your friends may share secrets and embarrassing moments that you’ve never revealed to your parents. Often, your friends also create a photo album to treasure the fun memories from your friendship. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">30 The age of 30 is also a significant milestone in the Netherlands. It's a time to say goodbye to your twenties and start reflecting more on the future. Many people settle down in their thirties. Some get married, buy a house, or start a family. It’s a special age, as it often marks a time when people begin to focus more on their long-term goals and the next phase of their lives. Many people celebrate it with a big party.&nbsp; </li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">50 When a man turns 50, he is called an Abraham, and when a woman turns 50, she is called a Sarah. At this age, it's common to celebrate with a big party, as it marks the milestone of officially living half a century.</li>
</ul>
 The next time you’re invited to a birthday party in the Netherlands, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to fit right in. You’ll be ready to embrace all the traditions that make Dutch birthdays so unique!

How to celebrate your birthday in the Netherlands

Discover the unique traditions of Dutch birthdays! From 'kringverjaardagen' to milestone celebrations, learn how to navigate Dutch birthday etiquette like a pro.

<h2 class="MsoNoSpacing">You like it or you don't. Carnaval is one of the biggest celebrations in the south of the Netherlands. If you’re new to the Netherlands or from one of the other provinces, you may be surprised by the costumes, parades, and street parties. We’ll take you along the ride, so you know what the deal is during these festive days.</h2>
<h3 class="MsoNoSpacing">The origins of carnaval</h3>
This may be new to you, but carnaval has deep historical and religious roots. It originated as a Catholic festival, marking the days you can let it all go one more time before a time of restraint. After carnaval, the 40 days of fasting start until Easter. Back in the day, this ‘letting go’ was mainly about food. All the sugary or rich foods that were still in the house were quickly eaten so they wouldn’t go to waste during the fasting period. Carnaval is not only a Dutch celebration. It’s celebrated wherever many Catholics live. However, it isn’t celebrated in the same way everywhere. You may know the Brazilian carnaval with large feathered costumes and dancers in the streets, or the masked carnaval in Venice, which is also world-famous.&nbsp; Over the centuries, carnaval evolved into a vibrant mix of tradition, satire, and community bonding. The way it’s celebrated now has only really existed for about the last 50 years. For most people today, it’s a time for fun, laughter, and letting loose.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-carnaval-1.jpeg" alt="" width="900" height="602">
<h3 class="MsoNoSpacing">Carnaval traditions in the Netherlands</h3>
To really understand carnaval, it’s best to look at the traditions around it.
<ul>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Celebrate carnaval in the south Whether you celebrate it or not, you’ll definitely notice it in the southern provinces. Noord-Brabant and Limburg are the heart of the carnaval celebrations. Almost every city and village organizes festivities – and the bigger the city, the more there is to do. Popular places to go include Breda, Tilburg, Den Bosch, Eindhoven, Venlo, and Maastricht. Besides these cities, carnaval is also celebrated in parts of Gelderland, for example in Nijmegen. Although Brabant and Limburg are both southern provinces, their traditions are different. In Brabant, there’s more focus on humor and satire, and the festivities mainly take place in bars and large tents rather than outside. In Limburg, the role of the prince of carnaval is more prominent, and the music focuses more on dialect songs and local traditions. </li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Start of the carnaval season The new carnaval season kicks off every year on November 11 (the 11th of the 11th, or 'de elfde van de elfde') at 11:11. This date and time are linked to the number 11, which used to be seen as a 'mad' or 'crazy' number. And during carnaval, people do indeed go a little crazy. In the months that follow, floats are built and outfits are carefully put together. The celebrations around November 11 mainly take place in the south of the Netherlands, in cities such as Maastricht, Den Bosch, Breda, Tilburg, Venlo, Roermond, and Sittard. In most cities, the new prince or princess for the new season will be announced. So, don't be surprised if you see some people already dressed up!