Amsterdam by Bike
Anyone that has tried to drive through Amsterdam will know that this city is owned by cyclists. Motorized vehicles drool and bikes rule! In the early 80s, all Dutch cities put the squeeze on cars and began promoting cycling. This was due to the enormous rise in traffic accidents and deaths during the 60s and 70s.
Since then, Amsterdam has gone to great lengths to accommodate its cyclists, putting elaborate networks of bike lanes and cycle-paths all over the city. From tots to the elderly, everyone can bike around this glorious city with ease and complete safety.
Nowadays, biking around Amsterdam isn’t just convenient, but it’s one of the most fun ways to explore the city. You get in touch with the city’s rich biking culture and can see more of the attractions in less time. It’s a win-win!
Biking Tour Route
There are many bike tour companies in Amsterdam that offer a wide variety of tours. You can choose from 2-hour tours, full day tours, Red Light District tours, brewery tours and even countryside tours. On the other hand, it’s just as easy, and much cheaper, to rent a bike and plan your own bike tour of Amsterdam.
Start your tour in central Amsterdam and set off on your journey along with the glistening waterways and through the winding cobbled streets of this magical city. First, pay a visit to one of the most famous landmarks in Amsterdam, Museumplein. This square is home to a great collection of museums, including the magnificent Van Gogh Museum. Take your time to enjoy the many works of this great artist while your bike is securely locked away in one of the city’s many designated bike areas.
From there, speed on over to the ambient Dam Square, where you will see some of Amsterdam’s oldest and finest buildings, such as the Royal Palace.
After visiting the city’s two most important squares, it’s time to bike on over to the infamous Red Light District. Peek behind the many illuminated doors, admire the unusual architecture and maybe stop for a drink in one of the many amazing bars.
Next up on your bike tour of Amsterdam should be the green oasis of Vondelpark. This stunning public park is 47 hectares of lush green gardens, calming lakes and towering trees, a must see while in the city.
After enjoying a smooth ride through Vondelpark, it’s time to soak up some history. Pedal on over to the famous House of Anne Frank and learn about life in Amsterdam during World War II. Enjoy the informative front half of the house before heading to the back, where the room Anne Frank wrote her diary in has been preserved in its original state.
For your last stop on your Amsterdam bike tour, cycle to the cosy neighbourhood Jordaan. This is the most hipster and artsy area in the city, filled with a rich ‘coffee shop’ culture, local shops, artisanal beers and cute little restaurants. Enjoy a hearty meal to replenish your energy after a long day of cycling before returning your rental bike to the centre of the city.
It’s no secret that taking a bike tour in Amsterdam is the best way to experience the city. Just picture yourself cruising around on a two-wheeler, ticking off multiple sights from your bucket list with the help of a local guide. Not only does it save you time, similar to an Amsterdam Airport taxi, but it also allows you to get your exercise, all while doing things exactly like the Dutch do.
There are various ways to do an Amsterdam bike tour, but what suits you will depend on your interests. To help with planning, we’ve created this guide for hiring tour bikes in Amsterdam, so you can start pedaling right away.
What Kinds of Amsterdam Bike Tours Can You Take?
When taking a bike tour of Amsterdam, you’ll have a few options to choose from. These include:
Amsterdam City Bike Tour
The most popular choice among tourists, the city bike tour of Amsterdam takes you to see all the main highlights within a short period of time. Usually lasting for between 1.5 and 3 hours, some of the places you’ll stop at include:
- Vondelpark: The biggest city park in Amsterdam, with lush greenery, tranquil ponds, monuments, and more.
- Rijksmuseum: A gallery showcasing 800 years of Dutch history all under one roof.
- Dam Square: A vibrant open plaza in the heart of the city.
- Anne Frank House: The former home of Jewish diary writer, Anne Frank, turned museum.
- Jordaan District: A beautiful neighborhood filled with fabulous architecture, boutiques, and more.
Windmill and Countryside Bike Tour of Amsterdam
You’ve just arrived from Amsterdam Airport to the city center, have already been here before, and are hoping to try something different. The Amsterdam windmill bike tour is just for you. It takes you out into the countryside, riding beside lesser-known canals and past quaint settlements in search of incredible windmills. The duration of these experiences is at least 3 hours, although some last for longer. Here’s what you’ll visit:
- Krijtmolen d’Admiraal: A famous windmill with a fascinating history.
