I always try to learn a few local phrases when I visit a new country. It’s fun, and it makes the trip feel more special since I get to connect a bit more with the place and its people. You don’t really need to learn Dutch in Amsterdam — nearly everyone speaks English and will probably switch as soon as they hear your accent.
But where’s the fun in that?
Even just trying a few basic Dutch words can make your trip more memorable — and who knows, you might get a smile from a local or maybe even a free stroopwafel. (No promises, but hey, a girl can dream!)
If you’re keen to give it a try, here are 12 easy Dutch phrases to get you started.
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12 Basic Dutch Phrases for Tourists to Try in Amsterdam
Just like in English, Dutch has different words and phrases for formal and informal situations. I’ve included both versions for most of the phrases below.
But honestly, as a tourist, you don’t need to overthink it. I usually stick to the casual ones myself, and no one’s going to expect you to get it perfect or be super formal! You are on vacay, after all! So, just have fun with it—locals will still appreciate the effort!
Hallo / Hoi
- Hello / Hi
Super simple and arguably the easiest way to break the ice in just about any situation. If you want to sound a bit more casual, use “Hoi“. It basically the Dutch equivalent of “hey!”
Dank je / Dank u wel
- Thank you / Thank you very much
A little gratitude goes a long way! You can use “dank je wel” or even just “dank je” in casual everyday situations to say thanks. But if you want to sound a little more formal or be more respectful, use “dank u wel.”
Alsjeblieft / Alstublieft
- Please / Here you go
If there’s one Dutch word that’s completely confused my fiancé, it’s this one! But just think of it as meaning two things, “please” and “here you go.”
If you look closely, you’ll also notice a small difference in spelling between alsjeblieft and alstublieft. But don’t stress—alsjeblieft is the casual version you’d use with friends, and alstublieft is more formal.
Mag ik de rekening, alsjeblieft?
- May I have the bill, please?
Unless you’re planning to do the dishes, this is your go-to phrase!
Jokes aside, one thing we’ve noticed is that in the Netherlands, it’s not always standard for the bill to arrive after you’ve finished eating—even if you’ve said you’re all set. At some places, they almost expect you to ask for it.
That said, it’s not a hard rule. Just last week, I was having a coffee at a canalside café in De Wallen, and the waiter brought the bill with my order. So it can really vary, but it’s good to just be aware of it!
Waar is het toilet?
- Where is the toilet?
This one is a must-know, especially after a few drinks! Just a heads up: most public toilets charge a small fee, so make sure you have a few coins (or a contactless card) ready!
I’ll be honest, though—finding a bathroom in Amsterdam isn’t always easy! Train stations are usually your safest bet, but some cafés and restaurants might let you use theirs—even if you’re not a customer. Just know that you’ll probably have to pay a small fee (usually around EUR 1).
If you don’t like to winging things, a good idea is to download the HogeNood app. It shows you the nearest public toilet based on your location.
Een biertje, alsjeblieft.
- A beer, please
You’re in the land of Heineken, so this phrase is your ticket to ordering one! But there are actually loads of other beers to try. If you’re feeling a little fancy, ask for a “speciaalbiertje”—that’s Dutch for craft beer.
Hoeveel kost dit?
- How much does this cost?
Perfect for shopping, especially when justifying another pair of wooden clogs you totally don’t need.
Spreekt u Engels?
- Do you speak English?
Most likely, they do! But saying it in Dutch shows you’re making an effort. Don’t worry; they’ll probably switch to English once they hear your accent anyway.
Ik begrijp het niet.
- I don’t understand.
Unless you’ve got a sign on your forehead that says “tourist,” chances are people will think you’re Dutch and start speaking to you. It’s happened to me plenty of times, and let me tell you — it can throw you off guard! I speak Afrikaans, so I can pick up a few words here and there, but not everyone has that luxury. If you’re totally lost, just say “Ik begrijp het niet” to let them know.
Lekker!
- Tasty! / Delicious!
I can almost guarantee you’ll want to use this when you’re trying all those iconic Dutch treats like stroopwafels, “friet” (fries), or “poffertjes” (mini pancakes).
Just a heads up, the Dutch “r” sound can take a little getting used to—it’s nothing like the English one so you might need to practice a bit!
Tot ziens! / Doei!
- Goodbye! / Bye!
This one is pretty straightforward, so I’m not going to get into it. But basically “tot ziens” is a little more formal, while “doei” is for the casual goodbyes.
Fijne dag!
- Have a nice day!
This is of my favorite phrases to say! It’s such a cute (and polite) way to end a conversation, whether you’re leaving a café or thanking someone for their help.
Would you try any of these phrases on your trip? Pronouncing the ‘g‘ and ‘r‘ might be a bit of a challenge, but it’s still good fun to try! Let me know in the comments which phrase you’re most excited to try!
Very good information ! Thank You
Thanks Mori, glad you found it useful!