&nbsp; </li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Mark your calendar Carnaval officially starts on Sunday and ends on Tuesday, but in many places the celebrations already begin on the Thursday or Friday before. Carnaval starts seven weeks before Easter Sunday. The earliest possible date of carnaval is February 1, and the latest is March 9. You can mark your calendar for the upcoming years: February 14 to February 17 in 2026, February 6 to February 9 in 2027.&nbsp; On the day after carnaval, on Wednesday (Aswoensdag), carnaval ends with eating worstenbrood, herring (haringhappen), or other local delicacies.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Carnaval’s prince or princess Every year, every carnaval association has a prince or princess carnaval that (symbolically) takes over the city’s mayor. This prince or princess is often appointed on November 11. ‘Adjudanten’ and a ‘Raad van Elf’ assist the prince or princess during the carnaval period. Some weeks before carnaval, traditional receptions to welcome the prince or princess carnaval and ‘zittingsavonden’ take place, mostly in smaller villages. These zittingsavonden are events with humorous cabarets, performed from a large barrel on a stage. Brass bands and dance acts also perform during the event.&nbsp; </li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">City names Many cities and villages in Brabant, Limburg, and Gelderland temporarily change their names during carnaval. Often, the name is a reference to the largest carnaval association in the city or village. For example: Maastricht becomes ‘Mestreech’, Eindhoven becomes ‘Lampegat’, Den Bosch becomes ‘Oeteldonk’, Tilburg becomes ‘Kruikenstad’, and Arnhem becomes ‘Ernem’. </li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Costumes Costumes are an important and symbolic part of carnaval. In Limburg, people often wear elaborate, Venetian-style costumes and face paint, and the parades include beautiful, artistic floats. In Brabant, you can pretty much dress up as whatever you want – generally, it doesn’t matter what you wear. Unlike Halloween, where costumes are often spooky, carnaval outfits are meant to be humorous, exaggerated, and full of satire. In some cities, there’s a stricter 'dress code'. For example, costumes full of satire are less common in Den Bosch, while they’re very popular in Eindhoven. In Den Bosch, there’s less focus on full costumes; a scarf in the city’s colors and a jacket full of patches is your go-to outfit.&nbsp;City colors also play a role elsewhere: in Tilburg, many people wear orange and green, and in Eindhoven, you’ll see a lot of orange and blue. </li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Parades In many places, the parade is the highlight of carnaval. Cities host parades in their city centers with themed floats, marching bands, and costumed performers. Carnaval associations volunteer their time to create bright-colored floats, often with moving or rotating elements and playful themes. The parade is in many places the highlight of carnaval. Many cities host parades in their city center with themed floats, marching bands, and costumed performers. Carnaval associations voluntarily create bright-colored floats with rotating elements. </li>
</ul>
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-carnaval-2.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600">
<h3 class="MsoNoSpacing">Experiencing carnaval for the first time</h3>
Are you a freshman in carnaval? If you want to experience carnaval like a local, here’s how to get started: 
<ul>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Dress up&nbsp; Even if you don't have a full costume, wear bright colors, face paint, and something festive. It’s more about joining in than having the perfect outfit. </li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Learn some local songs&nbsp; Knowing just a few lines of a traditional carnaval song will help you connect with locals instantly. </li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Go in with an open mind&nbsp; Carnaval is all about embracing the absurd, letting go of daily worries, and having fun – also with strangers. </li>
</ul>
 Whether you're in Brabant, Limburg, Gelderland, or just curious about the celebrations, carnaval is a great way to experience Dutch culture in its most festive form. Enjoy the party and&nbsp;Alaaf!
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-carnaval-4.jpeg" alt="" width="900" height="600">

How to celebrate carnaval in the Netherlands

Carnaval is one of the biggest celebrations in the south of the Netherlands. If you’re new to the Netherlands or from one of the other provinces, you may be surprised by the costumes, parades, and street parties. We’ll take you along for the ride!

