Whether you’re visiting the Netherlands on vacation or live in the country permanently, it’s a good idea to use a VPN while connected to the internet. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) will let you securely access sites that are otherwise unavailable in the Netherlands. For example, if you want to enjoy shows from your US Netflix library while vacationing in Holland, a VPN will give you access.
Plus, our recommended VPNs have servers in Holland. That means that can give you a Dutch IP address allowing you to watch Dutch content while abroad – such as shows on NPO, Ziggo Go, or KIJK. As an added bonus, VPNs also give you increased security and improved privacy. It encrypts your website traffic so ISPs and third parties are unable to track your online activities.
We go into lots of detail on each of the providers we have chosen further down. But in case you’re short on time, here’s a summary of our list.
Best VPNs for the Netherlands:
- NordVPN: Our top choice VPN for the Netherlands. Excellent value for money. Over 200 servers in the Netherlands. A strict no-logs policy with outstanding privacy and security features. Plus a 30-day money-back policy.
- Surfshark: Best budget VPN for Holland. Easy to use. Superb apps for all platforms. Robust security features. Allows unlimited connections. Works with Netflix.
- ExpressVPN: Multiple servers in the Netherlands. Unblocks most geo-restricted sites and services. Solid privacy and security features.
- CyberGhost: Servers are great for streaming and downloading at good speeds. Great value and easy to use. Over 300 servers in the Netherlands.
- IPVanish: Great for Kodi users and folks who need the highest standard of privacy. Apps for all platforms. Unblocks most streamings sites.
- PrivateVPN: Newer service with an expanding network. Gaining popularity for its excellent unblocking capabilities and fantastic speeds.
- AtlasVPN: Reasonably priced. Fast speeds and capable of protecting multiple devices. Strong choice for Holland.
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The best VPNs for Holland: at a glance
We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for the Netherlands.
No value | NordVPN | Surfshark | ExpressVPN | CyberGhost | IPVanish | PrivateVPN |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Website | NordVPN.com | Surfshark.com | ExpressVPN.com | Cyberghost.com | IPVanish.com | PrivateVPN.com | Ranking for Netherlands: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | Avg Speed (Europe) | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 100+ Mbps | 41 Mbps | Total number of servers | 5,700+ | 3,200 | Undisclosed | 9,300 | 2,200+ | 200+ | Devices Supported | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Amazon Fire TV | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Linux, Smart TVs, Routers | Windows, MacOS, Linux (command line), iOS, Android, Smart TVs Routers | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android | Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire TV | Simultaneous Connections | 6 | Unlimited | 5 | 7 | Unlimited | 10 |
Best deal (per month) | $3.19 SAVE 61% + 3 month FREE | $2.30 Get 2 Months FREE with a 2-year plan | $6.67 SAVE: 49% on the annual plan | $2.19 SAVE 82% on the 2 year plan + 2 months FREE | $3.33 SAVE 72% on the 2 year plan | $2.00 SAVE 85% on the three year plan |
Best VPNs for the Netherlands
Not all VPN providers are created equal, and some services are simply a waste of money. To help you get a reliable service, we put together this list of quality VPNs for the Netherlands based on the following criteria:
- Operates servers in the Netherlands – the more, the better, plus a wide global network
- Provides fast and reliable connections
- Can securely access streaming services inside and outside of the Netherlands
- Provides strong encryption and other security features
- Knowledgeable customer support
Of course, this is just an overview, but you can find our full VPN testing methodology later in the article. For now, let’s take a look at the ones that made the list.
Here’s a list of the best VPNs for Holland:
1. NordVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.NordVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
NordVPN is our top choice VPN for the Netherlands. With a network of over 5,500 servers in more than 60 countries, the Panama-based company has over 200 servers in the Netherlands, so you’ll have no shortage of options both inside and outside of the country. NordVPN is ideal for streaming and is known for its speed and ability to provide secure access to geo-blocked content and sites like US Netflix, HBO, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer. This allows you to stream shows from your home library while traveling.
This provider has a large focus on privacy, including having a strict zero-logs policy. It keeps absolutely no logs, not even bandwidth data. This is backed by strong security, including 256-bit encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch.
