The Best VPN for the Netherlands in 2026

The Dutch enjoy considerable online freedom, with minimal government restrictions. While surveillance concerns exist due to the Netherlands’ membership in the Nine Eyes alliance, it’s less intrusive than in many countries. So, is a VPN still necessary in the Netherlands?

Absolutely. Rising cybercrime has made online privacy and security a priority. Plus, a VPN helps you access geo-restricted content and find better deals when shopping online. However, not all VPNs deliver equally. That’s why we’ve rigorously tested dozens to recommend the best services for use in and outside the Netherlands.

5 Best VPNs for the Netherlands in 2026 — Our Top Picks

The VPN market is crowded, which can make selecting the right service overwhelming. Unfortunately, many VPNs aren’t worth your investment, so it’s important to choose wisely.

To simplify this for you, we tested over 40 VPN providers. This list focuses exclusively on premium VPNs, which consistently outperform free options (we’ll explain why later).

Let’s dive in:

1. NordVPN

Our editor’s pick for the best VPN for the Netherlands is also the top provider in the industry. NordVPN comes with a massive network comprising 8,000+ servers in 126 countries, including more than 200 in Holland.

The VPN offers superfast speeds thanks to its well-oiled network and 10 Gbps servers. Its proprietary NordLynx protocol is built around a performance-friendly protocol called WireGuard. While using it, we enjoyed smooth browsing, quick downloads, and bufferless streaming.

Speaking of which, NordVPN should top your list if you’re heavy on streaming, whether on local or international platforms. It breezed past all the geo-restrictions on the libraries and services we threw at it, including Netflix (US and Netherlands), Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. On your trips abroad, NordVPN lets you catch up on your favorite content and programs on Ziggo Go, RTL+, and more.

It’s compatible with many operating systems and devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, routers, and streaming devices. When you subscribe, your account covers up to ten devices simultaneously.

For all that, it’s a security-focused VPN. NordVPN is loaded with top-notch features, including military-grade encryption. It would take a supercomputer millions of years to break through to your data. You also get a kill switch and several advanced tools like Tor over VPN and Threat Protection (its ad and malware blocker).

On top of that, NordVPN doesn’t store logs on its servers. We’re sure of that because there have been multiple third-party audits of its no-logs policy.

You can check out what NordVPN offers yourself. It’s risk-free, thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee on all plans. Feel free to check our page listing coupons for NordVPN to see if there are any current promotions available.

Visit NordVPN

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2. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs in the Netherlands in 2026. It ranks near the top of most VPN lists for good reason. Not least of all is the blazing-fast speeds it provides for your online tasks.

Connect to any of the VPN’s 3,000+ servers, and more likely than not, you won’t even notice any performance drop. It also comes with a custom protocol called Lightway that offers an excellent balance between speed and security.

Like our top choice, ExpressVPN allows you to get a Dutch IP address when you connect to its next-gen servers in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or the Hague. That way, you can keep up with shows and programs on your usual TV channels or streaming services when you’re outside the country.

ExpressVPN’s excellent unblocking capabilities also work with tougher geo-blocks. While connected to the VPN, we attempted to watch videos that are restricted to other audiences. ExpressVPN came through each time, unblocking Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and YouTube TV hassle-free.

Its apps are lightweight and user-friendly and are available on most popular platforms. You’re limited to eight simultaneous connections this time, but that’s enough for most users.

As for security, ExpressVPN implements AES 256-bit encryption to scramble your data. An automatic kill switch prevents leaks when the connection drops and the VPN prevents packet sniffing while you’re connected to a Wi-Fi network.

ExpressVPN never logs identifiable information about your online sessions. On top of that, it uses RAM-only servers that delete everything on them with every reboot.

All plans come with a 30-day refund window that allows you to check the service out before committing.

Visit ExpressVPN

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3. Private Internet Access

While most other VPNs only permit connecting a limited number of devices simultaneously, Private Internet Access entirely removes the cap. Because of that, you can keep all your household devices protected without needing another subscription.

That’s not the only thing we like about this US-based provider. There’s also its network, which is far and away the most extensive on the market. It includes 30,000+ servers in 91 countries, and the Netherlands makes the cut.

So, you have plenty of options if you’re looking to view or stream blocked content. Private Internet Access bypasses geo-restrictions easily enough on most websites and online services. We accessed Netflix US and a string of Dutch-based platforms during our tests with PIA VPN.

That being said, it’s not on NordVPN’s level in this area and may struggle with tough blocks on some streaming services. For the best results, use the VPN’s streaming-optimized servers available in several countries, including the Netherlands, the US, the UK, Canada, and Australia.

When it does work, you can expect to stream smoothly and uninterrupted, thanks to the presence of 10 Gbps servers. Private Internet Access isn’t only fast, but there are also no bandwidth limits to worry about.

