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Dutch Bike Tours is proudly part of European Bike Tours . We have  local offices in the countries where we operate (The Netherlands,  Belgium , France , Italy , Spain and the UK ) with dedicated local experts who are specialists in organising self-guided cycling tours. 

What do you want to do?

Do you want a nice cycling holiday but still want the  comfort  of a good hotel? And not take all your things on your bike every day? Then our hotel tours are a good idea for you. You'll cycle along beautiful  homemade routes , through various landscapes. Spend the night in bicycle-friendly hotels. And  we take your luggage  from hotel to hotel every day.

Starting in an other city than where the tour will end?  You can cross a larger section through different provinces.  Or even cross the border, think of cycling from Amsterdam to Bruges in Belgium or from our capital to Brussels or  Paris . Of course, you can also stay in the Netherlands to cycle along the IJssel from south to north, for example.

Do you want to cycle for a few days, but don't feel like having to pack your suitcase every day? Then book a nice holiday,  center based from one hotel . You will stay in one hotel and from there we have put together  various routes . You can choose what you want to see every day. Making your own tour is also possible with the  bicycle junction network.

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We are local experts who offer self-guided cycling holidays in the Netherlands covering all levels of ability and all ages from 8-88 years old. We will take care of everything: accommodation, bike rental, itineraries and luggage transport. 

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All of our trips are carefully designed by our team to provide you with the best cycling routes . We offer easy-to-use, up-to-date route notes and maps. Enjoy cycling on comfortable and peaceful routes! 

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Cycling is amongst the lowest-impact way to travel. As you explore off-the-beaten-track, you help support local communities and minimise the damage that mass-tourism can make.

We know that taking a self-guided trip for the first time can generate insecurity, but with our app you can follow from your mobile and in an intuitive way the daily routes of your cycling trip. Our mobile app will also show you points of interest along your route. 

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The 15 Best Self Guided Bike Tours in the Netherlands

• Updated on: April 11, 2022

This article may contain affiliate links.  For more information, please see our disclaimer  here.

Table of Contents

The first thing tourists notice when they arrive in the Netherlands is the bikes. So many bikes! Cycling in the Netherlands is a way of life and it’s a part of our culture and heritage that we love to share with visitors. And in this post, we share 15 incredible bike tours to explore the Netherlands.

So, hop on – we’re going for a ride!

Is Netherlands good for cycling?

More than 25% of the Netherlands is at or below sea level. Being a mostly flat country makes the Netherlands a great destination for a bike tour. 

It’s easy and fun to explore the whole of the Netherlands from the seat of a bicycle. Out in the countryside, you can get away from the crowds and discover the most beautiful sights by bike. In the big cities, like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, you can join the throngs of daily commuters and cycle along with the networks of cycle paths. Taking a bike tour in the Netherlands offers a wonderful sense of freedom but there are lots of motorists in the cities too so do take more caution when the traffic is busy.

Netherlands bike tour: dos and don’ts

• Rent a Dutch bike for your bike tour. Our bikes are the best in the world!
• Wear comfortable, loose clothes, preferably sportswear. 
• Use your bike lights and your bell. Safety first!
• Take a paper map or download a digital map if you’re self-guiding. On bike tours in the Netherlands you may lose connection to the internet.
• Carry enough water and snacks, even if you’re on a guided tour. 
• Take your bike on the train with a Bicycle Day Travel Card.

Don’t

• Ride your bike when intoxicated. Not only is it dangerous, it’s illegal and could land you a €140 fine. 
• Leave your bike unlocked. Bike theft is common, particularly in Amsterdam.
• Forget to pack a bicycle repair kit!
• Cycle on footpaths! 

If you like to get more information on cycling yourself in the Netherlands, also check out our guide on how to get around in the Netherlands .

Self guided bike tours netherlands

Cycling is so popular in the Netherlands that a network of tried-and-tested cycle routes already covers the country. The Fietspaden (bicycle paths) cover 35,000km of the Netherlands and are clearly-marked and well-maintained. It’s easy to take a self-guided bike tour in the Netherlands and enjoy our stunning landscapes. If you want to learn more about local culture and history there are tons of guided tours available too. Here’s our pick of 15 of the best bike tours through the Netherlands.

1. Biesbosch

• Starting Point: Dordrecht Train Station
• Length: 39.4km
• Difficulty: Easy 
• Trail type: Loop

This Dutch bike tour is located in the province South Holland and takes in the sights of the city of Dordrecht and the Biesboch National Park. Suitable for all skill levels, this trail is almost 40km in length but features little elevation. It’s a fairly relaxed ride. The first half of this bike tour in the Netherlands offers fantastic views of Biesboch, one of Northwestern Europe’s best examples of a freshwater tidal wetlands. Bird-watchers and nature-lovers will love this route. The second half of this bike tour explores a waterway on the western side of Dordrecht. With no stops, you will arrive back at your starting point of Dordrecht station in around 2.5 hours. 

Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

You might also like: 10 most beautiful national parks in the Netherlands

2. Kijkduin – Hoek van Holland

• Starting Point: Kijkduin
• Length: 37.3km
• Difficulty: Easy

This is an easy trail for those who want to explore the quieter side of The Hague. From Kijkduin, the first 24km of this trail guides you through the south-western part of The Hague before reaching the Hoek van Holland (Hook of Holland). From here, the last 13km is a long, straight stretch of waterside bike path that will bring you back to your starting point. Expect to be distracted by a number of local sights and attractions on your way. 

• Starting Point: Garderen
• Length: 65.8km
• Difficulty: Moderate

Your starting point is the small village of Garderen, located deep in the forests of the Veluwe in the province of Gelderland. This is a moderate bike tour to explore the countryside of the Netherlands in a loop of more than 65km. You’ll face a challenging bit of elevation after around 40km. Primarily for road biking, the Garderen to Vierhouten Veluwe trail is known for its scenic views of fields of wildflowers and interesting heritage sites. Another great way to explore the Veluwe is on foot, which we cover in our Utrecht hiking guide .

4. Vlissingen – Middelburg – Domburg – Westkapelle

• Starting Point: Vlissingen
• Length: 46.8 km
• Elevation Gain: 196 m
• Trail type: One-way

Begin this bike tour in the harbour of Vlissingen and from there you will follow easy going cycling paths next to the canal of Walcheren in the direction of the city centre of Middelburg. You will cross some really typical Dutch landscapes and wind mills, local markets and cozy squares. On the road to Oostkapelle and Domburg you will cross Castle ‘Westhove’. Just before you will arrive in Oostkappelle you will cycle through the forest of Wasschappelse on the end of the treeline you will see the coast again. It’s a really nice and diverse route. During the whole bike tour the directions are well marked so getting lost is almost impossible.

5. Kinderdijk 

• Starting Point: Havenstraat, Alblasserdam next to Gemeentehuis, Alblasserdam
• Length: 44.4km

Starting canalside in the heart of Alblasserdam, this is one of our favorite bike tours in the Netherlands. The route takes you on a 44km loop along the Middelkade canal to beautiful Kinderdijk. From here you travel along the Lek River. This area is known as the Gardens of Europe for its charming network of waterways and dikes with views of some of the Netherland’s finest windmills and fields of flowers. Check out our post to taking a day trip to Kinderdijk for more inspiration. 

6. Eight castles 

• Starting Point: Kasteel Vorden
• Length: 34.4km

This trail begins at Kasteel Vorden, Gelderland one of the eight castles you’ll see on this route. There’s lots to see on this 34km loop trail that is also popular with hikers and runners. As well as the castles, you can see a Pinetum de Belten, a tended forest of thousands of conifers, and several scenic campsites. This trail is rated as moderate and has low overall but with frequent gains in elevation. 

7. Hunebeds route

• Starting Point: Broger Centrum
• Length : 43km

Start this bike tour of the Netherlands in the very center of Broger, Drenthe. A short ride out of town, this becomes a nature trail offering gorgeous views for almost the entire 43km route. A moderate trail, there is some frequent elevation gain for the last 10km. Also a road biking trail, the Hunebeds route is suitable for all cyclists.

8. Vaalserberg 

• Starting Point: Hombourg
• Length: 41.5km

This moderate trail takes you on a loop around the sights of Vaalsberg, the only mountain in the Netherlands. Vaalsberg is the highest point in mainland Netherlands at 322.4m. As you’d expect, the elevation gain on this trail is a little more challenging at 873m. 

Self guided Multi Day bike tours netherlands

9. tour around the netherlands .

• Starting Point: Nieuweschans
• Length: 1754km

A comprehensive round-trip that takes you on a journey along the entire border of the Netherlands. This 27-stop loop is more than 1750km in length, starting and ending in Nieuweschans. We recommend taking your time to complete this route as it is the most comprehensive bike tour of the Netherlands on this list. The trail offers hotel suggestions for your overnight stays. Use this as a rough guide to book your own accommodation or even find campsites along the way!

10. Eleven Citites Cycling Tour

• Starting Point: Bolsward
• Length: 253km

Elfstedentocht means Eleven Cities in English and commonly refers to a famous tour skating event that can only take place in the Netherlands when the waters that connect these 11 cities are fully frozen. So, this is an event that takes place very irregularly and with only 48 hours notice! 

The Eleven Cities cycling tour is not weather-dependent so you can admire these 11 cities whenever you like. Like the skating tour, there’s also an organized Elfstedentocht bike tour once a year that is open to the public up to a maximum of 15,000 entrants. But if you’re not around during this organized event, use the map and cycle it on your own peace.

11. Pieterpad 

• Starting Point: Pieterburen
• Length: 492km

Pieterpad is one of the Netherlands most popular hiking trails. However, it is possible to take a self-guided bike tour along the same route. Starting at the coastal village of Pieterburen, this trail takes you all the way from the northern of the Netherlands down to it’s southernmost tip. A scenic, countryside route, the Pieterburen trail will guide you through flat open fields, the forests of Drenthe of Overijssel and the Limburg hills. 

Best bike tours in netherlands

12. beach and dunes bike tour.

• Starting Point: Noordwijkerhout 
• Length: 25km

If you’d rather take a guided bike tour in the Netherlands, we recommend this beach and dunes bike tour. Starting at Noordwijkerhout square you will first cycle alongside the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen, the water dunes from which the city of Amsterdam draws its drinking water. When you reach the beach at Nederzandt you’ll stop for refreshments then cycle through part of de Hollandse Duinen National Park. You’ll make it back to Noordwijkerhout via the charming country lanes of Bollenstreek. Bike rental is included. 

13. Countryside and organic farm bike tour

• Starting Point: Amsterdam Centraal
• Length: 3 hours

From Amsterdam Central, you will cycle to the charming village of Landsmeer and Twiske, one of North Holland’s most scenic areas. This guided bike tour is all about organic agriculture and is an educational as well as a fun experience. You’ll visit the organic farm “Zorgboerderij Maarsen” on this tour and share a lunch with some of the staff and volunteers. 

For more information, see this countryside and organic farm bike tour on Get Your Guide.

14. Amsterdam bike tour

• Starting Point: Amsterbike Shop, Piet Heinkade 25
• Difficulty : Easy

If it’s Amsterdam city you want to explore, look no further than this 3-hour guided bike tour. As part of a small group, you’ll bike around the iconic streets of Amsterdam and learn all about Dutch culture, see our famous canals, and enjoy some famous sites. 

Find out more about this fun and interesting Amsterdam bike tour in the Netherlands.

You might also like: Where to stay in Amsterdam?

15. Zaanse Schans bike tour

• Starting Point: Koog aan de Zaan Station

There’s no better way to explore the village of Zaanse Schans with it’s pretty Dutch windmills than by bike. Join this small guided tour for a 2.5 to 3 hour journey along the banks of the Zaan River to one of the most photogenic spots in the Netherlands.This tour is a loop so you will return your bikes to your guide at the Koog aan de Zaan train station, a few stops from Amsterdam Centraal. 

Best time for a bike tour in the Netherlands

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That’s our pick of 15 incredible bike tours through the Netherlands. Do you have a question or want to share your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!

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Cycling Tours & Bike Trips in Netherlands

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The ultimate guide to Cycletours Netherlands by bike and barge

by Anne Betts | Jul 3, 2021 | Cycling Trips , Netherlands | 13 comments

Updated July 3, 2021

With a population of almost 17 million people owning close to 20 million bicycles, cycling is a way of life for people of all ages in the Netherlands. It’s the perfect country to enjoy a cycling vacation with Cycletours Netherlands by bike and barge  travelling on and beside canals, especially when tulips are in bloom. Read on for a detailed review, comprehensive guide, and day-to-day itinerary.

Table of Contents

Cycle and cyclist friendly

When is the best time, advantages of a bike-and-barge tour, schiff liza marleen, guide-led cycling, day 1 (20 km), day 2: vianen to gouda (39 km), day 3: gouda to rotterdam to delft (37 km), day 4: delft to leiden (48 km), day 5 – keukenhof, day 6: leiden to haarlem (59 km), day 7: haarlem to amsterdam (51 km), the verdict.

The Dutch have been building dedicated bike paths (35,000 kilometres of them in fact) since the late 1800s. As a result, a bike-friendly infrastructure has been developed. There’s a continuous network of clearly signposted, well maintained and well lit cycle paths, cycle lanes, cycle bridges, cycle tunnels, cycle ferries, cycle parking stations, and cycle traffic lights. There are even specially designed containers for cyclists to deposit garbage on the fly.

Drivers treat cyclists with courtesy and respect. There’s a strong likelihood that drivers are cyclists themselves when they’re not behind the wheel of a car. Where cycle paths and roads meet, cyclists have priority. If a collision occurs between a car and a cyclist, in many cases the driver and his/her insurance is deemed to be liable to pay damages. All this contributes to making cycling safe, convenient, and affordable. The country is a cyclist’s dream.

