Netherlands
Netherlands
Welcome to the Netherlands, where bike-riding adventures, windmill explorations, and canal cruises come together to create an enchanting family destination!
This small but mighty country has perfected the art of making everyday life magical for kids (boats that serve pancakes in Amsterdam and wooden shoe painting in Zaanse Schans) while keeping parents happy with world-class art, incredible architecture, and those iconic Dutch landscapes dotted with tulips and windmills.
From counting the steps up church towers to hunting for hidden hofjes (courtyard gardens) in historic cities, the Netherlands transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary family memories. Best of all, Dutch culture is incredibly family-friendly, with excellent facilities for children everywhere and a relaxed attitude that welcomes kids in cafés, museums, and public spaces.
- Capital City: Amsterdam
- Population: 17.8 million
Welcome to the Netherlands, where bike-riding adventures, windmill explorations, and canal cruises come together to create an enchanting family destination!
This small but mighty country has perfected the art of making everyday life magical for kids (boats that serve pancakes in Amsterdam and wooden shoe painting in Zaanse Schans) while keeping parents happy with world-class art, incredible architecture, and those iconic Dutch landscapes dotted with tulips and windmills.
From counting the steps up church towers to hunting for hidden hofjes (courtyard gardens) in historic cities, the Netherlands transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary family memories. Best of all, Dutch culture is incredibly family-friendly, with excellent facilities for children everywhere and a relaxed attitude that welcomes kids in cafés, museums, and public spaces.
- Capital City: Amsterdam
- Population: 17.8 million
Main Cities
Featured Cities in the Netherlands
Culture
The Dutch national flag, known as “De Nederlandse Driekleur” (The Dutch Tricolor), consists of three horizontal bands of equal size. The top band is bright red (officially described as bright vermilion), the middle band is white, and the bottom band is cobalt blue. This red-white-blue pattern has been the official flag of the Netherlands since 1937, though its origins date back to the 16th century during the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule.
The colors originally derived from the coat of arms of Prince William of Orange, who led the independence movement. Today, the flag is a powerful symbol of Dutch national identity and can be seen throughout the country during national holidays, royal celebrations, and sporting events.
Language: Dutch
Dutch (Nederlands) is the official language of the Netherlands, though you’ll find that English is very widely spoken throughout the country, especially in Amsterdam and other major cities. The Netherlands consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for English proficiency as a second language.
Most Dutch people switch effortlessly to English when they hear you’re a visitor, but using a few Dutch phrases is always appreciated and can add to your cultural experience. Simple greetings like “Goedemorgen” (Good morning), “Dank je wel” (Thank you), and “Alstublieft” (Please) can bring smiles to local faces.
While you can easily get by with English in restaurants, shops, and attractions, learning a few Dutch words can be a fun family activity before your trip and a wonderful way to connect with this welcoming culture.
| English | Dutch | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Hallo | (HAH-low) |
| Good Morning | Goedemorgen | (KHOO-duh-MAWR-ghuh) |
| Goodbye | Dag | (dakh) |
| Thank You | Dank je wel | (dahnk ew vehl) |
| Please | Alstublieft | (AHLST-ew-bleeft) |
| Yes | Ja | (yah) |
| No | No | (NO) |
| 1 – One | Een | (AYN) |
| 2 – Two | Twee | (TWAY) |
| 3 – Three | Drie | (DREE) |
| 4 – Four | Vier | (FEE-er) |
| 5 – Five | Vijf | (FAYF) |