ATMs

If you have a foreign bank pass with a Cirrus logo you can get money from an Automatic Teller Machine (ATM). Some ATMs of the ABN AMRO bank also accept passes with the PLUS logo. Also check your pass and the ATM for EDC, EC and Maestro logos. Of course, you can also use most credit cards to obtain money from an ATM. Even the smallest villages offer many ATMs, which are usually open 24 hours per day.

Banking hours

Business hours differ between banks. Most banks are open from Tuesday to Friday between 9 am and 4 pm. On Mondays businesss hours start mainly at 1 pm. On Saturdays and Sundays banks are generally closed. GWK Travelex offices can be found in the large cities and are open 7 days a week.

Credit cards

All major credit cards are accepted widely, but not everywhere. If in doubt, ask in advance. Cash-on-card services are available from selected American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and VisaCard addresses. These cards are also accepted by all GWK currency exchange outlets and Change Express Offices.

Currency

Holland is one of the fifteen (2008) Euro countries. Although each country gives out its own Euro coins, all coins and bills are valid in all Euro countries. There are eight coins (1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 Euro cents, 1 and 2 Euro) and seven bills (5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Euros). Some countries and stores no longer use the 1 and 2 euro cents coins. Most stores don't accept the 200 and 500 Euro bills. 

Tipping

In The Netherlands, Value Added Tax and service charges are included in your check in hotels, restaurants, shops and taxis. Tips for extra service are always appreciated but not necessary. It is customary to give taxi drivers and waiters a tip of about 10 percent. Many public restrooms have an attendant who are usually tipped EUR 0,50.

Traveller cheques

It is handy to take some cash with you for the first few days in Holland. Traveller’s checks are a safe alternative to cash and are handy if you do not have a credit card.