Sage-Tips

Do you need cash in the Netherlands?

Nonetheless, cash remains legal tender and a trusted means of payment in the Netherlands. You will notice, however, that you can’t pay by cash everywhere. Government bodies and such like often only accept card payments, as this is more secure and cheaper.

Is Amsterdam cash only?

In Amsterdam, however, 7\% of shops are pin only, as are 11\% of bars, cafes and restaurants. The city’s public transport system is also cash free. The use of cards to make payments outstripped cash in the Netherlands in 2017.

How do you pay for things in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is still a cash society. However, these days you can pay almost everywhere with debit cards that use the Maestro, Cirrus or Plus system. You do need your PIN code for that. Credit cards (VISA and MasterCard) are accepted in many restaurants and hotels, but many shops, cafés, museums etc.

Can I use my debit card in Amsterdam?

Yes, you can use your debit card in Amsterdam and everywhere else in the Netherlands. Normally, debit cards have no problem being accepted, however, there are some places were VISA Electron is not accepted. The most commonly accepted cards are Maestro, VISA and MasterCard.

Is the Netherlands cashless?

Interestingly, the Netherlands is the leading European country for cashless smartwatch payments, which account for over 33\% of total smartwatch transactions in Europe.

Will my credit card work in Amsterdam?

The best advice is still to get a four-digit number from your bank. Credit cards are not as commonly accepted in Amsterdam as they are in the U.S. and Britain. Many restaurants and shops in the city — and some hotels — don’t accept them at all. Some establishments tag on a 5\% charge for card payment.

Do places in Amsterdam take cash?

Most accept credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard, as well as cash cards that access the Cirrus and Plus networks. In the city centre and at the airport, ATMs often have queues or run out of cash on weekends.

Is it better to use cash or card in Amsterdam?

Money and currency Credit cards are widely accepted too, though in some small shops or hotels, there might an extra charge (2-6\%) if you pay by a credit card, passport may be required. Generally, the most preferred payment method is Euro cash with the banknotes up to 50 Euro bill.

Is Netherlands cashless?

Which country is cash free?

Sweden
In 2023, Sweden is proudly becoming the first cashless nation in the world, with an economy that goes 100 percent digital.

Should I bring cash or ATM cards to Amsterdam?

Many travelers prefer to bring cash rather than — or in addition to — using ATM cards. With rare exceptions, banks in Amsterdam will not change your money unless you have an account there. Instead you obtain euros at a ‘money exchange’ — also known as ‘bureau de change’ or ‘currency exchange’ ( Geldwisselkantoor in Dutch).

How much spending money do I need in Amsterdam?

The amount of spending money you will need in Amsterdam will depend on how much you want to see and do while in Amsterdam. If you are planning on visiting many of the main attractions you will need to allocate a bigger budget than someone who has no interest in these.

What is the best cash machine to use in Amsterdam?

The latter always result in higher charges through added fees and/or the use of disadvantageous exchange rates. Generally it is best to only use machines operated by ABNAmro, ING, or Rabobank. Not all cards issued by foreign banks work in all cash machines in Amsterdam.

Can I change money at Schiphol Airport Amsterdam?

If you have to change money at Schiphol Airport Amsterdam, you’re better off at ABN AMRO than at GWK Travelex. Using your debit card at the ABN AMRO’s ATM is even better — but see below how much more money you can get in downtown Amsterdam