The Netherlands, or Holland as I know it, is a country that captures hearts with its tulip fields, canal-lined cities, and timeless charm. From Delft pottery to Dutch cheese and wooden clogs, its souvenirs reflect a perfect mix of craftsmanship, design, and good humour.
Whether you’re exploring Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or the Dutch countryside, here’s what to buy in the Netherlands to take home a piece of its laid-back magic.
1. Dutch Cheese
- Why pick this up: Cheese is a national passion in the Netherlands. From creamy Gouda to strong-aged Edam, every bite tells a story of rural tradition and Dutch expertise.
- What to look for: Gouda (young or aged), Edam, or smoked farmhouse cheese.
- Price bracket (2025): €5–€20 per wheel or wedge.
- Where to find it: Cheese markets in Alkmaar, Edam, or Amsterdam’s Cheese Museum.
2. Delft Blue Pottery (Delfts Blauw)
- Why pick this up: The blue-and-white pottery made in Delft has been a symbol of Dutch craftsmanship since the 17th century. Elegant, classic, and instantly recognisable, it’s a beautiful keepsake or gift.
- What to look for: Hand-painted vases, tiles, or miniature houses.
- Price bracket (2025): €15–€100+.
- Where to find it: Royal Delft factory or souvenir shops in Delft and Amsterdam.
3. Stroopwafels
- Why pick this up: Two thin waffles sandwiched with caramel syrup — simple, sweet perfection. Stroopwafels are the ultimate Dutch comfort snack, especially with coffee.
- What to look for: Freshly made stroopwafels or decorative tins with Dutch motifs.
- Price bracket (2025): €5–€15 per pack or tin.
- Where to find it: Local bakeries, markets, and supermarkets.
4. Wooden Clogs (Klompen)
- Why pick this up: Once everyday footwear for Dutch farmers, wooden clogs are now cheerful souvenirs — a playful nod to the Netherlands’ rural heritage. I bought my first and only pair when I was about 14!
- What to look for: Hand-painted or mini souvenir versions.
- Price bracket (2025): €10–€50.
- Where to find it: Zaanse Schans or local craft shops.
5. Tulip Bulbs
- Why pick this up: Nothing says “Netherlands” quite like tulips. Bringing home bulbs lets you plant a bit of Dutch springtime wherever you live.
- What to look for: Certified, ready-to-export bulbs in sealed packages.
- Price bracket (2025): €8–€20 for a pack of bulbs.
- Where to find it: Bloemenmarkt (Amsterdam’s floating flower market).
6. Dutch Licorice (Drop)
- Why pick this up: Dutch people adore licorice — sweet, salty, and sometimes surprisingly intense. Trying it is almost a cultural rite of passage.
- What to look for: “Zoute drop” for salty varieties, “zoete drop” for sweet ones.
- Price bracket (2025): €3–€8 per bag.
- Where to find it: Supermarkets and candy stores.
7. Canal House Miniatures
- Why pick this up: These charming ceramic replicas of Amsterdam’s narrow canal houses make delightful decorations and are easy to pack.
- What to look for: KLM house miniatures filled with Dutch gin (jenever).
- Price bracket (2025): €10–€30.
- Where to find it: Airport shops and souvenir boutiques.
8. Dutch Bicycling Accessories
- Why pick this up: Cycling is part of daily life in the Netherlands. A quirky bell, patterned saddle cover, or vintage-style light makes a practical and fun reminder of your trip.
- What to look for: Colourful designs inspired by Amsterdam’s cycling culture.
- Price bracket (2025): €10–€40.
- Where to find it: Bike shops and lifestyle stores.
9. Jenever (Dutch Gin)
- Why pick this up: The Dutch invented gin, and jenever — its malty, aromatic ancestor — remains a national favourite. It’s smoother than modern gin, perfect for sipping.
- What to look for: Oude (aged) or jonge (young) jenever.
- Price bracket (2025): €15–€40 per bottle.
- Where to find it: Liquor stores or traditional pubs (proeflokaal).
10. Dutch Design Homeware
- Why pick this up: The Netherlands is a leader in modern design — minimal, clever, and full of personality. Homeware and gifts by Dutch designers combine function with creativity.
- What to look for: Brands like Droog, HAY, or Pols Potten.
- Price bracket (2025): €20–€150.
- Where to find it: Design stores in Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
11. Windmill-Themed Souvenirs
- Why pick this up: Windmills are an enduring symbol of Dutch ingenuity. From magnets and T-shirts to small sculptures, they make classic keepsakes.
- What to look for: Handmade wooden or ceramic mini windmills.
- Price bracket (2025): €5–€25.
- Where to find it: Tourist shops and heritage sites like Kinderdijk.
12. Dutch Art Prints
- Why pick this up: The Netherlands gave the world Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. Reproductions or modern prints of their work make stylish, meaningful souvenirs.
- What to look for: High-quality museum prints or posters.
- Price bracket (2025): €15–€60.
- Where to find it: Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum gift shops.
🚲 Final Tip
For a souvenir haul that truly feels Dutch, choose Delft pottery, stroopwafels, and a wedge of Gouda cheese — a perfect blend of craftsmanship, comfort, and charm.
Let me know in the comments if you have any other top “what to buy” ideas!
About the Author
Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!

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