The Kingdom of the Netherlands, often not quite correctly referred to as Holland, is the most populous country in Europe. There are practically no hills and strong elevation changes, and therefore the roads in the Netherlands are the leader in the density of highways in all of Europe.
Quantity and quality
Although the relief of the state is predominantly flat, there is still a certain difficulty in the construction of roads. It is associated with a large number of rivers passing here. However, this did not prevent the creation of a grandiose and dense network of excellent tracks. It is the Netherlands that has the highest density of expressways. They run throughout the country, from one end to the other; there is even a high-speed ring road that encircles Amsterdam. True, the maximum permitted speed even on such highways is only 130 km / h.
The quality of the roads, especially the main ones, is at the highest level. Impeccably smooth asphalt and the absence of any potholes and holes are typical for any, even minor roads of the country.
While the main roads have several lanes and multi-level interchanges, then rural roads away from large cities and popular tourist routes usually have one lane in each direction. At the same time, they can be both separated by green spaces or fences, and there they can be reversible.
A pleasant moment for any traveler is the absence of tolls, even for tolls on expressways.
Traffic features on the roads of the Netherlands
Although the population density in this country is one of the highest, the local population is unevenly settled. Therefore, the traffic on different roads is very different. On small passages in rural areas, there will be few cars, but on the highway at the entrance to a large city, you can get stuck in a serious traffic jam.
In general, in large cities, such as Amsterdam or The Hague, you should not travel by private car. It is much more convenient to leave the car in an intercepting parking lot far from the center and then explore local sights on your own. Moreover, it is almost impossible to find a free parking space in the central parts of large cities, and it will cost a lot.
A car owner who arrives in the Netherlands should remember the following features of local traffic:
- The most popular way of getting around here is by bicycle. And cyclists, as well as pedestrians, always have priority. Therefore, you should be very careful not to miss a cyclist who suddenly left in front of you.
- Compliance with traffic rules here must be strict, any violation is punishable by a fine, which cannot be avoided.
- Drivers in the Netherlands are distinguished by extreme politeness and friendliness; aggressive driving style is not held in high esteem here. In any difficult situation on the road, the tourist will be helped, so you can safely address those passing by.
An extensive network of roads allows tourists to get to any corner of this interesting country, and the quality of the roadbed and the convenience of interchanges make any movement by car in the Netherlands simple and convenient. However, one must be aware of the existing speed limits, as well as allow pedestrians and cyclists to pass.
