Are you thinking of studying in the Netherlands? Or do you simply want to know why the small but legendary Dutch nation is so special?Learning some fun facts about the Netherlands won't just make you adore the nation even more—perhaps even motivate you to study in the Netherlands or book that next vacation!From windmills to cultural curiosities, learn 30 fun facts about the Netherlands for students that you won't find in your textbooks.
1. It’s the Netherlands, Not Holland
Quite possibly the most widespread of all misconceptions regarding the Netherlands is that the country is officially called Holland.
The Netherlands is split into 12 provinces, yet two of them, North Holland and South Holland, form the region that has been historically known as Holland.
2. Most Densely Populated Country in Europe
Even within a comparatively restricted region, over 17 million people live in an overall area of only 41,543 square kilometers.
With a population of 430 per square kilometer, most of the population resides in urban regions, foremost among them the Randstad conurbation, comprising the cities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht.
3. A Nation Below Sea Level
The Netherlands, or so-called the lowest country in Europe, has approximately 26% of its land beneath the water level, including Schiphol Airport, at 4 metres below sea level.
Fun fact for students: Want to be an engineering or environmental studies student? Dutch water management is a masterclass in sustainability!
4. Tulips Are an Icon, But They’re Not Native
The tulip may be a symbol of the Netherlands, but it actually hails from Turkey. Tulip mania swept through the country in the 17th century, turning flowers into highly prized commodities.
The Netherlands exports 80% of the world’s flower bulbs, with spring bringing vibrant tulip fields.
Spring semester abroad? Add Keukenhof Gardens to your must-visit list.
5. The Dutch Are the Happiest People
According to the 2024 World Happiness Report, the Netherlands ranks as the fifth happiest country in the world!
Factors like social trust, support systems, and quality healthcare contribute to this ranking.
6. Amsterdam is The Origin of The First Stock Market
Calling all business students! The world’s first stock market and financial trading system were established in Amsterdam in 1602 to fund the Dutch East India Company.
This laid the foundation for modern global finance and commerce. Today, the Netherlands remains an influential player in global economics.
7. Dutch Innovation is Everywhere Around You
The Dutch have a reputation for being innovators and inventors. The country invented many everyday essentials, such as the microscope, CDs, DVDs, and even Bluetooth technology.
For students in STEM fields, the Netherlands offers an amazing platform for cutting-edge research and learning.
8. Biking is a Way of Life in the Netherlands
There are more bicycles than people in the Netherlands (22 million bikes for a population of 17 million).
If you’re studying here, a secondhand bike will be your best investment for commuting and exploring the countryside.
9. The Dutch Healthy Diet
Health-conscious students will be happy to know that the Netherlands ranks in the top globally in the Oxfam Food Index for having nutritious, affordable, and plentiful food.
Although Dutch snacks like bitterballen and stroopwafels are tempting, the country’s focus on vegetables and healthy eating keeps them among the healthiest nations.
10. The Best English-Speaking Non-Native Country
Worried about learning Dutch before studying here? 90-93% of residents in the Netherlands speak English fluently, making it easy for international students to adapt.
11. A Multicultural Society
The Netherlands has a diverse population, with 4.9 million citizens born outside the country.
This means you'll find a mix of cultures, flavors, and festivals, particularly in cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
12. The Dutch Are the Tallest People in the World
Fun fact for those walking the streets of Amsterdam or Utrecht for the first time: the Dutch are officially the tallest nation on Earth, with an average height of 175.6 cm (5'7").
13. It’s Windmill Central
The Netherlands boasts over 1,000 windmills, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites! These iconic structures are key to Dutch heritage and were once used for draining water and grinding grain.
Looking for a study break? Plan a visit to Kinderdijk, home to some of the most famous windmills in the world.
14. Clogs and Cheese Galore
Wooden clogs may be tourist souvenirs now, but they reflect Dutch craftsmanship. Meanwhile, cheeses like Gouda and Edam attract foodies globally.
If you're studying in a rural area or a city like Alkmaar, don’t miss the local cheese markets!
15. Orange Is the National Color
Why is orange everywhere in the Netherlands when the flag is red, white, and blue?
The Dutch monarchy’s roots lie in the House of Orange, celebrated nationwide. On King’s Day (April 27), the country turns orange with parades and street markets, and even their sports teams wear orange!
