6 ways to discover Amsterdam by bike

Amsterdam and the bicycle is a love story that has lasted for decades. With over 400 kilometres of cycle paths and almost 880,000 bicycles for 850,000 inhabitants, the Dutch capital is without doubt the city of two wheels par excellence. Riding a bike to visit Amsterdam is not just a means of transport, it’s a real cultural experience that allows you to melt into local life and discover the city like a true Amstellodammers.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just enjoy a leisurely ride, Amsterdam offers a multitude of routes to suit all levels. From the romantic canals of the historic centre to the vast green expanses of Waterland, the bohemian districts and the peaceful banks of the Amstel, each cycle ride reveals a different facet of this fascinating city. Pedalling along the UNESCO World Heritage canals, crossing the famous Vondelpark or exploring the surrounding countryside are all unforgettable experiences waiting for you.

In this article, we offer you a selection of 6 must-do cycle routes to discover Amsterdam at its best. Each route has been carefully chosen to give you a unique experience, combining cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes and authentic Dutch character. So get your bike ready, put on your helmet if you feel like it (even if very few Amsterdammers wear one!), and let us guide you along the most beautiful cycle routes in the Venice of the North.

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See also the Amsterdam guide:

• What to do in Amsterdam: complete 48-hour weekend guide
• Amsterdam’s Red Light District, what to do, see and visit?
• Top 11 culinary specialities in Amsterdam
• Top 6 activities in Amsterdam
• Top 8 best hotels in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam car park: where is the cheapest place to park in Amsterdam?

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1. Cycle paths in Amsterdam’s historic centre

Starting your discovery of Amsterdam by cycling through the historic centre is undoubtedly the most popular and rewarding option. This 13.4-kilometre route, which takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete, allows you to explore the Dutch capital’s iconic sites while taking advantage of the city’s exceptional cycling infrastructure. The route starts at the Central Station, a magnificent neo-Renaissance building that is a tourist attraction in its own right.

Cycling through the historic centre, you’ll discover the famous Dam Square, the beating heart of the city, where the Royal Palace and the National Monument take pride of place. Not far from there, the Anne Frank House will remind you of the poignant story of this Jewish teenager who hid for more than two years during the Second World War. For those wishing to visit, remember to book your tickets in advance, as the wait can be long. The Muse de la Pniche, meanwhile, offers a unique perspective on Amsterdam river life.

The route also takes you to the peaceful Vondelpark, the city’s green lung, where locals and tourists alike come to recharge their batteries. You can then head for Museumplein, home to major cultural institutions such as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. For lovers of beer and industrial history, the Heineken Experience, located on the way, offers an interactive tour of the old brewery. Don’t forget to stop off at the Albert Cuyp market, the largest street market in the Netherlands, where you can sample local specialities and pick up a few souvenirs. This Amsterdam cycle tour will allow you to tick off all the must-see boxes while enjoying the freedom and flexibility that cycling offers.

Download the audio tour to discover Amsterdam on foot and on your own

For an even more immersive discovery of the Dutch capital, the Navaway audio tour takes you 7.2 kilometres through 21 major places of interest in around 3 hours. This tour takes you along the canals, from the Flower Market to the Beguinage, via the Red Light District and the Jordaan Quarter. Thanks to audio commentaries enriched with historical and cultural anecdotes, you’ll understand why Amsterdam has become this unique city where water, art and tolerance blend harmoniously. The application guides you interactively and adapts to your position, allowing you to start the tour at your convenience.

2. Along the Amstel in the footsteps of Rembrandt

This 25.4-kilometre bike ride takes you in the footsteps of the undisputed master of Dutch painting, Rembrandt van Rijn. This moderately demanding route, with an estimated duration of 5 hours and a positive difference in altitude of 150 metres, is perfect for cyclists of all levels who want to combine culture and nature. The route starts in the centre of Amsterdam and follows the river Amstel, which gave its name to the city and was one of the painter’s favourite places for contemplative walks.

Along the way, you’ll come across a number of sites that left their mark on Rembrandt’s life and work. The Blauwbrug, the elegant bridge spanning the Amstel, was a simple wooden structure in Rembrandt’s time, which he immortalised in one of his works now on display at the Rijksmuseum. Further along your route, you will discover the imposing windmills that line the river, giants of wood and stone that were another of the artist’s favourite subjects. The Rembrandt Tower, the city’s modern skyscraper, pays tribute to this genius who, although born in Leiden, spent most of his productive life in Amsterdam.