A selling feature of NordVPN is that some servers are optimized for specific purposes, such as video streaming and anti-DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service). With a basic package, you can connect up to six devices simultaneously, which is a notch better than the industry standard.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Pros:
- Operates 200+ servers in the Netherlands
- Strong security and encryption features
- Strict no-logs policy ideal for privacy-conscious users
- 24/7 live chat support on offer
- Able to simultaneously connect 6 devices at once
- Apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux and Android
Cons:
- Occasional slow server
Our score:
BEST VPN FOR NETHERLANDS:NordVPN is the top choice. With a large range of servers in the Netherlands, this is a good all-rounder option that unblocks most geo-restricted streaming sites. Great privacy and security credentials. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of NordVPN.
2. Surfshark
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Surfshark.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Surfshark is our favorite budget VPN. This provider is based in the British Virgin Islands, a location that is strong in terms of privacy. It has only been around since 2018 but has quickly risen to be a consumer favorite.
It has apps for all platforms that are packed with advanced security features. This includes a kill switch, obfuscation, DNS leak protection, AES encryption (OpenVPN protocol), and built-in adblocking and malware protection. Plus, this VPN includes a SOCKS5 proxy and a free Smart DNS service with every subscription.
The service provides WireGuard connection in all of its apps, which makes this VPN extremely fast. This makes it ideal for HD streaming, torrenting, gaming, and other data-intensive tasks. Servers are located in 100+ countries, and this includes fast servers in Holland, which make accessing a Dutch IP address simple from abroad.
Pros:
- Works with Netflix Netherlands, US, and UK, allowing you to watch your home library while abroad.
- Offers live 24/7 chat support
- Superfast servers globally, including Holland
- Apps for all platforms
- Privacy-conscious provider
Cons:
- Some servers are slightly slower than others
Our score:
GREAT VALUE VPN FOR HOLLAND:Surfshark is an incredible all-rounder. Perfect for families thanks to its unlimited connection allowance. Ideal for streaming Dutch TV platforms abroad. Works with Netflix, iPlayer, Hulu, and more. Robust encryption. Wireguard protocol. Built-in malware protection. 30-day money-back policy.
Read our full Surfshark review.
3. ExpressVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.ExpressVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
ExpressVPN is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands and operates a large network of 3,000+ servers in over 94 countries. This includes several Netherlands locations in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague.
ExpressVPN provides an extremely fast service, with all servers being optimized for speed. As such, you can typically stream HD content with no issues and should have no problem downloading large files. It works well with popular streaming sites such as Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Netflix, allowing you to watch content from your home libraries while traveling abroad
When it comes to security and privacy, ExpressVPN has your back. Its zero-logs policy means that it will not track any of your browsing activity. While some VPNs store connection logs that can be traced to individual users, this is not a concern with ExpressVPN as it doesn’t log any IP addresses.
This provider uses 256-bit AES encryption, which is considered as good as it gets, along with perfect forward secrecy. It also provides a kill switch in case the VPN connection drops unexpectedly, as well as DNS leak protection.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, and some Wi-Fi routers.
Pros:
- Fast servers in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague
- High speeds for downloading and video streaming
- Great encryption, security, and privacy features
- Strict no-logs policy
- Support is 24/7, and staff are well trained
Cons:
- Power users may find the advanced options limited
- It’s expensive compared to some other VPNs
Our score:
RELIABLE VPN FOR THE NETHERLANDS:ExpressVPN is a great choice. Secure access to most streaming services like Netflix and iPlayer. Great speeds for buffer-free HD viewing. Total security and privacy. Includes a no-quibbles 30-day money-back guarantee, so you’ll receive a full refund if unsatisfied.
Read our full review of ExpressVPN.
4. CyberGhost
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.Cyberghost.com
Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS
CyberGhost is a Romania-based provider that gives users access to a growing network of servers. You can choose from more than 9,000 in 90+ countries, including over 300 in the Netherlands. More than enough to ensure you can always find one suited to your needs.
CyberGhost is another provider that’s great for those looking to stream. Whether you want to securely access your home Netflix library, Amazon Prime, Hulu, or BBC iPlayer, you can select your option within CyberGhost’s intuitive app. Based on your selection, you’ll be connected to the appropriate server to suit your needs.
