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?
Canadian Embassy in the Netherlands
Do I Need Vaccines for the Netherlands?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for the Netherlands. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for the Netherlands: hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, 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 travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for certain travellers based on destination, activities and length of stay. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers 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 travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for certain travellers based on destination, activities and length of stay. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers 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.
- 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 travellers’ 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?
Travellers 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 Canadian Travel and Tourism
If you are visiting more than one European country, be sure to makes sure your passport meets all relevant validity requirements.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit 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 15 to 20 degrees, and in the winter months, it hovers around 0 to 10 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 20 to 25 degrees, and in the winter months, it hovers around 0 to 5. 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 travelling 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 travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ 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 travelling during winter months.
- Sunscreen and Hat – If travelling during summer months.
Canadian Embassy in the Netherlands
If you find yourself in need of help while travelling in Netherlands, there is a Canadian Embassy at The Hague.
Embassy of Canada to the Netherlands
Sophialaan 7
2514 JP The Hague
The Netherlands
Telephone: 31 (0) 70 311-1600
If you have any questions about travelling 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
“The first thing I noticed when I walked into the office was that it was a very clean and tidy space, beautifully decorated, and very different from the atmosphere of regular clinics. The person who advised me was extremely friendly and knowledgeable. She took time to explain each of the recommendations for the Netherlands in detail and was to the point. Overall, a very pleasant experience.”
“Very good experience. The nurse was extremely thorough and knowledgeable about the Netherlands.”
“Such a professional and efficient service. The staff is very knowledgeable and you are not rushed out of your appt. Highly recommended.”
“Had a good experience at the Toronto clinic. I didn’t feel like they pushed unnecessary products on us at all and they were very knowledgeable about everything I’d want or need for the Netherlands.”
US – English
CA – English
UK – English
Rest of World – English