The route also takes you close to a statue commemorating Rembrandt, erected 300 years after his death to honour his memory. The route alternates between urban sections and more rural passages, offering varied panoramas of the surrounding countryside. It’s the perfect opportunity to understand how Amsterdam inspired one of the greatest painters in the history of art. Pedalling along the Amstel, you can literally follow in the footsteps of the master, who moved to the capital at the age of 25 and created his most influential works here until his death in 1669. This walk perfectly combines cultural heritage and natural beauty, giving you a unique perspective on Amsterdam in the Golden Age.

3. The historic Amstel route

For history and heritage buffs, the Amstel Historic Route is a must-do cycling tour in Amsterdam. This 24.3-kilometre route, which takes around 4 hours 47 minutes to complete, takes you from Central Station to the very source of the Amstel River, near the Waterlooplein district. Rated as moderately difficult, this route is accessible to all cyclists and can even be shortened if you have less time. The advantage of this route is that it gradually takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the city to let you discover unspoilt rural landscapes.

Along this perfectly laid-out cycle route, you’ll discover some real architectural and historical marvels: ancestral country houses, stately estates and vintage windmills line your route. These witnesses to the past will remind you that the history of Amsterdam is intimately linked to that of its river. It was in the 12th century that the Amstel was discovered and a dam (dam in Dutch) built on it, giving birth to the city: Amstel-dam. The river played a crucial role in the city’s economic development, serving as both a source of drinking water and a major trade route.

As you go along, you’ll be amazed at the ingenuity of Dutch water management. The Netherlands, much of which lies below sea level, has for centuries developed a sophisticated system of dykes, canals and pumps to keep the land dry. This technical prowess, which you will observe throughout your walk, bears witness to the determination of a people to tame the natural elements. The route also offers magnificent views of the river and its lush green banks, where you can take refreshing breaks. This beautiful escape from the city centre will allow you to appreciate a more authentic and rural Amsterdam, while understanding the historical foundations that have shaped the metropolis we know today.

4. Tour of the Vondelpark

The Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s green lung, is well worth a dedicated bike ride. This 3.4-kilometre route, which takes around 1 hour to complete, is ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without leaving its confines. Created in 1865 and declared a National Monument in 1996, this 47-hectare park is much more than just a green space: it’s a place where Amstellodammers and visitors alike come to relax and enjoy nature.

Cycling through the Vondelpark, you’ll discover a remarkable diversity of landscapes and facilities. Peaceful lakes reflect the century-old trees, wooded areas offer shade on sunny days, and vast lawns invite you to picnic and siesta. The park is also home to a number of historic monuments and works of art, including an open-air theatre that hosts free performances during the summer, a bronze monument to the poet Joost van den Vondel (after whom the park is named), and various contemporary sculptures scattered along the paths. Botanical enthusiasts will love the arboretum and the magnificent rose garden, which add a splash of colour to the park.

What makes the Vondelpark a particularly pleasant place to cycle is its relative tranquillity compared with the busy streets of the city centre. Although busy, the park has wide cycle lanes where you can pedal at your own pace without the constant pressure of city traffic. You can also take the side paths for a more intimate exploration, or take a break on one of the many terraces of cafés and restaurants in the park. The Vondelpark is also an excellent starting point for visiting other places of interest, such as the Museumplein and the chic residential areas surrounding it. This walk is ideal for families with children, offering a safe environment and well-equipped play areas.

5. Discover the bohemian district of Jordaan

The Jordaan district epitomises the authentic, bohemian soul of Amsterdam. This cycle tour takes you through one of the capital’s most charming districts, where narrow streets, picturesque canals and traditional houses create a unique atmosphere. Developed in the early 17th century to accommodate the working class and craftsmen, the Jordaan has retained its popular character while becoming one of the city’s most popular and trendy districts. The houses here are particularly narrow, bearing witness to a time when taxes were calculated according to the width of the façade.

Cycling through the narrow streets of the Jordaan Quarter, you’ll discover an impressive concentration of art galleries, vintage boutiques, cosy cafés and trendy restaurants. The famous ‘hofjes’, inner courtyards hidden behind discreet doors, are one of the district’s distinctive architectural features. Originally built to house the elderly or destitute widows, these oases of greenery and tranquillity today offer a striking contrast to the bustle of the main streets. Don’t hesitate to get off your bike and explore these hidden treasures open to the public.

