Discover Dutch Life, Culture and Everyday Habits

Living in the Netherlands can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you are here for your studies, an internship or a temporary job, getting familiar with Dutch culture and everyday habits will help you feel at home.

From cycling and public transport to local food and social customs, here are some useful tips to make the most of your stay.

1. Learn a Little Dutch

Although many Dutch people speak English, learning a few basic Dutch phrases can make everyday interactions more enjoyable.

Simple expressions such as goedemorgen (good morning), dank je wel (thank you) and alsjeblieft (please or here you go) are a great starting point.

You do not need to speak fluent Dutch to enjoy living here, but making an effort is often appreciated.

2. Discover the Dutch Cycling Culture

Cycling is an important part of everyday life in the Netherlands. Many people use their bicycles to travel to work, university, shops and social activities.

The country has an extensive network of dedicated cycling paths, making bicycles a convenient way to get around.

If you plan to cycle regularly, familiarise yourself with Dutch traffic rules, use proper bicycle lights after dark and always lock your bike securely.

Public transport is another convenient option, with trains, buses, trams and metros connecting cities and towns throughout the country.

3. Experience Dutch Food and Traditions

Dutch cuisine offers plenty of traditional dishes and snacks worth trying.

Some popular favourites include:

• Stroopwafels: thin waffles filled with caramel syrup.

• Stamppot: mashed potatoes combined with vegetables, often served with sausage.

• Bitterballen: crispy, savoury snacks commonly served in cafés.

• Poffertjes: small, fluffy pancakes traditionally served with butter and powdered sugar.

Visiting a local market is also a great way to discover Dutch food and everyday culture.

Discover the taste of the Netherlands with traditional Dutch treats like stroopwafels and poffertjes.

4. Get to Know Dutch Social Customs

Dutch people are often known for their direct communication style. This may seem unusual at first, but directness is generally intended to encourage clarity and honesty rather than cause offence.

Punctuality is also appreciated, particularly for appointments, work and social arrangements.

Another useful habit to remember is that visits are often planned in advance. Dropping by someone's home unexpectedly is less common than in some other cultures.

5. Explore Beyond the Major Cities

Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht are popular destinations, but the Netherlands has much more to offer.

Historic towns, traditional windmills, nature reserves, beaches and picturesque villages are often within easy reach by public transport.

You do not need to travel far to discover something new.

6. Enjoy the Outdoors

The Netherlands is known for its flat landscapes, extensive waterways and well-maintained cycling and walking routes.

Parks, forests, beaches and nature reserves provide plenty of opportunities to relax and explore.

Dutch weather can be unpredictable, so keeping a rain jacket or umbrella nearby is always a good idea.

7. Make Yourself Feel at Home

Moving to another country involves more than finding accommodation and arranging practical matters.

Joining a student association, participating in local activities or meeting colleagues outside working hours can help you build connections.

At the same time, give yourself time to adjust. Everyone settles into a new environment at their own pace.

Make the Most of Your Stay in the Netherlands

Living in the Netherlands offers an opportunity to discover new places, experience a different culture and meet people from around the world.

Whether you are staying for a few months or up to a year, a little curiosity and an open mind can make your experience even more rewarding.

Still looking for temporary accommodation in the Netherlands?

Room to Rent helps international students, interns and expats find suitable furnished rooms for temporary stays.

Contact Us to learn more about available accommodation.