The Netherlands is laced with canals, making a bike-and-barge vacation an enjoyable and economical option.

In April and May, Holland explodes with displays of blooming tulips, hyacinths, irises, scillas, crocuses, and muscari. In residential and public gardens, lilacs, magnolias, wisterias, laburnums, and hawthorns herald the arrival of spring. These are the kind of visual fireworks everyone should experience at least once in a lifetime.

Spring creates a perfect backdrop for special cycling tours through the legendary tulip fields. Many include a visit to the world-famous Keukenhof Park with its 32 hectares of brilliantly coloured flowering bulbs.

Combining cycling and travel means being out in the fresh air to not only enjoy the scenery, but benefit from several hours of low impact exercise. All that calorie-burning pedal power builds an appetite for the delectable array of European foods. Relish the guilt-free enjoyment of the wide selection of inexpensive beer and wine. Add a barge to the mix and a perfect holiday starts to take shape.

There’s something attractive about the familiarity of returning to the same floating hotel at the end of a cycling day. It’s convenient to unpack once at the beginning of the tour, and giving wash-and-wear clothing the extra time it needs to dry before each new cycling day.

Another appealing aspect is the option to forego one or more days of cycling and remain on board the boat. A barge usually features common areas such as a lounge and sundeck, providing comfortable areas for non-cycling family members or friends to relax during the day. Remaining on board is particularly useful in the event of illness or injury. When you’re not well, a 50-kilometre ride in inclement weather isn’t a healthy choice.

Cycletours Netherlands by bike and barge

A four-country bike-and-boat tour of the Danube  introduced us to bike-and-boat travel. It was on the MV My Story in 2013, and organized by Rad and Reisen/Eurocycle. As a result, we signed up with the same company for the Southern Relax Tulip Tour operated by Rad and Reisen’s local partner, Cycletours Holidays. This was during the first week of May in 2014.

Our barge for the tour was the Schiff Liza Marleen , built in 1918 as a fishing boat to harvest herring from the waters of the North Sea. Converted to a passenger craft in 1992, she can carry up to 34 passengers housed in 14 two- and three-person cabins. For our tour, we were 24. A crew of four — all Dutch — Skipper Nico, Chef Manfred, Host Titcia, and Guide Annie rounded out the Liza Marleen’s entourage for the week.

The cabins provided all the amenities needed for a comfortable week on the water. They included bunk beds with reading lights, and private bathrooms with plenty of glorious hot water. In the two cabins assigned to our group of four friends, the bottom beds were singles and the top ones doubles. Each top bunk enjoyed a window, and was accessed by a sloping ladder. Other cabins contained single bunk beds in a different configuration. All cabins contained shelves and several hooks and hangers. Luxury accommodation it wasn’t; for us, it was perfect.

Meals were excellent, food was plentiful, and every effort was made to accommodate dietary needs. Coffee and tea were available throughout the day. Beer, wine, and soft drinks were available on a self-serve honour system. Purchases were marked throughout the week and bills settled at the end of the trip.

The 08:00 buffet-style breakfast consisted of cereal, yogurt, fruit, eggs, bacon, pancakes, cold cuts, and cheese. Each person prepared a sandwich for a packed lunch, complemented by fruit, juice packs, and candy and protein bars.

Three-course suppers at 18:30 were varied. By the second day, they assumed the atmosphere of boisterous family affairs. It was with eager anticipation we awaited the announcement of the menu with appreciative “oohs and aahs” as Titcia described each dish. When Manfred emerged from the kitchen after the meal, he was greeted with rousing applause. Everyone helped clear away dishes by passing plates and cutlery down to the end of the table to be stacked ready for pick up. Willing helpers cleared the tables of cups, glasses, placemats, and napkins.

The 24 mostly retired and pre-retired participants came from Austria, Canada, United Kingdom, and the United States. English was the language of announcements and itinerary descriptions, and conversations were in Dutch, English, French, and German.

We travelled as one large group. This was different from our Danube bike-and-boat tour. For that trip, we moved at our own pace in small groups by following detailed maps and instructions, tour signposts, and our written notes from briefing sessions.

The option existed to go it alone but after having experienced so many twists and turns on the first day, it was not an alternative anyone took up. A key advantage was the security that came with travelling as part of a group. It meant remaining on the right paths, reaching the boat on time, getting help if needed, and not having to expend all that mental and emotional energy on staying oriented and not getting lost.

Our guide Annie led the way, cycling back and forth to shepherd the group across busy intersections without traffic lights. On a couple of occasions, she retrieved lost cyclists. What an amazing accomplishment.

At the back of the line were two ‘sweeps.’ They ‘swept up’ stragglers and stayed in touch with Annie by phone as required. For the most part, the system worked well, especially with the appointment of a couple of riders in the middle of the pack. Their job was to keep an eye on any widening gaps, and the location of the sweeps. At times, one of them would remain at a turn to direct cyclists. By the end of the week, we were working like a well-oiled machine, with everyone watching out for the safety and well-being of others in the group.

The height of each person was collected as part of the booking process. Therefore, the selection of bikes contained the appropriate mix of small, medium, and large men’s and women’s bikes. There was also the option to rent an electric bike. The bikes were all assembled by the Dutch manufacturer Batavus, with Galibier and Comanche 24 models available. They were lightweight and performed very well. Each bike was outfitted with a built-in lock, water bottle cradle, and double waterproof panniers. While the bikes had 24 speeds, about 18 of these were redundant given the topography of our route.

The Liza Marleen was berthed at Oosterdock in the centre of Amsterdam near Nemo, the Science and Technology Museum nearby central station. We were greeted by the crew, shown to our cabins, and provided with a short briefing before sailing out of the city in the direction of Vianen. It was a pleasant Saturday afternoon on the water, shared with a variety of boats overflowing with people enjoying the canals of Amsterdam. After an hour or so, we disembarked for a short 20-km cycle.

The countryside was sprinkled with grazing cattle and sheep, canal-side houseboats, and charming villages. After a relatively mild winter, spring had come early to the Netherlands. The landscape flaunted every imaginable shade of green, interspersed with the splashes of colour of flowering trees, shrubs, and plants.

The Netherlands means ‘the low lands,’ with approximately one third of the country below sea level. As a result, the Dutch have drained many lakes and parts of the sea, creating ‘polders’ (reclaimed land). This prompts the oft-quoted saying “God created the earth, but the Dutch created the Netherlands.”

The centuries-long struggle with water has resulted in a labyrinth of canals and drainage channels crisscrossing the landscape. Many of our cycle paths were formed of fill dredged from the adjacent channels. This invariably placed us on slightly higher ground from which to enjoy views of the countryside. With waterways everywhere, waterfowl were our constant companions — geese and ducks, herons and hawks, storks, swans, and nesting coots.

The route from Vianen took us to our lunch stop of Schoonhoven, a town with a rich history in the traditional craft of silversmithing. Later, we arrived in Gouda (pronounced ‘Howda’) to narrow streets, a picturesque town hall in a large central market square, and a canal-side shop dedicated to Gouda’s world-famous cheese. It was May 4, when the Dutch hold “Dodenherdenking” or “Remembrance of the Dead.” It commemorates those who have died in wars or peacekeeping missions since the outbreak of World War II. Throughout the country, two minutes of silence are observed at 20:00 when we attended a remembrance gathering in the Gouda town hall square.

It’s like stepping back into medieval times visiting the 123-metre long St. Janskerk (St. John’s Church) dedicated to John the Baptist, patron saint of Gouda. The church is especially famous for its 400-year-old ‘Gouda Windows’ removed prior to the outbreak of World War II. They were packed in crates and hidden for safe keeping in earthen bunkers. Fortunately, the church survived both the occupation and the liberation, and the stained-glass windows were restored to their original place in 1947.

No visit to Gouda would be complete without sampling the traditional stroopwafel (treacle waffles) first made in Gouda in the early nineteenth century.

From Gouda, we set off in the direction of Kinderdijk. It’s the only place in the world with so many windmills so close together in an authentic polder landscape. The 19 mills, pumping stations, low and high storage basins, ditches, and sluices form such an ingenious water management system that the complex was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1997. Today, a large pumping station is responsible for controlling the water level in the polder.

A fast ferry took us from Alblasserdam to Rotterdam where we boarded the Liza Marleen. Most of us headed to the sundeck for the sailing to Delft. Skipper Nico explained that a condition of our remaining on the sundeck was that when the wheelhouse lowered, we were to ‘hit the deck.’ This involved sitting on the floor as the barge passed under bridges with limited clearance. It was a beautiful evening and the sundeck was an ideal vantage point from which to enjoy the changing scenery.

Delft is famous for its pottery, the ‘Delft blue.’ Our visit to De Delftse Pauw (Delft Pottery) was extremely well organized, with two guides seamlessly conducting a tour of the facility in English, French, and German.

From Delft, our cycle route took us to The Hague. Sharing the busy streets with cars, motorcyclists, trams, pedestrians, and other cyclists proved very challenging. It was also exhilarating to experience a brief cultural immersion in the life of locals who cycle in busy cities on a daily basis. A short stop at the Peace Palace housing the International Court of Justice introduced us to the origins and functions of this magnificent institution.

From The Hague, we cycled to the North Sea coast at Scheveningen with its sprawling sandy beach, restaurants, amusements, and quirky beachfront sculptures.

Cycling through the dunes was a peaceful contrast to the hectic streets of The Hague. A few gentle inclines and declines followed the contours of the dunes, and the trees provided ample protection from wind and blowing sand. The serenity of the dunes was conducive to reflecting on the gift of seeing Holland by bike and barge.

After a brief stop and stroll around the seaside town of Katweya, we headed towards Leiden, the birthplace of Rembrandt (van Rijn). We found the Liza Marleen moored near the Zijlpoort, a gate that once formed part of the city walls.

The Southern Relax Tulip Tour includes a visit to Keukenhof. The public bus system provided transportation from Leiden to the world-famous spring gardens in the town of Lisse, the centre of Holland’s bulb district. In the 32-hectare park, bulb growers display their best and newest wonders in blazing colours along pathways lined with acres of manicured gardens. With more than seven million tulip, daffodil, hyacinth, and muscari bulbs planted and tended by Keukenhof gardeners each year, the park has to be one of the most photographed places on earth. While the thousands upon thousands of tulips in rich kaleidoscopic arrangements are without a doubt the stars of the show, there is so much more to enjoy at Keukenhof.

Indoor areas showcase numerous floral arrangements and displays, changing regularly throughout the brief eight-week Keukenhof season. The Beatrix Pavillion with its Orchid, Bromeliad and Anthurium Shows was a stunning favourite.

From Leiden, we cycled through Rijnsburg, and soon after took the Veerpont ferry to Warmond. With a maximum capacity of 34 passengers and bicycles, the ferry needed to be perfectly balanced. People were asked by the ferry operator to move to one side or the other to achieve the desired distribution of weight. Our cooperation was rewarded with a tray of candies passed around the boat.

Much of our cycling route was through the heart of Bloembollenstreek. Holland’s bulb-growing region stretches from Haarlem to Leiden where bulbs have been grown since the end of the sixteenth century. Unfortunately, we could only dream and drool over what the gardens would have looked like just a few short weeks earlier. Spring had come early to this part of Europe, and we had missed the patchwork of tulip blooms in the fields by about two weeks.

At the seaside town of Noordwijk, we paused by the system of underground military bunkers and tunnels built under the Noordwijk sand dunes by German troops occupying the town from 1940 to 1945. The Atlantikwall, stretching from the French-Spanish border up to Norway, was built as a barrier against an anticipated Allied invasion. After lunch on the beach, our cycling route took us in a northerly direction towards Haarlem.

We passed more fields where we could only imagine what a spectacular sight it must have been a few weeks earlier. We took solace in the fact that the billions of spent blooms were part of the natural cycle of building bulbs worthy of export to countries around the globe. The barely distinguishable brown and green hyacinths, tulips, and daffodils were still enjoying their only spring beneath Dutch skies. Needless to say, our disappointment was harnessed into shaping plans to return to the region in a subsequent year around the third week of April.

At Haarlem, which rendered its name to Harlem, New York, the Haarlemmermeer (Haarlemmer Lake) is today a polder. Originally using windmills, and later (between 1849 and 1852) employing three steam-powered pumping stations, the water was pumped into a circular canal around the polder before being transported to the sea.

Eventually, the Haarlemmer was pumped dry of 831 cubic kilometres of water creating 18,300 hectares of fertile land. In fact, Schiphol Airport is situated here, approximately three metres below sea level. A visit to the Cruquiusgemaal (Cruquius Pumping Station), site of the largest steam engine in the world, confirmed what had already been observed while cycling — that the Netherlands is an extraordinary country. It’s an incredible example of what ingenuity, perseverance, and ambitious engineering can accomplish.

Our cycling day started with a leisurely ride through Spaarnwoude, a recreational area just outside Haarlem.

At Spaarndam (named after the dam built on the Spaarne River to limit the danger of flooding from the sea), we paused by the statue of Hansje Brinker on the IJdijk. He was a fictitious character who saved the country from flooding by putting his thumb in a leaking dyke. Today, the character symbolizes Holland’s perpetual struggle against floodwaters.

The Buitenhuizen ferry from Spaarndam to Assendelft across the Noordzeekanaal (North Sea Canal) put us within cycling distance of Zaanse Schans. This open-air cultural museum on the bank of the Zaan River consists of warehouses, workshops, traditional weatherboard houses, and several working windmills. In the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, there were thousands of windmills along the dykes. They performed various functions as sawmills, dye mills, and oil mills powering the Dutch economy.

