Capital: Amsterdam
Area sq km: 41850.00 km²
Area sq miles: 16158.00 mi²
Population: ~ 17.60 million
Official Languages: Dutch
Widely Spoken: English
Currency: Euro (€)
Driving Side: right
ISO Codes: NLD
Calling Code: 31
Median Mobile Internet Speed:
- Download: 120.36 Mbps
- Upload: 17.70 Mbps
- Latency: 23 ms
- Global Rank: #11
Median Broadband Internet Speed:
- Download: 143.20 Mbps
- Upload: 54.87 Mbps
- Latency: 10 ms
- Global Rank: #27
Electrical Socket Type:
C
Type E and F plugs will also fit in type C sockets
F
Type C and E plugs will also fit in type F sockets
Continent: Europe
Bordering Countries: Belgium, Germany
Climate: The Netherlands has a maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Rain can be expected throughout the year. The best time to visit is typically in spring (April to June) when the tulip fields are in full bloom or in summer (July and August) for warmer weather.
Emergency Police: 112
Emergency Ambulance: 112
Emergency Fire: 112
Tipping:
Vaccinations for Most Travelers: Tetanus
Vaccinations for Some Travelers: Rabies (Bat Lyssavirus), Tick-borne encephalitis
History
The Netherlands has a rich historical tapestry. It was a significant naval power during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century and played an essential role in trading and colonization. The country has a history of religious tolerance and progressive thinking. Nazi Germany occupied it during World War II, and the post-war period was marked by recovery and modernization.
Culture
The Netherlands has a rich cultural heritage in art, philosophy, and science. It's the birthplace of famous artists like Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer. The country is known for its liberal policies, vibrant urban life, and festivals. Cycling is an integral part of Dutch culture, with excellent infrastructure for bikers.
Cuisine
Dutch cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes. Typical foods include stroopwafels (sweet waffles), bitterballen (fried meatballs), and poffertjes (small fluffy pancakes). The Netherlands is also known for its cheese, with internationally famous varieties like Gouda and Edam.
Language
Dutch is the official language. English is widely spoken in urban areas and among younger generations, making communication easy for English-speaking travellers.
Politics
The Netherlands is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a reputation for social liberalism. The country is known for its progressive policies on healthcare, environmental protection, and LGBTQ+ rights. It plays an active role in the European Union and global affairs. For travellers, it's a safe and stable destination with a well-developed infrastructure.
Religions
Tap Water
Tap Water Global Rank #1
#1 would be highest quality tap water and #195 would be lowest quality tap water.
Crime
Global Crime Rank #97
#1 would be highest in crime and #195 would be lowest in crime.
LGBTQ
Global LGBTQ Rank #7
#1 would be highest in LGBTQ friendliness and #195 would be lowest in LGBTQ friendliness.
Cannabis Laws Recreational Consumption and sale are tolerated in licensed coffeeshops while possesion of certain amounts is decriminalized. Medical Legal