- Noorderpark: A serene green space where you can relax after a long cycle.
- Ransdorp: A peaceful, picture-perfect village.
- Nieuwendammerdijk: A charming stretch of traditional Dutch properties.
Private Tours vs Group Guided vs Self-Guided: What’s the Best Option?
Amsterdam’s private bike tours are led by professional guides with exceptional knowledge of the city, tailored specifically for your group, whether that be family or friends. Each tour follows a clearly defined route that includes several key highlights and attractions. Along the way, the guides lead you to each stop and provide context about its significance.
Group Guided Bike Tours of Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s private bike tours are led by professional guides with exceptional knowledge of the city, tailored specifically for your group, whether that be family or friends. Each tour follows a clearly defined route that includes several key highlights and attractions. Along the way, the guides lead you to each stop and provide context about its significance.
Self-Guided Bike Tours of Amsterdam
Finally, we have the self-guided bike tour, which gives you the freedom to create your own route and itinerary without the input of a guide. This is a much more economical option for people trying to cut costs, as you’ll only have to pay the rental fee for the duration you’re taking the bike. But it’s not without its challenges, as you’ll need to be comfortable cycling around Amsterdam by yourself, which can be a little chaotic at the best of times.
First, you must hire a bike from a company in advance, and then you can set off and see whatever it is you want. Just be aware that with this type of solo Amsterdam bike tour, the map doesn’t come included, so you’ll need to organize everything by yourself, or else you could get lost.
Average Prices of Amsterdam Bike Tours
A lot of factors will dictate the final price of your Amsterdam bike tour, including the route you take, whether it’s private, guided, or solo, and the duration. For example, starting prices for a standard guided group city bike tour begin at around €22.90, whereas private tours are often priced at €44.50 per head. With standard bike rentals, you can pay as little as €10 for one day.
How to Plan Your Amsterdam Bike Tour Route
- Determine how long you want to go for: Select a duration for your tour, from 1 hour to 4 hours, the choice is yours.
- Create an itinerary: Write up a list of the main attractions you’d like to see.
- Decide on a guided, group guided, or self-guided option: Make the choice and find a company to book a tour with or hire a bike from.
- Take logistics into account: When going on a bike tour, you’ll need to factor in your fitness level and how it matches the route you’re taking to ensure you can complete it. Additionally, things like planning time for breaks and choosing faster, more convenient routes need to be considered.
Organize Your Bike Tour in Amsterdam!
Exploring a city on foot is fun, but taking a bike tour in Amsterdam is unlike anything else. You’ll have the freedom to zoom between attractions, seeing much more than you would any other way, and possibly gain some local insight from a guide with unmatched knowledge of the city.
So, throw on your helmet and get ready to pedal around Amsterdam!
Frequently asked questions
What is the best bike tour in Amsterdam? 
The best bike tour in Amsterdam depends on your interests. If it’s your first time visiting, a city bike tour offers a fantastic insight into the capital. However, for those who’ve been here before and want to try something new, a bike tour in Amsterdam’s countryside is an adventure that return visitors will enjoy.
Should I do a bike tour in Amsterdam?
Everyone should do a bike tour in Amsterdam at least once to experience the city from a whole other perspective. These tours are especially beneficial for people visiting with limited time who want to squeeze in as much as possible.
What is the 3 hour bike tour in Amsterdam?
Three-hour bike tours are available in various forms, including city tours and Amsterdam countryside bike tours. Both are excellent options, with the city tours best suited for first-time visitors, while the countryside excursions are fantastic for anyone who wants to see the rural areas.
What is the best tour to take in Amsterdam?
Although Amsterdam has numerous tours available, the classic city bike tour stands out, covering the main highlights and providing a genuine taste of local life.
What to know before biking in Amsterdam?
Before biking in Amsterdam, it’s essential to study the rules of the road for your own safety. Some of these include always staying in the designated bike lanes and using your hands to show traffic where you’re turning. People who book an Amsterdam guided bike tour should be informed of all these details before hitting the road, but it’s also important to do your own research regardless.
How safe is it to bike in Amsterdam?
Cycling in Amsterdam is safe as long as you’re comfortable riding in heavy traffic. The city is very bike-friendly and geared towards cyclists, but oncoming traffic may pose a risk to those who aren’t confident on a bike.