The Zaanse Schans village provides a picture of what it must have been like. One of the highlights was a visit to a klompermakerij (wooden shoe maker) and museum where regular demonstrations were conducted on the carving of wooden shoes.

A fierce headwind on the journey from Zaanse Schans to Amsterdam made the final two hours of our 250-km cycling week the most demanding. A short break at the Landsmeerderveld memorial provided a welcome respite from the blustery conditions. The memorial, constructed of parts of the plane found in the fields in Landsmeer, marks the crash on September 29, 1941 of a Vickers Wellington bomber on its way back to Britain after a successful bombing mission over Italy.

We arrived ‘home’ to a special table setting prepared by Titcia, hinting at a more festive atmosphere for our last supper together. Manfred rose to the occasion by preparing a wonderful buffet of delicious Indonesian dishes and a fiery dessert.

• With its multitude of bike paths and a cycling-positive culture, the Netherlands is a perfect destination for a cycling vacation. We were constantly amazed at the patience and thoughtfulness of Dutch drivers, and felt a level of safety not experienced in Canada.
• The tour is perfect for leisure cyclists, including those who haven’t ridden a bicycle in decades. Cycle paths are on mostly flat terrain and daily distances are manageable. Electric bikes are available for easier cycling.
• The tour was sprinkled with such a rich variety of scenery and experiences that it was interesting at all times. Organization was superb.
• On the Liza Marleen, we were treated as honoured guests. The crew bent over backwards to make our cycling tour all it could be… and more. They were amazing.
• We often found ourselves comparing the Southern Relax Tulip Tour with the Danube boat-and-bike tour on the 174-passenger My Story of the previous spring. We definitely preferred the more intimate interaction with passengers and crew that came with a smaller group. By the end of the second day, we knew everyone’s name and where each person was from. A tangible group spirit developed over the course of the seven days. At the end of the week, a list of email addresses was compiled so we could exchange photographs and stay in touch.
• If considering a spring bike-and-barge tour, make allowances for the unpredictability of nature. If feasting on the vibrant colours of the flowering field bulbs is part of the appeal, pitch to the middle of the season (e.g., the third week of April).
• Expect rain, and temperatures of anywhere between 10 and 30 degrees. Dress in layers and don’t skimp on good quality rain gear.
• Helmets aren’t mandatory in the Netherlands for this type of cycling, so bringing a helmet or renting one is optional.
• Assemble a small first-aid kit to take out cycling, and include a variety of band-aids, as well as antiseptic wipes and antiseptic cream.
• Bring a pocket shopping bag to carry gear to and from the panniers. The process of loading and unloading of the bikes needs to move quickly, especially if it’s raining.
• Wi-Fi on the barge was very slow, and limited to one hour per day just before supper. Staying connected to the cellular network can be very useful. I used it to check the weather, stay in touch with home, and research stops along the way. It was handy to call a taxi and our accommodation hosts before and after the tour. It’s critical if volunteering as a ‘sweep,’ or travelling independently from the group. If arriving at Schiphol, there are several options. I chose Lebara and my 20-euro investment bought a SIM card, 1GB of data and 7,50 euro calling credit. I wasn’t disappointed and was very pleased with the service.

There are several companies offering cycling tours in the Netherlands. If they’re as good as Cycletours, or as great as the crew on the Liza Marleen, expect a memorable experience.

For more photographs, check out the album below. If you’re considering a bike-and-boat tour of the Danube, you might be interested in Cycling the Danube: a four-country tour by bike and boat .

If you found this post helpful, please share it by selecting one or more of the social media buttons below. Have you taken a bike-and-barge tour?  Please comment on your experience or share a link to your blog or photos in the comments. Thank you.

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13 Comments

This sounds like a greatest hits tour of The Netherlands! Would love to cycle there.

I was reading the report again today, while it’s grey and rainy in Holland. But…. the daffodils are already blooming, even one carnation shows it’s beautiful colours!! I cannot wait to start guiding.

I wish you a happy New Year and many new biking adventures.

All the best,

Wow this would definitely be a great activity for people who love to keep fit while travelling! I would enjoy doing this, but I’m not sure if my calves would cope!

Thank you for such a detailed guide! I’m so desperate to see the tulips one year. I especially like how you broke this up by days. Will be coming back to this when I finally get to go.

I have not been to Netherlands yet, but this is a great blog with so much information on what to do. Apart from the spectacular tulips and other flowers, there seems to be so much to do using cycle tours to keep fit. Bookmarking your blog for future reference.:-)

This looks like it would be a great way to see the Netherlands. Love the photo with the large clogs

I was too afraid to cycle in Amsterdam but I think a tour like this would have helepd a lot. I’ll try it next time!

This sounds like such a great way to experience Holland, especially during the tulip season. I also love that they get your height prior so your bike is just right 👏🏽

So beautiful Need a general idea of costs to #days. This determines if I can consider your tour. Thank you, Frances

Hi Frances. Here’s a description of the itinerary, number of days, and cost (from the company’s website): https://cycletours.com/cycling-holidays/countries/the-netherlands/tulip-tour/ I notice there are quite a few other companies offering similar tours. Good luck with your research.

Hi Anne, Great report! I’m here now doing the southern tour and enjoying dry and sunny weather! There’s nothing on the website about tipping at the end. Is this a expected practice here in the Netherlands? The service is outstanding!

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• A Hipster’s Guide to Amsterdam-Noord – Things to Do | Drifter Planet - […] Cycling is a very important part of Dutch culture, hence literally the entire Netherlands is built in such a…
• Cycling Holiday: 12 Expert Bloggers Share Their Top Destinations - Snap Travel Blog - […] I was first introduced to bike-and-boat tours on the Danube. The boats tend to be larger than the smaller…
• A Hipster’s Guide to Amsterdam-Noord – Things to Do | Urge For Travel - […] Cycling is a very important part of Dutch culture, hence literally the entire Netherlands is built in such a…

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Find your bike holiday through The Netherlands

Best of Holland Tour € 825

Highlights Of Holland Tour € 659

Amsterdam – Bruges Tour € 859

Coast, Flowers & Island Tour € 929

Holland’s Old Historic Towns Tour € 995

Holland’s Big Rivers Tour € 819

Holland Beach & Dunes Tour € 1199

Amsterdam & Waterland Tour € 790

City and Beach Tour € 825

Frisian Lakes and Towns Tour € 679

Drenthe Province Tour € 589

Eleven Frisian Towns Tour € 869

IJsselmeer & North Sea Tour € 775

Van Gogh Tour € 749

Dutch Canals & Dunes Tour € 899

Dutch Cities Tour € 1599

Cheese and Seaside Boulevard Tour € 999

North Holland Tour € 599

Deltaworks and Dunes Tour € 599

Holland’s Biggest National Park Tour € 544

Cycling In Holland

Netherlands Bike Tours

Explore netherlands on the best guided cycling tours.

The Netherlands are home to a fantastic combination of tradition and modernization. The many links between this region’s history and geography make traveling by bike AND barge the perfect traditional transportation combination. By day you’ll cycle past legendary windmills and tulip fields and explore the stunning architecture displayed in town squares. Later on, while aboard our private barge, you will look out on some of the country’s most scenic landscapes and port villages. You’ll also visit important culinary towns home to traditional foods such as Gouda cheese and unparalleled chocolate. Renowned for its cycling and cafe culture, fascinating museums, charming urban areas and welcoming people, exploring the Netherlands by barge and bicycle is an experience not to be missed.

Browse Netherlands tours

• Bike and Boat
• Self-Guided

Bike and Barge: Amsterdam to Bruges

May 04, 2024 – May 12, 2024 One cabin now available. Private rooms and will-shares not available.      

Jul 12, 2024 – Jul 20, 2024 Sold out – wait list available.

Bike and Barge: Amsterdam to Bruges Plus! Belgium’s Breweries

May 04, 2024 – May 15, 2024 One cabin now available. Private rooms and will-shares not available.      

Jul 12, 2024 – Jul 23, 2024 Sold out – wait list available.

May 04, 2024 – May 12, 2024

Jul 12, 2024 – jul 20, 2024, may 04, 2024 – may 15, 2024, jul 12, 2024 – jul 23, 2024.

• Hawaii’s Big Island

San Juan Islands

• ————-

Provence, France

Puglia, italy.

• Pyrenees, France

Tuscany, Italy

• Self-Guided Cycling Tours
• Guided Bike Tours
• Guest Reviews
• Local Cycling Guides

The original cycling destination

• Custom itineraries and uniquely personal service
• A network of 20,000 miles of dedicated bike routes: the bicycle reigns supreme!
• Legendary for its tulips, windmills, canals and bicycles
• Gently undulating terrain and varied landscapes
• Charming cities, towns, and villages with a very rich history
• Water everywhere!

Late Spring, Summer, and Early Fall

Starting / Ending City

Amsterdam or Utrecht

Tour Length

3 to 10 days

◊ Self-Guided With our Self-Guided tours an expert local guide takes care of your transfers, route briefing, luggage moves, and planned transfers. They are also available should you need mechanical assistance, help with a dinner reservation, or general questions. You have a GPS unit, maps, and a detailed guidebook to help you select your route, choose where you eat, and, generally, explore the area.

◊ Guided Group Our Guided tours allow your group to explore a destination with an expert local guide with a dedicated support vehicle. You will also have GPS units, maps and a detailed guidebook to help learn about both the major sights and the hidden gems. Your guide takes care of both you and all the logistics – from route advice to bottle washing.

d Design Your Tour

Tell us about your perfect tour so that we can customize an itinerary.

Where do you want to go?

• All Regions
• North America

Hawaii's Big Island

Catalonia, Spain

France's Pyrenees

Southwest Ireland

Douro Valley, Portugal

Istrian Peninsula, Croatia

Where do you want to stay?

Simple B&Bs and more modest hotels but all well-kept with en suite facilities

Nice B&Bs and more modest inns or hotels. The B&Bs typically include welcome drinks and great breakfasts.

Smaller hotels or luxurious B&Bs with very personal service often including wine tasting

Some of the nicest full-service hotels in the area. Typically include spa facilities and a restaurant.

Some of the nicest full-service hotels in the area. Typically include a pool and a good restaurant

When, how many days and how many in your party?

Let us know when you would like to travel, how long you would like your tour to be and how many people might be in your party.

What else should we know?

Tell us more about you and what you're interested in! While completely optional, providing us with more information helps us design the perfect tour for you.

Where should we send your custom itinerary?

Thank you for providing us with your tour preferences. The next step will be for us to contact you with a prepared itinerary which we can further customize. We will be in touch soon!

Thank you for your submission. We will be in contact very soon!

Our Holland Bike Tours

Cycling in the Netherlands is a revelation. It is simply the most bicycle-friendly country on the planet: a haven for cyclists with more than 20,000 miles of traffic-free bike paths, all of which can be used to explore a magnificently pristine countryside dotted with postcard perfect towns and cities.

The scenery is truly impressive: acres of tulip fields, dense forests, tranquil waterways, and working, historic windmills. Water is dominant, with only about 50%  of the country being more than 1 meter above sea level, leading to the need for the country to be be managed by the world’s most complex network of dikes and canals.

The towns and cities you will cycle through are also delightful: medieval gems crammed with cafés, historic sites, and exceptionally good museums. Our Netherlands bike tours take you from Naarden to the loops of Utrecht and the city itself. We’ll then bike over to Gouda on our way to Leiden and a loop thru Delft. Next will be the loops of Haarlem and the city. With our last major city being Alkmaar and a loop around the surrounding countryside.

Here, the car is not king and the bicycle rules. A full 36% of the population cites the bicycle as their most frequent mode of transportation.  Cycle paths extend outside of cities, connecting Dutch villages, towns and cities. Many roads have one or two cycling paths that parallel them, otherwise paths are marked on the roads themselves.

The flat terrain and separation from cars makes Holland an ideal destination for beginner, intermediate and family cycling. Learn more about the LifeCycle Adventures difference.

Sample Itinerary

Holland Sample Itinerary

From $1,780 per person for 3 days

Cycling in the Netherlands is a revelation. It is simply the most bicycle-friendly country on the planet: a haven for cyclists with more than 20,000 miles of traffic-free bike paths. The scenery is equally impressive: acres of tulip fields, dense forests, tranquil waterways, and working, historic windmills. The towns and cities are also delightful: medieval gems crammed with cafés, historic sites, and exceptionally good museums.

The flat terrain and separation from cars makes Holland an ideal destination for beginner, intermediate and family cycling.

TOUR LENGTH

6 Days / 5 Nights

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Budget   

Classic   

Luxury   

START & END

Service highlights.

• Private transfer from Amsterdam with bike set up and route briefing at the start of your ride
• Bilingual guides delivering superior service
• Handpicked accommodations with breakfast
• On-call roadside assistance and guide available via phone
• Luggage moved between lodgings and optional participant transfers along the routes
• GPS units, maps, directions and a comprehensive guidebook
• Private transfer back to Amsterdam at the end of your tour

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

• Alternative start/end location at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport
• Cheese tours
• Customize your route

BIKE AVAILABILITY

Day-by-day flow.

Day 1: Utrecht to Gouda

Day 2: Gouda Loop Day

Day 3: Gouda to Leiden

Day 4: Leiden Loop Day

Day 5: Leiden to Haarlem

Day 6: Haarlem Loop Day

Day One - Utrecht to Gouda

Today you ride from a medieval university town to an ancient cheese town. Most of the riding is on scenic bike routes alongside canals and small rivers.

