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The Ultimate 7-day Netherlands Travel Itinerary

Are you ready for the ultimate Netherlands travel itinerary? As any Dutchman will tell you, the Netherlands is not exactly the most naturally beautiful country in the world. But the Dutch never let lack of natural resources be a barrier to economic growth and expansion.

Over the centuries they built beautiful cities on man made canals and even drained the sea to reclaim thousands of acres of land for a new province. There’s a fascinating history behind this country and you’ll learn all about it on a trip to the Netherlands. 

I spent about four years of my life living in the Netherlands, mostly in Amsterdam and Haarlem . For the most part I loved living and working there. I explored the small country from top to bottom over those years, and while I haven’t been everywhere I have seen a good amount of the country and have prepared the best itinerary for you that I can think of. 

Now it should be said that if you’re an American with limited vacation time coming to Europe for the first time, then I typically recommend three days in Amsterdam – which allows for day trips outside the city – then move on to elsewhere in Europe, like Belgium or Italy .

But for those of you with more vacation time that wish to spend a week in the land of tulips and windmills I’ve got you covered. Read on for the best way to see and experience the Netherlands! 

Netherlands Travel Itinerary – The Basics

Ns train service, day 1: amsterdam, day 2: amsterdam and hoorn, day 3: tulips and windmills, day 4: the hague, day 5: maastricht, day 6: back to amsterdam, day 7: haarlem, night 7: last night of this netherlands travel itinerary, so long netherlands , netherlands travel itinerary faqs.

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which means that should you purchase something or get a quote through them I may make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps keep the site running with up to date information. I do not represent GetYourGuide, World Nomads, Discovercars.com or Booking.com. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy the product mentioned in this article .

You’ll start and end this itinerary in Amsterdam unless you live in northern Europe. Schiphol airport in Amsterdam is well connected to just about everywhere on the planet and has direct flights to every continent except Australia. If you’re coming from the US, almost all the large cities have a direct flight to Amsterdam these days. KLM even flies to Austin, Texas now!

Lay of the land

The Netherlands is a small country. From the northern tip to the southern tip is barely a 4 hour drive. You will not cover a whole lot of ground on this trip, but it’s densely populated so you will see a lot. 

How to get around

You have the option to either rent your own car or take the train around. Driving in old Dutch cities can be confusing and parking can cost an arm and a leg, so for this itinerary I recommend using the extensive rail network in the Netherlands. More on the train later. 

If you want to rent a car it would be best to do it after your first few days in Amsterdam, as parking in the city is not cheap. To book your rental car from Amsterdam click here .

The currency is the Euro and you’re more likely to need cash than you might think. There are still places that only accept cash in the Netherlands. Also note that grocery stores do not take credit cards so if you don’t have a European bank card you’ll need to pay cash. Overall, the Netherlands is one of the most expensive countries in Europe. Though it’s not Switzerland or Norway. It’s cheaper than traveling around the United States, but it’s not Greece.

Dutch is the language of the land, but the Netherlands has one of the highest rates of English proficiency in the world, even when you include English speaking countries. It’s unlikely you’ll come across someone who doesn’t speak English on your trip. Most Dutch people are completely fluent . 

Where to stay

Hotels are affordably priced in most Dutch cities, but way overpriced in Amsterdam. If you want to save money, book something away from the city center like in Sloterdijk or Amsterdam Zuid, both of which are well connected to downtown.

Sloterdijk is very easy to get to since it’s just a 5 minute train ride to Amsterdam Central Station and the train comes every 5 minutes on average. In other cities best to book a hotel as close to the central train station as you can.

In Amsterdam I recommend staying at Mercure Sloterdijk Station . You’ll be a 5 minute train ride from downtown while avoiding the excessive noise. The staff is excellent and the rooms are much more spacious than hotel rooms in the city center. I’ve stayed here over 20 times myself, so you know it’s a legit recommendation.

The Dutch cycle as a form of transportation more than any other people in the world. It’s one of the top things that the Netherlands is known for globally and one of the main reasons that people love living in Amsterdam and the Netherlands.

No trip to the Netherlands is complete without renting a bike at some point. Just be careful when on the bike paths. It’s the main mode of transportation in the country and the paths can get very crowded. Stay to the right and don’t run any red lights and you should be fine. 

Weather in the Netherlands

The Netherlands does not have amazing weather by any stretch of the imagination. It doesn’t get too cold or too hot, but it rains a lot and can be very windy.

The best months for weather are May and June. That might sound odd, but summer often has more cold and rainy days than spring. Though with climate change summers are getting hotter and drier. So let’s add in July and August to the best months to visit for weather.  

Best time of year to visit the Netherlands

The best month in the Netherlands is May. It’s the warmest month on average and the days are long, with sunsets after 9:00 PM. But if you want to see the famous Dutch tulip fields you’ll have to go in April. So let’s assume you’re going in April, which is the most crowded time of year due to tulip season. In April it won’t be warm but won’t be cold either. You can have clear days or horribly rainy days. It’s just luck. 

Summers can be really nice or they can be awfully cold and rainy. It just depends on the year. Summer is also the most crowded time (other than April). Come autumn the days start to get shorter and the wind picks up. Many people visit in winter to avoid the crowds but I really can’t recommend that since Dutch winter weather is just so damn rainy. I highly recommend visiting in May.

I have also dedicated an entire article to the best time of year to visit the Netherlands . That article gives a month by month breakdown of the weather, crowds, and events

Food in the Netherlands

Eating in the Netherlands is a unique experience. The Dutch aren’t exactly known for food, but you can find some excellent restaurants. See my post about eating in the Netherlands for a full rundown of Dutch food culture . 

This is always a culture shock for Americans, but smoking is still very prevalent in the Netherlands. Not as much as France, but you can reasonably expect to get a fair amount of secondhand hand smoke on your trip. It’s not allowed anywhere indoors, but if you’re sitting outside on the terrace at a café or restaurant just be prepared for cigarette smoke coming from all directions. 

Travel Insurance

Before you set out on your journey, just make sure to purchase travel insurance so that you’re protected for the unexpected. We use World Nomads and had a good experience the one time we unfortunately had to actually use it. World Nomads provides coverage to travelers in over 100 countries. You can search for a coverage plan using the link below.

The best way to get around the Netherlands is the NS train , which stands for Nederlandse Spoorwagon (Dutch train). The rail network is extensive and connects just about every city in the country. Smaller villages that don’t have NS stations will at least have a bus stop. 

When you arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport you’ll find the train station within the airport. From the kiosks you should purchase a blue OV Chipkaart. Do not buy individual tickets per journey. The card will cost you 7 Euros but it will make your life a lot easier for the next seven days.

At each station you’ll tag on and tag off. The best part about the OV Chipkaart is that all public transport throughout the entire country runs on it. So it’s not just for trains, but also local buses, trams, and metros in any city. 

You can easily add money to the card from kiosks at any train station with a credit card. Put 100 euros on the card. The cost per ride depends on the destination but is never more than 27.40 euros.

If you follow this itinerary you’ll spend about 100 euros on train and bus fare. If you go over you can always add more at the kiosks in any train station. 

Riding the train in the Netherlands

The train itself is not glamorous but it’s pretty comfortable. Accidently sitting in first class if you didn’t book a first class ticket might get you a fine. And if you’re in a quiet car you better be quiet or someone will tell you off. The quiet cars are labeled so just pay attention.

There are no bars or food stands on the trains, but there is someone who walks down the train aisle selling drinks and snacks. Nothing fancy, just Heineken and Snickers and stuff like that. 

