Known for its vibrant tulip fields, Dutch cheeses and centuries-old windmills, the Netherlands is a heady mix of culture, nature and history. Cycling holidays in Holland are among the best ways to explore all that the country has to offer as you ride through picturesque scenery and between ancient villages and towns.
Much of the landscapes are flat and the twisting canal paths make cycling here a pure pleasure as you pass through cultural cities such as Haarlem, Gouda and, of course, the buzzing capital, Amsterdam. But don’t let the flatness of Holland fool you: this region comes to life in springtime with acres of flowers, making it one of the most beautiful destinations to explore on two wheels. Netherland cycling holidays offer incredible rewards for very little effort.
Once a great sailing nation, you’ll see the sophistication of the Dutch empire everywhere in the art, architecture and engineering of the canal-laced towns with their tall merchant’s buildings and photogenic streets. Explore the world-renowned galleries of famous Dutch artists, experience the cool café culture or simply soak up the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Cycling in the Netherlands wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the local Dutch delicacies. Nibble on the famous cheeses such as Gouda, Edam and Leerdammer, or try some delicious Poffertjes, Stroopwafels and Stamppot during our Highlights of Holland tour. And the great thing about our Netherland cycling holidays is that you’ll burn off all those extra calories in no time!
Top 5 Cities to Visit on our Netherlands Cycling Holidays
Haarlem: As well as playing host to Bohemian pavement cafes and world-class restaurants, Haarlem is home to some of the Netherland’s greatest art galleries and museums. Teylers Museum is the oldest in the city and houses a curious collection of art, science and history pieces. You’ll discover everything here from ancient fossils to musical instruments. And don’t forget to explore Grote Markt, Haarlem’s historic centre, where magnificent buildings such as the UNESCO-listed, Gothic Grote Kerk line the square. In the summer, the square come alive with the Haarlem Culinair, an annual food festival where you can try speciality beers and listen to the sound of live music pervading the streets.
Amsterdam: Most famous for the beautiful waterways that weave through the centre, the vibrant city of Amsterdam is a must-visit destination on cycling holidays in Holland. Its mesmerising backdrop of historic buildings are interwoven by narrow lanes lined with charming boutiques, flower stalls and atmospheric restaurants where the locals hang out. And you won’t get very far without coming across some impressive artwork. Amsterdam is world renowned for its museums and galleries, with the Van Gogh Museum being one of the most famous. Other notable museums include the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk, and the Hermitage, so if you’re an art lover you’ll be in your element here.
Getting around by bike in Amsterdam is a way of life for the locals, so you won’t feel out of place cycling in the Netherlands. But if you fancy a change, hop on a canal boat and admire the city from a different perspective.
Gouda: Mostly synonymous with the cheese of the same name, Gouda is a spellbinding city in South Holland. If you want to get your hands on this tasty cheese, don’t worry, you’ll find it everywhere! From the weekly Gouda cheese market and the Kaasboerderji Jongehoeve (a working cheese farm) to the many local shops that pepper the city, you can indulge to your heart’s content. But Gouda isn’t the only delicacy to make you salivate, a trip to the syrup waffle factory should also be on your list of places to visit in the Netherlands.
If architecture is more your thing, everywhere you look you’ll see elegant buildings piercing the skyline. The City Hall is a Gothic masterpiece that takes pride of place at the heart of the Markt Square and is the oldest of its kind in the Netherlands.
Delft: It’s likely you’ll mostly associate Delftware, the distinctive blue and white hand-painted pottery, with the city but it was also the home of the famous artist, Johannes Vermeer. Visit the Vermeer Centre to learn more about his life and incredible artwork. As you explore Delft on one of our Netherland cycling holidays, you’ll pedal along glistening lakes and verdant pastures that are dotted with ancient windmills. The landscapes are just breathtaking and the city itself is equally as charming with its medieval old town, and laid-back cafes that grace the market square.
Leiden: Laced together by pretty canals, Leiden has a beguiling atmosphere that blends 17th-century architecture, fascinating museums and a colourful nightlife. On several of our cycling tours, you’ll ride among the Dune and Bulb region where blazing blooms of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths carpet the ground throughout springtime. You can also linger for longer to see the most beautiful flower exhibition at Keukenhof or visit the world-famous botanical gardens.
Top 5 Things to do in Holland
1.Visiting Holland in spring is an absolute joy. Famous for the rush of colour and excitement that accompany the tulip season, springtime marks the start of longer sunnier dates and the sight of the fields coming to life as the tulips bloom is mesmerising. These scenes are best explored by bike, with miles and miles of the stunning blooms to explore.
