2.5-Hours Express Countryside Bike Tour from Amsterdam
Explore windmills, Dutch farms, polders, and scenic landscapes in with an expert guide
Most tours of Amsterdam keep you stuck in the crowded city center, missing out on the real beauty just outside the city limits. This 2.5-hour express countryside bike tour takes you straight to windmills, farms, and stunning views of the Dutch lowlands—no time wasted, just pure Dutch countryside. With expert local guides and the best routes through the polders, we give you the best of the Netherlands. Skip the typical tourist trap and discover the real countryside with us.
- New tour
- IJ Ferry Crossing
- North Sea Canal
- Polders
- Traditional Dutch farms
- Admiraal Windmill
- Return Ferry to Amsterdam
- Ending Point
After meeting your guide and small group in Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal, in the centre of Amsterdam, hop on your bike and escape the city for 2.5 hours of the most authentic Dutch countryside experience you’ll find just outside Amsterdam. Forget the crowded streets and take in the peaceful Dutch landscape as your local guide shows you iconic windmills, traditional farms, and the lush beauty of the lowlands. Cycle at a leisurely pace through picturesque polders and charming villages, while your guide shares the rich history of the land that’s been shaped by centuries of water management.
From ferry crossings to cycling along the North Sea Canal, each moment on this tour is designed to immerse you in the real heart of the Netherlands. The ride is comfortable, easy-going, and set against the backdrop of a landscape you won’t find anywhere else. With a maximum group size of 10, and return to your original meeting point, you’ll have plenty of space to breathe and enjoy the quiet of nature.
Countryside Bike Tour Description
Your 2.5-hour Bike Tour includes:
English-speaking guide
Bike rental
Ferry crossing over the IJ body of water
Traditional Dutch windmills
Typical Dutch farms
North Sea Canal
A closer look at the famous polders
Maximum group size of 12
Ferry crossing over the IJ
After picking up your bikes, start your journey with a ride on the IJ Ferry, which will take you across the IJ River, a major waterway that separates Amsterdam’s city center from its northern districts. From the ferry, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Amsterdam’s bustling port and its skyline before the landscape shifts to the peaceful, expansive Dutch countryside. The contrast between the urban energy of Amsterdam and the tranquil beauty of the rural surroundings will immediately captivate you.
Hand-dug North Sea Canal
Pedal along the North Sea Canal, one of the most impressive feats of Dutch engineering. This man-made waterway cuts through the countryside, connecting Amsterdam to the North Sea. Learn about its importance in Dutch history and how it has played a role in shaping the country’s commerce and industry.
Explore the Polders
Now you’re deep in the Dutch countryside, surrounded by the iconic polders – land reclaimed from the sea through centuries of hard work. Marvel at the unique landscape that is both beautiful and functional, as your guide explains the techniques the Dutch use to keep their land dry and fertile, even though much of the Netherlands lies below sea level.
The Dutch have been managing water for centuries, and this stop will showcase some of their most impressive feats of engineering. Visit the giant locks that regulate water levels and allow ships to safely navigate the region. Get a deeper understanding of how the Dutch live and thrive in a landscape that’s constantly at risk of flooding.
Dutch farms
Cycling through the peaceful countryside, you’ll pass by picturesque Dutch farms. These farms are a snapshot of traditional Dutch life, with their distinctive architecture and the tranquil, open fields that stretch for miles. Your guide will explain the importance of farming to Dutch history and culture.
Classic Brick Mill d’Admiraal
One of the most beautiful windmills in the region, the Classic Brick Mill d’Admiraal offers a glimpse into the Dutch past. Learn how these windmills were used for grinding grain and pumping water, and discover why they remain an iconic symbol of the Netherlands today.
Experience firsthand how the Dutch have battled the rising waters that threaten their land. Your guide will share the remarkable history of this ongoing fight, showing you how the land has been shaped and reshaped through generations of water management.
Your tour concludes where it began, at Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 114. After a journey through the serene Dutch countryside, you’ll return to the heart of Amsterdam, bringing the day full circle. The city’s vibrant energy will greet you once more as you disembark, leaving you with unforgettable memories of the rural beauty and peaceful landscapes you’ve explored.
What you get with this tour
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended. A raincoat is a must in the Netherlands, so be prepared for all weather conditions.
Do I need to have bike experience?
We recommend you only join our bike tour if you are confident on a bicycle and have cycled recently. If you haven’t been on a bike for a while, please ensure you feel comfortable before joining the tour.
Does the guide speak only in English?
The tour is bilingual, conducted in both Spanish and English. Although we aim to divide the groups by language, your guide may occasionally provide explanations in both languages during the tour.
Is there any chance my tour might be canceled?
On the rare occasion the tour is canceled, we will inform you as soon as possible and work together on rescheduling or a refund.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
This tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Amsterdam.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
If you have any doubts about your mobility, please let us know beforehand and we will do our best to assist you. Please be aware that some parts of the tour may involve uneven terrain or moderate cycling.
What happens if it rains?
We run our bike tours rain or shine. If the weather is extremely bad and the tour cannot run, we will inform you immediately and work together to reschedule or refund.
How comprehensive are the countryside bike tour portions?
The tour will cover the main highlights of the Dutch countryside, including windmills, farms, and the stunning polders, however this is an express experience so there won’t be extended time at any of the stops. You’ll have a chance to take in breathtaking views and learn about local history and culture from your guide.
Is lunch included in the price of the tour?
No, food is not included, we suggest grabbing a bite before the tour. Feel free to ask your guide for recommendations for where to eat after the tour.
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No hotel pickup is included in this tour. Please meet your guide at the designated meeting point.
Can children join this tour?
Children over 13 can join the tour without issue. If you would like to bring a child under 12, please contact us in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.
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