Amsterdam Dress Code

Generally, smart casual is recommended for all forms of social engagement in Amsterdam as even the more expensive restaurants in the city tend to be without a formal dress code and will admit the casually attired without any fuss. For business, however, both men and women are expected to wear suits.

Greeting Someone in Amsterdam

As a general rule, the accepted form of greeting is the handshake. In business, the Dutch tend to expect you to address them by their titles and last names, unless they invite you to do otherwise. Outside business, people are less formal and usually address each other by their first names.

Amsterdam Business Hours and Banking

As with all major cities, Amsterdam's business hours vary from one industry and sector to another but in general, most office environments operate between 09:00 and 17:30, Monday to Friday. The majority of banks are open between 09:00 and 16:00, Monday to Friday. Some of the larger banks will probably also be open on Saturday mornings.

Amsterdam Smoking

The Dutch are proud of their country and its progressive ideas and legislation. For centuries, Amsterdam has provided refuge for persecuted minorities, and tolerance is a national characteristic. Therefore, unlike many other cities in Europe, smoking is prevalent in Amsterdam with very few non-smoking areas, even in cafes and restaurants.