2.Discover historic towns. Amsterdam is far from the only place in the Netherlands known for its beautiful canals. Escape to quieter towns like Haarlem and immerse yourself in the local culture along beautiful streets lined with colourful buildings.
3.Explore cyclist-friendly scenery. The Netherlands are popular with the cycling crowd owing to the flat terrain and quiet country roads (and proliferation of cycle paths) which make for stress-free cycling through some of the country’s prettiest destinations.
4.Try the local beers. Dutch beers are famous for being among the finest in the world. Take the time to indulge at a ‘café’ – don’t be fooled, this is what we would consider a pub!
5.Ride along the famous Amsterdam waterways. Amsterdam is famous for its meandering canals, rivers and lakes, which lead you among stunning scenery to pretty villages.
FAQS about Cycling Holidays in Holland
What is the food like in the Netherlands?
Food in the Netherlands is influenced by both traditional and modern cultures. Dutch cuisine is best known for its hearty comfort food such as stamppot, a dish of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables and meat. Cheese is also a large part of Dutch food culture, with Gouda and Edam being among the most popular and well-known. Make sure you try some of the delicious street food like stroopwafels (thin waffles filled with caramel syrup) and bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs) which are often eaten by locals as well as tourists. If you’re a lover of seafood, you’ll be in your element in the Netherlands with the freshest herrings and kibbeling (battered and fried fish chunks).
What should I pack for a cycling trip in the Netherlands?
When packing for a cycling trip in the Netherlands, it’s best to pack strategically and light. First and foremost, you’ll need a helmet, cycling clothes, such as padded shorts, breathable shirts and comfortable cycling shoes, which are essential for long-distance rides. On our cycling tours, bike hire is included as well as a repair kit. Other items you’ll need to take are suncream, waterproofs, a peaked cap and sunglasses suitable for cycling. You should also consider bringing spare batteries for the bike lights and a couple of water bottles with cages.
Can I hire a bike for cycling in the Netherlands?
Yes, at Exodus we offer a range of bikes to suit the type of adventure you’re embarking on. When renting a bike through Exodus, you’ll have the freedom to ride through charming towns, scenic countryside and historic sites at your own pace. Before your trip, we’ll ask you for your details to ensure we match you to the right-sized bike and depending on the tour you choose, you’ll have a choice of a road bike, e-bike or off-road bike. We have a range of tours that are suitable for various abilities and our bikes are designed to suit different terrains, so you can enjoy a stress-free trip exploring the great outdoors.
Is it safe to cycle in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is known for its extensive networks of cycle tracks and strong cycling culture, therefore, it is considered a safe country for cycling tours. The country prioritises cyclists and you’ll find dedicated bike lanes, traffic lights for cyclists, and bike-friendly streets, making cycling here a sustainable and efficient way to travel. Drivers are very accustomed to sharing the road with cyclists, so there are less risks and dangers than in other countries.
What are the best cycling routes in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands boasts some of the most beautiful and cycle-friendly routes in the world. In Amsterdam, explore the city’s weaving canal paths and vibrant streets before venturing into the tranquil countryside. Riding through Holland’s iconic tulip fields is a wonderful and sensory experience with the striking colours and heady aromas. Alternatively, head south to Rotterdam, where you can explore the imposing modern architecture and bustling port. If Gouda doesn’t lure you with its scenic cycle paths and historic buildings, you’ll find it hard to resist the world-famous cheese.
Are there self-guided cycling tours available in the Netherlands?
Yes, at Exodus we offer a range of self-guided cycling tours in the Netherlands. This is a fantastic and immersive way to explore the diverse landscapes of this cycle-friendly country. With well-maintained paths, characterful villages and charming countryside, you’ll have the freedom of setting your own pace and route, although we do recommend the best places to stop and explore on our carefully curated routes. Ride through kaleidoscopic tulip fields, past windmills and historic buildings that line the canals and rivers and stop at local cafes where you can meet the locals and enjoy traditional Dutch treats. Whether you prefer to ride along the coast or visit vibrant cities, our self-guided cycling tours steer you through the beating heart of the country.
What are the best cultural experiences in the Netherlands?
The culture of the Netherlands is a rich tapestry made up of history, art and cuisine. From the iconic windmills and tulip fields to the snaking canals of Amsterdam, you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural diversity. You can’t visit the Netherlands without experiencing its vibrant art scene, famous for Dutch artists like Rembrandt and Van Gogh who once called the country home. Sampling the Dutch cuisine is another must-do and a treat for the taste buds, with specialties like stroopwafels and bitterballen. Amsterdam is without a doubt the main cultural hub where you can visit museums and galleries, dine at world-class restaurants and mingle with the locals. Or why not take a step back in time and discover the cultural highlights of Utrecht, with its wealth of monuments, castles and museums?