Train stations vary depending on the city. Amsterdam’s central station is massive, with restaurants and shopping malls. While smaller stations might only have a Albert Heijn To-go, which is a convenience store sized version of the Netherlands’ main supermarket. 

Trains are pretty good about being on time, but sometimes do get delayed or even canceled. The info boards at the stations will keep you updated. You can also download the NS Train app while you’re there and use that for live updates and route planning. 

I rode the train a hell of a lot when I lived in the Netherlands and I can say it’s truly a great system. I would kill to have something like it in the northeast United States!

The 7-Day Netherlands Travel Itinerary 

Now it’s time to explore the Netherlands on the best 7-day Netherlands travel itinerary! If you follow this itinerary you’ll see what I consider to be the main highlights in the county. I’ve excluded some places I think are overhyped and not worth it on a short trip, like Rotterdam and Giethoorn , and included some places you might not think of, like Haarlem and Maastricht. 

The map below shows your approximate route, though note that it’s Google driving directions, and the train doesn’t quite follow the highways.

No Netherlands travel itinerary is complete without Amsterdam. Let’s assume you’ve come from the US so you’re there in the morning and have a full day ahead of you. You’ll spend the entire day today exploring Amsterdam, so hopefully the weather is nice!

If your hotel won’t let you check in early or store your bags you can always rent a luggage locker at Amsterdam central train station. Hopefully you’re feeling refreshed because there’s a lot of walking to do today!

I won’t go through everything there is to do in Amsterdam here. For that you can check out my ultimate guide to Amsterdam . It’s not a big city, but it’s vibrant and full of history and beautiful sights to behold. It’s also a great city to visit with children .

Just Walking around is my favorite way to spend an afternoon in the city. Some key spots to hit could be the Anne Frank House (book well in advance), Dam Square, the Royal Palace, the Rijksmuseum, the Jordaan, and the Van Gogh Museum if you’re into art. 

My Amsterdam guide goes through most of the tourist spots but also gives recommendations to live like a local if you want to avoid drunk British 22 year olds for a bit. You can find my restaurant recommendations there as well as how to properly experience the red light district. Spend the night at your hotel in Amsterdam and get ready for a day trip tomorrow. 

If you want to be closer to the action there are literally thousands of hotels in Amsterdam. Check out the listings on booking.com to book something great!

Where to stay in Amsterdam:

In the city center: Amsterdam Marriott Hotel

outside the city center: Mercure Sloterdijk Station

Full accommodation listings: Booking.com link

Start your day off right with a ride on the Pannekokenboot (pancake boat) This all-you-can-eat pancake boat tour will take you down the IJ river in Amsterdam. You’ll take a ferry across the river from central station to get to the boat meeting point. It’s a quick ride and it’s free.

If you’re not up for a boat ride you can have yourself a nice breakfast of traditional Dutch pancakes at Restaurant De Carrousel. Though note that pancakes are also a popular dinner meal in the Netherlands.

After pancakes hop on the train to Hoorn, a beautiful Dutch town on the coast. This afternoon you’ll check out some historic Dutch fishing villages. Hoorn is known for its well preserved Dutch architecture as well as its sinking houses. Due to poor soil many building foundations have settled inconsistently in the Netherlands.

You can see tilted houses in Amsterdam, but none as defined as the ones in Hoorn. Some other sites to stop by are the Hoofdtoren, the Westfriesmuseum, and the Grote Kerk (big church). 

Want to learn more about Dutch cheese and food? Check out my guide to Dutch Food Culture

After walking around Hoorn, hop on the bus to Edam. This little Dutch village is known for its cheese. It’s also a cute little town to walk around. From here you’ll walk to the famous fishing village of Volendam, passing the best spots in Edam on the way. It’s a solid 30-40 minute walk, not including stops.

Volendam is a little Dutch fishing village known for fantastic seafood, especially smoked eel. For the best smoked eel stay for dinner at Smit-Bokkum , one of my favorite restaurants in the Netherlands. The bus runs late so there’s no rush to head back to Amsterdam and spend another night in town. 

No Netherlands travel itinerary is complete without some flowers. So head back to the airport and rent a car. It’s tulip day, and based on my experience you’ll want your own vehicle.

The other option is to take the bus to Keukenhof from the airport. But my honest recommendation is to skip Keukenhof. This is the famous flower garden in Lisse.

It’s definitely nice. But it’s always overcrowded and feels artificial to me. Many people – like me – find the endless fields on tulip farms more beautiful than a manicured garden that charges 18.50 euros. 

So get in the car and head towards Lisse. Instead of going to Keukenhof you’re heading to the flower fields nearby though, mainly near Halfweg. There are tons of fields of tulips and other colorful flowers all around this area, though mostly to the west of Lisse. Some key things to note:

Tips for visiting the flower fields:

• The fields are private farms so technically you’re not supposed to walk through them, though you’ll see many people ignoring the rules. 
• Don’t pick flowers from the fields. If you want some tulips people sell them from the side of the road for a very good price.
• Don’t park on the road. The roads are narrow here and they will be crowded with other people looking for photos of flower fields. There are places to pull off and leave your car every so often. 

When you’ve had enough flower fields for one day it’s time to head to Zaandse Schans, a famous old Dutch village with multiple windmills along the river. It can get pretty crowded here too, but it’s neat to walk along the river and learn all about the history of windmills and cheese making.

Before heading back to the airport, stop by the city of Zandaam to check out one of the craziest hotels in the world, Inner Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam. You’ve probably seen photos of this funky building on Instagram. Since you’ve parked already, grab dinner along the river in Zaandam before returning the car. 

A note about Day 3

If all that sounds a little daunting for one day and you want it to be easier, consider an organized tour. You’ll be going to Keukenhof and not the individual flower fields if you go this route, but it is a lot less stressful. GetYourGuide offers a full day tour to Keukenhof and Zaanse Schans that might be just up your alley. 

Time to check out of your hotel and take the train to The Hague (Den Haag in Dutch when searching on ns.nl). The Hague is famous for having the international criminal court, where multinational court cases are decided and arbitrated. It’s also known for the Hague Convention, which established various international laws.

Domestically, the Hague is the seat of government for the Netherlands, even though technically Amsterdam is the capital. The Binnenhof is the Dutch parliament building and you can go in and walk around for free, though I’ve never done it. 

There are many other things to see and do in the Hague. The city center is easily walkable but you can also take trams all over the city anywhere you want to go.

Some other sites to be sure to check out are The Mauritshuis (if you’re into art), the Noordeinde Palace (the Dutch answer to Buckingham Palace), and Lange Voorhout, one of the most charming streets in the country. 

If you want to get out of the city center for a bit take the tram to the beach. Scheveningen is one of the most popular beaches in the Netherlands, thanks to its location basically in the Hague.

It’s too cold most the year to actually sit on the beach (May – Sep) but it’s neat to walk around and check out the pier, where you can ride the Ferris wheel or grab a beer on the water. Spend the night in The Hague and enjoy a nice dinner in the city of international peace. 

Where to stay in The Hague: Mercure Hotel Den Haag Central

Today you’ll spend the morning on the train heading to Maastricht, a city on the very southern tip of the Netherlands. Notably you’ll pass through Rotterdam, the second most populous Dutch city. We’re going to skip Rotterdam on this itinerary. It was mostly destroyed in WW2 and was rebuilt with a more modern design.

You’ll also skip Kinderdijk , arguably the most famous Dutch windmills, which showcases the history of using the wind to create energy throughout the centuries and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you’d prefer to see Kinderdijk over Zaanse Shans, you can swap these two windmill sites on Day 3. Kinderdijk, however, is much further from Amsterdam and not well connected on public transport.