The Intermediate route heads south from Utrecht before heading west to the small town of Oudewater with its beautiful town center and scales for weighing witches! On leaving Oudewater, the route follows the Hollandse Ijssel river into the center of Gouda.

Leisure riders enjoy a similar day to the Intermediate riders but take a more direct route, west, out of Utrecht.

The Challenge route leaves Utrecht via the Vecht river, a picturesque waterway lined with castles and country estates. From the village of Breukelen, the route takes you up to the castle ‘de Haar’ and the historic town of Woerden. From Woerden, the route continues to Oudewater where it joins the final section of the Intermediate route for the ride into Gouda.

Travel from a medieval university town to an ancient cheese town along scenic bike routes that follow canals and rivers

RIDE OPTIONS

20 miles with 200 feet of climbing

Intermediate 25 miles with 250 feet of climbing

Challenge 40 miles with 450 feet of climbing

OVERNIGHT TOWN

Gouda produces one of the best-known cheese in the world. Gouda is also famous for its dense network of canals, the 15th-century city hall, and the beautiful stained-glass windows of the Sint-Jans church. Culinary, calorie-laden treats include Stroopwafels.

Day Two - Gouda Loops

Today’s rides head south of Gouda through typical Dutch landscapes captured by many famous painters. You ride on bike lanes alongside canals and past picturesque farms. The major attraction of the ride is the UNESCO monument of the Kinderdijk windmills: a group of 19 monumental windmills built between 1738 and 1740.

The Challenge ride takes you past the Kinderdijk windmills before heading up the Rhine Valley to the historic town of Schoonhoven where silversmiths and goldsmiths have worked since the 17th century. From Schoonhoven to Gouda you cycle along one of the most scenic small rivers of the Netherlands (the Vlist) with its many farms, hidden lanes and scenic views.

The Intermediate ride follows a similar route to the challenging ride but bypasses the town Schoonhoven taking a more direct route back into Gouda.

The Leisure ride focuses on the charming lowlands: the origin of the famous Gouda cheese. You will pass the Jongenhoeve cheese farm where you can taste homemade cheese. Note that this route does not pass the Kinderdijk windmills.

The major attraction of the ride is the UNESCO monument of the Kinderdijk windmills: 19 monumental windmills built in the 1700s.

Leisure 20 miles with 200 feet of climbing

Intermediate 30 miles with 350 feet

Challenge 45 miles with 500 feet of

Day Three - Gouda to Leiden

Leaving the town of Gouda you enter the ‘Green Heart‘ of Holland passing canals and windmills all the way to Boskoop. Boskoop is situated on long stretches of land, divided by narrow canals and is famous for its nurseries. After riding though the lowlands, you arrive at the historic student town of Leiden.

The Intermediate route takes you through the recreational lakes to the north of Gouda to town of Boskoop with its quiet streets lined with impressive homes. From Boskoop, the ride continues through the largest floriculture area in the world situated on long stretches of land divided by narrow canals, As you ride into Leiden, you also pass the Heineken headquarters.

The Challenge route follows the intermediate route to Boskoop but from here it heads north through the windmill district to the east of Leiden through the charming villages of Rijpwetering and Oud Ade before returning south into Leiden.

The Leisure ride takes a more direct route from Gouda to Leiden but also passes through the village of Boskoop.

Cycle through the Green Heart of Holland: a water-rich, rural region dotted with historic towns and picturesque windmills

Intermediate 25 miles with 250 feet

Challenge 35 miles with 350 feet

Leiden is a lively town known for its medieval architecture, its maze of narrow streets, and for Leiden University – founded in 1575 and the country’s oldest. Leiden is also the birthplace of Rembrandt van Rijn. The Museum De Lakenhal has many works by old masters including Lucas van Leyden, Jan Steen, and, of course, Rembrandt.

Day Four - Leiden Loops

For Intermediate and Challenge riders, Delft is the target city for the day. Delft is best known for its blue and white pottery which has been produced here since the 16th century. Delft is also a charming town in its own right and it is well worth taking time to explore its canals, churches, mansions, museums, markets and cafés.

Intermediate riders loop back to Leiden from Delft.

Challenge riders continue south from Delft on an extra loop that explores a rural haven that is surrounded by the skylines of Delft, Rotterdam, and The Hague.

Leisure riders take on a shorter loop that includes Vlietland: a spacious park busy with activities such as sailing, kayaking, camping and climbing.

Explore the canals, churches, mansions, museums, markets and cafés for charming Delft

Leisure 20 miles with 300 feet of climbing

Intermediate 30 miles with 500 feet

Challenge 55 miles with 750 feet

Day Five - Leiden to Haarlem

On today’s Intermediate route, you cycle north into the heart of tulip country. The ride passes Keukenhof Botanical Gardens*: an expansive 19th-century park showcasing thousands of Dutch spring flowers. The second part of your ride turns west, arriving at the coast, where you head north alongside the North Sea. The bike path here snakes through large sandy dunes and is one of the most stunning cycle routes in the country. On reaching the beach town of Zandvoort, you head east to the medieval city of Haarlem.

Leisure follow the Intermediate route to the Keukenhof Botanical Gardens* but rather than then heading to the coast, you ride directly to Haarlem.

The Challenge route takes you west before turning north towards the Keukenhof Botanical Gardens. After a loop touring tulip country, you join intermediate for the coastal ride up to Haarlem.

*The Keukenhof Botanical Gardens are typically open from the last week in March until the second week in May. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.

Ride north through tulip fields and across sand dunes on one of the most stunning cycle routes in the country

Leisure 25 miles with 400 feet of climbing

Intermediate 30 miles with 550 feet of climbing

Challenge 35 miles with 700 feet of climbing

The medieval city of Haarlem sits partway between Amsterdam and the coastal dunes. The narrow, cobbled streets and beautiful old squares are lined with gabled houses, cafés and museums. The town is also at the center of the Dutch flower industry.

Day Six - Haarlem Loops - Last Day

Your ride today showcases two different sides of Haarlem: to the east, there are the typical Dutch polders (fields protected by dikes) and, to the west, sand dunes and beaches. One highlight of the day is the beautiful Zuid-Kennemerland National Park – an area of wide open dunes and beaches. Another highlight is the fortifications of the Defense Line of Amsterdam – an intricate system of canals, locks, and fortifications (and a UNESCO World Heritage site).

On the Leisure route, you enjoy a short ride along the coast before heading back to Haarlem.

On the Intermediate route, you ride more of the coast – south to Zandvoort (one of the most popular seaside resorts in Holland) – before turning inland back to Haarlem.

For the Challenge ride, the route first heads over the Binnentoeleidingskanaal. After a loop of North Holland, you return south to join the Intermediate route back to Haarlem.

Cycle along the Defense Line of Amsterdam – a UNESCO World Heritage site with an intricate system of canals, locks, and fortifications

Leisure 20 miles with 500 feet of climbing

Intermediate 25 miles with 600 feet

Challenge 50 miles with 1,000 feet

As this is the last day of your tour, there is no overnight accommodation unless explicitly requested on booking.

ACCOMMODATION

Manna B&B A small B&B at the top of an old canal house close to the historic center of the city. The room is spacious and bright, with comfortable, modern decor. There is also a cozy roof terrace leading from the bedroom. The owners are warm, welcoming and serve a great breakfast

The Tulip Inn This modern hotel is near the railway station, just 10-minutes walk from the historic city center. Rooms are simple, clean and functional. The property has two hotels, the 4-star Golden Tulip and the 3-star Tulip Inn. In this category, we typically book rooms in the 3-star inn.

Hotel Lion D’Or This is a good-but-basic city hotel, well located in the cultural heart of the city. The rooms are modern without being fancy. While there is a reasonable restaurant on site, most guests choose to explore the other dining options in the city. NOTE: the hotel is close to the train station and can be a little noisy.

ACCOMMODATION NOTES

Properties in our Budget category are typically simpler B&Bs and more modest inns or hotels. However, all the properties are well-kept with en suite facilities.

Mix & Match You can choose accommodation in different categories in different towns. Please ask for prices.

Plus City Hotel This Best Western hotel is located on a canal close to the historic city center. The property is a pleasant blend of new and modernized-old with a nice bistro-bar. The rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable. A nice hotel in a great location for the city center.

Hotel d’Oude Morsch This hotel is located in the former guardhouse of the town barracks. The property looks out onto the city’s park, a windmill, and a historical city gateway. The hotel is close to shops, museums and restaurants. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the rooms are comfortable and characterful. NOTE: bike parking is a short walk from the hotel.

Amrâth Grand Hotel Frans Hals This hotel is ideally located in the center of Haarlem; walking distance from all the main tourist sites. The spacious rooms and suites have extra-long beds. An extensive breakfast buffet can be ordered each day and there is a hotel bar for drinks. There are also plenty of dining options nearby.

Properties in the Classic category are typically smaller hotels or luxurious B&Bs with very personal service sometimes including wine tasting or evening hors d’oeuvres.

Relais & Châteaux Weeshuis This charming boutique hotel is located in one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in the city. Rooms have been tastefully renovated combining modern conveniences with a reverence for the past. The hotel is in the heart of the old town with a verdant courtyard, a cool cocktail bar and an excellent restaurant.

Steenhof Suites Located in the historic heart of Leiden, this beautiful boutique hotel combines romantic luxury and 21st century comfort. There are 14 spacious suites that have been exquisitely renovated. This canal-side property also features a fitness center, a small terrace and a stylish bar. Staff is gracious, helpful and knowledgeable.

Boutiquehotel Staats A beautifully unique boutique hotel in the center of Haarlem. The rooms are large and individually decorated. The staff are very welcoming, the location is ideal yet quiet. The restaurant is elegant with delicious food.

Properties in our Luxury category are some of the nicest full-service hotels in the area. They typically include spa facilities and a good restaurant.

Mix & Match

You can choose accommodation in different categories in different towns. Please ask for prices.

BIKE CHOICES

Hybrid bike.

Hybrids bikes are a cross between a mountain bike and a road bike. They have a relaxed riding position and are great for beginners and intermediate riders. A typical model is the Trek 7.3 FX with Shimano components and high-pressure road tires for better cycling efficiency than your typical hybrid.

Our road bikes are a racing style bike with drop handlebars. The road bikes are faster bikes than the hybrids with less upright riding position. A typical model is the Émonda ALR 5 with aluminum frame, carbon forks, and Shimano 105 components. (NOTE: Some of the smaller roads in Puglia can be a little rough making a hybrid bikes a better choice for some riders.)

Our eBikes are designed to give you a little extra assistance when climbing hills. The ride position is very similar to our hybrids. We typically rent Scott E-Sub equipped with a 250W E-drive Bosch motor. If one rider in a couple is stronger than the other, an eBike can be a great choice for the less-strong rider.

If you have a favorite bike, we can help you get it to your destination as well as set it up once it is there. Please ask about options for bike shipping and assembly.

Receiving & Assembly per bike charge to receive bike from shipper, assemble the bike and repack it and deliver it to a shipper at the end of the tour.

Bike Boxes  a per box charge for the extra logistics needed to handle bike boxes during a tour. Note: this fee can be avoided if you leave your box with your start/end hotel.

Tandem Bike  a per bike fee for the extra logistics to handle a tandem bike that is brought by a guest.

LIFECYCLE ADVENTURES LOCAL CYCLING GUIDES

Holland Local Cycling Guidebook

Reviews and Ratings

• Last Minute

Holland Cycling Tours, Bike & Barge Holidays

Destination

Bosnia and herzegovina, czech republic, liechtenstein, netherlands, north macedonia, switzerland, türkiye/turkey, united kingdom, bike & boat, multi-activity, vessels & boats, advanced search.

With its scenic countryside, relaxed villages and handsome cities, Holland offers travelers a fabulous contrast between traditional and modern, rustic and stylish.

Wander the pretty streets of Amsterdam, an exciting but laid-back city of canals, cobblestones and culture, with stunning architecture and some of Europe’s best galleries and museums.

Visit the famous cheese making town of Gouda; admire the historic architecture and charming shopping streets of Haarlem; and cycle through blooming bulb fields en route to the charming small city of Leiden, birthplace of Rembrandt.

Head to the Keukenhof Flower Park to see thousands of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths in Europe's most elaborate floral display; and visit the historic Kinderdijk windmills, a quintessential Dutch icon and World Heritage site, to see 19 beautifully-preserved medieval windmills and learn about their ingenious design.

Cycle through quaint fishing villages and lively harbour towns with rich sailing traditions as you explore the picturesque country surrounding Ijssel Lake; explore castles and canals on an exciting family adventure; or see the highlights of Holland and Belgium on our outstanding Amsterdam to Bruges or Brussels to Amsterdam Bike & Barge adventures.

With its flat terrain, picturesque countryside and world-class cycling infrastructure, you’ll definitely want to follow the locals’ lead and experience Holland at handlebar level. Take a look at our unique range of cycling itineraries and start planning your Dutch adventure!

Find your Netherlands trip

Amsterdam to Bruges Bike & Barge - Comfort

Introductory

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Amsterdam to Bruges Bike & Barge - Deluxe

Classic Holland Cycle

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Essential information, popular activities in netherlands.

Self Guided Cycling

Family Adventures

Guided Cycling

Explore Amsterdam

Visit the iconic Kinderdijk windmills

Marvel at the Keukenhof Flower Park

Cycle around Ijssel Lake

Try the famous cheese at Gouda

Making the Netherlands affordable

Trips only include what you need like accommodation, meals, bikes on cycle trips, luggage transfers, maps and route directions on self guided trips and an experienced local guide for group trips, as well as the peace of mind that comes with complete backup and support.

