Is Netherlands cashless?
Go cashless#6 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #6 of 45 in Europe
Short answer: Leave the cash at home. If you need some, use a yellow Geldmaat ATM.
Card and phone payments are the norm, and many places are card only. Note that some supermarkets historically only accepted Maestro/V Pay, though Visa and Mastercard are now widely supported.
Will my card work?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Netherlands, and contactless is common.
Do I need cash?
Rarely. You can get by in Netherlands with a card or phone almost everywhere.
Local currency: Euro (EUR)
How does tipping work?
Service is included. Round up or add 5-10% for good service.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Getting cash: ATMs
Fee-free ATMs are easy to find
Geldmaat, the shared ATM network of ABN AMRO, ING and Rabobank, has replaced most bank ATMs and is reported not to charge foreign cards. Private ATMs in tourist areas can charge.
Fee-free options
- Geldmaat (reported free)
Your own bank may charge extra. When an ATM offers to convert to your home currency, decline and pay in the local currency.
Good to know
- You can tap in and out on public transport with a contactless card.
Frequently asked questions
Is Netherlands cashless?
Netherlands scores 92/100 on Cashlessy (go cashless), ranking #6 of 197 countries. Card and phone payments are the norm, and many places are card only. Note that some supermarkets historically only accepted Maestro/V Pay, though Visa and Mastercard are now widely supported.
Do I need cash in Netherlands?
Rarely. You can get by in Netherlands with a card or phone almost everywhere.
Are credit cards accepted in Netherlands?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Netherlands, and contactless is common.
Do you tip in Netherlands?
Service is included. Round up or add 5-10% for good service.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Netherlands?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in Netherlands.
Which ATMs are free in Netherlands?
Geldmaat, the shared ATM network of ABN AMRO, ING and Rabobank, has replaced most bank ATMs and is reported not to charge foreign cards. Private ATMs in tourist areas can charge. Best options: Geldmaat (reported free).
Compare with Europe
Sources
Checked against sources in September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.