<h2 class="MsoNormal">So, you made it to Eindhoven. Bags unpacked and the introduction week survived? Time to start your student life! The first weeks can feel like a whirlwind. New city, new people, new routines. Don’t worry, we’ve got you with a no-nonsense starter pack for student life in Eindhoven.&nbsp;</h2>
<h3>First, get the basics sorted&nbsp;</h3>
Register in Eindhoven Before you start your stay in Eindhoven, you must register with the municipality. You need to register&nbsp;within 5 days after arriving in the Netherlands. Registration with the municipality is free of charge. Make an appointment to register and go to the counter at ‘Inwonersplein’ at the municipality (<a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/vknvnSnMDnKLJJdp8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stadhuisplein 1A</a>). You can make an appointment&nbsp;<a href="https://www-eindhoven-nl.translate.goog/verhuizen-dit-moet-je-doen?_x_tr_sl=nl&amp;_x_tr_tl=en&amp;_x_tr_hl=nl&amp;_x_tr_pto=wapp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">online</a> or by calling 14 040. You need to bring a valid proof of identity (passport or ID card), your rental contract for your new home address, and proof that you’re a student at a Dutch school or university. Read more about moving to Eindhoven <a href="https://www-eindhoven-nl.translate.goog/stad-en-wonen/verhuizen/verhuizen-binnen-of-naar-eindhoven?_x_tr_sl=nl&amp;_x_tr_tl=en&amp;_x_tr_hl=nl&amp;_x_tr_pto=wapp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. After registering, you'll receive a citizen service number (BSN) from the municipality. You need this number to create a DigiD account, which you need to communicate with the government, apply for benefits, open a Dutch bank account, and more.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-student-life-eindhoven-inwonersplein_1.png" alt="" width="900" height="598"> Visit the 'inwonersplein' at the municipality to register yourself in Eindhoven. © Picture by Gemeente Eindhoven Open a Dutch bank account In the Netherlands, most daily payments are made with cash, debit cards, or internet banking. By opening a bank account, you automatically get access to internet banking.&nbsp;As a student, you can open a bank account for free (studentenrekening). There are many options for banks in the Netherlands. Big banks that offer English information and support are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.abnamro.nl/en/personal/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ABN Amro</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ing.nl/particulier/english" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ING</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rabobank.nl/particulieren" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rabobank</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.snsbank.nl/particulier/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">SNS Bank</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asnbank.nl/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ASN Bank</a> are other popular options. You can apply for a Dutch bank account online or by visiting one of their offices.&nbsp; Get your health insurance sorted Everyone who lives in the Netherlands is legally obliged to take out basic health insurance. Basic health insurance covers the costs of consulting a general practitioner, hospital treatment, and medication. You may opt to take out additional insurance to cover costs not included in your basic health insurance – such as physiotherapy or (extra) dental care. It's not mandatory to take additional insurance.&nbsp;Read more about Dutch health insurance <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/arranging-insurances" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Housing allowance (huurtoeslag) It’s important to check if you’re entitled to receive a housing allowance (huurtoeslag) from the Dutch government. We’ll share all the details and guide you through the application process in our&nbsp;<a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/housing-allowance">blog about housing allowance in 2025</a>. Do you need help during the application process? Visit the <a href="https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontenten/belastingdienst/individuals/benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tax Service Office</a>&nbsp;website or call the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.belastingdienst.nl/wps/wcm/connect/bldcontenten/standaard_functies/individuals/contact/calling/calling_a_tax_information_line" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tax Information Line</a>. Student finance (studiefinanciering) If you're registered as a student at an MBO, HBO, or university, you can receive financial support for your education: student finance. Whether you qualify depends on your age, course, nationality, or residency status. The amount you can receive depends, among other things, on your parents' income and whether you live at home or independently. You can apply for student finance via <a href="https://mijn.duo.nl/isam/sps/MijnDUO-2-DigiDCC/saml20/logininitial?NameIdFormat=Transient&amp;Target=https://mijn.duo.nl:443/particulier/portaal/dashboard&amp;&amp;ForceAuthn=true&amp;RequestBinding=HTTPPost&amp;AuthnContextClassRef=urn:oasis:names:tc:SAML:2.0:ac:classes:PasswordProtectedTransport&amp;AuthnContextComparison=minimum" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mijn DUO</a>. Time to furnish A place to stay is one thing, but not all rental places include furniture. If you're renting an unfurnished or semi-furnished place, hit up IKEA,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marktplaats.