Top Cycle Routes around Amsterdam: Where to Go on Your Bike
Exploring the cycle routes around Amsterdam on a rented bike is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in this Green city’s cultural richness, natural beauty, and culinary diversity. Renting a bike allows you to effortlessly navigate Amsterdam’s charming neighbourhoods.
As you explore on a bike, you’ll find countless opportunities to savour unique flavours—from the buttery goodness of Dutch cheese and caramel-filled stroopwafels to the vibrant spices of Surinamese cuisine, reflecting the city’s multicultural influences.
Among the things to do in Amsterdam, cycling allows you to experience it all: historic canals, blooming flower fields, and innovative architecture, as well as a taste of the city’s one-of-a-kind food offerings. After a day on two-wheels, there are plenty of places to stay that let you unwind in style, whether you prefer a quaint canal-side inn or a chic urban retreat.
In this post, I’ll take you through the five most popular cycle routes around Amsterdam, perfect to explore on a bike, capturing the heart and soul of the Green City, capital of The Netherlands.
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READ the Complete Guide to Renting a Bike in Amsterdam and Essential Tips to What You Need to Know when Hiring a Bike.
5 Most Popular Cycle Routes around Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Generally, the cycle routes in Amsterdam are designed to be accessible for riders of all skill levels, thanks to the Green City‘s extensive network of flat, well-maintained bike paths, clear signage, and the ease of renting a bike throughout the city.
The cycle routes around Amsterdam vary in distance and scenery, but most are beginner-friendly, offering leisurely rides through scenic landscapes without steep inclines or challenging terrain. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or more experienced, Amsterdam’s routes offer a smooth and enjoyable way to explore, with options to pause at historic sites, cafés, and natural landmarks along the way.
Below are the 5 most popular cycle routes around Amsterdam, each providing a unique experience that captures the city’s charm and cultural depth.
Here’s a guide to each route’s colour code on the map above:
Purple: Amstel River Route — Starts at Centraal and ends at Ouderkerk aan de Amstel.
Green: Zuid and Amsterdamse Bos — Starts at Amsterdam Zuid and ends in Amsterdamse Bos.
Orange: Flowers of Amsterdam Route — Begins at Bloemenmarkt and finishes in Aalsmeer.
Blue: Oost and IJburg Route — Starts at De Gooyer Windmill and ends in IJburg.
Red: Haarlem Route — Begins at Amsterdam Centraal and ends in Haarlem.
Amstel River Route
The Amstel River Route is one of the most scenic and culturally rich cycle routes in Amsterdam. It’s perfect for both local explorers and visiting cyclists eager to see more than just the city center.
This cycle route begins near Amsterdam Centrum, tracing the tranquil Amstel River southward toward the charming village of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel. Along the way, you’ll see a harmonious blend of old and new architecture, a series of quintessentially Dutch sights, including sprawling cheese farms, riverside windmills, and stately historic estates that punctuate the riverside.
When you reach Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, you’ll find yourself in a serene village steeped in tradition, offering picturesque views of the Amstel River and countryside—a perfect spot to pause and soak in the atmosphere before looping back, along the other side of the bank.
A few areas along the route have cycling restrictions, so be prepared to dismount and walk your bike. While this may seem like a slight interruption, these sections provide fantastic opportunities for photos, capturing the beauty of the river, windmills, and rural scenery in a leisurely, unhurried manner.
The Amstel River loop typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours to complete at a leisurely pace. This time includes stops for photos, brief rests, and exploration in areas like Ouderkerk aan de Amstel. If you cycle at a quicker pace or take fewer breaks, you might complete it in about 2 hours. However, most cyclists enjoy taking their time to fully experience the views and landmarks along this scenic route.
If you’re seeking an authentic Dutch cycling experience that combines cultural richness with natural beauty, the Amstel River Route stands out as one of the finest cycle routes in Amsterdam.
Join a Guided Experience
Amsterdam Countryside Cycling Adventure with Cheese Tasting and Clog-Making Experience: This tour takes you along the Amstel River, passing through country villages and verdant fields. It includes visits to a historical windmill, a farmhouse, and a factory where you can sample Dutch cheese and watch how wooden clogs are made. READ REVIEWS + BOOK NOW.
Amsterdam: Guided Bike Tour of Amsterdam central city: This tour offers a ride through central Amsterdam, including a crossing over the iconic Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), a wooden drawbridge over the River Amstel. It provides insights into the city’s rich history and culture. READ REVIEWS + BOOK NOW.
Zuid and Amsterdamse Bos Route
The Zuid and Amsterdamse Bos Route is one of the most relaxing and family-friendly cycle routes in Amsterdam. The route offers a refreshing escape into nature just south of the bustling Green City centre.
You’ll start from the vibrant district of Amsterdam Zuid, south of the Singelgracht Canal. This route leads you directly into the expansive Amsterdamse Bos, a verdant forest known as the city’s “green lung.” Ideal for those looking to unwind, Amsterdamse Bos offers a serene environment with tranquil lakes, open meadows, and shaded pathways that allow you to slow down and enjoy nature’s beauty.
