Key Takeaways
- The Netherlands regulates crypto through the Dutch Central Bank (DNB), requiring compliance with AML and CTF laws.
- Crypto transactions are taxed under Box 3 (wealth tax) with a 36% tax on presumed returns.
- Businesses like Medirelaxa and Hotel van Walsum accept crypto payments.
- Bitcoin ATMs are available in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Arnhem, Maastricht, and Middelburg.
- Crypto cards (e.g., UPay Card), Bitcoin ATMs, Lightning networks, and crypto-wallets (e.g., UPay Wallet) help users spend crypto easily in the Netherlands.
An Overview of Spending Crypto in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is quickly becoming a hotspot for cryptocurrency adoption, with many users and businesses embracing digital currencies. By 2025, the number of crypto users in the country is expected to reach 5.64 million, with a steady increase in adoption rates.
“The user penetration rate, which indicates the proportion of the population using the Cryptocurrencies market, is projected to be 31.84% in 2025 and is expected to increase to 31.84% by 2025.”
This surge in interest is fueled by the Netherlands’ strong fintech ecosystem, high digital literacy, and the government’s proactive approach to blockchain technology. As a result, more businesses across the country are embracing crypto payments.
For example, establishments like Hotel van Walsum now accept Bitcoin, showcasing the growing acceptance of digital assets in the mainstream economy. However, this shift isn’t just limited to private businesses.
The Dutch government is also actively exploring blockchain technology for public services through initiatives like the Dutch Blockchain Coalition. Furthermore, to ensure fair and secure crypto usage, the Netherlands has implemented proactive regulations aimed at preventing fraud and money laundering.
These measures, combined with the increasing number of businesses accepting crypto, make it easier than ever to use digital currencies for everyday transactions.
If you’re looking for the best places to spend crypto in the Netherlands, we have made your search easier by providing a comprehensive list for you.
Best Places to Spend Crypto in the Netherlands
| S/N | Best Places to Spend Crypto in the Netherlands | Categories |
| 1 | Medirelaxa | Wellness and Relaxation |
| 2 | Bitgild | Precious Metals and Investment |
| 3 | Brouwpunt.nl | Homebrewing and Beverages |
| 4 | Hotel van Walsum | Accommodation |
| 5 | Thuisbezorgd.nl | Food Delivery |
Medirelaxa
Medirelaxa provides high-quality massage chairs that help relieve back pain, reduce stress, and support recovery. With features like kneading and acupressure, these chairs relax muscles, improve blood flow, and promote healing.
Plus, you can pay with Bitcoin, making it a great choice for anyone looking to spend crypto in the Netherlands while investing in comfort and wellness.
Bitgild
Bitgild is a great place to spend crypto in Europe, including the Netherlands, allowing you to buy gold and silver using crypto. Since 2013, Bitgild has been a trusted online platform for buying gold and silver with crypto.
It accepts Bitcoin and stablecoins on networks like Ethereum and Tron. With a secure and user-friendly system, Bitgild makes it easy for crypto holders to invest in precious metals and diversify their assets.
Brouwpunt.nl
Brouwpunt.nl is a go-to online store for beer enthusiasts in the Netherlands, providing brewing kits and courses for all skill levels. From high-quality ingredients to step-by-step guides, it provides everything needed for the perfect brew.
Customers can conveniently pay with Bitcoin, making it easy to shop for brewing essentials using digital currency.
Hotel van Walsum
Hotel van Walsum in Rotterdam is a great choice for travelers who want to pay with crypto. As the first hotel in the Netherlands to accept Bitcoin, it makes crypto payments easy for both bookings and on-site purchases.
You can enjoy a comfortable stay while experiencing the hotel’s long tradition of hospitality. With its central location and seamless digital payment option, it’s a great choice for travelers looking to spend crypto in the Netherlands.
Thuisbezorgd.nl
Thuisbezorgd.nl is one of the largest food delivery platforms in the Netherlands. With access to a wide selection of restaurants, customers can enjoy everything from local Dutch dishes to international cuisine, all paid for using Bitcoin.
