Social life and feeling at home
Building a social life in a new country takes time. Fortunately, South Holland offers plenty of opportunities to meet people and feel part of the community. In The Hague, Rotterdam, Delft and Leiden, you can join cultural events, sports clubs, language cafés and interest groups to connect with others who share your interests. Taking that first step can open the door to new friendships, experiences and opportunities.Â
Key tips
- Practise your Dutch at a language café.
- Join a regular sport, hobby or volunteer activity.
- Say yes to small invitations – connections grow over time.
- Explore the region’s cities and communities.
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If you have children, tap into their school or childcare network.
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The Hague
The Hague combines international city life with a relaxed coastal lifestyle, with popular beach destinations such as Scheveningen, Katwijk and Noordwijk nearby.
For internationals, a strong network of organisations helps make settling in easier. The Hague International Centre offers practical support and welcome events, while The Dutch Language Café and Volunteer The Hague provide opportunities to meet people and get involved in the local community.
The city hosts a variety of cultural events, including Crossing Border Festival (November) for literature and music, and the annual Rememberance Day (4 May). Visit Denhaag.com for an overview of cultural activities in the region.Â
Rotterdam
Rotterdam's calendar is packed with food markets and festivals, sports events and creative meetups.
The city has a unique urban vibe and values diversity, innovation and forward-thinking design. Major annual events like International Film Festival Rotterdam (end of January) provide volunteering opportunities for internationals while experiencing the city's vibrant cultural scene.
For sports, join group runs along the Maas river or Kralingse Plas, get active through one of the city's many sports clubs, or experience the energy of the Rotterdam Marathon (April), one of the city's best-known annual events.
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Delft
Beyond its university, Delft is a welcoming and internationally minded city, with plenty of opportunities to connect with others. Its compact city centre, vibrant cultural scene and proximity to nature make it easy to feel at home.
The UITagenda Delft features a wide range of markets, festivals, workshops and meetups throughout the year, including the popular Delft Fringe Festival (May/ June), which brings theatre, music and creative performances to venues across the city.Â
To practise your Dutch, join the weekly language café at DOK library, or find a volunteering opportunity via Delft voor Elkaar.Â
Leiden
Leiden offers a welcoming and easy-going social scene.
The Leiden International Centre plays organises events such as Meet & Mingle held at different locations around the city. There are plenty of English-friendly activities to explore, from artistic courses at LAK to book discussions at Leidein International Book Club.
Communities such as The Leiden Meetup provide regular opportunities to connect with others, expand your network and build lasting friendships.
One of Leiden’s highlights is the annual Vereniging Leiden celebrations on 3 October, when the city comes together for parades, music and local traditions.
More ways to get connected (the Netherlands)
- Meetup Search local groups and events by city and interestÂ
- IamExpat Events, tips and local guidesÂ
- Welcome to NL Practical info and lifestyleÂ
- Walking & Talking Walk and practise Dutch together with locals and other expats (includes Leiden and Rotterdam)Â
- Girl Gone International Informal women's network, with active communities in The Hague, Rotterdam and LeidenÂ