With a short 20–30 minutes ride from central Amsterdam, this route is perfect for a half-day trip, providing an accessible retreat from city life without needing to venture far. Highlights of the Amsterdamse Bos include well-maintained picnic spots, sprawling lawns, and shaded benches where you can relax, take in the scenery, or enjoy a leisurely meal.
For families or anyone looking to connect with nature, the route’s gentle terrain makes it an easy and enjoyable ride suitable for cyclists of all ages. While there isn’t a dedicated guided tour for this particular route, many bike rental shops in Amsterdam Zuid provide maps and self-guided tips tailored to exploring Amsterdamse Bos.
Bring a picnic to make the most of your time here, as the forest’s evergreen backdrop and tranquil ambiance offer the perfect setting for a peaceful afternoon amidst Amsterdam’s natural beauty.
The Flowers of Amsterdam Route
The Flowers of Amsterdam Route is one of the most enchanting cycle routes in Amsterdam, offering a 20-kilometre journey that immerses you in the city’s famed floral heritage. This route begins in the heart of Amsterdam at the Bloemenmarkt, the world’s only floating flower market, where vibrant displays of tulips, daffodils, and other blooms provide a beautiful start.
From here, cyclists head towards Aalsmeer, home to the world’s largest flower auction, a bustling hub that captures the scale and importance of the Netherlands’ floral industry.
Cycling this route typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make along the way to enjoy and photograph the colourful fields. The journey is especially captivating in the spring when rows of tulips and seasonal flowers are in full bloom, transforming the landscape into a patchwork of colours.
A morning departure is ideal, as it aligns with the early activity at Aalsmeer’s flower auction, allowing cyclists to witness the auction at its liveliest. For those keen to experience Amsterdam’s floral legacy fully, this route is perfect.
Local bike rental shops offer self-guided maps specific to flower routes, highlighting the best spots to pause and capture the iconic blooms. The Flowers of Amsterdam Route is a picturesque journey that not only celebrates the city’s cultural connection to flowers but also provides cyclists with an unforgettable scenic ride.
Oost and IJburg Route
The Oost and IJburg Route is a striking journey through Amsterdam’s contrasting worlds of heritage and modernity, making it one of the most visually engaging cycle routes in Amsterdam.
Starting at the iconic De Gooyer Windmill, one of the city’s historic landmarks, this route takes you through Amsterdam Oost, a neighbourhood rich in cultural history, and onward to the ultramodern IJburg district. The route’s appeal lies in its seamless blend of traditional charm with cutting-edge architecture, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of Amsterdam’s urban landscape.
Covering approximately 30–40 minutes each way, the Oost and IJburg Route is ideal for cyclists of all skill levels, particularly those interested in urban design and waterfront views.
As you pedal through IJburg, you’ll encounter the district’s innovative architecture, which features striking buildings on a series of artificial islands, harmoniously integrated into the water-rich environment. This route is both flat and beginner-friendly, providing an easy and enjoyable ride with ample opportunities to stop and admire the surroundings.
If you love exploring cities through architecture, this route is a must. Consider stopping at one of IJburg’s waterfront cafés to take in the scenic views and modern ambiance.
Local bike rental shops provide self-guided maps and additional guidance, allowing you to fully enjoy Amsterdam’s eastern neighbourhoods at your own pace.
The Haarlem Route
The Haarlem Route is a captivating journey that ranks among the most scenic cycle routes in Amsterdam, offering cyclists a blend of urban energy and historic charm. Spanning approximately 25 kilometres, this route begins in the heart of Amsterdam and heads westward to the historic town of Haarlem, renowned for its coastal ambiance and rich cultural heritage.
Starting your ride in Amsterdam, you’ll navigate through the city’s dynamic streets, gradually transitioning to quieter roads as you approach Haarlem. Upon arrival, Haarlem welcomes you with its cobbled streets, impressive museums, and inviting cafés, providing a delightful contrast to the urban landscape of Amsterdam. The town’s historic architecture and coastal proximity offer a unique experience for cyclists seeking to explore beyond the city limits.
The journey typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make to enjoy the scenery. To make the most of your trip, it’s best to start early to avoid heavy city traffic and to allocate sufficient time to explore Haarlem’s attractions.
Just be cautious when cycling through busy Amsterdam streets,. Adhere to local traffic rules to ensure a safe ride.
Join an Experience
Highlights of Bloemendaal: Guided Cycling Tour near Amsterdam — For those interested in guided experiences, this tour includes a visit to Haarlem and its surrounding areas. This tour provides insights into the region’s history and natural beauty, enhancing your cycling adventure.
People Also Ask
Amsterdam has an estimated 767 kilometres of dedicated bike lanes and paths, forming an extensive network that allows cyclists to travel safely throughout the city and beyond.
No, pedestrians are generally not allowed to walk on bike paths in Amsterdam, as these are designated for cyclists to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow.
