Surrounded by flat, scenic landscapes, it's no surprise that cycling is one of life's great pleasures to the Dutch. Delve into the cultural sights and natural beauty on a cycling holiday in Holland by taking the opportunity to explore the country's historic windmills, overflowing tulip fields, and world-renowned art museums.
From the famous flower fields just outside Haarlem and the Keukenhof botanical gardens to the medieval city of Delft, Holland is a country that's just begging to be explored on two wheels. On our cycling holidays in Holland, you'll enjoy easy, relaxing rides through the picturesque Flemish countryside past the archetypal windmills of Kinderdijk and bridges of Papendrecht towards the spectacular Biesbosch National Park.
One of the last extensive areas of freshwater wetlands in north-western Europe, you may catch sightings of beavers, deer and waterfowl while on a bike tour through one of the Netherlands' most treasured parks.
You'll find that each of our itineraries is designed to lead you toward the most interesting sites and landscapes. Along the way, you can take a pit stop for stroopwafels and coffee in one of the many quaint cafes.
When it comes to cycling holidays, Holland is a name that immediately springs to mind. Known for being one of the most bike-friendly countries in Europe, it comes as no surprise that the Netherlands is home to more than a few scenic destinations that are perfect for cycling tours. The charming windmills and picturesque towns are what put bike tours in Holland a cut above the competition.
Take your pick from one of the many spectacular routes cycling around the capital of the Netherlands. Immediately recognisable for its elaborate canal system and narrow houses, Amsterdam is the perfect spot for a cycling holiday in Holland. Enjoy picture-perfect scenery while immersing yourself in the cultural hotspots dotted throughout the city. From the infamous red-light district to the art galleries of the Jordaan neighbourhood, there is something for everyone.
Discover the delights of one of Europe’s most beautiful towns in Utrecht on one of our single-centred cycling tours in Holland. An excellent choice to enjoy lake and river routes, you can head out to discover areas of exceptional natural beauty including the New Dutch Waterline. Utrecht is an important military defence point in Dutch history and the area is home to many historical forts, castles, and fortified towns.
Pick up the pace and select one of our Netherlands bike tours that makes a stop in Woerden. Known for its delightful cheese market and Roman history, you can soak up the quaint sites of this popular city before travelling to other cultural gems like Haarlem, Leiden and Delft. On your journey, you'll experience the idyllic Dutch countryside between them. Cycling distances are relatively short so you can take the time to sightsee on arrival and in the morning before departing each city.
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
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Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
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Self-guided cycling
3 nights,
single centre
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
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Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Navigation App
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Where appropriate, we grade our holidays based on distance, terrain, elevation gain, remoteness, etc and categorise them into 4 relative groups. This is ultimately subjective and may vary slightly day to day; for more advice, please see the specific trip page or call one of our friendly team.
The Netherlands is one of the most bike-friendly countries in Europe and there is a lot of etiquette you need to know to ensure you're cycling safely in Holland. Always stay on the right side of the bike lane and if you're going to pass another cyclist, you need to alert them with your bell and then pass on the left. You need to be up to date on bike signalling and if you're cycling in a group, only two people are allowed to bike side by side.
When cycling in cities, remember that trams always have priority and you're not allowed to ride on the pavement. It's also illegal to cycle without a working bell, under the influence of alcohol, or while holding a mobile phone or other communication devices.
If you don't follow the rules, you could receive an expensive fine.
If you're ready to book one of our cycling trips in Holland, you just need to follow these simple steps:
If you have any queries about making a booking or you'd like to make amendments to it before your departure, just contact our sales team. Give us a call, email us or use our live chat feature.
Since you're going to be on two wheels for most of your trip, we recommend all customers bring lightweight, comfortable cycling clothes and rain gear in the event of some showers. Our bike tours run from April to September and the climate in the Netherlands is generally warmer than in the UK. In the warmer months, it's advisable to bring some sun protection with you. Layers are key as it gets colder.
Other essentials include snacks and a water bottle to keep your body fuelled throughout the cycling tour. A first-aid kit is always useful in the case of a tumble on trickier terrain.
We'll supply you with Headwater bikes to use throughout your cycling trip but there are a few things you can bring along to fit them. These include pedals, cycling computers, saddles, water bottle cages, handlebar bags, child seats, and helmets.
We'll happily fit them for you as long as your items are rep-approved, compatible with our bikes, and don't damage them.
Surprisingly, cycle helmets are not a legal requirement when biking in the Netherlands as a general awareness and respect is given to cyclists. There is no denying that wearing a helmet is safer, though, so we recommend it to all customers.
Headwater is unable to provide helmets as we cannot guarantee their history, but we advise that every client brings their own for the duration of their bike tour.
Depending on the cycling tour package you choose, it could take you anywhere between three and seven nights to travel around Holland. Shorter trips give you a taste of the beauty of the Netherlands and are ideal for long weekend breaks.
However, to truly experience the fascinating terrain and culture that Holland has to offer, we recommend booking one of our longer cycling holidays.
Book one of the cycling holidays available in Holland and let us do the rest. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to bike tours, you'll find a Netherlands trip that suits your ability. We're experts with over 35 years of experience organising trips around the world, so we'll make sure that your cycling tour in Holland will be one to remember.