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marktplaats</a>, Facebook Marketplace, or ‘kringloop’ (second-hand) stores to score affordable furniture and decoration to make your home cozy. In Eindhoven, popular second-hand stores are <a href="https://www.karoesell.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Karoessel</a> at Edisonstraat, <a href="https://www.hetgoed.nl/vestigingen/eindhoven/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Het Goed</a> at Meerenakkerweg, or <a href="https://www.dedoorstroom.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Doorstroom</a> at Joris Minnestraat.
<h3>How to quickly settle in</h3>
Must-have apps&nbsp; Make sure to download some essential mobile apps to navigate life in Eindhoven like a pro. These are our tips to make life in Eindhoven a bit easier:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>With Tikkie (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/tikkie/id1112935685" target="_blank" rel="noopener">App Store</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.abnamro.nl.tikkie&amp;hl=nl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google Play</a>), you can create payment requests to send via WhatsApp. Must-have if you want to split a bill.</li>
<li>As mentioned above, 9292 (<a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/9292-reisplanner-ov-e-ticket/id556557690" target="_blank" rel="noopener">App Store</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nl.negentwee&amp;hl=nl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google Play</a>) is a great app to get around by public transportation. It has all the travel info you need, from up-to-date schedules and delays to useful details about your journey.</li>
<li>In case you haven’t experienced it already, the weather in the Netherlands is unpredictable, to say the least. Buienradar&nbsp;(<a href="https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/buienradar-weer/id621542526" target="_blank" rel="noopener">App Store</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.supportware.Buienradar&amp;hl=nl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google Play</a>) is one of the most reliable weather sources that you can use in the Netherlands.</li>
<li>Need to translate something on the spot? Google Lens&nbsp;(<a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google/id284815942" target="_blank" rel="noopener">App Store</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.ar.lens&amp;hl=nl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google Play</a>) is the app you need. It allows you to perform visual searches using your phone’s camera, providing information on objects, text, or barcodes. By the way, it’s good to practice some basic Dutch with Duolingo&nbsp;(<a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/duolingo-language-lessons/id570060128" target="_blank" rel="noopener">App Store</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.duolingo&amp;hl=nl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google Play</a>). It’s a fun way to learn the language. </li>
</ul>
Besides these apps, we’ve lined up some other apps you can use during your stay in the Netherlands. Read them all <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/best-apps-netherlands">here</a>. Study spots in Eindhoven Let’s be real, student life isn’t just about late nights and endless parties. At the end of the day, you came to Eindhoven to get that degree. Whether it’s cramming for exams or working on group projects, it’s good to know that there are plenty of spots where you can study in peace. A change of scenery can do your focus good! Our tips:&nbsp;TU/e library, the public library at De Witte Dame, or one of the many coffee spots, such as Koffiehuisje, DENF Coffee, Lucifer Coffee, or The Social Hub. Tip: Always double-check if you can sit there for a longer time with your laptop! Get around as a local Eindhoven is compact, chill, and bike-friendly. To get around, we recommend buying a second-hand bike or getting yourself a subscription to <a href="https://swapfiets.nl/en-NL" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Swap Bike</a>. Wherever you live in Eindhoven, everything’s a short 10- to 15-minute bike ride away.&nbsp; Too lazy to bike? Then, public transportation is always an option. No trams here, but the buses and trains are fast and reliable. Get an OV-chipkaart and download the <a href="https://9292.nl/en/app-and-website/download-the-app/">9292 app</a> to make your life easier. And good news: students travel for free or at a reduced rate with the ‘student travel product’. You need a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ov-chipkaart.nl/en/apply-for-personal-ov-chipcard" target="_blank" rel="noopener">personal OV-chipkaart</a>&nbsp;to use your student travel product. Read more about traveling with a student travel product&nbsp;<a href="https://www.studentenreisproduct.