How to choose a beauty salon or hairdresser in Amsterdam
Amsterdam's salons split by specialty more than most cities' do: barbers, brow studios, skin clinics and general hairdressers each keep to their own lane. Start from the treatment you actually want, and check recent reviews for that specific service rather than the salon's overall score.
Location matters more than it might elsewhere, since many neighborhood salons build a loyal local clientele and know regulars by name. If you already have a regular stop nearby, such as one of the listings in our Amsterdam gyms & fitness directory, a salon in the same area saves a separate cross-town trip.
Not every listing here is a haircut. For anything closer to a clinical or aesthetic treatment, read our guide to medical spas and aesthetic clinics in Amsterdam before booking, and if what you want is a full spa day rather than a single treatment, our Amsterdam spas directory is the better starting point.
Questions people ask
How much does a haircut or salon treatment cost in Amsterdam?
Prices vary widely by salon type. Budget and training salons can charge as little as roughly β¬15 for a basic cut, while established hairdressing salons commonly charge β¬35 to β¬50 for a wash, cut and style, and specialist work such as color, extensions or brow treatments is priced separately on top of that. Always check the listing's own price list or call ahead, since Essentially Amsterdam does not publish live pricing for any business it lists.
Do I need to book an appointment, or can I just walk in?
It depends on the salon. Some Amsterdam hairdressers run on a walk-in basis with no booking required, while barbers, brow studios and specialist clinics more often work by appointment only, especially in the evenings and on weekends. Check the listing's own website or call ahead before turning up, since both systems operate side by side, even within the same neighborhood.
Should I tip at a hair or beauty salon in Amsterdam?
Tipping is not obligatory anywhere in the Netherlands, and salons are no exception. It's common practice to round up the bill or add a small amount if you're happy with the result, the same way Dutch customers tip in restaurants and cafes for good service. A tip is a gesture, not an expectation, and staff will not chase you for one.
Are salon prices in Amsterdam inclusive of VAT?
Dutch salons are required to quote prices inclusive of VAT (btw), so the figure on a price list or website is what you actually pay. The exception is anything added once you're in the chair, such as a toner, a color treatment or an upgrade, which is usually charged on top of the base price. If a quoted price looks unusually low, ask exactly what it covers before you book.
What happens if I cancel late or miss my appointment?
Many Amsterdam salons ask for at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule. Appointments cancelled later than that, or missed altogether, are often charged in full, and a deposit taken to secure the booking may only be refunded if you cancel within that window. Ask about the salon's specific cancellation and deposit policy when you book, since it varies by business.
Is a hairdressing training academy a cheaper way to get a haircut?
Some hairdressing training academies in the Amsterdam area let students cut hair for the public at reduced prices, with a qualified supervisor checking the work throughout the appointment. It's a genuinely cheaper route to a cut, but expect it to take considerably longer than at an independent salon since the person cutting your hair is still learning. Ask whether a listing operates this way, and what supervision is in place, if price is the deciding factor for you.