Europe · field briefing

Netherlands

Nederland

Netherlands uses Type C / Type F power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 112. Tap water is generally safe to drink.

Last reviewed . Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.

Power
Type C/F / 230V
Emergency
112
Tap water
Generally safe
Driving
Right side

01

Power & plugs

C F
Plug types
Type C, Type F
Voltage
230V
Frequency
50Hz

Netherlands runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.

02

Emergency numbers

General
112
Police
112
Ambulance
112

03

Travel notes

Tap water

Tap water is generally safe to drink.

Tipping

Tipping is optional. Restaurant bills usually include service, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated. Card payments are common, though some small places may prefer local debit cards.

Best season

April and May are popular for tulips and spring weather. June to September has the warmest conditions for cycling and canal trips, while shoulder months are quieter and often better value.

Visa basics

The Netherlands is in the Schengen Area. Many visitors can enter visa-free for short tourism stays, while others require a Schengen visa. Check the official Netherlands Worldwide site for rules by nationality.

04

Before you go

  • Pack a Type C/Type F plug adapter for Netherlands.
  • Netherlands runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
  • Bring a refillable bottle — tap water in Netherlands is generally safe.
  • Save the emergency number 112 in your phone before you arrive.
  • If you'll drive, remember traffic keeps to the right in Netherlands.

Questions

Frequently asked

Can I drink tap water in Netherlands?

Yes. Tap water in Netherlands is considered safe to drink.

What power plug and voltage are used in Netherlands?

Netherlands uses Type C, Type F plugs running at 230V, 50Hz. Netherlands runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.

What is the emergency number in Netherlands?

Dial 112 for general emergencies in Netherlands. Police: 112. Ambulance: 112.

When is the best time to visit Netherlands?

April and May are popular for tulips and spring weather. June to September has the warmest conditions for cycling and canal trips, while shoulder months are quieter and often better value.

Which side of the road do they drive on in Netherlands?

In Netherlands, traffic drives on the right side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the left.

What is the country calling code for Netherlands?

The international dialing code for Netherlands is +31. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a Netherlands number from abroad.

Sources

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