One thing you’ll notice as you pull into Maastricht is hills. Topography! The Netherlands is known for a lot of things , and one of those things is that it is almost completely flat. But when you get down here on the border of Belgium and Germany you start to get some rolling hills. In fact, the highest point in the Netherlands is down here where the country borders Belgium and Germany at the same time.

Have extra time? Then maybe you’d like to check out Belgium! Be sure to read my guides to Bruges and Ghent , two of my favorite cities in Europe!

A little medieval city that is neat to walk around and explore, Maastricht is the perfect place to spend a day exploring. Base yourself at the Vrijthof Plaza, which is essentially the central square and go from there.

Some of the top sights to hit are the Basilica of Saint Servatius, Saint Jan’s Church, (where you can go to the top of the tower for a view of the rare Dutch rolling hills), Fort St. Pieter, and the old city walls at Hell Gate among other things.

When you’re done exploring, grab dinner on the main square and take in the sights and sounds of the southern Netherlands before spending the night in Maastricht.

Where to stay in Maastricht: Hotel Monastere

After a nice breakfast in Maastricht take the train back to Amsterdam, about 2.5 hours, where you’ll explore the funky side of the city north of the IJ river. The ferry across the river takes about 5 minutes and leaves every 15 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station.

Head up to the A’DAM Lookout for a view from about as high as you can get in the city. There’s a bar at the top and on a nice day it’s a good spot to relax and take in the views. If you’re into movies, next door is the Eye Film Museum. If you’re not into movies, just admire the crazy architecture of the building. 

Walk through the modernized industrial neighborhood to Oedipus Brewing for an afternoon beer. For more craft beer, the Walhalla Brewery and Taproom is on the next block.

End your day with a walk (or take the bus) to the NSDM Wharf, a funky old industrial building that’s been turned into a sort-of art market/gallery. As night sets in, stay for dinner at Pllek (booking essential) and watch the sunset over Amsterdam, your new favorite city.  

Last day of the trip. Spend the morning in Haarlem. Haarlem is only about 15 minutes from Amsterdam Central by train. I lived in Haarlem for two years. It’s a beautiful little Dutch city that is easy to walk around in a few hours. The cathedral in the central square is the second largest in the country, and the most beautiful in my opinion.

There are all sorts of little alleyways to get lost in Haarlem. For a cool experience grab lunch at the Jopenkerk, a brewpub located in an old cathedral. 

Spend your final afternoon exploring the beauty of the streets of Amsterdam by bike. There are a ton of bike rental agencies in Amsterdam and I’ve never used any of them so I can’t recommend any particular agency. Check out the Iamsterdam website for more info on bike rental companies.

Note about biking in Amsterdam: don’t bike like a dumb tourist!

As you cruise the bike paths, just be sure to pay attention to the traffic signals. The Dutch bike path system is state-of-the-art and you’ll be cycling on special paths. Just be courteous to the locals and bike at a sufficient pace and don’t stop in the middle of the paths. 

As the evening rolls in, if you haven’t done a canal tour yet might as well do that today. They’re not amazing, but it’s cool to cruise the canals observing the old houses. The basic tours are essentially all the same, so see who is offering specials. Most of them leave from right in front of the train station. 

For your last dinner if you haven’t had an Indonesian feast yet, it’s time for that. While it’s Indonesian food, it’s super Dutch and I’ve never seen an Indonesian rice table restaurant outside the Netherlands. I recommend Aneka Rasa downtown for convenience and price. You’ll leave satisfied! 

Now it’s hard to not associate Amsterdam with the Red Light District . If you haven’t seen it yet might as well on your last night. There’s all sorts of controversy over it these days, but I think it’s truly unique.

You can’t see anything quite like it anywhere else in the world. The main strip is lined with sex shows, peep shows, and of course windows full of beautiful women who are professional prostitutes.

While I don’t have personal experience with them, what I know comes from a friend who saw one when he was in town. And all I’ll say is that it won’t cost you only the 50 Euros they’ll tell you when you knock on the door 🙂 If you’re not looking to get lucky, just walking the canal taking in the sights and sounds should be enough. 

Depending on what time your flight is, you might have some time for more exploration in the morning. Either way you’ve had a lot of cheese and beer by now so time to head home and detox!

One thing to add is that if you’re coming in April, you might want to plan for or around the King’s Day holiday, April 27. It’s a national holiday to celebrate the King’s birthday, but in reality it’s just a giant party. Everyone dresses in orange and rides boats around the canals and gets hammered. It happens all over the country but the biggest party is in Amsterdam.

So if that sounds like your thing you might want to plan your trip to coincide. If being surrounded by hundreds of thousands of drunk people isn’t your idea of fun, best to avoid being in the Netherlands on King’s Day. 

Lastly, should you not come in April, there are plenty of things to substitute into the third day’s morning. If it’s summer, head to the beach at Zandvoort. If you’ve come in winter to avoid the summer crowds I’d use that time to sleep in and watch the rain fall from a café in Amsterdam! Either way you’ll find something lovely to do on this ultimate Netherlands travel itinerary!

How many days is enough for the Netherlands?

If you want a good taste of what the Netherlands has to offer, 7 days is adequate time. If you just want to get a quick fix of the Netherlands, it’s common to do 2-3 days in and around Amsterdam then move on to elsewhere in Europe.

What is the best way to tour the Netherlands?

The best way to get around the Netherlands is by train and public transportation. If you plan on going to small villages and avoiding the cities, however, your trip might be better suited for a rental car.

What is the best time to visit the Netherlands?

The best time to visit the Netherlands is mid-April through the end of September, with the exception of August, which is far too crowded.

Is the Netherlands expensive? 

By European standards the Netherlands is one of the more expensive countries to live and visit. Hotels and restaurants in central Amsterdam are overpriced, though locations outside major urban areas are most modestly priced. Americans, however, will find it quite an affordable country given how expensive life in the US can be.

Is it worth going to Rotterdam?

In the humble opinion of this author, it is not worth going to Rotterdam when visiting the Netherlands unless you have about two weeks to kill. Not that there’s anything wrong with Rotterdam. It’s just not that interesting compared to other European cities.

Chris Heckmann

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Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique II (and reverse)

COUNTRY: Belgium, Holland

Guided from EUR € 1449

Guided: From Amsterdam: May 02, 16, 30; Jun 13; Jul 11, 25; Aug 22; Sep 05, 19; Oct 03, 2024 | May 01, 29; Jun 12; Jul 10; Aug 07, 21; Sep 04, 18; Oct 2, 2025 From Bruges: May 09, 23; Jun 06, 20; Jul 18; Aug 01, 29; Sep 12, 26; Oct 10, 2024 | Jun 05, 19; Jul 17; Aug 28; Sep 11, 25; Oct 09, 2025

Description: During this bicycle tour, you will visit some of the most beautiful cities of Holland and Flanders (Western Belgium): Amsterdam, Utrecht, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges - where you still can feel the charm of days long gone. After embarking from Amsterdam…

Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique III (and reverse)

Guided from EUR € 1548

Guided: From Amsterdam: Jun 11, 25; Jul 9, 23; Aug 6, 2024 | Apr 29; May 13, 27; Jun 10, 24, July 08, 22; Aug 05, 2025 From Bruges: May 21; Jun 4, 18; Jul 2, 16, 30; Aug 13, 2024 | May 20; Jun 03, 17; Jul 01, 15, 29; Aug 12, 2025

Description: This brilliant bicycle tour takes you to some of the most beautiful cities in Holland and Flanders (Western Belgium), including: Amsterdam, Utrecht, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges, cities where you can still feel the charm of days long gone. After embarking…

Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique IV (and reverse)

Guided: From Amsterdam: Apr 25; May 9, 23; Jun 6, 20; Jul 4, 18; Aug 1, 15, 29; Sep 12, 26; Oct 10, 2024 | May 08, 22; Jun 05, 19; Jul 03, 17, 31; Aug 14, 28; Sep 11, 25; Oct 09, 2025 From Bruges: May 2, 16, 30; Jun 13, 27; Jul 11, 25; Aug 8, 22; Sep 5, 19; Oct 3, 17, 2024 | May 01, 15, 29; Jun 26; Jul 10, 24; Aug 07, 21; Sep 04; Oct 02, 16, 2025

Amsterdam – Gouda – Bruges by Bike and Boat

Guided from EUR € 1210

Guided: May 02, 09, 16, 23; Jun 06, 13, 20; Jul 04, 11, 18; Aug 01, 08, 15, 22, 29; Sep 05, 12, 19, 26; Oct 10, 2024.