This seamless payment option adds convenience for crypto users, making Thuisbezorgd.nl a top choice for spending crypto in the Netherlands.
Tools for Spending Crypto In The Netherlands
Source: Freepik
As cryptocurrency gains traction in the Netherlands, various tools facilitate its use in everyday transactions. Here’s an overview of the primary methods:
Crypto Cards
These are payment cards that allow you to spend your cryptocurrency directly at merchants in the Netherlands. You can use it both online and offline, without the need to convert to traditional currency first.
For example, the UPay Card enables users to load their digital assets onto the card and use it wherever standard credit or debit cards are accepted. This provides a seamless way to utilize crypto holdings for daily expenses.
Crypto Wallets
In the Netherlands, using a reliable wallet is essential for managing digital assets and making transactions at businesses that accept crypto. Some wallets also offer additional features like crypto-to-fiat conversions, making it easier to spend crypto in everyday life.
One example is the UPay Crypto Wallet, which enables users to store multiple cryptocurrencies, make quick transactions, and even integrate with crypto cards like the UPay Card for seamless spending.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Platforms
P2P platforms facilitate direct crypto transactions between individuals. You can buy goods or services directly from sellers who accept crypto payments.
Platforms like LocalBitcoins and Paxful facilitate these transactions, allowing you to find sellers who accept crypto without needing an intermediary.
Lightning Network Payments
Some businesses, especially in crypto-friendly cities like Arnhem, accept Bitcoin via the Lightning Network. This tool enables fast and low-fee transactions, making crypto payments more practical for everyday purchases.
Bitcoin ATMs
These ATMs allow users to buy or sell Bitcoin using cash or debit cards. In the Netherlands, there are several Bitcoin ATMs located across various cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Arnhem, Maastricht, Middleburg, and more.
These ATMs enhance the accessibility of cryptocurrencies, thereby allowing you to manage your digital assets with ease.
Tips For Spending Crypto In The Netherlands
Source: Freepik
Spending cryptocurrency in the Netherlands is becoming increasingly convenient, thanks to the country’s openness to digital assets and clear regulatory framework.
However, before making crypto transactions, it’s essential to be aware of certain factors and tips that can help:
Stay Within Legal Boundaries
The Dutch government has clear regulations on cryptocurrency usage. Crypto service providers must register with the Dutch Central Bank (DNB) and comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) laws.
When spending crypto, it’s important to use reputable platforms and merchants that follow these regulations to avoid any legal issues.
Be Mindful of Taxes
In the Netherlands, cryptocurrency is classified as a taxable asset by the Belastingdienst (Dutch Tax and Customs Administration). Crypto holdings usually fall under Box 3 (Vermogensrendementsheffing), where tax is based on an assumed return rather than actual gains.
While there’s no capital gains tax, a 36% tax applies to a presumed yield on your total assets. Thus, if you’re living in the Netherlands or holding crypto there, keeping track of tax obligations is crucial.
Choose the Right Payment Method
Not all merchants accept direct crypto payments, so selecting the right tool can make transactions easier. Crypto cards like UPay Card let you spend crypto as easily as using a regular debit card, while UPay Wallet provides a secure way to manage your digital assets.
Additionally, Bitcoin ATMs in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Arnhem, Maastricht, and Middelburg allow for quick cash withdrawals.
Check Merchant Acceptance
While crypto adoption is growing, not all businesses accept digital currencies. Platforms like Coinmap and Spend Bitcoin help you find stores, restaurants, and hotels that accept cryptocurrency.
Cities like Arnhem, known as the “Bitcoin City,” have a higher concentration of crypto-friendly merchants.
Be Cautious About Price Volatility
Crypto prices fluctuate, so the value of your holdings can change rapidly. If you’re spending crypto regularly, consider using stablecoins like USDT or USDC, which maintain a stable value compared to traditional currencies.
Stay Safe While Making Transactions
Security should always be a priority when spending crypto. Use wallets with strong security features and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts.
When using Bitcoin ATMs or making transactions in public places, be mindful of your surroundings to avoid security risks.