As with the other VPNs on this list, CyberGhost doesn’t disappoint on the security front. It provides 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. Privacy-conscious users will be pleased, too, as there are no user activity logs maintained and no connection logs that can be tied to an individual. A CyberGhost plan enables you to connect up to five simultaneous devices.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Pros:
- Operates over 300 servers in the Netherlands
- Unlocks a host of geo-blocked content abroad
- Some of the fastest streaming servers we’ve tested
- Apps are great for beginners
- Seven devices’ simultaneous connection allowance
Cons:
- Not suitable for those that need control of advanced features
- Doesn’t work in China
Our score:
275+ SERVERS IN HOLLAND:CyberGhost is great for beginners. Easy to use. Good on privacy. Streams HD video reliably. Has a vast global server network as well as plenty to choose from in the Netherlands. 45-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of CyberGhost.
5. IPVanish
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.IPVanish.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
IPVanish is based in the US and is another large provider with more than 2,000 servers in over 50+ countries and 75+ locations, including more than 65 servers in Amsterdam. This VPN works really well with Kodi and is very popular among users, as well as torrenters. However, if you’re looking to stream Prime or Hulu, you might have to look elsewhere. Although IPVanish might offer access to other geo-blocked content outside of those sites.
IPVanish certainly measures up when it comes to privacy and security. This provider has a strict no-logs policy and keeps no online traffic or connection logs. It uses 256-bit AES encryption and perfect forward secrecy. And for extra protection, you have DNS leak protection and a kill switch. A basic IPVanish plan will enable you to connect every device you own simultaneously.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Pros:
- Operates over 65 fast servers in Amsterdam
- Best performer for Android-based Kodi devices in our testing
- Keeps no traffic logs or connection logs
- Speeds are great for HD streaming on most servers
Cons:
- Doesn’t work in China
- Based in the US – a 5 Eyes member
Our score:
UNLIMITED DEVICES:IPVanish has a large network of servers. Great for families and multiple connections. Works well with Kodi and is popular with torrenters. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full review of IPVanish.
6. PrivateVPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
Website: www.PrivateVPN.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
PrivateVPN is based in Sweden and is the newest provider on our list. While it does operate a smaller network of servers than the others, it still has plenty to offer. One of the biggest selling features of PrivateVPN is its fast speed. This makes it ideal for streaming, and it works with Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and more. What’s more, it works with Netflix Netherlands, so you can access your home library while abroad.
PrivateVPN holds true to its name by maintaining a strict no-logging policy. And even though it’s new, this provider has entered the market with a strong security suite to back its service. Encryption is 128-bit or 256-bit, depending on which protocol you’re using. You also have perfect forward secrecy, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. Plans allow for up to 10 devices to be connected simultaneously.
Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Pros:
- Operates two fast servers in Amsterdam, great for streaming while abroad
- They log no personally identifiable information on their users
- Faster than many other providers
Cons:
- Fewer servers to choose from than other providers higher on this list
- Live chat is not quite 24/7
Our score:
GREAT SPEEDS:PrivateVPN is a solid all-rounder. Works to access major streaming sites. Good for browsing and torrenting. Could do with having more servers and lacks 24/7 support. 30-day money-back policy.
Read our full review of PrivateVPN.
7. Atlas VPN
Apps Available:
- PC
- Mac
- IOS
- Android
- Linux
- FireTV
Website: www.atlasvpn.com
Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS
Atlas VPN is a newer VPN provider that has quickly established a global server network. Its servers cover dozens of locations, including the Netherlands. It also happens to be one of the fastest VPNs on the market. Our tests revealed an average speed of 247 Mbps, making it ideal for streaming and online gaming. Speaking of streaming, Atlas VPN works with Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and more, allowing you to stream your home libraries while traveling.
Whether you’ve got lots of devices to secure or you’re planning on sharing with family, you’ll appreciate Atlas VPN’s unlimited simultaneous connection allowance. You’ll benefit from security features, including 256-bit AES encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch. What’s more, MultiHop servers are available, as is an ad and malware blocker. Atlas VPN also doesn’t keep any identifying logs of its users.
Atlas VPN provides apps for Windows, Mac, Android, Linux, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and Android TV. However, it doesn’t provide support for wireless routers as yet.
Pros:
- Fast speeds for streaming without lag
- Works with the likes of Netflix and Amazon Prime Video
- Connect all of your devices at the same time
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer browser extensions
- Missing some useful features like split tunneling
- No support for wireless routers or Linux
Our score:
UNLIMITED CONNECTIONS:Atlas VPN offers excellent speed for streaming without lag or buffering. Lets you connect as many devices as you like under a single account. MultiHop servers for extra security. 30-day money-back guarantee.