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">on this website</a>.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-student-life-eindhoven.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600"> Want to read more about cycling in the Netherlands? Check our blogs about the <a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/cycling-netherlands">do's and don'ts when cycling</a>&nbsp;and everything about the&nbsp;<a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/dutch-cycling-rules.html">Dutch cycling rules</a>.
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Social life and nightlife&nbsp;</h3>
Nailed the introduction week in Eindhoven? Great! Hopefully, you learned a bit more about your study and started bonding with your fellow students. Maybe you already explored a bit of Eindhoven as well. Adapting to a new social environment can feel both exciting and a bit daunting, especially when you're far from home. Join a student association Student associations are a big part of university culture in Eindhoven. Eindhoven has more than 60 student associations, from academic groups to sports teams, cultural clubs, and social associations. These organizations not only offer great ways to meet people but also give you a taste of Dutch customs and traditions. You might have met some of them already at the introduction week. You can find an overview&nbsp;<a href="https://eindhoven-studentenstad.nl/studentenverenigingen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Don’t hesitate to join one! Look for a sport or a hobby One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Eindhoven’s social life is by joining a local sports club or picking up a hobby. It’s common for students to balance their academic life with an active lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in competitive sports or simply looking for a fun way to stay fit, there’s something for everyone. Studentensportcentrum Eindhoven (SSC) is <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Wr8m73tcNjx63pDF8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">located at TU/e</a> and consists of 38 student sports associations, with members from both TU/e and Fontys Hogescholen. The facilities offer all kinds of sports, from football and tennis to swimming, rowing, and bouldering. Many of these clubs host social events, matches, and trips, making it easy to bond with teammates. Find all clubs <a href="https://essf.nl/nl/associations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. If sports aren’t your thing, or if you’re looking for something more low-key, consider picking up a hobby that interests you. From photography classes and art workshops to language exchange groups, there are many ways to explore your interests while meeting like-minded people.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-student-life-eindhoven-3.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600"> Meet your neighbors If you’re living in student housing, like the ones managed by Holland2Stay, you’ll also find socializing in communal spaces to be a great way to connect with others. If your new neighbors haven’t already organized something, set up events like game nights, movie screenings, and potluck dinners, where you can meet people from all over the world. Engaging in these activities is a fantastic way to make friends and ease the transition into a new country. Start learning Dutch Finally, learning a bit of Dutch can go a long way in making connections. While most Dutch people speak English fluently, and you'll likely find no language barriers in university settings, making an effort to learn a few Dutch phrases is always appreciated. Even simple greetings like 'hoi' (hi) or 'tot ziens' (see you later) can make a positive impression and show that you're making an effort to adapt to the local culture. Read some tips about learning Dutch&nbsp;<a href="https://holland2stay.com/blog/start-learning-dutch">here</a>. Nightlife in Eindhoven In Eindhoven, Thursday is the most popular night to go out. Markt is the central square of Eindhoven, with terraces, cafes, and spots for a laid-back night out. It’s a great place to start the night, before diving into a more intense party mood at Stratumseind. Stratumseind is the longest pub street in the Netherlands, and yes, it lives up to the hype. Think over 50 pubs, bars, and clubs crammed into a small street. From brown cafes to booming dancefloors, it’s all there. Popular student spots at Stratumseind are The Fat One, Feestcafé Witte Gij’t, Café Bar ‘t Lempke, Café Costa, and Kafee Kix.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-student-life-eindhoven-1.jpg" alt="" width="900" height="600"> This is the central square in Eindhoven: Markt. Filled with terraces, this is a great student spot to go in summer ánd winter!&nbsp;