Some of the best places to cycle in Amsterdam include the scenic Amstel River route, Vondelpark, the Jordaan district, and the paths around the historic canals.
Amsterdam’s bike paths cover a total of approximately 500 kilometres, allowing easy access across the city and into surrounding areas.
You may like to read also
Here are five blog posts to complement your exploration of Amsterdam:
Best of Amsterdam: Your Ultimate Guide to the Dutch Capital — This comprehensive guide offers insights into Amsterdam’s top attractions, cultural highlights, and practical tips for visitors.
Beautiful Places to Stay in Amsterdam — Discover a curated selection of accommodations in Amsterdam, ranging from boutique hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, enhancing your cycling adventure with comfortable stays.
From Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam City: Best Public Transport Options — Learn about the most efficient ways to travel from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam’s city centre, including public transport options that accommodate cyclists.
Uithoorn, An Off-Beat Haven near Amsterdam — Explore Uithoorn, a quaint village south of Amsterdam, ideal for a cycling day trip through serene landscapes and nature reserves.
The Best 29 Inspiring Travel Quotes and Sayings about Amsterdam — Find inspiration for your journey with a collection of quotes and sayings that capture the essence of Amsterdam’s charm and allure.
Helpful Links to Plan your Cycle Routes
- I Amsterdam (iamsterdam.com): This official Amsterdam tourism website offers comprehensive guides to cycling in Amsterdam, including popular routes, cycling rules, and bike rental locations.
- Holland Cycling Routes (hollandcyclingroutes.com) This site provides an extensive list of cycling routes across the Netherlands, with detailed descriptions, maps, and downloadable GPS data. It’s ideal for cyclists looking to explore both Amsterdam and the surrounding areas.
- ANWB Cycling (anwb.nl/fietsen) ANWB, the Royal Dutch Touring Club, offers a range of cycling resources, from route planning to safety tips. Though primarily in Dutch, it includes helpful maps and route ideas that can be translated.
- Komoot (komoot.com) Komoot is a popular app for planning cycling routes with user-generated trails and detailed information. Users can search for routes in Amsterdam, see difficulty levels, and get insights on various points of interest.
in sum…
Exploring the cycle routes in Amsterdam opens up a world of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences. From the vibrant blooms of the flower fields to the modern architecture in IJburg and the historic charm of Haarlem, these routes capture the essence of Amsterdam’s Green City appeal.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, there’s no better way to experience the city than by bike. It’s easy and convenient to hire a bike in Amsterdam to explore indepedently.
However,if you’re looking for an enhanced experience, joining a guided tour along the Amstel River offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about the area’s history, stop at local cheese farms, and even experience traditional clog-making demonstrations. This guided ride along the iconic Amstel provides insights and access to hidden gems, making it an experience that every cyclist in Amsterdam should try.
Have a great time exploring Amsterdam on two-wheels.
Happy and Safe Travels Always, Wherever Travel Takes You, xx
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Thank you! I couldn’t agree more—cycling really is the best way to experience all that Amsterdam has to offer. I’m so glad you enjoyed the ideas! Let me know if you decide to try any of these routes, or if you discover any hidden gems along the way!
Amsterdam is the perfect place to go cycling around, great ideas to explore more of the city.
You’re very welcome! I’m so glad the routes caught your eye—both the Flower Route and the Zuid and Bos routes are truly beautiful and offer such a peaceful cycling experience. While these routes feature designated cycling paths, they are shared with pedestrians, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery. In the Amsterdamse Bos, for instance, there are specific bike paths, but you’ll often see walkers and runners sharing these spaces too. Similarly, the Flowers of Amsterdam route, which takes you past the Bloemenmarkt and towards Aalsmeer, includes shared paths that welcome both cyclists and pedestrians. Amsterdam is renowned for its extensive cycling infrastructure, but it’s always good to be mindful of pedestrians along these popular routes. I hope you get to explore them soon!
Thank you so much! I’m so glad you found it helpful, even if it came a little late for your last trip. Amsterdam always has something new to discover, so I’m sure it’ll come in handy for your next visit! Let me know if you need any extra tips when the time comes!
Wow, thanks for the routes mentioned, I particularly love the Flower route and the Zuid and Bos routes and I love the idea that they are strictly no-pedestrian routes.
What a great guide! I wish I had this information for my last trip to Amsterdam!! I’m saving it for next time 🙂
That sounds wonderful! The Flowers of Amsterdam Route is truly breathtaking during peak flower season in spring. There’s nothing quite like seeing those vibrant fields in full bloom! I hope your visit lines up perfectly with the peak season.
Thank you so much—I’m thrilled you enjoyed the ideas! Yes, the last option definitely has a more local, relaxed vibe and tends to be less crowded. It’s a great way to experience a different side of Amsterdam. Let me know if you’d like any extra tips for exploring it!
The flowers of Amsterdam route is high on my list. I’d love to time our next visit with the peak flower season in spring.
Hello! Your ideas are brilliant! I would choose the last one as it less touristy, isn’t it?