Read our full Atlas VPN review.
Finding the best VPNs for the Netherlands: Methodology
There are hundreds of VPNs on the market, and they are not all suitable for gaining robust online privacy and security. To ensure we only recommend the very best VPNs for the Netherlands, our reviewers personally test each VPN we recommend. Below we have included a list of the important features we checked for when testing the VPNs for this list.
- A trustworthy no-logs policy. A reliable VPN will never track or log what you do online while connected to its servers. This guarantees that the VPN does not have data laying around that could later be harvested by government snoops with a warrant.
- Robust encryption. A VPN is only ever as secure as the encryption that powers its tunneling protocol. We check under the hood to see how the VPN implements the encryption in their chosen VPN protocol and only recommend VPNs that can completely prevent your data from being intercepted.
- Advanced VPN features. For a VPN to offer value for money, it should have plenty of reliable privacy and security features that make it both useful and versatile. We check for DNS leak protection, a kill switch, obfuscation, and other features such as split tunneling, port forwarding, and a SOCKS5 proxy.
- A fast global server network. Having plenty of servers to choose from ensures that you can always access services and content from around the world. Our recommendations not only have plenty of servers worldwide but also many servers in each location to prevent congestion.
- A money-back guarantee. Market-leading VPNs are confident about the service they provide, and they want you to be able to try their service. That is why they have a money-back guarantee to let you test the service and get a refund if you aren’t satisfied.
Want to know more? check out our detailed VPN testing methodology.
Using a free VPN in the Netherlands
Although there are plenty of free VPN services available, they typically just don’t measure up. This can be down to a host of reasons depending on the provider.
A limited network of servers and long wait times are common occurrences with free services and will likely be off-putting for many users. You may also find issues with speed and reliability, and small data caps can hamper attempts to download large files.
Although, the practical downsides certainly don’t represent the worst of things. Other problems arise because companies adopt an unethical business model that jeopardizes the privacy and security of users. Notable issues include some providers enabling tracking cookies, logging user activity, and even carrying malware.
Our recommendation is to avoid the risks and the hassle by paying for a reputable VPN service.
How to use a VPN for the Netherlands
Using a VPN to gain online privacy, security, and added accessibility is easy. Simply follow the steps below to set up your VPN and you’ll be browsing and streaming securely in no time.
Here’s how to set up a VPN for the Netherlands:
- Pick a VPN for the Netherlands. We particularly recommend NordVPN.
- Click the link to the VPN’s website and subscribe.
- Download the VPN software, taking care to choose the correct version for your devices.
- Install the VPN and log in using your credentials.
- Choose a server from the list – taking care to pick one for the country you require. For example, choose a server from the US to watch US Netflix from abroad. Or, if you are outside Holland, choose a Dutch server to gain a Dutch IP address and access your home services from abroad.
- Connect to your chosen site, you should now be able to access restricted content!
- If you’re struggling to access the sites, try clearing your cookies and your browser cache, as these can store location information from previous sessions. if this doesn’t work, contact your VPN’c customer support team for more help.
Privacy laws in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is generally known for its internet freedom and strong privacy laws. The Dutch Data Protection Authority (DPA) took Microsoft to court over data processing that breached the Dutch data protection law. The use of a VPN is completely legal in the country, and, in fact, several VPNs are actually based in the Netherlands, including GOOSE VPN, proXPN, and Shade You.
On the other hand, this is a 14 Eyes country, which means it is part of an international surveillance alliance, including some European countries as well as the US, Canada, and Australia.
Plus, recently, the Dutch Senate approved a controversial new data mining law. This gives governments a much wider reach when accessing information, reportedly enabling intelligence services to tap into Wi-Fi hotspots and chat apps and hack into your device if someone you know is a suspect in a crime.
The EU Data Retention Directive was implemented in the Netherlands through the Telecommunications Data Retention Act until it was invalidated in 2014. This law required ISPs to collect user traffic and location data and store it for 12 months. Revision of the data retention laws in the country are ongoing and will likely change again thanks to the implementation of the GDPR.
The resulting potential lack of privacy in the Netherlands, from these factors, could be a good reason to use a VPN while visiting or living in the country.