Explore the Dutch countryside at your own pace

On self guided trips you can expect to receive up-to-date and well researched route notes and maps, seamless luggage transfers and competitive pricing on all essential services. Many self guided trips also have daily departure dates, allowing you to enjoy the convenience and flexibility a self guided trip offers.

Enjoy flexibility and choices

Cycling or walking, 2 star or 4 star, small groups or self guided, land or sea - we can help you explore Europe exactly the way you want.

Often family run, these charming hotels range from 2 to 4 stars and provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Where possible, we choose locations that add to your experience.

Think of it as your floating hotel, where each day you experience a different sunrise and sunset location and you unpack only once. Berths range from two lower or bunk bed style but can be upgraded to larger berths with double beds. The bar and dining area is always a popular hangout at the end of each day's activity. The crew includes an onboard cook.

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• Where to Go & Weather
• Dialing Code

Electricity

• Health & Safety

Where to Go

Wander the pretty streets of Amsterdam, a laid-back city of cobblestoned streets, canals and culture

Visit the World Heritage Listed Kinderdijk windmills, a quintessential Dutch icon and an incredible feat of early modern engineering

Head to the Keukenhof Flower Park to see thousands of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths in Europe's most elaborate floral display

Cycle through blooming bulb fields en route to the charming small city of Leiden, birthplace of Rembrandt

Admire the historic architecture and handsome shopping streets of Haarlem

Discover the quaint fishing villages, lively harbour towns, varied landscapes and rich sailing traditions of IJssel Lake

Check out the famous cheese making city of Gouda

See the highlights of The Netherlands and Belgium on our outstanding Amsterdam to Bruges or Brussels to Amsterdam Bike & Barge adventures

The months of June - August are the busiest, with temperatures ranging between 15 - 25 degrees Celsius (58 - 77 degrees Fahrenheit) and sometimes slightly higher.

Visit in spring (April) to see fields of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths in bloom.

Time in Netherlands

The Netherlands is +1 hour ahead UTC/GMT

Dutch (official)

International Dialing Code

Electricity in The Netherlands is 230 Volts, at 50 hertz. The most common pin type is C. (2 round prong).

Visas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www. schengenvisainfo.com/schengen-visa-countries-list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements.

Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.

Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.

We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.

We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.

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Explore our Top Summer Bike Tours!

Bike Across The Netherlands

A romantic roll from amsterdam to bruges, download a detailed itinerary.

Our comprehensive itineraries are a one-stop-shop for all the delightful details of our carefully crafted tours, including:

• A thorough daily itinerary
• Details for exact accommodations
• What to expect
• Travel planning tips

Please provide your contact information so that we can say “benvenuto”. After submitting the form, you will be able to download the itinerary immediately.

Destination

Perfect for the cycling newbies who already enjoy being active, or anyone who just wants to take it easy.

Pedal at a meandering pace, stopping to take pictures, savor a leisurely lunch and explore the surroundings. Enjoy quiet roads along flat and rolling terrain zigzagging through vineyards, olive groves and farmland.

• Average daily distance:  35-45 miles
• Terrain:  flat and rolling

Our Athletic Beginner tours are perfect for those who aren’t avid cyclists, but are fit and love to exercise regularly.

On these trips, you’ll enjoy a flowing pace with plenty of time throughout the day to indulge in the local specialties, take in the local culture and enjoy the magnificent views. There will be an occasional hill, more rolling terrain and higher mileage than an Easy tour.

• Average daily distance: 35-45 miles
• Terrain: flat and rolling
• Our guides will offer cycling clinics and one-on-one coaching in cadence, positioning and the art of shifting efficiently on rolling hills.

You love being active and cycling is your preferred way. You are in good physical condition and ride whenever you can.

Intermediate tours maintain a steady pace with opportunities to push yourself by tackling challenging climbs with great descents over stunning terrain. You’ll still have time to explore and enjoy the landscape and towns you’ll visit.

• Average daily distance:  40-50 miles
• Terrain:  rolling with some hills

You are an avid cyclist who trains regularly, participates in bicycling events and is eager to plan their next bicycling vacation. You enjoy a vigorous ride, challenging climbs and thrilling descents.

These “Epic” and “follow the race” tours are spectacular and have plenty of classic climbs and are perfect for cyclists who covet long mileage with lots of hills and varying terrain.

• Average daily distance:  45+ miles
• Terrain:  hilly with long climbs

J oin us on this Dutch adventure! The Netherlands is by far the most bike-friendly country in the world: fantastic bike paths and flat terrain make it a fun and safe experience; it is the best means of traveling through a country that embraces the bicycle while maintaining a deep history, loads of interesting traditions, and a unique, fascinating culture—all with an impressive lean into future thinking and modernity. The tour starts from the colorful city of Amsterdam and goes through North and South Holland, the two main central provinces of the Netherlands and Utrecht province. We explore the exciting cities of Utrecht, Gouda, and Middelburg. This ride creatively weaves through islands and peninsulas in the province of Zeeland amidst dams, colossal bridges, and feats of awe-inspiring engineering–at best. These unique spots unfold as we spin from one bridge or dam to the next, all draw-dropping spectacles. The tour ends in beloved Flanders, just beyond the Belgian border, as we glide along romantic tree-lined canals and into the magical city of Bruges. We park at a local historical brewery and restaurant to gaze, glow, and raise our mugs full of fresh, cold beer while learning all about the ancient brewing tradition in Bruges. That is how we do it on our eight-day, one-of-a-kind Bike Across The Netherlands adventure.

Tour Essence

• Ride in the world’s most bike-friendly country, enjoy bike paths along canals and windmills
• Taste waffles, beers, and other Dutch specialties
• Visit the historic cities of Utrecht, Gouda, Zierikzee, and Middelburg
• Climb the landmark bell tower of Utrecht
• Ride through Kinderdijk windmills UNESCO site and visit exhibits
• Visit the cheese museum in Gouda
• Ride through islands, bridges, and dams of the colossal Delta Works engineering project in Zeeland
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site/city of Bruges, celebrate the renowned Flemish brewing tradition

What to Expect

Start location, end location.

What's Included

• Trip Planning
• On the Tour
• Bikes & Gear
• Accommodations & Meals
• Cultural Experiences & Activities

Once you have a trip confirmed, we will feed you a steady diet of additional pre-departure information that includes: How to train, prepare, pack and all the wonderful, inspirational and practical things you want and need to know before you go! Our Travel Advisors will be available to help plan your pre- and post-tour travel.

• Van support
• Service of local, bilingual, professional guides
• Cycling clinics
• All ferries
• Beer tastings
• Visit of a cheese farm in Gouda, complete with tasting and lunch
• Visit of the bell tower in Utrecht
• Access to the UNESCO windmills exposition of Kinderdijk
• Guided walking tour of Middelburg and Bruges

What’s Included

• Use of our exclusive carbon road bike, La Classica Ribelle (or Equivalent Carbon Road Bike)
• Garmin Edge Explore GPS loaded with the GPX tracks of your rides
• Two water bottles
• Saddle bag with repair kit
• Optional: Map holder on handlebar

Pedal Options

• Flat pedals
• Half-toe pedals (without straps)
• Optional: clipless/SPD pedals with shoes
• Optional: your own saddle

La Classica Ribelle

Bianchi C-Sport 2.5

Cannondale Road Tandem 2

Honey Bikes Tandem

Co-Motion Periscope Torpedo Tandem

• All accommodations
• All breakfasts
• Visit a cheese farm in Gouda, complete with tasting and lunch
• Visit the bell tower in Utrecht

Confirmed tours are dates that have been selected by us that have a very high probability of reaching the minimum group size for us to run the tour and for you to receive the best Ciclismo Classico experience. These tours are confirmed as much as a year in advance, compared to our regularly scheduled tours which are confirmed around 90 days prior to departure.  When you place your deposit for a confirmed tour, you have the green light to make your pre and post travel plans and even book your flight with our personal guarantee that your tour will run!

If you are traveling alone, this optional single supplement will guarantee you a room to yourself at each hotel. The cost of a single room is often more than half the price of a shared room, so this additional supplement reflects that increased cost for each night over the course of the trip.

Amsterdam Warm-up Ride

Meals provided, average mileage, riding terrain, accommodations, park plaza vondelpark.

4-star Park Plaza Vondelpark is located in Amsterdam’s uptown neighborhood, Oud-Zuid, steps from the Vondelpark. The hotel is close to the vibrant “Little Paris,” famous for its large variety of exclusive shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as the city’s main highlights, such as Museum Square, where most famous museums are found. Recharge in unique hotel rooms and suites that offer upscale design with luxurious Egyptian cotton bedding.

Amsterdam to Utrecht

Elevation gain, grand hotel karel v.

Grand Hotel Karel V is a luxury five-star hotel situated in the heart of Utrecht’s historic center. The hotel was once a 14th-century monastery that provided accommodation for knights and priests. It now offers a range of modern amenities, including a Michelin-star restaurant and a wellness facility featuring a swimming pool, sauna, solarium, and steam room.

Utrecht to Gouda

Relais & châteaux weeshuis gouda, gouda to dordrecht, villa augustus.

The Hotel at Villa Augustus is a charming 4-star hotel situated inside the former water tower of Dordrecht. Each room in the hotel is distinctive, with its own unique atmosphere, color scheme, furniture, and fittings. Dorine de Vos designed the hotel’s interior, which features a natural blend of various styles, making it feel like you’re staying in someone’s home.

Dordrecht to Zierikzee

Hotel mondragon.

Nestled in the heart of the charming historic town of Zierikzee, the recently opened 4-star hotel Mondragon offers its guests a luxurious and unforgettable experience. Housed in a stunning Baroque building designated as a heritage site, the hotel boasts unparalleled architectural beauty and a sense of history that will fascinate visitors. The hotel is the only one in the historic town, and its prime location facing the old port of Zierikzee provides guests with breathtaking views of the shimmering waters. The hotel boasts an elegant decor, state-of-the-art amenities, and exceptional service.

Zierikzee to Middelburg

Cityhotel wood.

Situated along the serene city canal lies the exquisite CityHotel Wood, a 4-star hotel that has made its home in the heart of Middelburg’s bustling center. The hotel is located at the very spot where a thriving sawmill had once stood over a hundred years ago, lending it a fascinating historical significance. The hotel’s perfect location allows you to take a stroll to the center of Middelburg, where you can explore the city’s vibrant culture and indulge in its rich culinary offerings.

Middelburg to Bruges

Hotel de tuilerieën.

Hotel De Tuilerieën is a luxurious contemporary hotel in an elegant patrician home from the 15th century. The hotel is situated along one of the most beautiful canals in Bruges, the Dijver, also known as “Holy Water,” and is one of the city’s oldest canals. This enthralling location immediately immerses you in the enchanting atmosphere of the historic town of Bruges. The hotel is conveniently located just 50 meters from the celebrated market square. The hotel has a bar and lounge where you can relax and unwind.The 4-star Hotel De Tuilerieën has been a Small Luxury Hotels of the World member since 1998.

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Bike Across Belgium

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Franconia: Classical Germany

​classical germany: pedal through history.

Divine Provence

“la vie est belle” — pedal the roman path.

• Cycling Regions
• What to expect
• About Holland

Cycling the tulip fields

This tour is all about flowers! The blooming tulip fields, the Keukenhof gardens and a visit to the flower auction. And there is also the historic town of Leiden into the bargain.

• The best way to enjoy the flower experience is from the saddle of a bicycle
• The route goes via the Keukenhof gardens and the Aalsmeer flower auction
• One night stay in Leiden
• Optional pre-tour overnight in Haarlem

Day 1 – From Haarlem to Aalsmeer 34km/21mi We will meet you at our office close to the Haarlem railway station in the morning for the bike fitting and tour orientation. First of all you cycle to the Bennebroek flower fields to get a preview of the next three days.Then you continue eastwards into the ‘Green Heart’ of Holland, passing along one of the mid-Holland lakes. Your destination for today is Aalsmeer. • If you also want to explore the beautiful town of Haarlem (Amsterdam’s ‘little sister’) we can arrange extra pre-tour overnight accommodation in the historic town center. Day 2 – The flower auction and the bulb fields 32km/20mi + 8km/5mi Today you will have to wake up early to visit the world’s largest flower auction in Aalsmeer. A cycling loop before breakfast will get you to the flower auction complex and back. Around 20 million flowers are sold each day in the 518,000 m2 (5.57 million sq ft) auction complex. From Aalsmeer the route continues westwards and becomes increasingly colorful as you enter the area with all the bulb fields stretching into the far distance. Lodging for tonight is either in Lisse or Hillegom, right in the center of the flower region. Day 3 – Along the tulips fields to Leiden 25km/16mi Another day of flowers. And the route we have planned gives you the best possible views and a chance to inhale the wonderful fragrances! The relatively short route allows enough time for a relaxing ride beside the tulip fields and a visit to the world-famous Keukenhof Spring Gardens, a 32 hectare (nearly 80 acres) flower exhibition with hundreds of different species of tulip. Eventually the route ends up in Leiden and your lodgings in the historic town center. Day 4 – Two options for your return to Haarlem 37km/23mi Today you will cycle through the flower-growing region once more on your way to the coastal village of Noordwijk. You now turn northwards, and cycle along part of the North Sea cycle path. Then you continue inland through a chic residential area before reaching the center of Haarlem.