Challenges To Spending Crypto in The Netherlands
Source: Freepik
While the Netherlands is one of the more crypto-friendly countries in Europe, spending crypto there still comes with several challenges.
Here are several challenges that can make spending crypto in the Netherlands more difficult than expected:
Evolving Regulations and Compliance Issues
Crypto regulations in the Netherlands are constantly changing, especially with broader EU policies like the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) coming into play.
While the government supports innovation, businesses dealing with crypto must register with the Dutch Central Bank (DNB) and follow strict anti-money laundering rules.
This can make it harder for new businesses to accept crypto, limiting where users can spend their digital assets.
Limited Business Adoption
Although some businesses in cities like Arnhem (often called “Bitcoin City”) accept crypto, mainstream adoption is still low. Many retailers and service providers stick to traditional payment methods, making it difficult to use crypto directly for daily purchases.
As a result, users often have to rely on crypto cards or payment apps to convert their digital assets into euros. Also, as a tourist you may need to plan ahead by identifying crypto-friendly businesses.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that you have alternative payment methods in case a transaction doesn’t go through.
Security Risks
Cybersecurity remains a major issue in the crypto space. Cases of hacking, phishing scams, and fraud discourage many people from using digital currencies for payments.
Since crypto transactions are irreversible, a single mistake such as sending funds to the wrong address or falling victim to a scam, can lead to permanent losses. Thus, you must take extra precautions by securing your wallets, enabling two-factor authentication, and using trusted platforms.
“Criminals exploit the fear of losing the money invested to get victims to invest even more money quickly.” “We see damages running into the millions, with people taking out extra mortgages and loans. The victims often end up losing everything they have.”
Price Fluctuations and Exchange Fees
Cryptocurrency prices are highly volatile, which can make spending them unpredictable. The value of a digital asset can change drastically within minutes, making it challenging to use for everyday transactions.
Additionally, converting crypto to fiat currency can come with high exchange fees, which vary depending on the service provider. Some merchants that accept crypto may also adjust prices to account for potential value fluctuations.
Conclusion
Spending crypto in the Netherlands is becoming easier, but it still requires some planning. While businesses in cities like Amsterdam and Arnhem are leading the way, widespread adoption is still a work in progress.
Some of the best places to spend crypto in the Netherlands include hotels, restaurants, and shops that accept digital payments. You’ll also find Bitcoin ATMs in major cities like Rotterdam and Maastricht, making it easier to access and use your crypto.
However, challenges like price volatility, security risks, and banking restrictions mean that having backup payment options is always a good idea. With evolving regulations and growing interest in digital assets, the future looks promising for crypto users in the Netherlands.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Can you spend cryptocurrency in the Netherlands?
Yes, you can spend cryptocurrency in the Netherlands at select businesses, including hotels and online stores. Some companies also accept Bitcoin for several services like wellness and food delivery services.
Where can I use crypto for payments in the Netherlands?
You can use crypto at businesses such as Medirelaxa for massage chairs and Hotel van Walsum for accommodation. Additionally, Bitcoin ATMs in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Arnhem, Maastricht, and Middelburg allow you to withdraw cash from your crypto balance.
Are there Bitcoin ATMs in the Netherlands?
Yes, Bitcoin ATMs are available in several cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Arnhem, Maastricht, and Middelburg. These ATMs allow users to buy and sell Bitcoin with cash.
What is the easiest way to use crypto for daily spending in the Netherlands?
The easiest way to use crypto for daily spending is through crypto debit cards, mobile wallets like UPay Wallet, and Bitcoin ATMs for cash withdrawals. Some businesses also accept direct crypto payments.
What challenges might I face when spending crypto in the Netherlands?
Challenges include limited business adoption, evolving regulations, security risks, banking restrictions, and price volatility, which can make it harder to use crypto for everyday transactions.
Do I need to pay taxes on crypto transactions in the Netherlands?
Yes, cryptocurrency is considered a taxable asset in the Netherlands. It falls under Box 3 (wealth tax) of the tax system, meaning a 36% tax is applied to a presumed yield on total assets, rather than actual gains.
