Why Driving in the Netherlands Can Be Incredibly Stressful for Expats

Driving in the Netherlands isn’t exactly the relaxing ride through tulip fields that many expats imagine. While the country boasts excellent infrastructure, the actual experience of navigating Dutch roads—especially as a newcomer—can be overwhelming, intense, and at times, downright stressful.

In an insightful article by Marion Boigner for DutchReview, she shares her firsthand experience of the mental toll driving in the Netherlands took on her as an Austrian expat (source). Her observations resonate with many internationals who quickly learn that Dutch roads come with their own unique set of challenges.

Here’s a breakdown of the main stressors that can make driving in the Netherlands feel like a survival sport.

One of the biggest shocks for new drivers is the sheer variety of traffic participants in Dutch cities. You’re not just watching out for other cars. You’re navigating around:

Cyclists (often riding three abreast)
Trams that glide in and out of lanes
Mopeds zigzagging unpredictably
Buses with the right of way
Pedestrians who cross wherever and whenever they want

The result? An overwhelming level of vigilance is required at all times, making even a short drive through Amsterdam or Utrecht mentally exhausting.

No Yellow Light Before Green = Instant Panic 😰

If you're from a country like Austria or Germany, you're used to a yellow light before the green one. In the Netherlands? Nope. The light jumps directly from red to green without warning.

This means you have to be laser-focused at every intersection or risk missing your turn—or worse, getting honked at by the impatient driver behind you. It’s a small difference, but one that adds a surprising layer of stress to urban driving.

Highway Driving: Fast, Furious, and Unforgiving 🏎️💨

You might expect the Dutch to be calm and orderly on the highway. Think again.

According to Marion Boigner, speeding is practically a national sport. Drivers often zoom past at 150–160 km/h, even in 100 km/h zones. Lane-switching is frequent and abrupt, often with little to no warning. This kind of aggressive driving can be particularly frightening if you're not used to it—or if you're just trying to merge peacefully.

Blinkers? Optional (Apparently) 🤷‍♀️

Another headache is the way many Dutch drivers use their turn signals—if they use them at all. Boigner points out that blinkers are often flipped on at the last possible second, more as a demand than a polite signal of intent.

This leads to abrupt braking, missed chances to safely change lanes, and an overall atmosphere of unpredictability.

Surprise! A Traffic Jam 🙃

You’re cruising along smoothly and then—bam—standstill traffic. For no reason. No construction, no accident. Just...chaos.

These seemingly random traffic jams are often caused by aggressive lane switching and tailgating, which trigger chain-reaction braking. It’s not only frustrating but also mentally draining to constantly stop and start.

The Mental Overload Is Real 🧠⚠️

Without a strong internal GPS or mental map of the roads, many expats find themselves lost—literally and figuratively. As Boigner describes, the constant mental juggling of traffic signs, cyclists, trams, and unclear priorities left her overwhelmed and mentally exhausted after each drive.

Even if you’re a seasoned city driver, the complexity and unpredictability of Dutch road life can wear you down fast.

So Why Do So Many Locals Bike Instead?

After a few white-knuckle experiences behind the wheel, the Dutch tendency to bike everywhere suddenly makes sense. Compared to the stress of driving, hopping on a fiets (bike) feels like freedom—especially when you can avoid traffic jams, find parking anywhere, and never worry about who forgot to use their blinker.

Final Thoughts

Driving in the Netherlands as an expat isn’t impossible—but it does come with a steep learning curve. If you're considering driving here, prepare for sensory overload, cultural surprises, and some very fast Audis in your rearview mirror.

Marion Boigner’s honest take on Dutch driving culture helps shed light on why so many internationals feel frazzled by the experience. Her advice? Don't be ashamed if you find yourself reaching for the bike keys more often than the car keys. You’re not alone.