Dutch Manners: Greetings, Gifts, and Table Rules

Learning about Dutch manners is a fun way to understand how people in the Netherlands live and connect with each other. From how they say hello to how they eat dinner, Dutch people have thoughtful and polite customs. Let’s explore them together!

How Do Dutch People Greet Each Other?

When meeting someone in the Netherlands, a handshake is the most common greeting. It’s polite to smile, say the person’s name, and make eye contact while shaking hands. If you are sitting, you should stand up to greet the person properly.

Among good friends and family, people might greet each other with three air kisses near the cheek—first on the left, then the right, and then the left again. It’s also polite to shake hands again when leaving.

In most situations, Dutch people only use first names with close friends and family. Otherwise, they will use both the first and last name.

One interesting custom: when you walk into a waiting room at a doctor’s office or public place, it is polite to say “hello” once aloud to the whole room instead of greeting everyone individually!

Gift-Giving: A Small Surprise Means a Lot

If you’re invited to someone’s home for dinner or a party, it’s a kind gesture to bring a small wrapped gift. Popular choices include:

• A box of chocolates
• A small plant or flowers
• A book with a meaningful message

Flowers should always be in odd numbers—but never 13, as that number is considered unlucky.

Eating in the Netherlands: Table Manners Matter

Dutch dining is a little more formal than you might expect. Here are some tips that Dutch children also learn growing up:

• Wait to sit until the host or hostess tells you it’s okay.
• Men wait until all the women are seated first.
• Nobody starts eating until the host begins the meal.
• Dutch people use forks and knives for almost everything—even sandwiches!
• Salads aren’t cut, but gently folded onto your fork.

When toasting, the host makes the first toast, and guests can offer one later in the meal.

At the table:

• Take small portions and try to finish everything on your plate—Dutch people don’t like wasting food.
• Finished eating? Place your knife and fork side by side on the right side of your plate.
• Still eating or pausing? Cross your knife and fork in the middle of the plate.

After dinner, it’s polite to offer help with the dishes or clean-up, especially if you’re a guest.

And don’t forget: Being on time is very important in Dutch culture. You should always call ahead before visiting someone’s house—just showing up unannounced is considered impolite.

Learning Manners Through Language

Understanding Dutch manners helps children learn not just vocabulary, but also how people live, talk, and connect in another country. Learning with cultural context makes everything more meaningful—and fun!

That’s why Dinolingo teaches Dutch through songs, games, stories, and interactive lessons that show daily life in the Netherlands. With programs designed for kids aged 2–14, Dinolingo lets children explore the language and culture together. Available on web, iOS, and Android, Dinolingo also offers printable materials and a helpful parent dashboard to follow progress.