Map & Routes

• Including GPS navigation
• Including mobile repair service

Upcoming Tours View our current touring schedule. > View Our Schedule

Each Day - Two Groups - Three Choices Choose the pace you want to go...or stay. > Find Out More

About The Barge We are delighted to have the spacious Angeline on all 12 tours. > View The Barge

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About Tulip Cycling

• Price list & Discounts
• Payment & Conditions
• Video's of Tulip Cycling tours

About Holland

• Holland & Cycling routes
• Bike tour themes
• Cycling & Safety
• The Netherlands at a glance

Book your tour

• Tailor made tours
• Historic towns, spring tulips
• Historic towns, spring tulips short
• National Park, Hanseatic towns
• Best of the golden circle
• Flanders Finest
• Nine Hansa towns
• Nine Hansa towns and Giethoorn

Ready to Go tour finder

The Netherlands is a cycling paradise!

If you are looking for a custom cycling holiday in the Netherlands, then Tulip Cycling is more than happy to provide you with all the information you need. The Netherlands, also known as Holland, is a cyclist's dream. There are endless kilometres of paved bicycle paths and on the flat terrain, cycling is enjoyable, relaxing and very safe for both experienced and non-experienced cyclists of all ages. This makes it the perfect mode of transportation to visit the many highlights our country has to offer.

Visit beautiful places during your custom cycling holiday in the Netherlands

When you opt for a custom cycling holiday in the Netherlands, you can visit both beautiful, bustling towns as Amsterdam as well as the calm and relaxing landscape. During your bike tours in the Netherlands, you will be able to see the Dutch Masters in one of the many world-class museums, cycle by calming waterways to the most beautiful mills, sleep in historical cities, take a look in the national parks or smell the fields of tulips during spring. Doesn’t the Amsterdam countryside bike tour sound like the perfect custom cycling holiday?

Exciting news about Tulip Cycling

Peter Vos, with the support of his wife Liesbeth van Vulpen, established an outstanding reputation for Tailor-Made and Ready-to-Go cycling tours in Holland. To maintain the high standards so many cyclists have already enjoyed, and to help manage growing demand, Peter and Liesbeth secured the backing of a new partner for Tulip Cycling, Pieter van der Schee. Peter will continue to be very involved in the company and will work with Pieter, who shares his enthusiasm and passion for the beautiful cycling paradise of the Netherlands. With so many attractions waiting here in the spring and summer seasons, the pair are looking forward to welcoming you in the Netherlands for an exceptional cycling tour this year.

Tulip Cycling Tours in Holland

At Tulip Cycling, we specialise in creating individual bike tours in the Netherlands. Our unique concept can be enjoyed in two ways. You can either choose to get a high level of input into planning your own tailored bike tour or go for one of our well-balanced Ready to Go tours. The self-guided Ready to Go bike tours strike a perfect balance between town and non-urban area. We have chosen the most scenic bicycle routes the Low Countries have to offer. Each of the tours provide a taste of the history and culture while you visit beautiful cities and lovely natural settings. To select the bike tours of your choice, you can use the Tour finder.

Custom cycling holidays in other countries, like Belgium

Tulip Cycling also offers tailored bike tours in other countries than the Netherlands. You can for instance book a Belgium bike tour . This tour explores some of the finest Belgian cities like Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp or Brussels by bike.

Take the whole family along on one of our tailored bike tours through the Netherlands

Would you like to take the whole family on an unforgettable custom cycling holiday in the Netherlands? Then you should book a family bike tour . We even offer special equipment to help make these tours a success together with your children.

A cycling tour with a hotel stay for added comfort

For those who want a more luxury bike tour, we offer bike tours with hotels along the route . This allows you to rest more comfortably, which helps you recharge even better for the next day of cycling.

Go on tailored adventures

If you would like to create your own unique tailored bike tour to meet all your wishes, we as experts will work with you. We will create your very own tailored bike tour. Make your dream tour with our help! Use the tailor-made tours button to receive our initial proposal. We will then work on it together until it is perfect. The proposal is based on your selected preferences. You can choose the support level, the tour duration, the start and finish dates and places and you can select one of our distinctive bike tour themes .

The roadmap of the perfect cycling holiday

Your Tulip custom cycling holiday starts with a personal orientation. We go through the route book and do a bike fitting. Our cycling gear is always of the highest quality and the route support is thoughtfully put together to suit all your needs. Tulip Cycling will also introduce you to the best characterful accommodation on your route according to your preferences and budget for your custom cycling holiday.

Create your best personal holiday

We will help you put together the perfect custom cycling holiday in the Netherlands. We're the cycling experts of the Netherlands, we're Dutch and it's in our DNA to create the best bike tours for you.

Peter Vos & Liesbeth van Vulpen

"Happiness is not in arriving at your destination, but in your way of travelling there"

Our most popular Ready to Go cycling tours

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Payment policy

• We accept all currencies.
• Payments can be made:   - by credit card;   - into our Euro bank account.
• Tulip Cycling adheres to the credit card payments securing policy.
• Bookings require a deposit of 10% of the total costs as given on your invoice.
• The balance of the trip cost is due 60 days prior to the departure date.
• Trip invoices will be sent to the first participant indicated and can only be paid in full.

Tulip Cycling Terms & Conditions

Article 1 - definitions, article 2 - rental equipment, article 3 - rental period, article 4 - contract, article 5 - payments, article 6 - liability, article 7 - equipment insurance, article 8 - cancellation policy, article 9 - financial insolvency - vzr garant, privacy statement.

Tulip Cycling, established at Louise de Colignylaan 135, 3062 HE Rotterdam, The Netherlands, is responsible for the processing of personal data as detailed in this privacy statement.

Contact details:

Tulip Cycling Louise de Colignylaan 135 3062 HE Rotterdam The Netherlands + 31-6-23536112 E-Mail: [email protected] https//:www.tulipcycling.com

Pieter Frederik van der Schee is the Data Protection Officer of Tulip Cycling. He can be reached on [email protected]

Personal data processed by us

Tulip Cycling processes your personal data because you use our services and/or because you have provided them to us yourself. Below is an overview of the personal data we process:

• First and last name
• Date of birth
• Address details
• Telephone number
• Email address
• Bank account number or credit card number

Special and / or sensitive personal data that we process

Our website and/or service does not process data about website visitors who are younger than 16 years.

For what purpose and on which basis we process personal data

Tulip Cycling processes your personal data for the following purposes:

• To handle your payment
• To send a possible newsletter
• To enable us to call or email you if this is necessary to carry out our services
• To inform you about changes to our services and products
• To deliver goods and services to you

Automated decision-making

Tulip Cycling does not make decisions based on automated processing on matters that can have (significant) consequences for people. This concerns decisions taken by computer programmes or systems, without involving a person (for example, an employee of Tulip Cycling).

How long we store personal data

Tulip Cycling does not store your personal data longer than is strictly necessary to achieve the purposes for which your data is collected. We store your personal data for 7 years in connection with the tax legislation.

Sharing personal data with third parties

Tulip Cycling exclusively provides information to third parties if this is necessary for the execution of our agreement with you or to comply with a legal obligation.

Cookies, or similar techniques, that we use

Tulip Cycling only uses technical, functional cookies and analytical cookies that do not infringe your privacy. A cookie is a small text file that is stored on your computer, tablet or smartphone when you first visit this website. The cookies we use are necessary for the technical operation of the website and your ease of use. They ensure that the website works properly and remember, for example, your preferred settings. We can also use them to optimise our website.

Viewing, modifying or deleting data

You have the right to view, correct or delete your personal data. In addition, you have the right to withdraw your consent to the data processing or to object to the processing of your personal data by Tulip Cycling and you have the right to data portability. This means that you can submit a request to us to send the personal data that we have available about you in a computer file to you or another organisation mentioned by you. You can send a request for access, correction, deletion, data transfer of your personal data or a request for cancellation of your consent or objection to the processing of your personal data to [email protected].

How we protect personal data

Tulip Cycling takes the protection of your data seriously and takes appropriate measures to prevent misuse, loss, unauthorised access, unwanted disclosure and unauthorised modification. If you have the impression that your data is not secure or there are indications of abuse, please contact us at [email protected].

+31 (0)6 1007 1179

City bike tour

Countryside, private bike tour.

Amsterdam bike tour

City Bike Tour of Amsterdam ‘s backstreets and hidden gems. Bike to important landmarks and cycle off the beaten track to undiscovered parts of Amsterdam. Escape the tourism-bubble and get a deep understanding of Amsterdam ‘s history on this three hour city bike tour.

Daily @ 10 AM and 2 PM

small groups

Countryside bike tour

Countryside Bike Tour through the scenic landscapes of Holland. Visit picturesque villages, an old windmill and bike over dams and dykes. Learn about Holland ‘s history and how the Dutch manage to live below sea level. Enjoy a relaxing break away from the city on this four hour countryside bike tour.

March – Okt Daily @ 09.30

Private bike tours

Enjoy your favorite Bike Tour in Amsterdam with your own private party! Ideal for families, companies or groups of friends. Explore the city of Amsterdam or bike into the Countryside. Combine both tours or contact us for a tailored bike tour. We look forward to designing the perfect bike tour for you!

Your private party!

Depending on your tour

We Bike Amsterdam, Who are we?

We Bike Amsterdam is a group of enthusiastic and local guides, united by a passion for Amsterdam and cycling. In 2013 we started this collective with the purpose to show people the real city of Amsterdam from a local perspective. Meeting people from all over the world and sharing our knowledge about the city is what we love to do.

Locals here ride their bike every day and Amsterdam is considered to be the biking capital of the world. Therefore we believe the only way to really experience this city is from a cyclist ‘s perspective. So join us and hop on one of our bike tours to discover Amsterdam like a local!

What do we do?

We Bike Amsterdam started in 2013 with a bike tour of Amsterdam ‘s hidden gems. On this bike tour through the historic city center of Amsterdam, we focus on the hidden gems and secrets spots. Of course you get to visit historic landmarks and see important sights but we also take you to the backstreets of Amsterdam and ride off the beaten path to those tucked away courtyards and secret gardens. In 2016 we started our countryside bike tour. On this amazing ride through scenic landscapes of Holland you learn about water management and how the Dutch live below sea level. Visit picturesque villages, an old windmill and bike over dams and dikes.

With our bike tours in Amsterdam and the countryside we aim to reveal to you what remains unknown to others. We simply trust you on finding the Red Light District by yourselves and want to show you what this place really is about.

How do we do it?

Less sometimes is more! Less participants per group means more quality for those joining. That ‘s why we believe in small groups !

Keeping our groups small is super important for the feel and quality of our bike tours. We are Amsterdam ‘s smallest bike tour company and we are proud of that! Groups are never bigger and often smaller then 11 persons per group. This ensures high quality bike tours and a personal, safe and relaxed experience. Please note that our small group policy means there ‘s a limit to our availability as well so we recommend reservations.

Hop on and we bike the extra mile!

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Netherlands

Our boat bike tours in netherlands.

Discover the Wadden Sea by bike & ship

Pretty harbor towns Enkhuizen & Stavoren

Texel & Terschelling islands bike trips

Sailing ship with max. 26 passengers

• Guided cycling: A tour leader will guide you during the cycling days
• Independent cycling: No tour leader, the ships’ crew does daily briefing, independent cycling
• Level 1: easy tours, very flat terrain
• Level 2: quite easy tours, mostly flat terrain
• Level 3: requires a higher level of exertion, medium hilly terrain
• Level 4: for experienced cyclists, hilly terrain with climbs

A sailing adventure on a three-/four-mast ship

Tulip fields in South & North Holland

Visit the Wadden Island of Texel

Sailing ships with max. 38 passengers

Discover the unique nature of Friesland

Small historic cities and wide views

UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wadden Sea

Small ship with max. 24 passengers

Our travel program for 2025 is ready! Book now to guarantee your place!

North Holland’s flat polder landscapes

Visit Texel Island’s sandy beaches

Romantic harbor villages incl. Enkhuizen

Ship with max. 96 passengers

North Holland’s flat landscapes

Beautiful beaches of Texel Island

Quaint harbor villages incl. Enkhuizen

Boutique ship with max. 24 passengers

Bike through the Green Heart of Holland

Historical cities Amsterdam & Rotterdam

Kinderdijk’s windmills & Zaanse Schans

Ships with max. 112 passengers

A spring break overflowing with flowers

Historical cities of Amsterdam & Haarlem

Flower market, Keukenhof, Zaanse Schans

Ship with max. 44 passengers

Colorful Holland & Flanders bike tours

World-famous Amsterdam, Antwerp & Bruges

Enjoy a romantic canal trip in Ghent

Barges with 20 to max. 40 passengers

Discover magical green river landscapes

Historical cities Utrecht & Maastricht

Vibrant Limburg province hospitality

Barges with max. 20 passengers

Explore tulip fields & a cheese farm

Historical cities of Amsterdam & Gouda

Bike and barge tours Netherlands; explore the Dutch way

Most people will probably have preconceptions of the Netherlands, whether this is luscious fields full of tulips in spring, Amsterdam’s stately canals lined with Golden Era-townhouses or windmills and quaint medieval towns where Dutch artists created masterpieces… Bike and barge tours in the Netherlands combine all of these elements and more to give you a deeper insight into Dutch culture and the country’s verdant and varied landscapes.

What’s more, these tours make the most of the traditional forms of local transport — biking through the country’s (almost) 35,000 kilometers of cycle lanes and cruising through its vast network of rivers, canals, lakes, and marine waters.

Cycle and sail through Holland… or is that the Netherlands?

Holland and the Netherlands are one and the same, right? “Nee!”, say the Dutch.

Holland is but one region of the Netherlands; admittedly a very important one, made of the two provinces of Noord-Holland and Zuid-Holland, and containing the three largest Dutch cities — the capital Amsterdam, the port and architecture city Rotterdam and politics center The Hague. Nevertheless, our Bike and barge tours Netherlands do, of course, come here!

