Parking in the Netherlands: where it's most expensive and how to save money on your trip

Parking in the Netherlands can cost up to €140 per day. Find out which cities have the highest prices, where you can park for free, and how to save money on your road trip through Europe

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Parking in the Netherlands can be a significant expense even for experienced travelers. The cost of parking in different cities across the country ranges from a few euros to hundreds per day. According to a study by Weflycheap, published by autovisie.nl, the highest rates are found in large cities, primarily Amsterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague.

Where can you park for free?

Despite the general trend toward high prices, street parking remains free in more than half of the municipalities in the Netherlands. In particular, drivers can leave their cars without paying in 188 of 342 municipalities. However, in densely populated regions such as the Randstad (which includes Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht), prices are among the highest in Europe.

The most expensive cities for parking

Amsterdam is the absolute leader in terms of parking costs. The daily rate here is €139.64, making it the most expensive city in the country. In addition, the capital is the only place where you have to pay not only during the day but also at night.

Other cities are not far behind in terms of prices:

● Haarlem — €87.50 per day;

● Rotterdam — €86.52;

● Hilversum — €82.00;

● Utrecht — €70.58.

However, for short-term parking, Utrecht tops the ranking with the highest hourly rate of €7.84. For comparison, in Geldermalsen, you only need to pay €0.60 per hour of parking.

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Where is the cheapest place to leave your car

Oldenzaal is recognized as the cheapest city for daily parking — only €4.40. Interestingly, for this price, you can not only leave your car here, but also plan an alternative trip: take the train to Amsterdam, return, and even have lunch in the capital for a total cost of around €70. The only downside is that such a trip will take more than four hours.

Why parking is so expensive?

The main reason for the high rates is the limited number of spaces and the desire of local authorities to encourage the transition to public transport. Amsterdam, in particular, is actively reducing the number of parking areas in the city center, while developing bicycle infrastructure and the Park & Ride system.

Some municipalities, such as Tilburg, offer only a day pass instead of hourly rates. In this city, drivers pay a fixed amount of €25, regardless of the duration of parking.

How to save money when traveling by car

For those planning a road trip through the Netherlands or other European countries, it is worth planning your route in advance and checking parking rates in each city. Some municipalities offer cheaper rates in the suburbs or special parking lots with transfers to public transport.

Also, don't forget that Ukrainians need international “Green Card” insurance to travel abroad in their own car. You can quickly apply for it online on the Visit Ukraine portal, choosing the optimal term and cost. This document is mandatory for crossing the border and guarantees protection in the event of an accident outside Ukraine.

We remind you! Temporary protection for Ukrainians in the Netherlands has been extended until March 2027. At the same time, the government is preparing a number of changes that will primarily affect social assistance and housing. Read how to apply for temporary protection in the Netherlands and what rights it guarantees Ukrainians in 2025.

Photo: alex shutyuk / livejournal

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