Holland is a small country, so many touristic highlights in the Amsterdam region, such as Marken, Volendam and Zaandam, are within cycling distance. Amsterdam has good through cycle routes that will take you from the city centre to the surrounding countryside. It's a great way to experience the Dutch cycling culture! Here's a selection of 'must do' bike trips in the area.
Cycling along the Waver, one of the many picturesque rivers just south of Amsterdam. Photo © Holland-Cycling.com
Are you looking for the very best cycle route in the Amsterdam region? We've made a selection of 'must do' day trips especially for cyclists from abroad - in English. There are bike rental facilities at the beginning of all of these cycle routes.
For an overview of all our day trips in Holland, go to: Day trips.
Overview of day trips in the Amsterdam region
Amsterdam Amstel Cycle RouteIdyllic rivers, villages and forts. This varied route takes you along many winding rivers through the remarkably quiet rural region just south of Amsterdam. Highlights of the route are the medieval Castle Muiderslot and the forts of the Defence Line of Amsterdam. Read more »» 
Marken Cycle RouteFormer island on the doorstep of Amsterdam. This varied route takes you through Waterland, a region whose history has been dominated by water. Highlight of the route is the former island of Marken, with its elevated wooden houses, small fishing harbour and striking lighthouse. Read more »» 
Zaanse Schans Cycle RouteTraditional windmills, green wooden houses and industrial heritage. Distance: 52 or 39 km This varied route through the Zaan region shows you some of Holland’s rich industrial history. Highlight of the route are the windmills and traditional green wooden houses at museum village the Zaanse Schans. Read more »» 
Haarlem Dunes Cycle RouteCoast, polders and nature reserves. This route shows you two different sides of Haarlem: to the east typical Dutch polders and to the west sand dunes and beaches. Highlights of the route are National Park Zuid-Kennermerland and the historic centre of Haarlem. Read more »» 
Keukenhof Cycle RouteTulip fields in springtime. This route takes you through the tulips fields of the Bulb and Dune region. In springtime the flowering bulbs form coloured stripes in the landscape. Highlight of the route are the Keukenhof flower gardens. Read more »» 
Alkmaar Cycle RouteCheese market, windmills and polders. This route around Alkmaar shows you typical Dutch polders, canals and windmills. Highlight of the route is the historic centre of Alkmaar, with its cheese market, narrow streets and draw bridges. Read more »» 
Volendam Cycle RoutePolders and fishing villages along the Zuiderzee coast This route just north of Amsterdam, takes you through the polders of North Holland and along the former Zuiderzee coast. Highlights of the route are the popular tourist villages of Edam and Volendam. Read more »» |
