Travel Vaccines and Advice for the Netherlands
Known for its windmills, clogs, and talented artists, the Netherlands remains a tourist staple.
If you’re looking to be on the move, be sure to invest in a bicycle. It is the cheapest and quickest way to get around the Netherlands. The majority of Dutch citizens do not own an automobile.
Amsterdam has incredible architecture, gorgeous canals, and museums like that of Vincent van Gogh. The city is known as “The Venice of the North” due to the canals that traverse the city. It has one of the largest historic centers in Europe, with streets that have remained unchanged since the 1800’s.
The country is also famous for its beautiful, flat countryside. The area is populated with windmills and tulips and other authentically Dutch things. Rent a bike, grab a Dutch phrasebook and plan a trip out into the tulip fields.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for the Netherlands?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the Netherlands
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Netherlands?
What Is the Climate Like in the Netherlands?
How Safe Is the Netherlands?
Art Museums in the Netherlands
What Should I Take to the Netherlands?
U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands
Do I Need Vaccines for the Netherlands?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for the Netherlands. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the Netherlands: hepatitis A, polio, tick-borne encephalitis, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Tick-borne Encephalitis –
Ticks –
Limited cases since 2016 throughout the country. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for certain travelers based on destination, activities and length of stay. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for the Netherlands |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | Ticks | Limited cases since 2016 throughout the country. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for certain travelers based on destination, activities and length of stay. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for the Netherlands |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus, typically spreading through contaminated food or water, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, and jaundice. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective shot that provides immunity against the virus, usually given in two doses.
- Tick-borne Encephalitis – Tick-borne encephalitis, a viral disease, can be prevented by wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and receiving the tick-borne encephalitis vaccine. Vaccination plays a crucial role in defending against this potentially severe illness.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral infection, spreads through the saliva of infected animals via bites or scratches. Timely vaccination is crucial to prevent the disease in humans. Pre-exposure vaccination is recommended for high-risk individuals, while post-exposure prophylaxis is essential after potential exposure.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B, caused by the hepatitis B virus, spreads through infected bodily fluids. While safe practices can reduce the risk, vaccination is the most reliable defense. The hepatitis B vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, ensuring robust and long-lasting protection against this liver disease.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious viral infections, causing various symptoms and complications. To prevent them, vaccination is key. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, safeguards against all three diseases and helps establish herd immunity, reducing the risk of outbreaks.
Make sure you are up-to-date on your routine immunizations. Some European countries have had outbreaks of infections like measles and mumps in the past few years. Vaccination will keep you protected if such an outbreak occurs.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in the Netherlands
Prevent Bug Bites in the Netherlands
Shield yourself from bug bites with proper attire and EPA-approved repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Safeguard your sleep area with bed nets and screens. In case of bug bites, clean the area, resist scratching, and utilize over-the-counter solutions while seeking professional assistance for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in the Netherlands
Safeguard your health during international travels by eating fully cooked, hot meals, at reliable dining establishments. To minimize the chances of travelers’ diarrhea, follow these precautions: choose safe foods, avoid untreated water, practice frequent hand-washing, consider probiotics, and exercise caution when indulging in unfamiliar cuisines.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for the Netherlands?
Travelers to the Netherlands only need a valid passport for stays under 90-days. This is true for the majority of Western Europe.
Netherlands Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Netherlands? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Netherlands and U.S. State Department
If you are visiting more than one European country, be sure to makes sure your passport meets all relevant validity requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands has many popular tourist destinations, each with its own type of weather. Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht have similar climates with mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in the summer months is around 65 to 70 degrees, and in the winter months, it hovers around 35 to 45 degrees. Rainfall is common throughout the year, but the summer months tend to be the driest.
Maastricht has a different climate from the other cities. It has a moderate continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature in the summer months is around 70 to 75 degrees, and in the winter months, it hovers around 30 to 40. Rainfall is common throughout the year, but the summer months tend to be the wettest.
Before you travel, it’s a good idea to check the local weather forecast to make sure you bring the right clothes.
How Safe Is the Netherlands?
If you’re traveling to the Netherlands, it’s important to stay safe. Here are some tips to help you do that:
- Pay attention to where you are and avoid dark or isolated places.
- Keep your valuables safe and use a money belt or other secure storage option.
- Only use licensed taxis with blue license plates and a taxi light on top.
- Be careful when crossing bike paths and streets because bikes are very common in the Netherlands.
- Don’t get involved in drug-related activities.
- Follow COVID-19 guidelines, such as wearing a mask when required.
- Stay informed about the latest news and travel advisories for the Netherlands.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your trip to the Netherlands and stay safe.
