Currency & Payment

The currency is the euro (EUR, symbol EUR). Notes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and higher, and coins from 1 cent to 2 euros, though many shops round cash totals to the nearest 5 cents. The Netherlands is largely cashless, so cards and phones cover most needs. Keep a little cash for small vendors, markets and tips.

You rarely need to exchange much cash in the Netherlands. If you do, avoid airport bureaux with poor rates and prefer bank ATMs for euros at a fair rate. Paying by card or phone usually gives a good exchange rate too; choose to be charged in euros, not your home currency, to avoid extra fees.

Card payments are the norm, and contactless is everywhere. Dutch shops and transport rely heavily on the local debit scheme and Maestro/V Pay; note that some smaller shops and supermarkets may not take credit cards like American Express, and a few are card-only or debit-only. Carry a backup card and a little cash just in case.

ATMs (often the yellow Geldmaat machines) are widely available and give euros. Use machines attached to banks or in busy, well-lit places, and cover your PIN. Decline the machine's offer to convert to your home currency, as your own bank usually gives a better rate. Check your bank's foreign withdrawal fees before you travel.

Contactless mobile payments with Apple Pay and Google Pay work anywhere that takes contactless cards, which is almost everywhere. Locals also use iDEAL for online bank payments, but that generally needs a Dutch bank account, so visitors rely on cards and phones. Set up your phone wallet before you travel and keep a physical card as backup.

Tipping is modest and not obligatory, as service is included in prices. In restaurants it is common to round up the bill or leave about 5 to 10 percent for good service. A small tip for taxis, cafes and bars is appreciated but never expected. Tip in cash if you can, since card terminals do not always allow adding a tip.

Non-EU residents can usually reclaim VAT on eligible goods taken home unused, above a minimum purchase amount. Ask the shop for a tax-free form, then get it validated by customs when you leave the EU, and claim your refund via the operator. Keep goods, receipts and forms handy at the airport. Rules and thresholds change, so confirm current details before shopping.