Renting a camper van in the Netherlands is a perfect way to explore this fascinating country. The Netherlands seamlessly combines history and modernity with its beautiful old buildings and tradition of sea trade existing alongside cutting-edge innovations in architecture, technology, and design, all found in the lively, exciting cities. Balance out the urban sightseeing with some time spent in nature. Let yourself be blown away by the iconic tulip fields in spring, and discover the incredible countryside, from the forest of Veluwe to the stunning Zeeland coastland. Visit megalithic tombs in Hunebedden and the wetlands of Biesbosch, or explore the rolling hills in the Limburg Region. For a more authentic experience, bring bicycles, or rent them for the duration of your trip, and enjoy the nearly 23,000 miles of mostly flat bike paths throughout towns, cities, and the countryside.
The Netherlands’ mix of historic cities, scenic canals, and coastal landscapes makes it a unique country to explore by RV or camper van. Cycle through the tulip fields of Keukenhof, visit the windmills of Kinderdijk, or follow the North Sea coast for wide beaches and dunes. Unlimited mileage lets you explore freely, and with a second driver included, sharing the drive is simple. With 24/7 roadside assistance, flexible cancellation, and camping gear already included, your Dutch road trip is smooth from start to finish.
Drive on the right-hand side of the road in the Netherlands. This means you should only pass on the left, except when a passing tram, which can be passed on the right.
Drive clockwise around roundabouts. Vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way.
Speed limits in the Netherlands are given in kilometers per hour. National speed limits are 130 km/h (80 mph) on highways with a minimum speed of 60 km/h (37 mph). Major roads speed limits are 100 km/h (62 mph), regional roads are 80 km/h (50 mph), and 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas.
Speed limit signs have the speed limit on a white background with a red circular border, while a sign in greyscale with black lines across means that the speed limit has returned to the national speed limit for that road. Square blue speed signs show the recommended speed for safety in an area where there may be hazards.
Speed limits may vary on highways, so pay attention to the electronic speed limit signs that show the mandatory speed limit.
Trams and bicycles have priority over other traffic, so watch out for them at junctions. There are bike lanes on almost all roads that you are not allowed to drive in.
In most cities in the Netherlands, there are rules and restrictions on where you can drive, and the roads and parking aren’t friendly to larger camper vans or Class B/C RVs. In this case, it’s best to use the Park & Ride facilities, the excellent public transit system, or cycle into the center.
Camping in Netherlands
Wild or Dispersed Camping – Prohibited in the Netherlands. While some people do it, it is at their own risk: if caught, you may be fined and asked to move on, no matter what time of the night it is.
Public Campgrounds – These have great facilities including bathrooms, laundry, WiFi, potable water, and electricity hookups. Some of these are grand affairs with playgrounds and swimming pools, while others are small countryside campgrounds where the main attraction is the fresh air and green surroundings.
Independent Campsites – Check out roadsurfer spots for recommendations of beautiful and quiet campsites.
Aires Overnight Parking – The Netherlands has overnight parking for camper vans and Class B/C RVs called Aires. They usually don’t have any facilities, which is important to keep in mind if your camper does not have a toilet, but they tend to be cheaper than campgrounds (or even free!). Many are situated in marinas right next to the water. Aires are not reservable which may be a problem if you’re traveling during peak tourist season and need to guarantee a space in a particular area.
Popular events & festivals in Netherlands
Amsterdam Light Festival, December and January, Amsterdam – Artists from around the world come to Amsterdam with creations of light, which are displayed throughout the city. Numerous walking tours provide a route around the art. This is one best seen at night!
Bloemencorso (Flower Parade), April, Noordwijk to Haarlem – This four-day festival has parade floats decorated with flowers in surprising forms. These floats travel for four days from Noordwijk to Haarlem to celebrate spring, and the spectacle is worth seeing at least once in your life.
Koningsdag (King’s Day), April 27th, whole country – Live bands provide the soundscape to this lively spring festival celebrating the King’s birthday, where you’ll find street parties, parades, and colorful boats traversing the Amsterdam canals. There are big celebrations in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht, while smaller towns and cities celebrate in a more peaceful manner.
Rotterdam Summer Carnival, July, Rotterdam – In one of the largest carnivals of Europe celebrating Latin American culture, the streets of Rotterdam come alive to drumbeats, brass bands, and dancers. Parades and outdoor stages showcase incredible musical talent, as well as an epic food market!
National Restaurant Week, September, Amsterdam – This foodie festival sees Amsterdam’s best restaurants charge minimal prices for their exquisite food, allowing people who may not normally be able to afford a place to experience top-tier dining.
Amsterdam Dance Event, October, Amsterdam – ADE is the biggest dance and electronic music festival event in the world, and the capital’s streets pound to the beat of electronic, turning the city into one giant club.
