The Best VPNs for the Netherlands 2026
Using a VPN is a smart choice no matter where you live, but it‘s especially important in the Netherlands to keep your online activity private, unblock geo-restricted content, and protect yourself on public Wi-Fi networks. With so many VPN providers out there, though, it can be tough to figure out which ones are trustworthy and offer the best experience for users in Holland.
After extensive research and hands-on testing, I‘ve identified the top 5 VPNs for the Netherlands in 2024. Whether you‘re looking for the highest security, fastest speeds, or best value, there‘s an option here that will meet your needs. But first, let‘s go over the key features you should prioritize in a VPN as a Dutch resident.
The most important things to look for in a VPN for the Netherlands are:
- Servers located in the Netherlands so you can get a Dutch IP address
- Fast connection speeds for buffer-free streaming and quick downloads
- Unblocking capability for popular streaming sites like Netflix, Disney+, and Videoland
- Robust security including a kill switch and strong encryption to protect your data
- A strict no-logs policy to ensure your activity remains private
- Easy-to-use apps for all your devices
Now, let‘s dive into my top recommendations that check all of these boxes.
1. ExpressVPN: Best overall VPN for the Netherlands
ExpressVPN is my top choice for users in Holland thanks to its phenomenal all-around performance. It operates a network of 3,000+ high-speed servers in 94 countries, including Dutch servers in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. No matter where you connect, you‘ll enjoy buffer-free streaming, speedy downloads, and low latency.
Security is airtight, with uncrackable 256-bit AES encryption, protection against DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leaks, and a kill switch that blocks internet access if your VPN connection drops to prevent data exposure. ExpressVPN‘s standout feature, though, is its TrustedServer technology, which wipes all data from the server‘s hard drive each time the server reboots. Even better, the company has its no-logs policy audited regularly by PwC. You can feel confident that your activity is never logged or stored.
ExpressVPN also excels at unblocking region-locked content on in-demand streaming services. During my tests, I had no issues accessing my Dutch Netflix and Videoland accounts as well as over a dozen international streaming platforms. There are even built-in speed tests in the app so you can gauge which server location will give you the best viewing experience.
The easy-to-use apps are available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and more. You can connect up to 5 devices simultaneously. 24/7 live chat support is responsive if you need help. While pricier than competitors at $6.67/month, you get what you pay for – and you can try it risk-free for 30 days and request a full refund if you‘re not satisfied.
2. NordVPN: Strongest security for Dutch users
If you‘re looking for maximum online protection, NordVPN is one of the most secure VPNs you can use in the Netherlands. For starters, its network of 5400+ servers in 60 countries runs only on RAM, similar to ExpressVPN‘s TrustedServer technology. Nothing is ever written to hard disks, making it impossible for user data to persist after reboot. Plus, its no-logs policy has been independently audited twice.
NordVPN takes things a step further with Double VPN servers, which route your traffic through two VPN servers instead of one for an extra layer of encryption. There are also obfuscated servers that disguise your VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic, which is useful for bypassing VPN blocks. Other notable security features include a customizable kill switch, leak protection, CyberSec malware and ad blocker, and Onion Over VPN functionality.
In terms of speed and streaming, NordVPN is no slouch either. In fact, it‘s the fastest VPN I‘ve tested so far in 2024, likely due to its new NordLynx protocol built around WireGuard technology. I never experienced buffering while binge-watching Brand New Cherry Flavor on Netflix NL. The SmartPlay feature combines VPN security with a Smart DNS service to make streaming even smoother.
NordVPN‘s app is polished, intuitive, and comes with handy perks like a visual server map and Dark Web monitoring. Split tunneling support on desktop apps allows you to route some apps through the encrypted VPN tunnel and others through your regular connection. At $3.49/month and support for 6 devices, NordVPN is an incredible value.
3. Surfshark: Best value VPN for streaming Dutch content
Surfshark stands out for its premium features at a budget-friendly price – you can get a subscription for as low as $2.30/month. That‘s a steal considering you get unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can hook up every device in your household. Despite the low cost, Surfshark doesn‘t skimp on security or performance.
Its network of 3,200+ servers in 65 countries spans 4 cities in the Netherlands – Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Speeds are more than sufficient for 4K video streaming with no noticeable slowdowns. Surfshark unblocks a whopping 17 Netflix libraries, including Netflix Netherlands, as well as Videoland, Ziggo, RTL XL, and more Dutch streaming sources.
You‘re also protected with industry-leading 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, leak protection, and a Double VPN hop. Uniquely, the Bypasser feature allows you to choose which apps and websites go through the VPN and which use your regular unencrypted connection. I found this particularly helpful for accessing my online banking account while still securing my web browsing.
One slight downside is that Surfshark‘s apps aren‘t as user-friendly or nice-looking as competitors like ExpressVPN, but all the essential features are there. 24/7 support is available over live chat in case you hit any snags. Best of all, you can try Surfshark risk-free for 30 days. If you‘re not happy, you can get a full refund.
