Cards vs cash
Netherlands is nearly cashless. Everything from trams to hot dog stands takes contactless cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay. Bring a card with no foreign transaction fee — Wise, Revolut and most fintechs work perfectly. Cash is accepted but often refused for amounts under $5. ATMs (Geldmaat) charge no fee but your home bank might. Withdraw $200 at a time and keep some on hand for markets and tips.
Tipping
Not expected but appreciated. Restaurants: round up or add 5-10% for good service — most Dutch tip $2-5 on a $40 meal. Cafes and bars: leave your change. Taxis: round up to the next dollar. Hotel porters: $2 per bag. Tour guides: $5-10 per person for a free walking tour. Service charge is never automatically added — the menu price is what you pay.
What things cost
Coffee $3.80. Beer at a bar $6, at a supermarket $1.20. Herring from a street stand $4. Lunch at a cafe $12-18. Dinner mid-range $25-40 for a main. Tram ride $3.60. Museum entry $18-25. Canal boat tour $22. Hostel dorm bed $32-45. Mid-range hotel $150-220. Taxi from Schiphol to center $55. Rental bike $15/day.
Questions answered
Do I need cash in Amsterdam?
Barely. Card works everywhere. Keep $50 for markets, small snacks and tips.
Is tipping mandatory?
No. Service is included in menu prices. 5-10% extra is a genuine thanks, not an obligation.
Are foreign cards accepted everywhere?
Visa, Mastercard and contactless yes. American Express is patchier — many small cafes don’t take it.
How expensive is Amsterdam versus other European capitals?
About 15% cheaper than London, 10% cheaper than Paris, 20% more expensive than Berlin. Similar to Copenhagen.
Every stay booked through Stay Noord-Holland funds one verified tonne of carbon removal — same room, same price, the climate action already built into checkout.
You're not charged more and the hotel isn't paid less. It's just what happens when you tap Reserve.