Take, for example, our Holland Tulip Tours , on which guests cycle between the vast blooming flower parks and historical cities of North and South Holland, and sleep in their comfortable barge quarters in the evenings. But it would be criminal to suggest that these are the only bike and barge tours that the Netherlands has to offer!

Bike and barge tours in other regions of the Netherlands

We offer cycling tours coupled with cozy boating accommodation/transportation in the Wadden Sea and its gorgeous islands in the north , from Amsterdam to Germany on the majestic Rhine River, and through the green riverscapes and polders of the country’s heart while journeying towards one of the contry’s oldest cities, Maastricht , the vibrant southern city on the River Meuse, almost surrounded by Belgium and Germany.

Still not quite what you’re looking for? No problems. We offer 22 wonderful bike and barge tours through the Netherlands, so take a closer look or get in touch with our team!

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Amsterdam Extended Countryside E-Bike Tour

• 4 hours | 13 miles
• From €59 EUR

4 hours | 13 miles From €59 EUR Amsterdam

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• Day tours by bike

Discover the natural beauty of the Netherlands

Embark on a remarkable Amsterdam countryside e-bike tour and delve into the authentic Dutch experience! This captivating extended journey will take you along the IJ Boulevard, on a ferry to Noord, along the North Holland Canal past the Admiral windmill, and through picturesque polder landscapes and the wonderful Waterland region. Bike through the sublime village and town of Broek and Monnickendam, and dive into delightful Dutch traditions at an authentic cheese- and clog-making farm.

Your exquisite electric bike tour begins with a ride along the idyllic IJ Boulevard towards the ferry to Noord. Cycle northwards through stunning Dutch landscapes and admire the awe-inspiring Admiral windmill - an iconic Dutch sight that makes for a classic photo opportunity.

As you make your way through the medieval village of Broek in the wondrous Waterland region, discover how the pretty polders of Holland are defined by the many dykes and ditches that give the landscape true character.

Your delightful day tour will eventually arrive at an enticing cheese- and clog-making farm in the Dutch countryside, perfect for delving into Dutch traditions in an authentic atmosphere. Here, you’ll savor a sumptuous Gouda tasting, marvel at the clog-making demonstration, and tour the gorgeous gift shop for those one-of-a-kind Dutch souvenirs to bring back home!

On your return ride to the city center, you’ll savor sublime sightseeing opportunities in the marvelous historic town of Monnickendam, squeezing every ounce of beauty out of your blissful bicycle tour.

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IJ Boulevard, Noord, North Holland Canal, The Admiral windmill, Polder landscapes, Broek, Waterland, Cheese farm, Cheese tasting, Clog-making demonstration, Monnickendam

What’s included

• High-quality Dutch bike
• Rain Jackets in case of rain
• Local private guide
• Cheese tasting
• Clog-making demonstration

Meeting place & directions

Mike's Tours Amsterdam Oosterdoksstraat 106, 1011 DK Amsterdam

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Best bike tour in Amsterdam

· amsterdam extended countryside e-bike tour.

Amazing bike ride in the countryside near Amsterdam with gorgeous scenery! If you have to choose one bike tour in Amsterdam, I’d highly recommend this one. Our guide was helpful, informative and made the whole experience very fun. If you are a novice biker or want a leisurely ride, I’d suggest the e-bike since it was the perfect way to see the sights without breaking a sweat. Great tour for solo travelers.

• 5/5 Bikes + equipment
• 5/5 Scenery
• 5/5 Local tour company services
• 5/5 Route selection
• 5/5 Guides (if applicable)

View tour More reviews

A wonderful way to get a taste of the Amsterdam surroundings.

We loved every minute of our tour, the riding, the stops, the views, the group! I would highly rate this activity for everyone who's able and who pays a visit to the beautiful Netherlands!

Related Day Tours

Amsterdam City Bike Tour

7.5 miles, 3 hours from €37 EUR

Discover Amsterdam’s most iconic treasures on this bike tour of the city! Enjoy the benefits of bike rental and a family-friendly day tour suitable for children. Amsterdam isn’t called the “Venice of the North” for nothing &ndash… More

Amsterdam City E-Bike Tour

5 miles, 2 hours from €49 EUR

Discover Amsterdam’s most iconic treasures on this e-bike tour of the city, with the added flexibility of bike rental! Amsterdam isn’t called the “Venice of the North” for nothing – canals course through the… More

Amsterdam Compact Countryside Bike Tour

14 miles, 3.5 hours from €49 EUR

Embark on a remarkable Amsterdam countryside bike tour and delve into the authentic Dutch experience! This captivating compact tour will take you along the IJ Boulevard, on a ferry to Noord, along the North Holland Canal past the Admiral windmill, and… More

Amsterdam Hidden Gems Bike Tour

7 miles, 4 hours from €55 EUR

Enjoy a holistic adventure on the Amsterdam Hidden Gems Bike Tour! In 4 hours, this guided day tour explores the alternative arts scene as well as the beating heart of the city, uncovering what constitutes the authentic Amsterdam identity. Experience a… More

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Activity Levels 1-4

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - From lavish luxury to on-trend boutique, offering experiences as unique as the regions we explore.

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Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

2024 : May-Sep 2025 : Apr-Sep

From Amsterdam's Canals & Windmills to Flemish Bike Paths

In the Netherlands, there are more bicycles than people. And in Belgium, passion for biking is legendary. Hop on the saddle and you too will be smitten. Explore the flat-as-a- pannenkoek landscape, the flower fields and silent canals. Experience the bustling cities and storybook villages. Come with us on our Netherlands & Belgium bike tour. You'll feel the love.

• Bike through scenery straight out of a Dutch masterpiece—windmills, canals, pitch-roofed farmhouses and vast skies
• Luxuriate in hotels reminiscent of the 17th-century Golden Age, with their old-world opulence and white-glove traditions
• Feast on Belgium’s national treasures—world-class beer, chocolate and waffles—as well as plenty of Dutch cheese
• Explore idyllic bike-friendly Amsterdam and medieval Bruges, two captivating gateway cities in two unique countries

Netherlands & Belgium

Start Amsterdam

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport (AMS) and out of either Brussels (BRU) or Amsterdam.

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, complete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Begin with a leisurely bike tour from Edam to Santpoort, located on the edge of a lush coastal forest • Pause for lunch at a charming and quintessentially Dutch farmhouse • Bike past emerald-green fields, horse farms and windmills • Rest and relax at our splendid hotel on the edge of Zuid-Kennemerland National Park.

A deluxe and historic country estate situated on the outskirts of Zuid-Kennemerland National Park with access to many beautiful nature trails.

In April and early May, admire the floral designs at Keukenhof, the world’s largest flower garden • A landscape of dunes and seaside lanes lead the way to The Hague • Bike through polders and countryside to Gouda, where the beloved cheese originates • Delight in the World Heritage site of Kinderdijk, known for its 19 windmills once used to drain the surrounding floodplain • Indulge in traditional pannekoeken (pancakes) or a slice of appeltaart topped with homemade whipped cream • Biking is a way of life in Holland, and it’s a pleasure to join the locals as you cruise through the region, passing dikes and quaint villages.

Built in 1858 to host aristocrats and heads of state and still displaying its original Gothic Romantic characteristics, this opulent former palace is located among the cafés, restaurants and shops of the historic city center. (pool, spa)

Bike over the border to Belgium on a scenic spin to romantic Bruges • Discover the secrets of this medieval city of narrow cobblestone streets, step-gabled brick houses, lofty spires and meandering canals • Thirsty? Try some of the world-renowned local beers •  Follow dedicated bike paths to the Flemish town of Diksmuide, once the heart of Belgian resistance in World War I • Enjoy a final bike ride through leafy forests and over canals around Bruges • Visit one of the town’s many chocolate shops for some tasty souvenirs.

An elegant hotel—originally a 15th-century noble residence—overlooking Den Dyver, the most picturesque canal in Bruges. A Small Luxury Hotels of the World member. (pool)

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

• Activity Level

What's Included

• All breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at historic sites and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
• Park and other entry fees
• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

Straight Talk

We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.

The Dutch and Belgians are famous for their love of bikes. And that love of bikes has created an amazing network of bike paths and routes that extend throughout each country. Many of the paths we utilize on this trip are the equivalent of scenic byways, linking quaint villages and big cities alike. Navigating these intricate bike routes may require more attention than usual—expect some stops to ensure you're on the right track!—as well as increased attention to cycling etiquette, laws and traffic as you share the "road" with the many locals going about their business by bike.

Want to learn more about this trip?

Request a Detailed Itinerary! Complete with descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more, it’s the perfect tool to help you choose. You can easily share it with friends too!

World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Premiere Hotel

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Choose Your Perfect Bike

Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.

Included in your trip price

• Ideal for avid cyclists
• Redesigned for 2024
• Next gen titanium frame with carbon wheels
• Responsive, efficient and comfortable
• Drop handlebars only

Backroads Next Generation Performance Road Bike Sizing & Geometry

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• Suited for a wide range of cyclists
• Comfortable ergonomic seat
• Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability
• Upright handlebars only

Backroads Touring Bike Sizing & Geometry

• One of the lightest e-bikes available
• Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery
• Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting

Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+

Backroads Electric-Assist Bike Sizing & Geometry

• $650 rental fee; subject to availability
• Ride like a pro with the top-of-the-line carbon Cannondale Synapse Hi-Mod Red ETAP AXS
• Delivering phenomenal acceleration and handling in a light and powerful package
• Built for hard-core riders

Carbon Bike Sizing & Geometry

• $400 rental fee
• Hand-built frame features Co-Motion's custom-designed Cro-Moly steel tubeset, powerful Avid disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra drive train
• Custom upgraded wheelset
• Best for riders with some tandem experience.

Tandem Bike Sizing & Geometry

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Bike and Barge | The Netherlands to Belgium

Tour overview.

• Make It Private

What's Included

View full itinerary.

Tour start | end: Amsterdam, The Netherlands / Bruges, Belgium Amsterdam, The Netherlands / Bruges, Belgium Length: 8 Days / 7 Nights Rating: Easy

• E-Bikes Available

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Bike and Barge: Amsterdam, Holland to Bruges, Belgium

Get ready for an incredible adventure on the Amsterdam-Bruges bike and barge tour! This trip is about exploring Holland and Belgium’s stunning cities while cruising along picturesque waterways. It’s a relatively easy-rated trip, suitable for cyclists of all levels.

As we sail to the western Flanders region of Belgium, you’ll discover its rich history and indulge in its renowned cuisine and beer. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Bruges’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, a true gem. Get to unpack your bags just once and then kick back and relax in the comfort of your floating home’s superior upper deck rooms. Picture yourself lounging in a comfortable lounge area, enjoying delicious meals prepped by your ship’s chef, all while taking in the breathtaking scenery that gracefully glides past you from the splendid sundeck.

Special note: Please mention dietary needs (vegetarian meals, lactose intolerance, or gluten-free diet) during booking this trip. Unfortunately, we cannot offer vegan meals on this trip. The kitchen on the ship is not large enough to guarantee vegan meals.

Bike and Barge Tours

Europe Bike Tours

Check-in between 1 PM and 2 PM local time in Amsterdam, where the friendly crew will warmly welcome you on board the boat. Once you are settled, the boat will set sail from Amsterdam towards the first destination, Vianen. Welcome dinner on board tonight.

After breakfast, our ride starts on a scenic cycle route leading to Schoonhoven, known as "Zilverstad" or "Silver City." This city is renowned for its talented silver smiths since the 17th century. Continue riding to the Alblasserwaard region and the village of Kinderdijk - famous for its impressive row of 19 giant windmills, and part of the UNESCO cultural heritage listing. After, we take you on a "Waterbus," a fast ferry accommodating bicycles, to Dordrecht, one of the oldest towns in the Netherlands.

After breakfast, the we sail to the picturesque town of Tholen, where you start riding. Cycle through the scenic and refreshing backdrop of "Wouwse Plantage" forest. During the ride, you will come across the impressive Kreekrak lock. The lock is a part of the waterway system and is an engineering marvel that aids in regulating water levels and facilitating smooth passage for boats and ships. Once you get back on the boat, we sail to the vibrant and historically significant port city of Antwerp, in Belgium on the river Schelde. After dinner on board, you'll have the opportunity to venture out and explore Antwerp's beautiful old city center. The historic streets, charming architecture, and lively atmosphere make it a delightful place to wander and soak in the city's ambiance.

Cycle this morning out of Antwerp on a beautiful cycle path along the picturesque tidal Schelde River to Dendermonde, our home for the night. The Schelde River is tidal, and the tidal characteristic adds a unique dynamic to the landscape, creating ever-changing vistas along the riverbanks. It is, without a doubt, one of the natural highlights of the tour.

Today we follow the river Schelde to the lively and historically rich university city of Ghent. Ghent has a long and significant history of a major trading port since Roman times. The city boasts numerous cultural attractions, including an Opera House, 18 museums, more than 100 churches, and over 400 historical buildings. One of the significant highlights in Ghent is the St. Bavo Cathedral, which houses several masterpieces of medieval art, including the world-famous 'Adoration of the Mystic Lamb' by Jan van Eyck. After a day of cycling along the river and exploring the city's cultural treasures, the ship will moor for the night at a lock in a suburb of Ghent, allowing you further to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere and explore more of its highlights during the evening.

Today's route takes you through the picturesque Flemish countryside of western Flanders, leading you to the enchanting city of Bruges, often called the 'Venice of the North.' Its UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center is a remarkable example of a medieval settlement that has preserved its original Gothic constructions, creating a unique and captivating ambiance. During your stay in Bruges, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's many attractions. Tonight, dinner is on your own in the city. The ship's crew will happily offer recommendation to help you find the perfect spot.