16. The Dutch Turned Carrots Orange
Speaking of orange, did you know the Dutch played a role in giving carrots their iconic color? Back in the 17th century, Dutch farmers cultivated orange carrots as a tribute to William of Orange.
Before that, carrots were more commonly purple, yellow, or white.
17. A Bold Step Towards Sustainability
The Netherlands is in charge of adopting eco-friendly policies. By 2030, the Dutch government plans to ban the sale of new gas and diesel cars, making electric vehicles the norm.
18. The World’s Most Connected Airport
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the most connected airport in Europe, offering 4,861 direct flights weekly to 332 destinations!
With 104 airlines operating here, it’s the perfect hub for exploring Europe or flying back home during university breaks.
19. The Dutch Love Licorice...a Lot
On average, the Dutch eat over 4 pounds (around 1.8 kilograms) of licorice annually. Visit a Dutch supermarket, and you’ll see rows upon rows of “drop,” ranging from sweet to salty.
20. King’s Day Was Once Queen’s Day
King’s Day wasn’t always on April 27. Before 2013, it was Queen’s Day, celebrated on April 30 for Queen Beatrix’s mother’s birthday. Beatrix kept the spring date instead of moving it to her cold January birthday.
21. The Netherlands Is Built on Stilts
Ever wondered how the Dutch build on soft, swampy ground? The answer is stilts!
Most buildings in the western part of the country are supported by long concrete or wooden poles driven deep into the earth. Even the Royal Palace of Amsterdam sits on 13,659 wooden piles!
22. Thank the Dutch for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Innovation is in the Dutch DNA! Both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth were invented by brilliant Dutch engineers. Victor Hayes is considered the "Father of Wi-Fi," while Jaap Haartsen worked on the technology that gave us Bluetooth.
23. Keukenhof Is the World’s Largest Flower Garden
Keukenhof, also known as "The Garden of Europe," is a 79-acre floral paradise with approximately 7 million bulbs planted annually.
Located just outside Amsterdam, this famous park bursts into color every spring with stunning displays of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
24. Amsterdam Outdoes Venice in Canals
Amsterdam has 165 canals and 1,281 bridges, making it even more "canal-rich" than Venice!
The canals form a unique urban structure in the historic city center, which UNESCO recognizes as a World Heritage Site.
25. Work Shapes Dutch Work-Life Harmony
Nearly half of the workforce works part-time, with an impressive 75% of women embracing flexible schedules to prioritize personal well-being.
For international students, this focus on balance offers a refreshing perspective on how to combine career ambitions with a fulfilling personal life.
26. The Dutch Created Gin
Did you know the Netherlands gave the world the first gin? “Jenever” was invented in the 16th century and later gained fame in England, thanks to British soldiers during the Thirty Years’ War.
27. Narrow Houses, Big Stories
Back in the day, property taxes were based on the width of a house’s façade.
To save on taxes, residents built homes that were tall and narrow, yet impressively functional. Take Singel 7, for instance—it’s a mere 3.5 feet wide, proving that small spaces can hold big stories.
28. The Netherlands’ First King in 123 Years
For over a century, the Dutch monarchy was led by queens. That changed in 2013 when King Willem-Alexander took the throne, becoming the country’s first king in 123 years.
This milestone reflects the Netherlands’ rich traditions while opening a new chapter of leadership for the modern era.
29. Six Million Souvenir Clogs Produced Every Year
Few things are as iconically Dutch as wooden clogs. Originally designed for medieval laborers, these sturdy, waterproof shoes, known as klompen, were perfect for tough work. Today, they’ve become a popular souvenir, with around six million produced annually.
30. International Students Love the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a hub for international education, offering the highest number of English-taught programs in continental Europe.
With its welcoming atmosphere and world-class education, the Netherlands is a top choice for students worldwide.
Why the Netherlands Is an Amazing Destination for Students
The Netherlands is a country of endless curiosity and charm. International students here don’t just receive a top-tier education but also become part of a vibrant, forward-thinking society.
If you’re considering studying in the Netherlands, here's your next step. Research universities, explore programs, and prepare for an adventure filled with learning, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Curious about more details or need help? Get in touch with our expert advisors to guide you to your Netherlands academic journey.