Privacy-wise, the VPN uses RAM-only servers and enforces a strict no-logs policy. It comes with AES 128-bit encryption by default for performance reasons (with the option to switch to the maximum-strength AES 256-bit algorithm). There are loads of extras, such as its MACE feature, which detects and blocks ads at the DNS level.

Private Internet Access subscriptions include a 30-day money-back guarantee for risk-free testing. If you’re not satisfied, the refund process is easy.

Visit Private Internet Access

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4. Surfshark

Surfshark is another excellent VPN for the Netherlands for more reasons than being based there. It’s a budget option (well, if you’re opting for its long-term plans) and has an impressive network comprising 3,200+ in 100 countries, including connection options in Amsterdam.

What we’re most impressed by? Surfshark’s unblocking capabilities. The VPN doesn’t advertise this strength, but we observed it breezes past geo-restrictions on websites and streaming services hassle-free. We didn’t have to switch servers while attempting to watch Netflix US and Netherlands, and it was just as practical for services like Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer.

If you last used Surfshark a couple of years ago, you’ll likely notice an improvement in performance. The VPN has now upgraded all its servers to 10 Gbps and no longer takes a huge bite out of your original internet speed.

Surfshark doesn’t track what you do online or retain information about your online sessions, which is a claim that has undergone independent auditing. Besides, it uses volatile RAM-only servers. The provider implements AES 256-bit encryption alongside modern protocols, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and more.

With its many features, Surfshark is more than just a VPN. Even if you only buy the Starter plan, you get several extras, like a cookie pop-up and ad blocker, which we found works pretty well. Like PIA, you can connect all your devices simultaneously.

On top of that, you can claim a full refund within 30 days of purchasing a subscription, no questions asked.

Visit Surfshark

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5. CyberGhost

You can change the language to Dutch on CyberGhost’s macOS, iOS, and Android apps. The provider has some of the most user-friendly clients, so it’s an excellent choice for Dutch VPN beginners.

CyberGhost’s network is only second to Private Internet Access in terms of the sheer size. It has a pool comprising more than 11,600 servers distributed across 100 countries, including plenty of options in Amsterdam.

Streaming-optimized servers make it a good option for heavy streamers. We checked the menu out during our tests and could immediately watch geo-restricted content on various services by connecting to their dedicated servers. For instance, Netflix Netherlands has a special server that could help you follow your favorite local shows when you’re away on a trip.

Our tests confirmed that the regular Dutch servers will do for streaming services like Videoland, KIJK, and NLZiet.

From desktop to mobile or even streaming devices, CyberGhost has you covered. That said, its seven-device simultaneous connection limit may be a drawback for tech-heavy households.

For security, CyberGhost relies on the golden standard encryption, AES 256-bit, to keep outsiders from intercepting your data. We like that you can set the VPN to protect you on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, even if you forget to activate it.

CyberGhost’s Romanian jurisdiction is a big plus for the privacy-conscious. Plus, third-party auditors have confirmed that its no-logs infrastructure works as expected.

A 45-day money-back guarantee for six months and longer plans is the most generous in the industry. That means ample time to try it out before making a decision.

Visit CyberGhost

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How to Use a VPN for the Netherlands

Now that you know what the best VPN services are for the Netherlands, here’s a quick guide on how to get started using one:

1. Select a Reputable VPN Service: Pick a reliable provider with strong security features, a proven track record, and servers in the Netherlands (for better speeds). We recommend NordVPN.
2. Subscribe and Install: Head to your chosen VPN’s website and purchase a plan that fits your budget and preferences. Next, download and install the VPN application on your device. Most popular providers have apps and manual configurations for a wide array of platforms.
3. Connect to a VPN Server: Launch the newly installed app and log in using your account details. Select a location outside your location from the server menu and click the Connect button. Alternatively, select a Dutch server if you’re abroad and looking to access local online services. Wait a few moments while the VPN activates the connection.

Congratulations. With that done (with a quality VPN service), you can now browse the internet with enhanced privacy and security.

Why You Need a VPN for the Netherlands

The Netherlands and restrictive countries like China or Iran are on opposite ends of the spectrum. While you have to scramble for workarounds to access Facebook in China, the former takes a progressive approach to internet freedom. It doesn’t restrict access to websites or content on a massive scale.

Despite that, there are compelling reasons for using VPNs in the Netherlands. For one, there are lingering concerns about government surveillance because of the country’s membership in the Nine Eyes intelligence alliance. That group is notorious among privacy circles for gathering and sharing intelligence data among member countries.

What’s more, cybercrime is a real concern, even though the government is trying to make Holland more resilient to it. Phishing and ransomware attacks are some of the issues that have many residents on edge.