Art Museums in the Netherlands
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
Netherlands has produced some of the world’s most famous painters, including Rembrandt and vanGogh. The country saw a period of great prosperity in the late Renaissance. It was during this time that many of the country’s most recognizable works were created. While many of the famous pieces created by Dutch artists hang on walls across the world.
Consider visiting the Museum Quarter in Amsterdam. Here you will be in walking distance of the Rijksmuseum, the vanGogh museum, and the Stedelijk museum. If you have a particular inclination towards drawings, be sure to stop by the Museum Boijmans in Rotterdam. At this museum, you can see early drawings from some of the most recognizable names in art.
What Should I Take to the Netherlands?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to the Netherlands:
- Good Walking Shoes – You will most likely be doing quite a bit of walking or biking. These are the most popular modes of transportation in the Netherlands.
- Rain jacket – It can get pretty wet in the Netherlands. Be sure to pack a rain jacket or windbreaker, especially if visiting in fall months.
- Backpack – An essential item, especially if you are considering hiking.
- Heavy Jacket – If traveling during winter months.
- Sunscreen and Hat – If traveling during summer months.
U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands
The U.S. embassy in the Netherlands offers help to Americans who are traveling there. They can help with things like getting a new passport, helping if there is an emergency, and giving information on how to travel and live in the Netherlands.
If you find yourself in need of help while traveling in Netherlands, there is a U.S. embassy at The Hague.
U.S. Embassy The Hague
John Adams Park 1
2244 BZ Wassenaar
Telephone: +(31) (0) 70 310 2209
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +31 (0) 70 310 2209
Fax: +(31) (0) 70 310 2207
Overall, the U.S. embassy is a good resource for Americans who are traveling to the Netherlands.
If you have any questions about traveling to the Netherlands or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for the Netherlands
Overall rating: 5 stars – 7 reviews
★★★★★
“Information & Immunization Visit“
“My experience with Passport Health was very helpful and educational. I received the immunization I needed and the prescriptions required for my travel to the Netherlands. I also got some useful information regarding how to dress and stay healthy while there.”
Submitted by: Dorothy
★★★★★
“Good advice, documents, and equipment“
“I appreciated the good direct advice for my travel to the Netherlands, and substantial up-to-date documentation and supplies/medicine provided.”
Submitted by: David
★★★★★
“Good Experience“
“Passport Health was able to take me with a last minute request before I headed out to the Netherlands the very next day. I arrived at my appointment on time and was taken in immediately. The nurse there clearly explained what was needed, was kind and considerate, and I was on my way shortly thereafter.”
Submitted by: Jeff
★★★★★
“Easy and comprehensive“
“I used Passport Health to get vaccinations before a trip to the Netherlands. The staff researched what I needed and made intelligent recommendations. I found the attention to detail excellent. Lots of good advice. And followup appointment for multi-part vaccinations were easy to schedule to ensure protection.”
Submitted by: Anne
★★★★★
“Great service“
“It has been so easy to get the shots needed for my trip to the Netherlands. Easy to schedule, easy to get in and out.”
Submitted by: Moira
★★★★★
“Great Help!“
“I had a great experience with Passport Health. I was well informed about my immunization vaccines and felt comfortable enough to ask further questions, which were all thoroughly answered. Lastly, I really appreciated their efforts into putting a nice little booklet for me that included all relative information I will need for my trip to the Netherlands.”
Submitted by: Karin
★★★★★
“Wonderful Service“
“Getting my first round of shots for my upcoming trip to the Netherlands was an incredibly positive experience.”
Submitted by: Jonathan
“My experience with Passport Health was very helpful and educational. I received the immunization I needed and the prescriptions required for my travel to the Netherlands. I also got some useful information regarding how to dress and stay healthy while there.”
“I appreciated the good direct advice for my travel to the Netherlands, and substantial up-to-date documentation and supplies/medicine provided.”
“Passport Health was able to take me with a last minute request before I headed out to the Netherlands the very next day. I arrived at my appointment on time and was taken in immediately. The nurse there clearly explained what was needed, was kind and considerate, and I was on my way shortly thereafter.”
“I used Passport Health to get vaccinations before a trip to the Netherlands. The staff researched what I needed and made intelligent recommendations. I found the attention to detail excellent. Lots of good advice. And followup appointment for multi-part vaccinations were easy to schedule to ensure protection.”
“It has been so easy to get the shots needed for my trip to the Netherlands. Easy to schedule, easy to get in and out.”
“I had a great experience with Passport Health. I was well informed about my immunization vaccines and felt comfortable enough to ask further questions, which were all thoroughly answered. Lastly, I really appreciated their efforts into putting a nice little booklet for me that included all relative information I will need for my trip to the Netherlands.”
“Getting my first round of shots for my upcoming trip to the Netherlands was an incredibly positive experience.”
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