4. ProtonVPN: VPN with a focus on privacy
ProtonVPN deserves a mention for Dutch users seeking a highly secure VPN from a reputable, transparent provider. It‘s operated by the same company behind the popular encrypted email service ProtonMail.
The most unique aspect of ProtonVPN is its Secure Core architecture, which routes your traffic through privacy-friendly countries like Switzerland, Iceland, or Sweden before going to its final destination. This helps defend against network-based attacks and surveillance. Moreover, its entire network uses only dedicated bare-metal servers and full-disk encryption. No user data is ever written to a hard drive.
Remarkably, ProtonVPN even offers a decent free subscription plan. It limits access to servers in only 3 countries (Netherlands not included unfortunately) and allows just 1 device per account, but it‘s a nice way to get a feel for the service before you buy. There are no data caps or speed restrictions.
Other notable features include split tunneling, DNS leak prevention, a VPN kill switch, and an easy-to-use interface. ProtonVPN‘s Accelerator technology also delivers impressive connection speeds, nearly as fast as ExpressVPN in my tests. It reliably works with US and UK Netflix.
The biggest downside is that ProtonVPN has a smaller network than competitors, with 1300+ servers in 60+ countries. There are only 21 servers in the Netherlands, all located in Amsterdam. This is enough for most users‘ needs, but heavier bandwidth users may see some slowdowns during peak times.
5. CyberGhost: Beginner-friendly VPN for streaming and torrenting
CyberGhost rounds out my list for its vast server network, ease of use, and optimized servers for streaming and torrenting. It boasts a huge fleet of 7,900+ servers in 91+ countries, 207 of which are in the Netherlands. You‘ll have no trouble finding a fast, reliable connection.
One of my favorite features is CyberGhost‘s streaming and P2P-optimized servers. These give you one-click access to servers pre-configured for popular streaming platforms and file-sharing networks. I had success unblocking Netflix NL and Videoland as well as downloading large torrent files swiftly and securely. My connection never dropped. You can connect up to 7 devices at once.
Privacy-wise, CyberGhost is based in Romania, a country with strong data protection laws, and maintains a strict no-logs policy. It uses uncrackable 256-AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection. For even better anonymity, you can pay with Bitcoin.
Beginners will find CyberGhost‘s apps refreshingly easy to navigate, with well-organized servers and clear explanations of the different features and settings. Although the month-to-month plan is a bit pricey at $12.99, CyberGhost‘s longer-term plans are quite reasonable. You can get 2 years of service for just $2.03/month, and all plans are backed by a generous 45-day money-back guarantee.
| VPN | Jurisdiction | Servers in NL | Unblocks NL streaming | Starting price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ExpressVPN | British Virgin Islands | Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague | Yes – Netflix, Videoland, etc. | $6.67/month |
| NordVPN | Panama | Amsterdam | Yes – Netflix, Videoland, etc. | $3.49/month |
| Surfshark | British Virgin Islands | Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Rotterdam, The Hague | Yes – Netflix, Videoland, Ziggo, RTL XL, etc. | $2.30/month |
| ProtonVPN | Switzerland | Amsterdam | Yes – Netflix Netherlands | $4.00/month |
| CyberGhost | Romania | Amsterdam | Yes – Netflix, Videoland, etc. | $2.03/month |
FAQ
Are VPNs legal in the Netherlands?
Yes, VPNs are completely legal in the Netherlands. You won‘t face any legal issues for using one to protect your privacy and unblock content online.
Do I need a VPN in the Netherlands?
While the Netherlands generally offers good data privacy protections, using a VPN is still a smart idea. It will hide your browsing activity from your ISP, protect you on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, and allow you to access geo-blocked streaming content and websites. VPNs are useful tools for all internet users.
What‘s the best free VPN for the Netherlands?
I don‘t recommend using a free VPN if you value your privacy and security. Free VPNs often have slow speeds, data caps, limited server locations, and shoddy encryption. Some even log your activity and sell it to advertisers. If you really don‘t want to spend money, ProtonVPN offers the best free plan, but you won‘t be able to get a Dutch IP address. It‘s worth it to invest a few dollars a month in a reputable paid provider.
Can I use a VPN to watch Dutch TV abroad?
Yes, a VPN allows you to access your favorite Dutch streaming services like Videoland from anywhere in the world. Just connect to a VPN server in the Netherlands, and you will be assigned a Dutch IP address as if you were actually located there.
Bottom Line
The best VPN for you as a user in the Netherlands will depend on your unique needs and budget, but you can‘t go wrong with any of the 5 providers on this list. They all offer high-speed servers in Holland, top-notch security and privacy protections, easy-to-use apps for all devices, and reliable access to popular Dutch and international streaming content.
ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for its unbeatable combination of speed, security, streaming ability, and customer support. NordVPN is the clear choice for maximum online protection and anti-censorship features. Surfshark is an incredible value considering the low price and unlimited connections. ProtonVPN stands out for its privacy-focused features and free plan, while CyberGhost is great for beginners and heavy streamers/torrenters.
Whichever VPN you choose, make sure to take advantage of the money-back guarantee so you can test the service risk-free. Feel free to leave a comment and let me know which VPN works best for you in the Netherlands!