You'll start the day's ride along a quiet canal, surrounded by beautiful poplar trees and a charming polder landscape. A polder is a low-lying tract of land enclosed by embankments, and this area is dotted with small farmhouses, adding to the scenic beauty of the region. As you continue cycling, you'll reach the North Sea coast where you can relax and enjoy the inviting sandy beach before riding back to Bruges along a scenic canal. Tonight gather for our farewell dinner on the ship.

After breakfast , disembark in Bruges around 9:30 AM.

Lodging Information

Distinctive lodging, carefully selected to complement your tour..

River Cruiser De Holland

The cozy river cruiser De Holland is a 66 passenger ship with 33 cabins. Enjoy rooms in the superior upper deck of the ship. The large salon on the upper deck, with panoramic windows around, you will find the restaurant, bar and lounge area. This is a great spot for some serious relaxing, drinking and eating after a day on the pedals.

• Support of experienced local leaders.
• Custom Sojourn jersey and water bottles – both yours to keep.
• Seven nights on board the boat with superior upper deck private cabins and bathrooms
• All Breakfast and Lunches. Six dinners.
• Touring bikes with straight handlebars, seven Shimano speeds, and roller brakes. They also have a low instep. They are fitted with Schwalbe puncture-resistant tires and flat pedals.
• A limited number of Electric Assist or E-bikes are also available. Request while booking.
• Daily route directions, maps, and a downloadable GPS Option.
• 5% Past Traveler Discount to use on your next Sojourn Tour for the next two years after your trip.

When in The Netherlands and Belgium, it helps to know...

• United States and Canadian citizens do not require a visa to enter The Netherlands or Belgium for tourism or business stays under ninety (90) days. Here are more details.
• The trip starts in Amsterdam, Netherlands and ends in Bruges, Belgium.
• Distances in the itinerary are subject to change.
• Some days, you can choose between a longer and a shorter cycling route. Please note that on the shorter routes, you may be unable to visit all the highlights mentioned.
• If you prefer not to cycle on a particular day, you’re welcome to stay on board and relax while the ship cruises to the next port.
• The tour itinerary and route are subject to possible changes due to nautical, technical or meteorological reasons, or other unforeseen events.
• All cabins (your hotel room aboard) have their private bathroom with a shower, toilet, and washbasin. Cabins are usually twin cabins: they nearly always have two single beds, some of which can be assembled to make it a queen bed.
• Please mention dietary needs during booking (vegetarian meals, lactose intolerance, or gluten-free diet). Unfortunately, we cannot offer vegan meals on this trip. The kitchen on the ship is not large enough to guarantee vegan meals.
• Remember that there is limited space on board and that wardrobes are small.
• There is Wi-Fi available on the ship.
• On the embarkation day, you can leave your luggage on board the ship from 11.00 am.
• You disembark in Bruges, Belgium, around 9:30 am at the end of the trip. Please do not book any flight before 2:30 pm on the same day.
• Most of the locals, including the ship crew, do speak English.

Private Trips

Reserve one of our regularly scheduled trip dates for your private group and qualify for reduced pricing. The larger your group, the lower the per person price. Gather your friends and we’ll do the rest to provide your group with a truly personalized and memorable vacation. Smaller groups can join published trips and receive reduced pricing on trips that aren’t reserved as private trip dates.

For groups of 12-15 people traveling together on a published tour date, a discount of 8% on the double occupancy trip price will apply.

For groups of 8-11 people traveling together on a published date, a discount of 6% on the double occupancy trip price will apply.

Group discounts may not be combined with other offers.

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Netherlands Tulips Bike & Barge

Trip Overview

Join us for the jaw-dropping show of tulips and other spring flowers on our Netherlands Tulips Bike & Barge. Unpack once … and your hotel meets up with you at the end of each day’s explorations. What could be easier? This is a fully supported bike trip with leaders and a van to provide options, snacks and repairs as needed. Visit the world-famous flower gardens at Keukenhof, see the most luxurious and historic castle in the Netherlands, and stroll quaint villages and towns along the way. Plus, you start and end in glorious Amsterdam — filled with museums, canals and nightlife. Spin along and enjoy some of the most amazing bike paths anywhere. Or, if you like, take a break for a day and cruise on the comfortable barge (which has only 12 guest rooms). This is truly flexible travel in a country rich in history … and one of the most colorful and stunning landscape experiences you can imagine! (Note for the 2025 tours: On the April 3 departure, you travel aboard the barge Iris, and on the April 18 departure, you travel aboard the Lena Maria.)

From start to finish, check out the route.

Dates & pricing, prices are per person based on double occupancy (2 people in one room). single supplement for private room is listed at the top of this page. a deposit of $500 holds your reservation for most tours. for weekend tours, the deposit is $300., what’s included.

7 nights’ lodging on the barge (2 beds per cabin), 7 breakfasts, 6 self-packed lunches, 5 dinners, 1 glass of wine or beer with each included dinner (2 dinners on your own), coffee & tea, snacks. We also include detailed maps and itineraries, experienced guides, full van support — plus use of a bike and helmet. Airfare and tips for crew & leaders are not included.

Where you stay along the way.

Images from this tour. Click each to see it larger.

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Mailing Address: PO Box 700, Woodstock, VT 05091 Address: 2520 W. Woodstock Rd., Woodstock, VT 05091 (800) 257-2226 | [email protected]

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Passing Thru Travel

Exploring 10 Cities Around the World by Bike – Pedal-Powered Discoveries 2024

Posted: February 25, 2024 | Last updated: February 25, 2024

Sustainable city cycling tours offer an eco-friendly and intimate way to explore urban landscapes. These tours allow you to navigate through the heart of cities, often uncovering hidden gems that are not accessible by car or bus. From the bustling streets of Amsterdam to the historic lanes of Kyoto, cycling tours provide a unique perspective on city life, culture, and architecture. This guide takes you on a two-wheeled journey through some of the best cities in the world to explore by bike, each offering a distinct and memorable experience.

1. Amsterdam, Netherlands

In Amsterdam, cycling is more than a mode of transport; it’s a way of life. The city’s flat terrain, dedicated bike lanes, and respectful traffic culture make it ideal for exploring on two wheels. A bike tour here lets you experience the city like a local, weaving through historic canals, past iconic windmills, and through vibrant neighborhoods like the Jordaan. You’ll discover hidden courtyards and bustling marketplaces and perhaps pause for a coffee at a canal-side café. Cycling in Amsterdam offers a blend of leisure and exploration, allowing you to cover more ground than walking while enjoying the city’s sights up close.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Jordaan neighborhood to glimpse local Amsterdam life away from the tourist crowds.

When To Travel: Late spring to early fall offers pleasant weather for cycling.

How To Get There: Fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The city center is easily accessible by train, and bike rentals are widely available.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen’s reputation as a bike-friendly city is well-earned. Its extensive network of bike lanes and the Danish culture of cycling make it a joy to explore on two wheels. A bike tour in Copenhagen might include the historic Nyhavn harbor, the whimsical Tivoli Gardens, and the modern architecture of the Ørestad district. Riding through Copenhagen, you’ll experience the city’s commitment to sustainability and quality of life. The tour is not just about seeing the sights; it’s about feeling the city’s pulse and understanding why Copenhagen is often ranked as one of the happiest cities in the world.

Insider’s Tip: Ride through the Assistens Cemetery, a peaceful and beautiful park where famous Danes like Hans Christian Andersen are buried.

When To Travel: May to September for the best cycling weather.

How To Get There: Copenhagen Airport is well-connected internationally, with easy public transport access to the city center.

3. Berlin, Germany

Berlin’s rich history and vibrant culture make it a fascinating city to explore by bike. The city’s flat landscape and comprehensive network of bike paths allow for easy and safe navigation. A cycling tour in Berlin can take you through the remnants of the Berlin Wall, the lush expanses of the Tiergarten, and the bustling squares of Alexanderplatz and Potsdamer Platz.

Along the way, you’ll encounter street art, historic landmarks, and the eclectic mix of modern and traditional architecture that defines Berlin. Cycling here offers a unique perspective on the city’s past and present, connecting you with its stories and spirit.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Tempelhofer Feld, a former airport turned public park, for a unique cycling experience.

When To Travel: Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.

How To Get There: Two airports serve Berlin, with excellent public transportation links to the city center.

4. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, with its ancient temples, traditional tea houses, and tranquil gardens, is a city steeped in history. Exploring Kyoto by bike allows you to move at your own pace, visit famous sites like the Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), and discover hidden alleys and local neighborhoods. Cycling in Kyoto is a journey through time, where modern streets give way to historic districts, and each turn brings a new discovery. The city’s respect for tradition and nature makes it a uniquely serene urban cycling experience.

Insider’s Tip: Take a detour to the Philosopher’s Path, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.

When To Travel: Spring for cherry blossoms and fall for colorful foliage.

How To Get There: Fly into Kansai International Airport and take a train or bus to Kyoto. Bike rentals are readily available throughout the city.

5. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona’s diverse landscape, from Gothic architecture in the old city to modernist landmarks and Mediterranean beaches, makes it an exhilarating city to explore by bike. A cycling tour here can take you through the winding streets of the Gothic Quarter, along the vibrant Las Ramblas, and to the famous Sagrada Familia. You’ll experience the city’s artistic flair and lively atmosphere firsthand. Cycling in Barcelona is not just about sightseeing; it’s about immersing yourself in the city’s dynamic culture and enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle.

Insider’s Tip: Cycle up to Montjuic for panoramic views of the city and the sea.

When To Travel: Late spring and early fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.

How To Get There: Barcelona-El Prat Airport is the main gateway, with easy transport options to the city center.

6. Portland, Oregon, USA

Portland’s reputation as one of America’s most bike-friendly cities is evident in its extensive bike lanes and trails network. A bike tour in Portland can include the vibrant downtown area, the serene Waterfront Park, and the quirky neighborhoods that give the city its unique character. With stops at local markets, artisan coffee shops, and craft breweries, you’ll discover Portland’s commitment to sustainability and community. Cycling in Portland is an opportunity to experience the city’s green ethos and creative spirit up close.

Insider’s Tip: Check out the Eastbank Esplanade for a scenic ride along the river.

When To Travel: Summer for the best weather and numerous cycling events.

How To Get There: Fly into Portland International Airport. The city center is easily accessible by public transport, and bike rentals are available throughout Portland.

7. Montreal, Canada

Montreal combines the charm of a French village with the energy of a cosmopolitan city, and exploring it by bike allows you to experience this blend firsthand. A cycling tour in Montreal might include the historic streets of Old Montreal, the bustling Atwater Market, and the scenic Lachine Canal. The city’s bike paths, like the Route Verte, make navigating easy and safe. Cycling in Montreal offers a unique way to experience the city’s diverse neighborhoods, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene.

Insider’s Tip: Ride to the top of Mount Royal for a stunning view of the city.

When To Travel: Late spring to early fall for the best cycling conditions.

How To Get There: Montreal-Trudeau Airport is the main entry point, with good public transportation options to the city.

8. San Francisco, California, USA

San Francisco’s iconic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods make it a fascinating city to explore by bike. Despite its famous hills, there are plenty of flat and scenic routes, especially along the waterfront and the city’s many parks. A bike tour in San Francisco might include the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Painted Ladies of Alamo Square. Cycling here allows you to experience the city’s unique blend of natural beauty, urban culture, and innovative spirit.

Insider’s Tip: Cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito and take the ferry back for a unique experience.

When To Travel: Late spring and early fall offer the most comfortable weather for cycling.

How To Get There: Fly into San Francisco International Airport. The city is well-connected by public transport, and bike rentals are widely available.

9. Vienna, Austria

Vienna’s grand imperial history and vibrant contemporary culture are best experienced on a bike. The city’s extensive network of bike paths takes you past historic palaces, through charming neighborhoods, and along the blue Danube. A bike tour in Vienna might include the Hofburg Palace, the Prater amusement park, and the trendy districts of Neubau and Mariahilf. Cycling in Vienna is a journey through a city that seamlessly blends its past with the present.

Insider’s Tip: Take a leisurely ride in the Prater, a large public park with a long, tree-lined main avenue perfect for cycling.

When To Travel: Spring and early fall offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

How To Get There: Vienna International Airport is the main gateway, with excellent public transportation links to the city center.

10. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne’s eclectic mix of art, culture, and cuisine makes it an exciting city to discover by bike. A cycling tour here can include the artsy laneways, beautiful parks like the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the vibrant beachside suburb of St Kilda. Melbourne’s flat terrain and well-developed bike paths make it easy to navigate, and you’ll quickly discover why it’s often ranked as one of the world’s most livable cities.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the Yarra River trail for scenic views and a peaceful ride away from the city bustle.

When To Travel: Fall (March to May) and spring (September to November) offer the best weather for cycling.

How To Get There: Fly into Melbourne Airport. The city has a comprehensive public transport system, and bike hire is readily available.

The Bottom Line

Exploring cities by bike offers a unique perspective on urban landscapes and promotes a sustainable and healthy way of traveling. Each city on this list offers its own unique charm and attractions, best experienced at the leisurely pace of a bike ride. Remember, cycling tours are not just about physical activity; they’re about connecting with the city, its people, and its culture in an intimate and eco-friendly way. So, grab your helmet, hop on a bike, and start pedaling your way through some of the world’s most bike-friendly cities.

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The post Exploring 10 Cities Around the World by Bike – Pedal-Powered Discoveries 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / PR Image Factory.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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