Regional variations

The Randstad and beyond the Randstad are the two main geographic and cultural divisions of the Netherlands. The largest cities of the nation, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague (Den Haag), and Utrecht, are all included in the Randstad. As a result, the inhabitants tend to have more liberal attitudes, and the culture is clearly urban. On the other hand, outsiders are typically perceived as being more traditional.

You could discover that religion has a bigger impact on daily life outside of the Randstad. While the majority of the Netherlands is Protestant, the historic Catholic districts are found in the south and east. For instance, if you reside in Limburg, you might celebrate Carnaval in February or March. On the other hand, businesses may be shuttered and Sunday activity discouraged in rural Protestant communities.