Currency in Netherlands
What Currency Does Netherlands Use Now
The Netherlands officially uses the Euro (€) as its legal tender. This has been the case since 2002 when the country became one of the 12 original members to adopt the Euro, leaving its old currency, the Dutch Guilder, behind. The Euro is used by most countries within the European Union, making it easier for travelers to manage their money across borders. It's advisable to have some Euros with you when you arrive, especially if you're landing late at night or planning to eat and travel outside the main cities where card use might be less common.
Credit and Debit Cards in Netherlands
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in The Netherlands, especially in most restaurants, hotels, and stores. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, although American Express is accepted in some places too. Maestro cards are also popular and are often used by locals for their daily transactions.
However, it's important to note that some small shops, markets, or cafés may only accept Dutch debit cards, known as "PIN" cards. These are typically not places that tourists usually visit but is something to be aware of.
Also, not all businesses accept credit cards, particularly in rural or less tourist-frequented areas. If you plan to venture off the beaten path, ensure to have access to enough cash to cover your expenses just in case.
It’s advisable to set up a travel notification with your bank before you go on your trip. This prevents your card from being blocked due to suspicious foreign transactions.
Using Cash in Netherlands
Even with the wide acceptance of debit and credit cards, cash remains crucial in the Netherlands and it pays to have some on you. Cash is essential for small purchases at locales such as farmers markets, small retailers and village stores. It's also useful for tipping, although service charges are usually included in Dutch restaurant bills. However, cash is becoming less dominant in urban areas, where non-cash payments are becoming increasingly popular.
ATMs in Netherlands
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are abundant in the Netherlands. They're commonly found at or near banks, in shopping centers, and around popular tourist areas. They're known locally as geldautomaat and can be identified by the logo of a bank or the sign of an ATM. Be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for withdrawals, particularly those not affiliated with a bank.
Word of caution, though: as with any popular destination, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings when using an ATM. It’s also worth checking with your home bank about additional overseas charges so you're not caught by surprise when you return home.
Bank Hours
Bank hours in the Netherlands are typically Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some banks are open on Saturday mornings but most are closed on Sundays. However, very few banks have reduced hours or remain closed throughout the day.
As with many other aspects of life, the Netherlands has a modern, efficient banking system with a strong penchant for electronic banking. This means you can usually manage your banking online or via a smartphone app, 24/7.
In conclusion, when preparing to travel to the Netherlands, it's important to consider your financial needs. Knowing what currency is used, how widely cards are accepted, and where to find cash will make your journey much smoother and enjoyable.