Description: Two fascinating countries - Holland and Belgium - united along one route which combines insight into the Netherlands' Golden Age and exploration of the Flemish trade cities of the Middle Ages. Plus, of course, Holland's own world wonder - the Delta…

Bruges – Antwerp – Amsterdam by Bike and Boat

Guided: May 16, 23, 30; Jun 13, 20, 27; Jul 11, 18, 25; Aug 08, 15, 22, 29; Sep 05, 12, 19, 26; Oct 03, 17, 2024.

Description: Two fascinating countries - Holland and Belgium - united along one route. This bicycle and boat tour combines the highlights of the Netherlands' Golden Age with the history of the medieval Flemish trade cities. Variety is the keyword on this captivating…

Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Fluvius (and reverse)

Guided from EUR € 1109 Self guided from EUR € 1109

Guided: Guided version possible on all self-guided dates for a surcharge.

Self-guided: From Amsterdam: Apr 14, 28; May 12, 26; Jun 09, 23; Jul 07, 14, 21; Aug 04, 18; Sep 1, 15, 2024 | Apr 13, 27; May 11, 25; Jun 08, 22; Jul 06, 20; Aug 03, 17, 31; Sep 14, 2025 From Bruges: Apr 21; May 05, 19; Jun 02, 16, 30; Jul 14, 28; Aug 11, 25; Sep 8, 22, 2024 | Apr 20; May 04, 18; Jun 01, 15, 29; Jul 13, 27; Aug 10, 24; Sep 07, 21, 2025

Description: Some of the most beautiful cities of Flanders and Holland are highlighted during this tour: Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, and Amsterdam - where you can still sense the charm of days long gone. After embarkation, you will have plenty of time to discover Bruges…

Highlights of Flanders: Belgium’s History, Art, Nature & Cuisine

Self guided from EUR € 2185

Self-guided: Daily, except Saturdays: May 12 - Sep 27, 2024

Description: This cycling tour through Flanders shows you the major highlights of Belgium. This is the perfect ride for anyone interested in the rich Belgium history, art, nature, and cuisine. The Flemish art cities of Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Mechelen, Leuven, and…

Holland and Belgium by Bike, Barge and Cruise

COUNTRY: Holland, Belgium

Guided from EUR € 2995

Guided: Sunday, Jun 2, 2024

Description: When 8 days is simply not enough, and many say it is not, this extraordinary 11-day adventure blends cycling and boating as you explore the enchanting landscapes of Holland and Belgium. This is a classic route with the bonus of having a few more days to…

Amsterdam & The Sea by Bike and Boat

COUNTRY: Holland

Guided from EUR € 999

Guided: Jul 18, 25; Aug 01, 08, 2024.

Description: It wasn't until the 17th Century that large parts of the area north of Amsterdam were recovered from the lingering grip of the ocean to become the typical Dutch landscape of polders, mills, harbors, and tulips. The route on this dynamic Dutch bicycle…

Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique I (and reverse)

Guided from EUR € 1699

Guided: From Amsterdam: May 07, 21; Jun 04, 2024 | May 6, 2205 From Bruges: May 14; Jun 11, 2024 | May 13, 27, 2025

Description: This is one of our most popular tours... and for good reason! You cycle through the world's most bike-friendly countries, Holland and Belgium and you stay on a boat! There's an undeniable magic to the experience, a delightful fusion of land and water…

Amsterdam to Bruges: Cycling through South Holland and Zeeland

Self guided from EUR € 1790

Self-guided: Daily, except Mondays: May 13- Oct 01, 2024

Description: A journey from the 17th-century Golden Age to the modern day, simply on a bicycle. The hotel-based version of this classic route gives you more time to discover the places and meet the men and women who made history here. You’ll be riding on the…

Green landscapes of Holland: Amsterdam and Maastricht

Guided from EUR € 1199

Guided: May 4, 11, 25; Jun 1, 15, 22, 29; Jul 6, 13, 20; Aug 24, 31, 2024.

Description: See Holland like never before on this guided bike and boat tour from arresting Amsterdam to mesmerizing Maastricht, passing through iconic Dutch destinations such as Utrecht, Limburg, Arcen, and Thorn. This active tour is designed to cover the best of…

Amsterdam to Cologne along the IJssel and Rhine

COUNTRY: Germany, Holland

Guided from EUR € 2545

Guided: Sunday: June 22, 2025

Description: Hop aboard the majestic Merlijn for a journey from the world-renowned city of Amsterdam onward to Cologne, revered for the stunning High Gothic architecture, most notable of which is the twin spires of the Dom (Cologne Cathedral). Spend several days…

Cycling the Dutch Countryside from Zaandam to Kampen

Self guided from EUR € 1845

Self-guided: May 1 - Oct 01, 2024

Description: "Victory begins at Alkmaar” – A tour for all ages with the inspiring stories of the people who made Holland (or we should really say ‘the Netherlands’). You’ll be riding on the country’s extensive network of safe and scenic cycle paths. Not only will you…

Dutch Hanseatic Cities, Harbor Towns & Natural Wonders by Bike and Boat

Guided from EUR € 1780

Guided: May 24, 2024 | Jun 06, 2025

Description: Get ready for some great cycling and much, much more! On this incredible bike and boat tour, you'll find yourself out and about in authentic and historical Holland, exploring its past oceanic glory and enjoying its present day beauty and charm. The Dutch…

Windmills, Dunes, and Harbor Towns

Guided: Flora: Saturdays, May 13; July 15; August 5, 2024 Gandalf: Saturdays, June 17, 24; Aug 12, 19, 26; Sep 16, 2024 Sarah: Saturdays, June 3; July 8; Sep 9, 2024

Description: Unleash your inner adventurer and embark on a bike and boat tour through the incredible 'polder' landscapes, where the Dutch used their remarkable ingenuity to reclaim land from the sea. Pedal past windmills, soak up the epic dune landscapes, enjoy…

Germany, Netherlands, Belgium by Bike/E-Bike and Boat

COUNTRY: Germany, Holland, Belgium

Guided from EUR € 3294

Guided: Apr 20; May 25; Jun 22; Jul 27; Aug 31; Sep 7, 2024

Description: Combine a sustainable cruise with lovely guided e-biking and cultural excursions, featuring the best cycling in Northern Europe. On your electric bike, you pedal along the northern Rhine and Meuse Rivers in three countries: Germany, the Netherlands, and…

Holland by Bike and Boat, Northern Tour

Self guided from EUR € 759

Self-guided: Saturday departures, April – October, 2024

Description: Nowhere else in the world will you find an area as fascinating to explore as the Dutch Provinces of North Holland and Friesland, two areas rich in tradition, full of romantic fishing and harbor villages, picturesque lakes, and expansive North Sea vistas.

