Gift cards have become incredibly popular all over the world as they offer convenience and flexibility for both gift givers and recipients. The gift card market in the Netherlands is no exception, having experienced strong growth in recent years. Dutch consumers have readily embraced both physical and digital gift cards for purchasing everything from everyday essentials to entertainment and experiences.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take an in-depth look at the most popular types of gift cards available in the Netherlands. For each gift card option, we will provide details on where it can be redeemed, denominations available, and tips for purchasing. We will also address some frequently asked questions about buying and using gift cards in the Netherlands. By the end, you will have a thorough understanding of the gift card landscape in the country and what makes each type of gift card a go-to choice for Dutch shoppers and gift-givers.
So without further ado, let’s get started with the top 8 most popular gift cards available in the Netherlands today.
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VVV Gift Card
The VVV gift card is one of the most versatile gift cards available in the Netherlands. As the name suggests, it is issued by VVV, a nonprofit tourism and travel organization in the country. VVV gift cards can be redeemed at over 40,000 affiliated locations across the Netherlands, including retailers, restaurants, attractions, and even some online merchants.
Some key things to know about VVV gift cards:
- Denominations range from €10-€100, so they work for various budgets.
- Cards do not expire, so recipients can use them over an extended period.
- Popular redemptions include dining, shopping, museums, zoos, and amusement parks.
- VVV gift cards are widely accepted throughout the Netherlands, making them a low-risk gift.
- Cards can be purchased online through VVV’s website or at affiliated partner locations.
Due to their broad acceptance and flexibility, VVV gift cards are one of the safest general-purpose gift card options in the Netherlands. They make a great gift for someone hard to shop for.
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Netflix Gift Card
As one of the largest streaming platforms in the world, Netflix has a huge subscriber base in the Netherlands. A Netflix gift card allows the recipient to support their streaming habit by adding funds directly to their Netflix account.
Some key details about Netflix gift cards:
- Denominations of €10, €20, €25 and €50 are most common.
- Cards can only be redeemed by the recipient to pay for their Netflix subscription or in-app purchases.
- Purchased from both physical retailers as well as Netflix’s own website.
- No expiration date so funds can be used over an extended period.
- Perfect gift for anyone who enjoys streaming movies, TV shows, and documentaries on Netflix.
Netflix gift cards offer recipients instant entertainment value. They are a great choice for avid Netflix users or cord-cutters who rely on the platform. The gift cards seamlessly integrate into the Netflix digital experience.
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HEMA Gift Card
HEMA is a Dutch retail institution famous for its low prices and broad product selection, from groceries to furnishings to ready-made clothing. A HEMA gift card allows recipients to shop over 5,000 HEMA products both in-store and online.
Some highlights of HEMA gift cards:
- Available in €5, €10, €25, and €50 denominations.
- Can be purchased at any physical HEMA storefront or via HEMA’s website.
- No expiration date on funds loaded to a card.
- Popular redemptions include kitchen items, stationery, toys, accessories and more.
- Both physical and e-gift card options are available.
Due to HEMA’s loyal following and ubiquity throughout the Netherlands, their gift cards make practical, budget-friendly gifts for a wide range of recipients. Cardholders can find something worthwhile for any occasion at HEMA.
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Apple Gift Card
Unsurprisingly, Apple gift cards are a top seller in the tech-savvy Netherlands. They allow iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch users to purchase apps, games, music, movies, iCloud storage and more right from their iOS or Mac device.
Key details of Apple gift cards:
- Denominations of €25, €50 and €100 are standard.
- Can be purchased in any Apple Store or from most major Dutch retailers.
- Loaded funds register immediately to the recipient’s Apple ID.
- No expiration on loaded balances.
- Perfect for Apple fans, as funds work across iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch.
For anyone invested in the Apple ecosystem, an Apple gift card gives them easy access to premium digital content through a seamless, tech-enabled gifting experience. It shows you understand their Apple preferences.
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IKEA Gift Card
Known the world over for its budget-friendly yet stylish furniture, IKEA has established itself as a top Dutch home retailer. An IKEA gift card allows recipients to deck out their living spaces in signature IKEA style.
Aspects of IKEA gift cards to note:
- Available in €10, €25, €50 and €100 denominations.
- Can be purchased at any physical IKEA store in the Netherlands.
- Accepted in-store and online at IKEA’s Dutch website.
- No expiration on card balances.
- Popular redemptions include furniture, kitchenware, bedding, décor and more.
- Useful both for large home furnishing projects or small décor upgrades.
IKEA gift cards empower recipients to furnish or refresh any room in their home affordably. They are an excellent gift for new homeowners, renters or serial DIY-ers.
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Google Play Gift Card
Google’s dominant Android mobile platform has made Google Play gift cards a logical choice for many Dutch mobile users. These cards allow recipients to purchase apps, games, eBooks, movies, music, and more through the Google Play Store.
Key attributes of Google Play gift cards:
- Standard denominations of €25 and €50.
- Can purchase online at stores like Bol.com or fnac.nl.
- Registered funds are available instantly in the Google Play Store wallet.
- No expiration on balances.
- Great for Android users to discover new entertainment.
- Also work for other Google services like YouTube Premium.
Perfect for Android enthusiasts, Google Play gift cards enrich their digital media experience through one of the world’s most popular app marketplaces.
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Primera Gift Card
Primera is a large Dutch convenience store chain similar to 7-Eleven, selling everyday items like snacks, magazines, books, stationery and more. Their gift cards allow recipients to easily stock up on daily essentials.
Important details on Primera gift cards:
- Commonly found in €10 and €25 amounts.
- Can purchase in any Primera store or online shop.
- Accepted at all Primera locations nationwide.
- No expiration date on funds.
- Popular for magazines, candy, beverages, small stationery goods.
- Great budget-friendly option for grocery or school essentials.
Convenient to grab at the last minute, Primera gift cards let people seamlessly shop for smaller everyday needs in stores across the country.
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Bol.com Gift Card
As the Netherlands’ largest online retailer, Bol.com functions much like Amazon in other countries. Their gift cards empower shoppers to discover products across dozens of categories digitally.
Key points about Bol.com gift cards:
- Available in €10, €25, €50 denominations and higher.
- Purchase online at the Bol.com site or affiliated physical stores.
- Instantly register funds into the recipient’s Bol.com account.
- No expiration on card balances.
- Works on millions of eligible Bol.com products.
- Can gift digitally via email or print physical version.
The versatility and digital convenience of Bol.com make their gift cards an excellent modern gifting choice for tech-savvy recipients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that we’ve covered the most popular gift card types in detail, let’s address some common questions people have when gifting or using cards in the Netherlands:
Q: Where is the best place to purchase gift cards in the Netherlands?
A: Major retailers like Albert Heijn, Hema, Primera, and Bruna consistently stock the most common gift cards. Online options include the issuing brand’s website, sites like Bol.com, or gift card trading platforms.
Q: Do gift cards expire in the Netherlands?
A: In general, gift cards sold in the Netherlands do not expire as long as there is still value remaining on the card. However, it’s best to check the terms of any specific gift card.
Q: Can gift card values be reloaded or additional funds added later?
A: This depends on the brand. Some cards like iTunes, Google Play, and online retailer cards can easily be topped up later with additional funds. Others like Netflix cards work as single-use gift cards.
