The first thing to know is that The Netherlands is, as far as I know, the only country with more bicycles than people. There are a lot of bicycles to park. In general, people park bicycles just about anywhere they can find something to lock them to. read more
UNLESS there is a sign that says that is prohibited or there is a designated bicycle parking area. There are gazillions of those, as most people in Holland will take their bike for any trip under 2 miles. For motor bikes: an ordinary parking spot, designated parking area or a on the pavement, in that order. read more
As bike theft is very common in the Netherlands, cyclists are advised to lock their bicycle with a built-in lock and attach a chain from the bike frame to the stand. There are many bicycle parking stations, particularly in city centres and at train stations, some of which hold many thousands of bicycles. read more