Holland by Bike and Boat, Southern Tour

Self guided from EUR € 799

Self-guided: Saturday departures, March 25 - October 21, 2024 | March 29 - October 4, 2025

Description: It doesn't get any better than this tour on board the De Amsterdam. Not only will you get the chance to visit a number of famous Dutch cities, but you will also uncover another side of Holland as you cycle through the country's "Green Heart." You will…

Holland's Tulip Fields and Historic Towns

Guided from EUR € 2345

Guided: Apr 05, 26; May 03, 2025

Description: There is nothing quite like Holland during Tulip Season, and this seven-day bike and boat tour allows you to experience it all! You'll visit the Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe and one of the world's largest flower gardens, in addition to…

Luxury Tulip Tour: Discovering Holland's Colorful Countryside

Self guided from EUR € 940

Self-guided: Daily: Mar 29 - May 12, 2024

Description: Every year, large swathes of countryside in the Netherlands are covered in a colorful blanket of flowers. Seeing the beautiful spectacle for yourself is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Discover many of Holland’s fantastic highlights…

Best of Holland North: Dutch Villages, Landscapes & the Keukenhof

Self guided from EUR € 1140

Self-guided: Daily: Mar 29 - Oct 1, 2024

Description: Describe Holland and you’ll immediately picture green meadows, windmills, grazing cattle and the country's famous cheeses. This tour adds in quaint fishing villages, thatched farm houses, a medieval castle, grand town houses, museums packed with Old…

Best of Holland South: Canals, Windmills & Historic Towns

Self guided from EUR € 1110

Description: "Thinking of Holland, I picture broad rivers meandering through unending lowland …” – Hendrik Marsman (1899 – 1940), poet … Windmills, castles, sunsets, rural scenes with cows, rivers, cityscapes, forests … Not the words from a Holland tourist brochure…

Sail & Bike to Picturesque Villages and Nature Reserves

Self guided from EUR € 1049

Self-guided: Jun 8, 15, 22, 29; Jul 6, 13, 20, 27; Aug 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; Sep 7, 2024

Description: Sail and bike along the coast of the Ijsselmeer, once a salty sea, now the largest sweetwater lake in all of Holland! Discover this unique part of the Netherlands aboard a magnificent and comfortably furnished sailing ship and riding excellent cycle…

Holland’s Southern Relax Tulip Tour

Guided from EUR € 1390

Guided: Apr 03, 10, 24; May 01, 2025

Description: View the fantastic colors of Spring! Between April and mid-May. We offer special tulip bicycle tours in the Netherlands. The program is quite similar to the Southern Tour Relax, but in springtime, this tour will be centered around the Tulip theme and of…

Holland’s Southern Tour Bike and Barge

Guided: May 09, 16, 23, 30; Jun 06, 20; Jul 04, 11, 18; Aug 01, 08, 15, 22, 29; Sep 05, 12; Oct 03, 2024.

Description: Historic towns, picturesque villages, a rural environment abounding with water, dunes, and beaches: those are the typical ingredients of this Southern Holland tour. And let’s not forget the eighteen breathtaking windmills in Kinderdijk! This varied trip…

Holland’s Super Tulip Tour

Guided from EUR € 1740

Guided: Apr 03, 10, 17, 24; May 10, 2025

Description: Between April and mid-May, we offer special tulip tours. The program of this Super Tulip Tour is totally dedicated to this beautiful flower. You will cycle through the fields spring flowers and tulips, learn all about growing tulips in a tulip park and…

Tulip Tour between Amsterdam and Bruges

Guided from EUR € 2480

Guided: May 8, 2025

Description: Immerse yourself in the Tulips this spring and fully enjoy Holland and Belgium on this 8-night tour! This bike and boat tour features all of the favorites: Amsterdam, Holland's bustling capital, Bruges, the artistic gem of Belgium, and of course lots and…

Tulip Tour - Bike & Boat Holland's Famous Tulip Fields

Guided from EUR € 1890

Guided: Apr 11*, 18*; May 2*, 2024. Apr 3, 10, 17; May 1, 2025.

Description: Biking in Holland is one thing, boating another, but both are fabulous! Holland is the land of bicycles and the land of water, after all. Include tulips in the mix, and you have something even more fabulous: a bike and boat tour during peak Tulip season.

Tulip Tour on the MS Magnifique II, III, & IV

Guided from EUR € 859

Guided: Mar 29, 31; Apr 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 16, 20, 25, 2025

Description: Experience Holland in the best possible way: a gorgeous spring short break dominated by flowers. This five-day mini-cruise plows through the most beautiful season of the year and will take you to gorgeous areas such as "the Garden of Amsterdam." Enjoy…

Tulip Tour on the Sarah

Guided from EUR € 1279

Guided: Mar 29, Apr 05, 12, 19, 26, 2025

Description: This wonderful bike and barge trip, that starts and ends in Amsterdam, takes you through the provinces of South- and North-Holland while spring flowers are in bloom. You will spend time in the historical cities of Haarlem, Leiden, Gouda, and Alkmaar and…

360° Rotterdam Bike Tour

Rotterdam · from €35 EUR

Description: Discover real Rotterdam, its highlights, its secrets, and its surprises, on the bike tour that takes you full circle. The 360° Rotterdam Bike Tour is designed to give you an authentic feel of the city as a whole, from every angle! The guided day tour…

Amsterdam City E-Bike Tour

Amsterdam · from €49 EUR

Description: 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…

Amsterdam Compact Countryside Bike Tour

Amsterdam · from €44 EUR

Description: 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…

Amsterdam Extended Countryside E-Bike Tour

Amsterdam · from €59 EUR

Description: 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…

Amsterdam Hidden Gems Bike Tour

Amsterdam · from €55 EUR

Description: 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…

Amsterdam City Bike Tour

Amsterdam · from €37 EUR

Description: 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…

Dutch Windmill Bike Tour Utrecht

Utrecht · from €39 EUR

Description: Ride into the rolling fields of the lowlands landscape on this Dutch Windmill Bike Tour from Utrecht. You will discover three different types of traditional windmill along the way, each with its own riveting history, as well as stopping at a fascinating…

Highlights of The Hague Bike Tour

The Hague · from €35 EUR

Description: Bike to the best of The Hague on this terrific day tour of the city’s top sightseeing spots, from quirky quarters to incredible churches, picturesque palaces to charming Chinatown. In just 2.5 hours, your guided bicycle tour will take in the…

River Vecht Bike Tour Utrecht

Utrecht · from €42.5 EUR

Description: Take a tour of the Dutch Golden Age on this River Vecht Bike Tour from Utrecht. On this bike tour, you'll travel through 2,000 years of history as you learn about the role the river played in connecting the Roman Empire and northern Europe. On this ride…

The Hague Street Art Bike Tour

Description: The Hague is known for its ‘street studios’ - an ever-changing gallery of murals, graffiti, posters and stencils. Take the bike tour that gives you an art attack as you experience the best of urban art in The Hague! This artsy guided day tour…

Utrecht City Bike Tour

Utrecht · from €29 EUR

Description: Ride along the walkways and wharfs of Utrecht on this guided bike tour, visiting all the best sightseeing spots of this distinguished Dutch city. Start this city tour at the Dom Church and Tower, cycle on past some of the city’s many other churches…

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Trek travel unveils all-new bike trips for 2024, allowing travelers to explore more of the world by bike.