Starting your student life in Eindhoven

Moving to Eindhoven to study? Here's everything you need to know to settle into this city. From the best study spots to getting around as a local and nightlife tips at Stratumseind, we've got you covered!&nbsp;

<h2>Don’t spend your first days in your new home sitting in the dark or taking cold showers. Make sure to arrange your utilities (gas, water, and electricity) on time. These are essential for daily life, and arranging them properly ensures you can settle in comfortably. No idea where to start? Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through the process step by step.</h2>
<h3>What counts as ‘utilities’ in the Netherlands?</h3>
In the Netherlands, ‘gas, water en licht’ is the standard way to describe utilities. It usually includes:
<ul>
<li>Electricity</li>
<li>Gas (though many buildings are now gas-free)&nbsp;</li>
<li>Water </li>
</ul>
<h3>Who arranges what?&nbsp;</h3>
When it comes to utilities, what you need to arrange depends on the type of rental you’ve chosen. Always double-check your rental contract. If utilities are included, it will be clearly mentioned. If not, plan some time before moving in to set them up so you’re not left without power, heating, or internet in your first days at home. (Fully) furnished rentals If you rent a fully furnished or furnished home, chances are high that your utilities are already arranged by the property manager. This means gas, water, electricity, and often even internet and TV are included in your rental contract. You’ll usually pay a fixed monthly amount for these services as part of your rent or service costs. This option is the most convenient, as everything is ready for you the moment you move in. Semi-furnished rentals With semi-furnished homes (typically including flooring and curtains), the utility connections are already available, but you are responsible for setting up your own contracts with suppliers. This gives you the freedom to choose your own energy provider and internet package, but also means you’ll need to compare options and register before or shortly after moving in. Unfurnished rentals Unfurnished homes work much the same way as semi-furnished ones: the infrastructure for utilities is in place, but you’ll need to arrange the contracts yourself. In some cases, landlords might give you recommendations for reliable suppliers in the area, but ultimately, the responsibility lies with you.
<h3>How to arrange gas, water, and electricity step-by-step</h3>
1. Register at your municipality Before anything else, you'll need to register your new address with the municipality. This step is required by Dutch law within five days of moving in, and it does more than just put you on the books. Registration connects you to the correct local services, like the water company responsible for your area. Without it, you won’t be able to set up certain utilities or even open contracts in your name. 2. Check your energy situation Before rushing to sign a contract, check whether your home already has an active energy agreement. If no contract is in place, the choice is yours. You can select any energy provider that services your address. 3. Compare energy suppliers The Dutch energy market is highly competitive, allowing you to shop around for the best deal. Use comparison websites like <a href="https://www.independer.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Independer</a> or <a href="https://www.pricewise.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pricewise</a> to get an overview of providers, monthly costs, and contract types. You’ll usually see a choice between fixed-rate contracts (same price for a set period) and variable-rate contracts (prices can change every six months). Consider what fits your lifestyle: if you want stability, opt for a fixed rate; if you’re only in the Netherlands for a short term, a variable rate might make more sense. Many companies offer discounts for new customers, so switching providers can save you money. 4. Sign up with the water company Unlike energy, the water supply is not open for competition. Each region has one designated water company, which makes things straightforward but also means you can’t shop around. You simply register online with your postal code, and the system automatically connects you to the right supplier. To save you the search, here’s the breakdown by region:
<ul>
<li class><a href="https://www.vitens.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vitens</a>: Provinces of Utrecht, Gelderland, Overijssel, Flevoland, and Friesland</li>