Best VPNs for the Netherlands (Holland): FAQs
Are VPNs legal in the Netherlands?
VPNs are legal in most countries, and this includes the Netherlands. This means you can use a VPN without having to worry about legal repercussions. However, it’s important to keep in mind that any illegal activities conducted with a VPN (such as torrenting copyrighted material) are still illegal. But, as long as you’re staying within the confines of the law, you won’t have any trouble.
Is torrenting legal in the Netherlands (Holland)?
Torrenting copyrighted material without first obtaining permission is illegal in the Netherlands, as is downloading pirated media. Specifically, The Pirate Bay was banned back in 2013, but the ban was lifted a year later. However, a similar ban was reinstated by the European Supreme Court in 2017.
Dutch anti-piracy group BREIN took down more than 230 piracy sites in the first half of 2017 alone. What’s more, towards the end of last year, it was announced that hefty fines would be introduced as a further preventive measure. And even more recently, the Netherlands’ privacy watchdog, Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens (AP), gave film production company Dutch Filmworks permission to collect the IP addresses of illegal downloaders.
With legal alternatives becoming more prevalent, the number of people looking to illegally torrent has decreased. Although, for those who want to access restricted sites, it could be done with the use of a VPN.
Comparitech does not condone or encourage any violation of copyright restrictions. Please consider the law, victims, and risks of piracy before downloading copyrighted material without permission.
How do I use a VPN to access my home Netflix library while in the Netherlands?
A VPN masks your IP address and replaces it with one from a server in a country of your choice. This enables you to securely access content only available in that country. So, if you’re in the Netherlands and want to access your US Netflix library, you’ll need to select a US server when connecting to your VPN.
Netflix has made efforts to crack down on VPN use to access its content, so you may end up seeing a proxy error. Some providers are simply unable to get around this, but others, including those we’ve reported working with Netflix above, should be able to direct you to a server that will work.
How do I choose the fastest server?
If you’re simply using the internet for activities that aren’t location-specific such as general browsing, you likely don’t want a VPN to slow you down. Generally speaking, connecting to a server close to your geographic location should get you the fastest speeds.
Although, there are other factors at play, including each server’s current level of use. Some providers will be able to show you which is the fastest server for your current location or at least let you know which ones are carrying the least burden at a given time.
Should I use a VPN when connecting to public wifi?
Using public wifi networks can expose you to hackers wanting to steal your personal information. They often set up fake wifi hotspots and intercept traffic running through the network. Thankfully, when using a VPN, all of your traffic is automatically encrypted and can’t be exposed.
Some of the providers we’ve mentioned above offer automatic wifi protection. But it’s always worth double-checking your settings and that you are, in fact, connected to your VPN before joining a hotspot. What’s more, following a few additional best practices for using public wifi will help you steer clear of any other issues.
Which VPNs have Dutch servers?
Here’s the good news for anyone in the Netherlands: most consumer VPNs (including NordVPN, Surfshark, and ExpressVPN) have at least one Dutch server. In other words, you won’t have to rely on servers on the other side of the continent and can simply use whichever is closest to minimize latency as much as possible. Equally, you can use these providers to gain a Dutch IP address from outside the country.
A few providers, like NordVPN, also offer double-hop servers hosted in the Netherlands that pass your data through two layers of encryption. There is obviously a speed tradeoff here, but if you’re looking for a little extra security, it’s a small price to pay.
Will a VPN let me watch Dutch TV from abroad?
Most Dutch streaming services (including KIJK, Viaplay, and NPO) are regionally restricted. This means that they’re normally inaccessible from other countries since they check your IP address to make sure you’re actually in the Netherlands.
When you connect to a VPN, however, all of your data is routed through a server in a second location. This changes your IP address, making it seem like you are wherever your chosen server is. Using this method, you should be able to stream Dutch TV from anywhere in the world, so long as your VPN isn’t detected by the streaming service you’re trying to use.
Do I need a VPN for the Netherlands?
Using a VPN is always a good idea for added online security and anonymity. Despite the Netherlands having a relatively free internet landscape, its data protection laws can change, so it’s a good idea to get used to using extra protection. VPNs are also a good idea if you’re going to be torrenting or using public wifi networks. Plus, they can help you access restricted international content and open up a greater choice of streaming libraries and online content.