Trek Travel encourages traveler's to explore more in 2024 with new trips in the Loire Valley, Switzerland , Tuscany , and more!

MADISON, Wis. , Aug. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Trek Travel, recently named a 2023 world's best cycling tour operator by Travel & Leisure, is thrilled to announce its exciting new lineup of new trips for 2024. Targeting cycling enthusiasts of all skill levels, these new itineraries promise to deliver unforgettable experiences in some of the world's most popular cycling and cultural destinations.

Loire Valley Bike Tour - Indulge in French Royalty's Lifestyle In 2024 Trek Travel guests will get the opportunity to journey through France's Loire Valley, known for its fairytale chateaux and medieval charm. Cyclists will pedal through picturesque vineyards and countryside, savoring world-class wines and indulging in Michelin-starred feasts. The highlight of this luxury tour is an exclusive private visit to the illustrious Château de Chambord, where hidden rooms reveal captivating secrets from history. Guests will experience the beauty of Château de Chenonceau and Château de Villandry's exquisite gardens, all while relishing the enchanting tale of French royalty from the best vantage point: the seat of a bike. Learn More: Loire Valley Bike Tour

Switzerland Bike Tour - Awe-Inspiring Alpine Adventure On the Trek Travel Switzerland Bike Tour, guests will experience the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps on a cycling vacation from Lucerne to Montreux. Pedal through pristine lakes, awe-inspiring vistas, and iconic destinations such as Lucerne, the Jungfrau region, Gruyères, and Montreux. Guests will be treated to world-renowned Swiss cheese and exquisite chocolate, as well as the melodic sound of cowbells echoing through the mountains. With options for both active and recreational riders, this signature trip promises a truly immersive experience in the heart of Switzerland . Learn More: Switzerland Bike Tour

Tuscany Countryside Bike Tour - Unveil Italy's "Green Heart" After 20+ years in Tuscany , Trek Travel is excited to introduce a brand-new itinerary that makes this famous Italian region accessible for all cyclists and travelers. The Tuscany Countryside Bike Tour starts with an unbeatable price and offers guests the opportunity to experience all the charm and beauty of Italy's "Green Heart," without breaking the bank. Guests will get to experience the rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves of Umbria , while also discovering the vibrant culture and artistic heritage of hilltop towns like Bevagna, Montefalco, and Assisi. This itinerary will take guests into southern Tuscany where landscapes adorned with cypress trees and elegant farmhouses are scattered throughout each day's ride. Starting from Montepulciano, a renowned wine region, guests will discover captivating hilltop towns and witness the ancient tradition of winemaking. Learn More: Tuscany Countryside Bike Tour

In 2024, Trek Travel also plans to release a host of new self-guided destinations for cycling enthusiasts that like to explore the world's best cycling destinations at their own pace, and after a successful launch of gravel adventures in 2023, Trek Travel is also excited to announce additional gravel destinations that will be released in October. Additionally, Trek Travel will also be launching new ride camp destinations, gravel tours, and classic guided trips in Australia , allowing guests around the world to experience the wonders down under by bike.

We at Trek Travel are committed to curating unforgettable cycling experiences and providing world class hospitality" Tania Burke , President of Trek Travel. "Our new trips in the Loire Valley, Switzerland , Tuscany , as well as the introduction of new self-guided, gravel, and Australia trips, offer even more unique and exciting ways for our guest to see the world by bike. About Trek Travel:

Trek Travel, a 2023 World's Best Tour Operator, has been curating extraordinary cycling vacations around the globe for over the past 20 years. Featuring luxury accommodations, award-winning guides, and the best bikes from Trek in the industry – Trek Travel vacations are sure to delight riders of every level. Our team is made up of bike-lovers, fellow travelers, and are extremely passionate about our world-renowned hospitality.

For more information and to book your next cycling adventure, visit https://trektravel.com/ Note: Pricing, trip style, rider levels, and other details are subject to change. Please refer to Trek Travel's website for the most up-to-date information.

Media Contact

Jake Fergus , Trek Travel, 760-681-6651, [email protected]

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SOURCE Trek Travel

Cycling holidays in The Netherlands

The Netherlands is famously low and flat, its open landscape peppered with windmills, pumping stations, dikes and locks. Almost a fifth of the country is made up of lakes, canals and rivers. Boat & Bike is a fun and simple way to tour the Netherlands. Most Dutch bike tours follow the Junction Network, a series of easy-to-follow routes designed specifically for leisure cycling.

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Actively Seeking the Past

The Perfect Boating Holiday in Holland

Megan Kopp · November 28, 2021 · 4 Comments

A 10-day boating holiday in Holland – who could ask for a better adventure? Start with a couple of amazing friends who have lived in the Netherlands, are fluent in Dutch, have experience with self-drive canal boating and who invite you to join them. Throw in bicycles for all. Now plot a roughly circular itinerary that will take you through the historic heart of Holland. That’s the ticket for this perfect canal boating adventure .

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something from one of our affiliates, we receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. Thanks for helping to keep our blog up and running!

Table of Contents

Arriving in the Netherlands

Our pals meet us at Julianaplein – after a 7,000+ km flight across the Atlantic and a two-bus ride from Schipol Airport. They are riding their bikes with our rental bicycles rolling along – casually balanced with one hand – beside them. Taking out the straps we throw our rolling packs on backs, hop on our trusty steeds and pedal to the marina over cobblestone and brick streets.

Our home away from home for the next few days – Cristine – sits in white perfection on the idyllic canal . Cows graze in green meadows. Grebes, coots, swans, ducks and Canada geese swim by. A great blue heron fishes off the opposite bank.

Be sure to read our post on Active Travel Adventure for more tips for travel without breaking the bank!

Stowing our gear in the front berth, we briefly admire the efficiency of our 9-metre, RV-like floating home . Tiny galley, wet bath, v-shaped forward berth and a sitting area/2 nd bedroom with a covered rear deck. We done many canoe trips over the years with these friends, but this is glamping on the water !

Exploring Haarlem by Bike

Back on bikes again, we blindly follow our guides into their old hometown of Haarlem . Quoting Rick Steves, Haarlem is “a Golden Age kind of town, cute and cozy…and quintessentially Dutch.” Jetlagged bodies come to life as we pedal along treed paths heading directly into the Grote Markt – or Market Square. The intricate spires of the 15 th century Gothic Grote Kerk captivates our gaze and draws us in. St. Bavo Church – more commonly referred to as Grote Kerk– is one of the best-known landmarks in the region.

We stare at the organ built in 1738 with over 5,000 pipes. Imagine the sound echoing through the church when a tiny 10-year-old Mozart was playing this almost 30-metre-high instrument. Walking carefully over close to 1500 tombstones paving the church floor , we admire the old map of “Harlemum” showcasing the walled city of 1688.

We are definitely in the Netherlands with its bounty of culture and history. Adventure on !

Did You Know this About Holland?

Neder means down or low in Dutch. Obviously, Nederland – the Dutch word for The Netherlands – means an area of low land . In this case, it was land reclaimed from the sea. Much of the country is below sea level. The Netherlands has 12 provinces . Our canal boating holiday will travel through three provinces: North Holland ( Noord-Holland ), South Holland ( Zuid-Holland ) and Utretcht. Because the Holland provinces have always held power and influence, the Netherlands are often referred to as simply Holland.

Enjoying Teylers Museum i n Haarlem

In short, it’s a brilliant first day in Holland. But we still happy to be cosily tucked in our berths by 10 p.m. We sleep soundly with Cristine barely moving on the quiet canal. The next morning, with excitement high, we wolf down yogurt and granola and fresh fruit. As before, we pedal back back into town for a visit to the Netherland’s oldest museum . Dry, dusty mausoleum it is not!