Thankfully, a VPN is a pretty effective shield against these risks. The technology encrypts your traffic, making it unreadable for anyone trying to snoop on your connection. It also changes your IP address to anonymize your activity, and that makes it significantly harder for your ISP, advertisers, or even government agencies to track your online sessions.

There are several other benefits. For instance, a VPN’s global servers allow you to enjoy content ordinarily restricted to other audiences. You can also score better deals online by taking advantage of lower prices in other locations.

What about using VPNs for gaming? Dutch gamers can use the tool to reduce ping times and access geo-blocked gaming servers.

Selection Criteria for the Best VPNs in the Netherlands

With hundreds of VPN providers available, not all are equally suitable for users in the Netherlands. That’s why we rigorously tested dozens of services to recommend only the very best VPNs for Dutch users.

Here are the key factors we evaluated when compiling this list:

• Server network: We prioritized VPNs with extensive global networks, which are crucial for fast performance and reliably bypassing geo-restrictions. We also made sure these VPNs offer servers in the Netherlands to provide Dutch IP addresses.
• Speed and performance: While any VPN may slow your internet slightly, top providers minimize this impact. We ran thorough speed tests to identify those delivering fast and stable connections.
• Unblocking capabilities: Not all VPNs can consistently access geo-restricted content. Our selections excel at bypassing geo-blocks, allowing seamless access to Dutch and international streaming libraries.
• Privacy & security: Only VPNs with strong encryption protocols, advanced security features, and strict no-logs policies passed our criteria. Each provider has also undergone independent audits to verify these claims.
• Ease of use: We favored VPNs with intuitive interfaces across all major devices and operating systems. Every recommended VPN includes clear user guides, ensuring even beginners can get started easily.
• Customer support: Reliable, 24/7 customer service is essential. We included only providers with responsive support teams ready to assist whenever needed.
• Refund policy: To offer peace of mind, every VPN on our list guarantees at least a 30-day money-back policy if you’re unsatisfied.

What About a Free VPN for the Netherlands?

Saving yourself some Euros while using a VPN may seem tempting, especially if you’re an occasional user. We understand, which is why we co-sign some free VPN services. That said, even those providers come with significant drawbacks — and they’re the best of the bunch.

For instance, whether they’re standalone or freemium services, you’re almost always restricted to a small selection of servers. Many don’t even come with Dutch servers. But even when available, the lack of options translates to congestion and sluggish connection speeds. Most free VPNs even cap how much data you can use monthly.

What’s more, they’re usually pretty mediocre at unblocking geo-restricted content, so don’t count on them for your streaming needs.

There’s also a big chance using a free provider exposes your sensitive information to prying eyes. Plus, they must make money somehow, so they may log your data for profit and inject pesky ads into your web traffic.

All things considered, free VPNs are rarely worth the trouble. You’re better off opting for affordable VPN services if you have a tight budget.

Final Thoughts

The Netherlands doesn’t take a heavy-handed approach to blocking content for residents. Still, it’s still a member of the Nine Eyes alliance, which means surveillance is on the table. Besides, hackers and other cyber threats are constant threats, and people who stream really don’t like to be restricted. It’s clear how important getting a quality VPN for the Netherlands is.

We ranked and reviewed the best options in this article. Our favorite VPN for the Netherlands is NordVPN.

It delivers superfast connection speeds, unblocks content easily, and you can trust your privacy to its top-notch features. You can take the VPN on a spin, banking on its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Try NordVPN Risk-Free Now

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FAQs

Still have questions? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about using a Dutch VPN alongside their answers.

Which VPN to use in the Netherlands?

NordVPN is our top pick for VPN providers to use in the Netherlands. It has over 200 servers there and delivers lightning-fast connection speeds as well as ironclad security.

Are VPNs allowed in the Netherlands?

Yes, VPNs are legal in the Netherlands. The country has no laws against masking your IP address or changing your virtual location with a VPN service. However, breaking existing laws while connected to a VPN may result in legal issues.

How do I change my IP address to the Netherlands?

Here’s how to get a Dutch IP address in three simple steps:

• Subscribe to a reliable VPN service with Dutch servers. We recommend NordVPN.
• Download and install the VPN app on your device(s).
• Connect to a VPN server in the Netherlands, and you’ll receive a temporary Dutch IP address.

Can I use a VPN on all my devices?

Most top VPN providers support multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, and even routers, allowing you to protect all your devices. If you want to take your research further, we have a detailed comparison of the best VPNs for Windows PC, for example.

How do I know if a VPN really protects my privacy?

Look for VPNs with clear no-logs policies verified by independent audits, strong encryption standards (AES-256), and advanced security features like kill switches and DNS leak protection.