<li class><a href="https://www.evides.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Evides</a>: Provinces of Zeeland, part of Zuid-Holland, and Noord-Brabant</li>
<li class><a href="https://www.dunea.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dunea</a>: Provinces of The Hague and Leiden</li>
<li class><a href="https://mijn.oasen.nl/login" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oasen</a>: Provinces of Zuid-Holland and Utrecht</li>
<li class><a href="https://wmd.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WMD</a>: Province of Drenthe</li>
<li class><a href="https://waterbedrijfgroningen.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WBG</a>: Province of Groningen</li>
<li class><a href="https://www.waternet.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Waternet</a>: Amsterdam and surrounding cities</li>
<li class><a href="https://www.pwn.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PWN</a>: Province of Noord-Holland (excluding Amsterdam)</li>
<li class><a href="https://www.brabantwater.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Brabant Water</a>: Province of Noord-Brabant</li>
<li class><a href="https://www.wml.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WML</a>: Province of Limburg </li>
</ul>
5. Electricity (and gas if applicable) Whether you need gas, electricity, or both depends on the setup in your building. Many modern apartments in the Netherlands are gas-free and rely on district heating (stadsverwarming) combined with electricity. If that’s the case, you only need to arrange an electricity contract and register with the local heating provider. If your home is still connected to gas, you’ll need to sign up for both gas and electricity through your chosen supplier. Either way, check your rental contract or ask your property manager about your home’s heating system before signing a contract. 6. Confirm your contract and submit your meter readings Once you’ve signed your contracts, the final step is to submit your initial meter readings. These numbers show the exact state of your usage on the day you move in and are essential to avoid being charged for the previous tenant’s consumption. Take clear photos of your meters (gas, electricity, and water if applicable) as proof – energy companies often ask for these during registration. Once submitted, your contract is confirmed, and your billing cycle officially begins.
<h3>Useful tips</h3>
Documents needed To set up utilities in the Netherlands, suppliers keep things simple, but they do require a few essentials. Usually, you need your Dutch address, IBAN bank account, and sometimes proof of ID.&nbsp; How long does it take? Getting connected doesn’t usually take forever, but timelines can vary. Energy and water supply are usually switched on within a couple of working days. If you’re moving into a new-build home or a property that hasn’t been connected recently, it might take longer. Internet can take longer, expect 1 to 3 weeks before everything is live. Monthly costs Utilities can be a big part of your budget, so it helps to know what to expect. For energy (gas and electricity), most households pay between €150 and €250 per month, depending on the size of the home, insulation, and personal usage. A studio apartment with district heating will obviously be on the lower end, while a larger family home with gas heating can be significantly more. Water is relatively cheap in the Netherlands, usually €10 to €15 per month. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate, especially with energy markets, so always double-check the current rates when signing a contract. Advance payments Unlike in some countries where you pay exactly what you use each month, Dutch energy suppliers work with advance payments (voorschot). You’ll pay a set amount every month based on estimated usage. At the end of the year, the provider calculates your actual consumption and compares it with what you paid. If you used less, you’ll get money back. If you used more (hello, long hot showers in winter), you’ll need to pay the difference. Don’t forget internet and TV While gas, water, and electricity are the basics, life without internet is almost unthinkable. Speeds in the Netherlands are excellent, with many areas offering fiber connections, but the waiting times for installation can be long. That’s why it’s smart to order your internet package as early as possible