Pieter Teyler van der Hulst willed his estate to a foundation. The foundation’s mission was to create and maintain a museum to stimulate art and science . When Teylers Museum opened in 1784 – six years after Pieter’s death – it was a masterpiece.

Walking in the Past

Today light still streams in from the second-story windows in the Oval Room , falling on the same display cases and objects viewed by the likes of Napoleon and Einstein. Exquisitely carved woodwork draws eyes up to library shelves holding Diderot and d’Alembert’s 34-volume Encyclopédie – the most important book of the Enlightenment and the museum’s very first purchase . 

Following the self-guided audio tour, we pour over the fossil rooms and literally have to drag the guys out of the instrument room – where leading scientists such as Van Marum and the Nobel Laureate Lorentz once worked. Everything on exhibit was originally used for research and demonstrations that helped expand humanity’s collective knowledge of science.

Off the Oval Room is a small picture gallery opened in 1839 – becoming the Netherlands’ first gallery of contemporary art . The work of Dutch artists such as Koekkoek fill the walls. Another room holds replicas of drawings by Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Raphael and Goltzius – the originals of which were all purchased by the museum and are now safely preserved.

Cycling to the North Sea

Three hours blow by before stomachs started growling. A quick lunch in streetside café off Grote Markt and we are off stretching limbs on a bike ride to Zandvoort on the North Sea. Of course, we can’t leave without a bag of frites with mayonnaise – a beach town staple. A leisurely bike back to Haarlem takes us past mansions surrounding National Park Zuid-Kennemerland .

Next time we’ll stop to appreciate the park, but our goal now is to find DeDAKKAS – a greenhouse restaurant built on the top level of a parking garage overlooking the city of Haarlem. “ Proost ” we exclaim as we sip local bevvies and chow down on vegetarian bitterballen . These  crunchy fried balls usually made with meat, but in this case the three flavours of bitterballen are made of beet root, oyster mushrooms and jackfruit. Each comes with a special sauce to dip and savour.

Let’s Get This Boating Holiday in Holland Underway!

Without delay the next morning, we are on the move in our rental canal boat , passing one larger yacht and carefully going around a racing skull. Two boats pass us coming the opposite direction. That’s all of the boat traffic we see on our journey from Haarlem to Amsterdam in the way of traffic.

There are also plenty of herons, coots, swans, white geese, ducks and long stretches of towering pampas grass. We pass a working windmill – picture time! – a vacant industrial sugar plant and old water pump plants. Our friend deftly navigates the Cristine under highway overpasses and bridges.

Exploring the Streets of Amsterdam

The morning canal cruise gets us to Amsterdam about noon. However we choose a marina tucked away from central Amsterdam. The peaceful surroundings are worth the extra distance to downtown. Biking alongside the canals, through woods, down sidestreets and along one busier tram street, we are in Vondel Park within 20 minutes of leaving the quiet harbor.

As soon as we lock up our bikes near the Rijksmuseum , we head out to wander through Amsterdam’s tourist core. Walking for a couple hours, we pass lines of people waiting to enter the Anne Frank Huis , explore the vibrant Jordaan neighborhood and pass through the quiet red light district – closed, with room rental signs in every other window.

Picking up the next day’s groceries at Albert Hijn – the Dutch version of Safeway – we bike back to the marina for dinner onboard. Word to wise? Don’t ride your bikes on the wooden walkways in marinas. Everyone knows it is not right – or so we learned from a not-so-happy harbourmaster.

Appreciating Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum

If you only have time for one museum stop in Amsterdam, certainly make it the Rijksmuseum . We were up at 7 a.m., on our bikes by 8:15 a.m., and standing in line with mere minutes to spare for our reserved by 9:00 a.m. for entry into the museum.

Quickly picking up headphones and audioplayers, we head up tiled stairs. To be sure this stairway is only a small part of Gothic vision for the 1885 building designed by famed architect Pierre Cuypers. In the main hall, stained glass windows portray Golden age artists such as Rembrandt. Nearby, a massive copy of Rembrandt’s “Night Watch” is being duplicated by artists for a TV series. We sit down to watch the artists at work as we listen to details about Grand Hall of the Dutch masters . Obviously, it’s time to let the art appreciation adventure begin!

Three and a half hours later and we have barely scratched the surface. Not only could the Rijksmuseum take days to begin to fully appreciate, but we have miles to make before day’s end.

Questions about renting a self-drive canal boat? Read our answers in this post !

Exploring Canal Paths on a Boating Holiday in Holland

Cognisant of the need to be back in Woubrugge the next morning by 10 a.m. to swap out the small boat – booked in advance by our friends before we jumped on the adventure – we load up and start powering on down the canals.

Our stop for the night has free overnight boat mooring alongside the small historic town of Oude Wetering . Canal paths are part of the Holland’s cycling routes and are quite easy to follow. Since there’s enough daylight left for an hour and a half bike ride, we take off along the lakeshore of Braassemermeer . However we do manage to catch the windmill of Veendermolen – parts of structure date back to the 1830s – at dusk and get back to our floating RV as darkness settles in.

Another day, another adventure awaits.

Stayed tuned for Part 2 of this Holland canal cruising adventure as we trade in Cristine for the 11-metre cruiser Parel and head out for more canal travel adventures boating from Woubrugge to Utrecht .

Reader Interactions

November 29, 2021 at 1:17 pm

So well detailed & it looks like a beautiful place to visit!

November 29, 2021 at 1:28 pm

It is a beautiful place and an amazing travel adventure!

November 29, 2021 at 8:10 pm

Love. Love. Love. I miss Holland so much. I am dying to go back!

November 30, 2021 at 8:45 am

Glad this post brought back such good memories!

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Holland Travel Ticket

Easy traveling across the netherlands, choose a peak or discounted off-peak ticket, what's included.

Unlimited travel

With the Holland Travel Ticket, Discover the best of the Netherlands in a day. Simply choose between peak and off-peak travel.

Train, bus, tram, metro and ferries

With each ticket you can travel in all trains, buses, trams, metros and ferries in The Netherlands.

A local map and suggestions for sightseeing is included, so you won't miss the highlights of Amsterdam and its complete region.

Explore Holland in peak hours

The Peak Travel Ticket grants you access for only € 70 to an unlimited number of public transport rides throughout the Netherlands within a calendar day.

Explore Holland in off-peak hours

If you won't be travelling at peak times, opt for the off-peak ticket. For only € 48, you can travel outside of 6.30 - 9.00am, Monday through to Friday (and anytime on weekends). Just like the peak ticket, the off-peak One Day Travel Ticket is valid for a whole calendar day.

Useful information

• You can choose for an all-day ticket including peak hours (€ 70) and an off-peak hour ticket (€ 48).
• An off-peak Holland Travel Ticket is valid from Monday until Friday, except between 6:30 am and 09:00 am. On weekends and public holidays this ticket is valid all day
• The Holland Travel Ticket is intended for foreign tourists, but anybody can use one.
• Please order your ticket online. After you have purchased your ticket, you will receive a voucher via email. With this voucher you can collect your Holland Travel Ticket at NS Tickets & Service desks at Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam Central Station, Almere Centrum, Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Zuid, Den Haag Central, Eindhoven Central, Haarlem, Maastricht, Rotterdam Central and Zaandam.
• When you collect the Holland Travel Ticket you can choose the travel date with a maximum of 7 days ahead from the day of redemption.
• The ticket is valid on the chosen travel date until 04:00 the next morning.

