This site contains a wide range of materials to help you learn Dutch. Pick up some basic phrases, expand your vocabulary, or find a language partner to practise with.

About the Dutch language

Dutch is spoken by around 25 million people. It is the official language of the Netherlands, the northern part of Belgium (Flanders), and Surinam as well as a number of other former Dutch colonies.

In Belgium the language is known as Flemish.

It is a West Germanic language and is closely related to German and English.

Traditional houses in Amsterdam
Traditional houses in Amsterdam

So why learn Dutch?

Travel
Holland is a very interesting and welcoming country to visit. Its principal city, Amsterdam, has much to offer in the way of sightseeing, a pavement café culture, and famous art galleries. A knowledge of Dutch will encourage hospitality.

Relationships
There are many Dutch people working and living in countries outside Holland and the ability to converse in Dutch will enhance friendships. Whilst most younger Dutch people speak English, many older, less-travelled people do not.

Other languages