Document and Entity Information
| Document and Entity Information | May 03, 2022 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000751364 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | May 3, 2022 |
| Entity Registrant Name | NATIONAL RETAIL PROPERTIES, INC. |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | MD |
| Entity File Number | 001-11290 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 56-1431377 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 450 South Orange Avenue |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 900 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Orlando |
| Entity Address, State or Province | FL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 32801 |
| City Area Code | 407 |
| Local Phone Number | 265-7348 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | NNN |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |