Do You Tip in the Netherlands?

Do you tip in the Netherlands?

Tipping in the Netherlands is not obligatory, because service is already included in the prices at restaurants, cafes, and bars, and staff earn a regular wage. That said, it is common and appreciated to show gratitude for good service by rounding up the bill or leaving a modest tip of around 5 to 10 percent at restaurants. For smaller purchases and cafes, simply rounding up to a convenient amount is normal. Tipping in cash is preferred, handed directly or left on the table, since adding it to a card is less customary. There is no obligation, so tip only for service you appreciated.

What currency is used in the Netherlands?

The currency in the Netherlands is the euro, symbol EUR, used across most of the European Union. Cards, including contactless payments, are very widely accepted throughout the country, so you rarely need much cash, though carrying a little for small purchases and markets is handy. ATMs are plentiful for withdrawing euros. As with any card use abroad, choosing to pay in euros rather than your home currency avoids poor conversion rates, and using a card with no foreign transaction fees keeps costs down. The Netherlands is a largely cashless society, so a card is your main payment method.

What power plugs are used in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands uses type C and type F electrical plugs, the two round-pin styles standard across much of continental Europe, and the supply is 230 volts at 50 hertz. Travelers from countries with different sockets, such as the United States or the United Kingdom, will need a plug adapter to fit Dutch outlets. Just as important is voltage: since the Netherlands runs on 230 volts, check that your devices are dual voltage, marked something like 100 to 240 volts, which most phone and laptop chargers are, or you will also need a voltage converter for single-voltage items.

Can you drink the tap water in the Netherlands?

The tap water in the Netherlands is safe to drink and is of excellent quality, being among the best and most strictly monitored in the world. You can confidently drink from the tap, fill a reusable bottle, and use tap water for brushing your teeth and preparing food and drinks everywhere in the country. Buying bottled water is unnecessary and, given the high quality of Dutch tap water, an avoidable expense and source of plastic waste. Restaurants may serve tap water on request. Enjoying the tap water freely is both safe and environmentally friendly throughout the Netherlands.