Special terms and conditions

• Only available for 2nd class.
• Unlimited travel at all trains, trams, buses, metro and public ferries.
• The Holland Travel Ticket is not valid on Eurostar and Nightjet.
• For traveling with Intercity direct and ICE only valid with a purchased supplement.
• The tickets are non-refundable.

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Helicopter Glacier Trek

Juneau, Alaska, US

Activity Level

Excursion Type

Flightseeing,All,63

Wheelchair Accessible

Starting At

Minimum Age

Information Not Currently Available

Approximately 4¼ Hours

Meals Included

Meals included

This trek is a two-hour hike through a glacial icescape .

Take off from Juneau by helicopter and soar over the Juneau Ice Field to the glacier.

Upon landing, listen to your guide, as there is an early emphasis on learning the proper use of the mountaineering gear (rain- and windproof outerwear, gloves, boots, ice axe, crampons, harness, helmet) and understanding the glacier features and hazards so that remote areas of the glacier can be accessed during the trek.

The trek includes more physical activity than the Glacier Walkabout, interspersed with detailed explanations of the glacial environment and surrounding area.

Participants should be comfortable hiking for two hours over uneven and sometimes steep terrain. This trek is both adventurous and easy -- no prior experience is required.

This tour can be cancelled without penalty either on the day your voyage commences or up until 12 noon on Day 2 of your voyage. Cancellations thereafter are non-refundable. Dress warmly in layers with a wind- and waterproof outer layer; bring gloves, a scarf and a warm hat. Wear sunglasses. Participants must be in good physical condition and able to walk two miles over varied terrain, although this tour may not cover two miles. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair. Minimum age is 12 years. Waiver must be signed and medical conditions disclosed. Guests weighing 250 lbs or more (fully clothed) must pay an additional surcharge over the published fare. Every guest will be weighed at check-in. The tour operator will endeavor to be discreet during this process, but please be aware that individual circumstances may not allow for complete privacy.

West Michigan Bike & Fitness | West Michigan Bike & Fitness

West michigan bike & fitness.

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• Store address
• 380 Chicago Drive Suite 10
• Holland , Michigan , 49423-3326  United States
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Here are the documents and costs to keep in mind when planning a cruise

As I made plans this summer to take a cruise, I worked my way through my pre-travel checklist. I booked my flights, researched ground transportation options and selected a hotel for the night before boarding.

But I had yet to tick one important box: renewing my expired passport .

I had not traveled internationally since the pandemic began and needed a deadline to motivate me, so shortly before my  sailing from the Netherlands to New York , I filled out the application, paid the fees, and did a quick photo shoot at my local Walgreens.

Passports are just one of the documents travelers may need when taking a cruise, which can add to the overall cost of a trip. Here's what travelers should have on hand and what costs they might encounter before and during their trip:

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What documents will travelers need to board a cruise?

The U.S. State Department recommends cruise passengers sailing from America have a passport.

U.S. citizens booked on closed-loop cruises – those that start and end at the same U.S. port – can enter the country with a government-issued photo ID and birth certificate instead, but the State Department encourages having a passport "in case of an emergency, such as an unexpected medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port," according to its website . Cruise lines may also require it.

Denise Jewell, owner of Opulence Travel Agency, also recommends having a passport, even on closed-loop cruises, in case you don't make it back to the ship in time during a stop.

"It'll be much easier to deal with the locals if you have a passport as opposed to a birth certificate," Jewell said.

If travelers need to apply for or renew a passport, "the sooner you get started the better," said Danny Genung, CEO of travel agency Harr Travel. He suggested beginning that process as soon as you book your trip, even if it's a year in advance.

"This is one of the big pain points and stress points of travel if you wait too long," Genung said.

Even travelers who have procrastinated, though, may not be out of luck. I mailed my passport renewal application on Sept. 7 and paid about $208 in fees overall, including expedited service. I received my new passport on Oct. 3, about two weeks before my trip.

What costs will travelers encounter while taking a cruise?

Many costs associated with a cruise are included in the fare travelers pay when they book. "I think one of the things I would point out is, spending money on a cruise ship is a choice," said Genung, noting that he has been on many cruises and spent nothing additional except on gratuities. However, with mainstream cruise lines, there are generally some key expenses to keep in mind (on luxury lines, many of these costs are likely to be included in the fare).

►  Taxes, fees and port expenses : In addition to the fare, travelers must pay taxes, fees and port expenses, said Brigitte Feinberg, a travel adviser and independent affiliate of Avenue Two Travel. Those can vary based on the specifics of your trip.

► Gratuities: On mainstream lines such as Royal Caribbean International, Feinberg said, gratuities are automatically added to travelers' bills on a per person, per day basis. 

Those prices can vary. Royal Caribbean  charges $16 per guest each day staying in non-suite staterooms, and $18.50 for those in suites, while Carnival Cruise Line applies a $14.50 daily charge per passenger for non-suite rooms, and $16.50 for guests in suites, according to their websites.

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Guests can prepay those gratuities, so they "don't have to worry about that bill at the end of the cruise," Feinberg said, or pay them as part of the final bill. Passengers can also adjust the gratuities up or down, though Feinberg does not recommend the latter.

She added that some guests also bring cash to tip crew members directly who "went above and beyond" during the trip.

► Some food and drinks:  While much of the food is included on mainstream lines, some restaurants and items may cost extra.

On my October Holland America Line cruise, I visited specialty restaurants with prices ranging from $19 to $49 per person, plus an 18% gratuity.

Lines such as Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line also include basic drinks like iced tea and regular coffee while charging for others. Genung said, "in a lot of cases there's good value" in pre-purchasing specialty dining or beverage packages.

► Shore excursions:  On mainstream cruise lines, Feinberg said, excursions are not included either. "Yes, the room's only $300 for a week, but by the time you're all said and done you're going to be spending a lot more than that," she said.

She said excursions can run from $50 to hundreds of dollars per person.

Most cruise lines have promotional sales on excursions and other packages before the cruise, Genung said, which can offer "significant savings," particularly for families traveling together.

"I have two little kiddos myself, and it's a lot more expensive to travel than when it was just my wife and I," he said. "So, you know, when you multiply an unexpected cost times four, or five or six, it gets pretty exponential."

► Wi-Fi:  Many cruise lines charge extra for Wi-Fi, but the price may depend on your needs.

Norwegian Cruise Line, for instance, sells both basic and premium options for one, two, and four devices, starting at $25.50 per day if guests purchase online and about $30 per day if they purchase on board, according to its website . The line also sells a 250-minute option.

Genung noted that it is almost always cheaper to purchase the internet prior to boarding than it is after getting on the ship.

► Laundry:  Depending on the length of the sailing, travelers may run out of clean clothes as I did on my October transatlantic cruise.

Like many mainstream lines,Holland America offered laundry services with several options, to choose from. I picked the Laundry By the Bag package, which cost $30 for as many clothes as I could fit in a bag the line placed in my stateroom closet.

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There was also an Unlimited Pressing package for $75 and an Unlimited Laundry option for $135, including pressing, both for the duration of the sailing, according to an info sheet in my stateroom.

Feinberg noted that some cruise lines also have laundry rooms where guests can wash and dry their own clothes, such as Carnival, which charges $3.50 for each washer load, and $3.50 per dryer load, according to its website .

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Your active vacation of a lifetime starts here.

From a luxury Mallorca vacation to leisurely riding an e-bike through the tulips of Amsterdam, whether you are looking for big days in the saddle in Girona, bumping handlebars with pros in France, hiking through five of the most historic villages in Italy, or planning a private getaway to Tuscany, we have the perfect trip for you.

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What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discover:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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