You don’t need to be fluent in Dutch to feel at home in Amsterdam—but learning a few local expressions can go a long way. Whether you’re asking for directions, ordering a stroopwafel, or simply greeting a neighbor, a little Dutch adds a lot of charm to your stay.

If you’re an active adult or retiree planning a longer stay with The Good Life Abroad, these easy-to-learn phrases are perfect for making connections and getting around. And don’t worry—almost everyone in Amsterdam speaks excellent English, but locals always appreciate the effort to speak their language.

Greetings and Polite Expressions

Let’s start with the basics. These simple greetings and polite expressions help set a friendly tone in shops, cafés, and on the street.

Dining Out: Ordering Food and Drinks

Amsterdam’s café culture is legendary—whether you’re sipping coffee along a canal or enjoying a hearty stamppot (mashed potato dish) in a cozy pub. These phrases will help you dine like a local:

Bonus tip: If you’re vegetarian, ask “Is dit vegetarisch?” (Is this vegetarian?).

Shopping and Market Visits

Whether you’re visiting the Albert Cuyp Market or browsing a boutique, these expressions can help you navigate transactions and ask questions with confidence:

Navigating the City

Even with apps and maps, asking for help can be handy—especially when using public transportation or walking around Amsterdam’s many neighborhoods.

Public transit is very senior-friendly—trams and buses have low floors and priority seating.

Emergency Situations

While we hope your trip is smooth sailing, it’s smart to be prepared. These phrases help in urgent moments:

You can also show your travel card or The Good Life Abroad contact card if you need help getting back to your accommodation.

Cultural Insights: Embracing 'Gezelligheid'

No list of Dutch phrases is complete without a cultural gem: “Gezellig”. It means cozy, warm, sociable—something like “pleasant togetherness.” You might hear it at dinner, in cafés, or even during a canal cruise.

You can say:

• Het is gezellig hier! (It’s cozy here!)
• Wat een gezellige avond. (What a lovely evening.)

It’s more than a word—it’s how the Dutch live. And it's how we want you to feel while staying in Amsterdam.

Plan Your Amsterdam Adventure with The Good Life Abroad

At The Good Life Abroad, we believe language builds connection—and connection builds unforgettable experiences. Our 30-day stays in Amsterdam offer:

• Modern apartments in local neighborhoods
• A welcoming community of fellow travelers
• A community manager to help you book language classes, tours, and cultural events
• Optional Dutch phrase meetups over coffee!

Explore our Amsterdam location here →
Or Request a brochure and see what your Dutch adventure could look like.

FAQ (From People Also Ask)

Do I need to speak Dutch in Amsterdam?
No, most people speak English well. But using a few Dutch phrases makes interactions more enjoyable and appreciated.

What are the most useful Dutch phrases for tourists?
Greetings, directions, dining expressions, and polite phrases like “alstublieft” (please) and “dank u wel” (thank you) are very helpful.

Is Dutch difficult for English speakers to learn?
Dutch pronunciation can be tricky, but the vocabulary is often similar to English or German. Start small—locals are forgiving!

Can I take a beginner Dutch class in Amsterdam?
Yes, and The Good Life Abroad can help you find short-term or conversational courses during your stay.

Andrew Motiwalla

Andrew is the Founder of The Good Life Abroad and has worked in the travel industry for over 30 years. His first experience living abroad was as a Peace Corps volunteer. He is also the Founder of Discover Corps, a company specializing in meaningful vacations for families. Learn More about Andrew Motiwalla