Summer Free Time on a Budget Netherlands

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your free time, especially if you're working abroad. In the Netherlands, there are plenty of low-cost or even free activities ideal for relaxing weekends after a busy week. If you're working through DB Work, you already have many essentials covered from the start - accommodation, transport, and job stability. Let’s explore how you can make the most of your summer in the Netherlands!

Free or Low-Cost Sports Activities

Staying active is a great way to unwind and stay healthy. In the Netherlands, you can access a variety of sports activities without stretching your budget:

• Running and cycling: The Netherlands is famous for its cycling infrastructure. You can use bike lanes both for commuting and outdoor workouts. Parks like Vondelpark (Amsterdam), Zuiderpark (The Hague), or Kralingse Bos (Rotterdam) are great for jogging and completely free.
• Public sports fields: Many cities have free-access football, basketball, or volleyball courts. Check your local city hall’s website or platforms like buurtsportcoach.nl for details.
• Outdoor pools: In summer, some public swimming pools offer discounted entry especially on hot days. A great example: Zwembad De Papiermolen in Groningen.
   

Fishing in the Netherlands: Peaceful and Popular

For those who enjoy quiet, relaxing activities, fishing is a great way to spend your time in the Netherlands.

• Fishing license required: You’ll need a VISpas, which costs around €35/year.
• Great fishing spots:
  • Ijsselmeer – the largest lake in the Netherlands, perfect for pike and carp.
  • Local rivers such as Rijn, Maas, or Waal.
  • Urban canals – nearly every city has canals where fishing is permitted.
• Useful info: Check out visplanner.nl to see where and what you can fish, plus local rules.
   

Social & Relaxing Activities

The Dutch love social life and nature. There are plenty of ways to relax and socialize without spending too much:

• Park barbecues: In places like Westerpark (Amsterdam) or Zuiderpark (The Hague), public barbecues are allowed in designated areas. A great idea for a hangout with colleagues.
• Free or low-cost events:
  • Rotterdam Unlimited - multicultural music & dance festival (July, free entry).
  • Parkpop in The Hague - one of Europe’s largest free festivals (June).
  • Braderie - local street markets with live music and affordable food.
• Museums & attractions on a budget:
  • Nederlands Openluchtmuseum (Arnhem)
  • Open Monumentendag - historic buildings open to the public
  • Zaanse Schans - a traditional windmill village with free entry.
• Walks & nature escapes:
  • Dutch beaches like Scheveningen or Zandvoort - perfect for a day off
  • National parks and forests: Hoge Veluwe, Amsterdamse Bos, Veluwezoom
    
     

Conclusion

In the Netherlands, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your free time without spending a fortune. All it takes is curiosity, good planning, and the willingness to explore what’s around you. Dutch culture values a healthy work-life balance, so don’t forget to take time for yourself. Whether you’re hanging out in a park, discovering new places, or simply relaxing, recharging is key to staying productive and motivated.

Looking for a secure job in the Netherlands with a full benefits package in the naval, industrial, logistics, or construction sectors?
 👉 Check out our latest job opportunities in the Netherlands or send your CV to job@dbwork.com.