Tulip Cycling in Holland

Welcome to the Netherlands' charming capital. Feel free to arrive early so you have time to discover the historic canal areas from the 1600s, which are on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Stroll along the picturesque canals, settle down at a café or explore the city's lively squares like Dam, Rembrandtplein and Leidseplein. If you want to experience Amsterdam from a different perspective, you can rent a pedal boat or take a boat trip through the canals. (If you arrive in Amsterdam on a Saturday or during special dates, there may be an additional cost, read more under "good to know" further down on the page)

Overnight in Amsterdam

The trip's first cycling day takes you out of Amsterdam towards the beautiful Zuid-Kennemerland region. Today's highlight is the impressive steam-powered pumping station Cruquius, a fascinating industrial monument that tells the story of how the Netherlands defeated the sea. Then you continue towards Haarlem and get your first glimpses of the colorful tulip fields. The evening is spent in one of the Netherlands' most charming cities, where cobblestone streets, historic buildings and cozy courtyards await. If the hotel in Haarlem is fully booked, we may need to book a night in Santpoort instead. 

Overnight in Haarlem

We recommend starting the day by discovering more of charming Haarlem. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and seek out the city's famous hofjes – peaceful courtyards surrounded by small historic residences that were once built for single women. Art lovers can also take the opportunity to visit the Frans Hals Museum with works by several of the Dutch Golden Age's foremost artists. 

During the afternoon, one of the trip's highlights awaits. From Haarlem, the cycle paths lead through the world-famous flower region where enormous fields of tulips, hyacinths, crocuses and daffodils spread out during spring. You can also manage a visit to Keukenhof, which is the world's most famous flower park. The day ends in the university city of Leiden, where canals, windmills and historic buildings create a wonderful atmosphere. If you want to both experience Haarlem in the morning and visit Keukenhof in peace and quiet, we recommend adding an extra night in Leiden.

Overnight in Leiden

The last cycling stage goes through the so-called Green Heart: a landscape of pastures, lakes and small villages. You pass stately farms and elegant manor houses before reaching the Amstel river, which leads you all the way back to Amsterdam. It's a scenic conclusion to the trip and a perfect opportunity to enjoy the Netherlands' well-organized cycle paths one last time. 

Overnight in Amsterdam

After breakfast, the trip ends. If you have time left over, we recommend a few extra hours in Amsterdam before the journey home, perhaps for a museum visit, a final walk along the canals or a coffee break at one of the city's many pleasant cafés.