Why Visit Amsterdam by Bike?
- Agathe Lavallette
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
🚴 Total Freedom: No need to wait for a tram or bus—go wherever you want, whenever you want.
🌍 Eco-Friendly: Zero carbon emissions—a responsible way to travel.
💰 Budget-Friendly: Renting a bike is much cheaper than public transportation.
⏳ Time-Saving: Biking lets you see more in one day without being stuck in traffic.
💆♂️ Less Stress: Cycling along the canals or through parks is a peaceful, immersive experience.
🇳🇱 Local Immersion: Exploring Amsterdam by bike means diving into the daily life of locals. Pedaling alongside the Amsterdammers, you adopt their lifestyle and discover the city from a more authentic perspective.
So, are you ready to hop on your bike and explore Amsterdam at its best? 🚴🌆 The 5 Must-Do Bike Rental Rides in and Around Amsterdam
Often referred to as the cycling capital of the world, Amsterdam has more bikes than people and over 767 km of bike paths!
Here are five must-do rides, ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours, to experience Amsterdam and its surroundings in the best possible light.
1. Ride Along the Historic Canals
Start your journey in the Jordaan neighborhood and follow the famous canals of Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, and Herengracht. This 8 km loop takes you across charming bridges and past traditional tilted houses. Don’t miss the Anne Frank House on Prinsengracht and take a relaxing break at one of the many canal-side cafés. This ride takes about 1 hour.
Don’t forget to indulge your sweet tooth at Winkel 43, famous for its delicious apple pie, or Van Stapele Koekmakerij, known for its irresistible chocolate cookies with gooey centers.
2. Explore Vondelpark
For a shorter getaway, head to Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s most iconic park. With its wide paths, peaceful ponds, and green spaces, it's the perfect place for a relaxing 30–45-minute ride. On the way, stop at the De Vondeltuin, a charming outdoor terrace located in the park, for a refreshing break.
3. Discover Amsterdam-Noord and Java Island
Explore Java Island, known for its modern architecture and peaceful canals. Then hop on the free ferry from Central Station to Amsterdam-Noord (towards NDSM). Continue your ride to the NDSM Wharf, a creative hub filled with street art. This 15 km loop can be done in about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Must-see spots in the area:
IJ-Hallen – Europe’s largest flea marketHeld monthly, hundreds of sellers offer vintage clothes, jewelry, furniture, books, and art.Entrance: €5. Tickets can be purchased at the venue.Check the official website for upcoming dates and times.
STRAAT Museum – Located in a former 8,000 m² warehouse, this street art and graffiti exhibition showcases over 160 large-scale works by renowned and emerging street artists from around the world. Ticket Prices:
Adults: €19.50
Students (with valid student ID): €13.50
Teens (13–18): €9.50
Children under 13: Free (max. 5 free tickets per paying adult)Opening Hours: Monday 12 PM–5 PM, Tuesday to Sunday 10 AM–5 PM. Hours may vary—check the website for the latest info.
4. Excursion to the Sloten Windmill
For a taste of the Dutch countryside without straying too far from the city, head to Sloten Windmill—the only working windmill open to the public in Amsterdam. From the city center, follow the bike paths along the Schinkel canal to the village of Sloten. This round trip is about 20 km and can be done in 1.5 to 2 hours.
On the way, stop at Restaurant De Hegeraad, a typically Dutch establishment where you can enjoy local dishes like toastie (grilled ham and cheese sandwich) and bitterballen (fried meatballs served with mustard) in a warm, authentic atmosphere.
5. Trip to Amsterdamse Bos Forest Park
Need a breath of fresh air? Amsterdamse Bos, located south of the city, is a vast forest park with over 50 km of bike paths. Ride through meadows and woods, have a picnic by the lakes, or visit the goat farm—a family favorite.
After your ride, unwind at Spa Zuiver, located at the park’s entrance, and treat yourself to a sauna or well-deserved massage.Want to mix things up? Rent a pedal boat and enjoy the peaceful lakes while taking in the surrounding nature. Practical Tips :
Bike Rentals: many shops offer rentals suited to your needs. Try the BikeWise app to book at the best price, choose the right bike for your trip, and save time with quick pick-up.
Safety: Amsterdam is very bike-friendly, but stay alert at intersections and follow local traffic rules (read our articles about local rules).
Preparation: bring a map or use a GPS app to follow your route—and don’t hesitate to take breaks to enjoy the views and attractions.