How to get gas, water & electricity sorted in the Netherlands

Moving to the Netherlands? Here’s how to arrange gas, water, and electricity for your home.

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Landing in a new country is exciting, until you open Google Maps and realize you have no idea where you should live. Every city looks identical on the map, and scrolling through residences quickly turns chaotic. Once you understand how the Netherlands is laid out, choosing a place becomes much easier. We’ll help you get there.</h2>
<h3 class="MsoNormal">Different Dutch regions</h3>
The Netherlands is small, but each region has its own rhythm. Some cities are heavy on students, others focus on work and international companies, and some simply offer more peace and space.&nbsp;Here’s a clear overview to help you build your shortlist.
West The western region is the most urban part of the country. You’ll find the biggest cities here: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht, along with towns like Haarlem, Leiden, Delft, and Zoetermeer. Together they form the Randstad, a metropolitan area known for its international mix, busy streets, and endless options for work, study, and entertainment. It’s ideal for career growth or an active social life, but rent prices reflect the popularity. Living in the west means quick access to two major airports, Schiphol Amsterdam and Rotterdam The Hague Airport. Public transport is everywhere, and in most cities, biking gets you around faster than a car. The international crowd is big, and hearing English in daily life is completely normal, especially in Amsterdam and Utrecht.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-geography-rotterdam.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="663"> Rotterdam is an international city with skyscrapers, new architecture, and Markthal. It’s a spot where locals grab lunch, tourists take photos, and everyone comes to try something new.
South The southern provinces of Brabant and Limburg include cities such as Eindhoven, Tilburg, Breda, Maastricht, and Sittard. People in this region are known for being warm and social, and the Burgundian food culture is deeply rooted. Life feels slightly slower and more relaxed compared to the Randstad, and housing is generally more affordable. Eindhoven, Tilburg, and Maastricht have large student communities, which create a lively atmosphere. Eindhoven is the center of Dutch tech thanks to companies like ASML and Philips, attracting internationals from all over the world. Once a year, Carnaval takes over the entire south, turning cities into a colorful, week-long celebration across streets, squares, and bars.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-eindhoven-geography.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667"> In Eindhoven, streets are filled with students, designers, and innovators, surrounded by a mix of new architecture and industrial heritage.&nbsp;
East Cities such as Arnhem and Nijmegen sit in the eastern part of the country, where you’ll find more space, more greenery, and a calm overall pace. National parks and forests are close by, which makes this region perfect for people who enjoy long walks, hiking, or spending weekends outdoors. Even with the slower lifestyle, trains to the Randstad run frequently, so commuting to Utrecht or Amsterdam is still manageable. The east strikes a nice balance. You get spacious neighborhoods, yet city centers still feel lively. Nijmegen has a strong student population, so there’s always something happening. Rent prices are generally more reasonable than what you see in the largest cities.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-nijmegen-geography.JPEG" alt="" width="1000" height="667"> Nijmegen has a warm and historic center with old streets, lively terraces, and plenty of greenery. It's a relaxed and youthful city.&nbsp;
North The northern region includes Groningen, a well-known student city with a vibrant center and a strong community feel. Once you leave Groningen, you’ll find peaceful towns, open landscapes, and friendly locals who take time to connect. Housing here is typically the most affordable in the country, especially outside the main city. The city of Groningen is extremely bike-friendly and has a young atmosphere thanks to its student population. The region is perfect if you want a slower lifestyle and space to breathe. The only thing to consider is travel time. Working or studying in the West means a longer commute.
<img src="https://account.holland2stay.com/media/images/blog/blog-geography-groningen_1.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="667"> Just outside the busy core of Groningen, you find quiet neighborhoods, open fields, and wide skies that make the north feel spacious and calm.
<h3>Distances and travel times</h3>
One of the most helpful things to know about Dutch geography is how compact the country actually is. A trip that feels long by Dutch standards usually means about two hours. Cities are connected by frequent trains, and direct routes are available for most major destinations, making it easy to live in one region and work or study in another. To get a sense of real travel times:
<ul>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Amsterdam to Utrecht takes about 30 minutes by train.</li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Rotterdam to The Hague takes around 20 minutes.</li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Eindhoven to Tilburg takes roughly 20 minutes.</li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Groningen to Utrecht takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes.</li>
<li class="MsoNoSpacing">Nijmegen to Utrecht takes around 45 minutes. </li>
</ul>
Thanks to these connections, you can choose a city that fits your lifestyle without worrying too much about long-distance travel.

Quick guide to Dutch geography

Get a quick overview of Dutch geography and discover what each Dutch region is like to live in. Learn about cities, distances, and travel times to help you choose your ideal place to live.

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