Learn how to read and write the date and time in the Netherlands. Essential tips for tourists visiting the Netherlands, from train schedules to event tickets.
How to Write the Date and Time in the Netherlands
When traveling in the Netherlands, knowing how to read and write dates and times is very useful. From buying train tickets to booking museum visits, understanding the Dutch format helps you avoid confusion and enjoy your trip without stress.
The Netherlands uses the format of day, month and year. For example, 02/05 implies the 2nd of May. This is different than the United States whereas 02/05 implies the 5th of February.
Why It’s Important to Know the Dutch Date and Time Format
- Train and bus schedules use the Dutch format.
- Event tickets and reservations are often written in DD-MM-YYYY.
- It helps avoid misunderstandings, especially for American visitors used to MM-DD-YYYY.
The Dutch Date Format Explained
In the Netherlands, the date format is written as Day – Month – Year (DD-MM-YYYY).
Examples:
- 5 May 2025 → 05-05-2025
- 27 April 2025 → 27-04-2025 (King’s Day)
Abbreviations are common in daily life, such as “5 augustus” for the 5th of August.
How the Dutch Write and Tell the Time
The Dutch mainly use the 24-hour clock, especially in schedules, reservations, and tickets. For example:
- 13:00 = 1:00 PM
- 21:30 = 9:30 PM
In casual speech, Dutch people may still use the 12-hour clock. Be careful with expressions like “half acht” which means 7:30, not 8:30. This is not the same as the usage in the English language, so please check to be sure.
Did you know the language in terms of half hours in different in the Dutch language? 15:30 would be ‘half past three’ in English, whereas in Dutch its ‘half four’.
Examples You’ll Encounter as a Tourist
- Train schedules (NS boards and apps)
- Museum opening hours
- Event tickets (festivals, concerts)
- Restaurant reservations
Quick Guide – Dutch Dates and Times at a Glance
| English | Dutch Format |
|---|---|
| December 25, 2025 | 25-12-2025 |
| 7:45 PM | 19:45 |
Related Cultural Tips
- Dutch people are punctual – being on time is important.
- Most official appointments use the 24-hour clock.
- Public holidays, like King’s Day (27th of April), are always noted in DD-MM-YYYY.
Final Tips for Visitors
- Always double-check event dates to avoid confusion.
- When unsure, ask locals or staff for clarification.
- Use handy apps like the NS app (Dutch Railway) or 9292 for public transport schedules.
Related articles
Now that you know how to read Dutch dates and times, planning your trip becomes much easier. Don’t forget to check out our guides on:
Did you know the language in terms of half hours in different in the Dutch language? 15:30 would be ‘half past three’ in English, whereas in Dutch its ‘half four’.