The district is also renowned for its colourful markets, notably the Noordermarkt organic market held every Saturday, and the Monday flea market where bargain hunters and the curious come to unearth unusual objects. For an authentic gourmet break, stop off at Café Winkel 43, famous throughout Amsterdam for its homemade apple pie, considered by many to be the best in the city. Pedalling along the canals of the Jordaan, you’ll understand why this district has inspired so many artists and continues to attract those in search of authentic Amsterdam. To deepen your discovery, the Navaway audio tour also accompanies you through this emblematic district, revealing its secrets and fascinating history.

6. Green escape to Waterland

For those looking for a complete escape from the urban environment, cycling through Waterland is an unforgettable experience. This rural region to the north of Amsterdam offers a typically Dutch landscape, with polders, dykes, windmills and traditional fishing villages. The route allows you to discover a little-known facet of Amsterdam’s surroundings, where time seems to stand still and nature predominates over architecture.

The route through Waterland takes you to picturesque villages such as Marken, a former island that has become a peninsula, where the brightly painted wooden houses and the inhabitants, some of whom still wear traditional costume, will take you back to the atmosphere of the Netherlands of yesteryear. Volendam, another not-to-be-missed stopover, will charm you with its lively port, its fish restaurants and its well-preserved historic centre. The more confidential village of Broek in Waterland is also well worth a visit, with its opulent residences surrounded by impeccably tended gardens, testimony to the region’s past prosperity.

This cycling getaway also allows you to observe a wealth of flora and fauna, including many species of birds that inhabit the wetlands. The well-maintained cycle routes wind between canals and meadows where cows graze peacefully, offering breathtaking views of the Dutch countryside. This longer ride (allow a full day) is suitable for cyclists in good physical condition and is an excellent way to understand the special relationship the Dutch have with water and nature. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch or stop off at one of the local restaurants to sample regional specialities such as smoked fish and artisan cheeses.

In conclusion, Amsterdam is an exceptional destination for cycling enthusiasts, offering a variety of routes to suit all tastes and abilities. Whether you opt for a quick discovery of the historic centre, a cultural immersion in the footsteps of Rembrandt, a romantic getaway in the Jordaan district or a rural escape to Waterland, each route will allow you to appreciate the Dutch capital in a unique and authentic way. Cycling is not just a means of transport in Amsterdam, it’s a way of life that connects you directly with the soul of the city and its people. Pedalling along the UNESCO-listed canals, through lush green parks and down cobbled streets steeped in history, you’ll experience Amsterdam like a true Amstellodammers. To make your experience even richer, don’t hesitate to download theNavaway app, which will guide you through 21 places of interest with captivating audio commentary, helping you to understand all the cultural and historical richness of this fascinating city. So get on your bike and let yourself be carried away by the incomparable charm of the Venice of the North!

Frequently asked questions

Where can I hire a bike in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is full of bike hire shops, especially near Central Station and in the city centre. Well-known names such as MacBike, A-Bike Rental and Damstraat Rent-a-Bike offer quality bikes from €10-15 a day. You can also opt for the OV-fiets system available at stations, provided you have a Dutch transport card. Remember to check the condition of the bike before you leave, especially the brakes and lighting, and don’t forget to make a note of where you parked it, because with thousands of similar bikes, it’s easy to lose sight of it!

What are the rules for cycling in Amsterdam?

In Amsterdam, cyclists have priority in most situations, but that also means following certain rules. Always use the cycle paths marked in red, obey the traffic lights (including those specifically for bicycles), and use hand signals to indicate changes of direction. Never ride on pavements reserved for pedestrians, and pay particular attention to tramways whose rails can trap your wheels. At night, front and rear lighting are compulsory. Finally, always secure your bike with a good anti-theft device, as thefts are frequent in the capital.

When is the best time to cycle in Amsterdam?

Spring (April-May) and early summer (June) are the best times to cycle in Amsterdam. The temperatures are pleasant (15-20°C), the days are long, and you can enjoy the tulips in bloom in the parks and gardens. Autumn (September-October) also offers beautiful days, with magnificent autumn colours in the parks. Winter can be cold and rainy, but true Amstellodammers pedal in all weathers! Just avoid days of heavy rain or strong winds, which can make the experience less enjoyable.

Are these bike rides suitable for children?

Absolutely! Amsterdam is very family-friendly when it comes to cycling. Most rental companies offer bikes with child seats (for the little ones), follow bikes, cargo bikes or trailers. The routes in the historic centre and the Vondelpark are particularly family-friendly, with plenty of rest areas and playgrounds. For longer distances like Waterland, make sure your children have the stamina or opt for an electric bike. The Dutch are used to transporting their children by bike from an early age, so you won’t feel out of place when you see whole families out and about on two wheels!