Organize your stay Amsterdam
Money Amsterdam
Easy ! Since 2002, the euro has been the currency used in the Netherlands. It should be noted that the 1 and 2-cent coins are no longer in circulation in the Netherlands and that prices are rounded (only when paying in cash).
Budget & Tips Amsterdam
In recent years, the country has experienced inflation, particularly in the restaurant and hotel sectors. The cost of living is comparable to Paris, but hotels are more expensive than in France. Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are generally fairly inexpensive. Cheap accommodation will be around €40 per night in a hostel, an inexpensive lunch (a basic sandwich and a drink) at €15 and a reasonably priced dinner at around €30 without drinks. Cultural outings are just as expensive (if not more so) than in France. You'll need around €85 a day to enjoy the city without depriving yourself, and over €140 for a more luxurious diet. These budgets include museum visits, transport and/or bike hire and a minimum of food, and will enable you to enjoy your stay in good conditions. Officially, service is included in the price of services, but it's a good idea to leave a tip in cafés, restaurants and with cab drivers. 10% of the price is a good guideline. It would be in very bad taste to be stingy after a meal in a quality restaurant, but it's also a good idea to round off the payment for your coffee or beer. There's not much haggling in the Netherlands, and it's only at flea markets or at certain markets (stalls where prices are not indicated, never on food) that you can haggle.
All prices are inclusive of VAT. Only some hotels add a tourist tax per night. For Amsterdam, the tourist tax is 7%, and since January1, 2020 a fixed supplement of €3 per person over 16 per night has been added. This tax will rise to 12.50% on January1, 2024.
Passport and visas Amsterdam
European residents visiting the Netherlands must travel with a passport or national identity card, even if expired (less than five years ago), while Canadian residents must have a passport valid for three months beyond the intended period of stay. Please note: Belgium has indicated that it does not accept cards that have been extended for 5 years. Keep this in mind if you are stopping in Belgium on your way.
Driver's license Amsterdam
French, Belgian and Swiss driving licences are accepted during tourist stays. Some car rental companies require a permit for at least 1 year.
Health Amsterdam
No vaccinations are required, and no diseases are to be feared. Just make sure your vaccinations are up to date. The Netherlands is renowned for being a clean, healthy country with a comprehensive medical infrastructure. What's more, its proximity to France makes repatriation quick and easy.
Security Amsterdam
The Netherlands is a safe destination. Of course, it's important to use common sense and avoid taking unnecessary risks (no cameras in plain sight, no open bags so as not to draw unnecessary attention to yourself, avoid wandering around the red zone after a certain hour, etc.). In bars, cafés and restaurants, it's easy to make contacts, and the Dutch are very curious and open-minded. However, as in any other city in the world, no one is immune to a bad encounter, and you must always remain vigilant. A reminder: the THC concentration of cannabis offered in coffeeshops is much higher than in France.
Time difference Amsterdam
Amsterdam is in the same time zone as Paris. So there's no time difference.
Spoken languages Amsterdam
Dutch is the national language, but many locals speak fluent English, which makes for an easy stay.
Communication Amsterdam
Phone coverage is excellent in Amsterdam and 5G is coming despite some misinformation campaigns.
Finding a Wi-Fi connection is not a problem in Amsterdam. The airport, city center, hotels, restaurants, cafés, etc. are all equipped with it and offer it free of charge.
Electricity and measurements Amsterdam
Standards for electricity, weights and measures are identical to those in France. Sockets and voltage are also similar.
Luggage Amsterdam
Eurostar allows 2 pieces of luggage (dimensions 75 × 53 × 30) and one piece of hand luggage. There are no weight restrictions, but you must be able to carry your luggage alone. Excess baggage is subject to a €30 charge per item or refusal on board. The weather is changeable in Amsterdam, and you can experience all 4 seasons in a single day! Don't forget your windbreaker and poncho. Don't forget to apply the onion technique, so you can cover up or uncover depending on the weather. In winter, bring a hat, gloves and comfortable shoes, preferably lined.
