Amsterdam is known globally as one of the most bike friendly cities, and for good reason. The city’s extensive network of bike paths, scenic canals, historic architecture and peaceful green spaces make cycling a truly enjoyable way to explore its charm. From tranquil parks to vibrant neighborhoods, the best bicycle routes in Amsterdam offer a mix of urban adventure and natural beauty that every traveler should experience. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or simply looking for a relaxing way to tour the city, these top ten bicycle routes provide safe and accessible paths for all levels.
Cycling through Amsterdam reveals much more than just landmarks. It gives a close-up look at Dutch culture, lifestyle and the everyday rhythm of the locals. These routes will take riders through picturesque streets in Jordaan, along the Amstel River, into the peaceful surroundings of Amsterdamse Bos, and through famous sites like Vondelpark and the Museumplein. Many of the routes also connect to nearby towns and villages, offering opportunities for longer day trips. With dedicated cycle lanes, scenic stopovers, and a relaxed pace, exploring the top bicycle routes in Amsterdam is both enjoyable and unforgettable. This guide showcases the most scenic and popular cycling paths to fully embrace the city’s biking culture.
Top Ten Bicycle Routes In Amsterdam To Explore
10. Amsterdamse Bos Circuit
This ride takes cyclists from Amsterdam Zuid into the vast Amsterdamse Bos, a leafy forest park covering about 1000 hectares, roughly three times the size of Central Park in New York City . Starting near Amstelveen, riders follow well marked forest trails, skirt scenic ponds, and may stop at the goat farm or pancake house at Riddammerhoeve. Lakeside meadows invite brief breaks or even a quick swim when weather allows. The route winds across woodlands and open lawns before looping back to the city via shaded lanes and gentle countryside views. There are dedicated cycle paths almost all the way, and forest routes are shared with walkers but clearly separated. Frequent signage assures easy navigation and a peaceful rhythm ideal for nature lovers. This forest adventure contrasts sharply with canal rides, offering fresh air, bird calls, open space and quiet. The trail is fully safe and accessible for most cyclists, including families and intermediates. Its mix of woodland, wildlife and green water makes it beloved by locals seeking escape and tourists who want a breath of nature within reach of central Amsterdam. The combination of natural beauty and solid infrastructure contributes to its high ranking among Amsterdam bicycle routes.
9. Amstel River to Ouderkerk Loop
This scenic loop follows the tranquil Amstel River south of the city centre, covering approximately 27 km at a gentle pace with stops at Ouderkerk aan de Amstel and riverside windmills . The route begins near Amsterdam Centraal, following cycle paths alongside the river past historic estates, coffee terraces and barges gliding downstream. Stretch legs on the edge of the water while admiring traditional mills and stately riverside homes. In Ouderkerk villagers may invite a rest break, local cheese farms and cafés offering quiet atmosphere. On return travelers cross by bridge and cycle the opposite river bank, often quieter and framed by willows and open fields. Several gentle detours through farmland reveal rural Netherlands just minutes from the city heart. Cyclists of all levels appreciate the flat terrain, safe lanes and cultural highlights including sculpture, landscape, and Dutch heritage. Though some sections may require dismounting where narrow or restricted, these spots become photo opportunities rather than obstacles. Ideal for visitors seeking a cultural cycle day trip, this ride blends calm river scenery with Dutch heritage and countryside charm. Combined comfort and tradition make this route a favorite for those looking to explore beyond Amsterdam’s bustle.
8. Waterland and Monnickendam Villages Loop
Departing Amsterdam via ferry across the IJ to Amsterdam Noord, cyclists enter the Waterland region, riding through vintage fishing villages such as Durgerdam, Monnickendam and Uitdam . These villages sit amid reclaimed polder landscapes dotted with canals, fields and traditional wooden houses framed by open water. The ride, around 35 km, stays flat and well signed. In Monnickendam terraced cafés overlook a heritage harbour ideal for a refreshment stop. The farmland vistas combine windmills, grazing cows, and the sweeping sky above, offering a serene counterpoint to busy city scenes. Durgerdam invites coffee by the dike and a view across the IJ back to the Amsterdam skyline. From here loops lead through Holysloot and Ransdorp where quiet lanes pass old churches and farm stands. The route ends by returning via ferry or through leafy North Amsterdam lanes. Waterland cycling offers a peaceful rural riding experience within reach of central station and delivers scenic village culture, open countryside and fresh air. It appeals to visitors and locals who want a relaxed day of pedal‑powered discovery outside the crowds.
7. Zaanse Schans Windmill Ride
This approximately 38 km route heads northwest from central Amsterdam toward the historic Zaanse Schans region, home to working windmills, traditional craft houses, cheese workshops and water‑side trails . Cyclists leave the canals behind and follow flat cycle lanes through the countryside, passing cattle pastures, dykes and wooden barns before reaching the iconic windmill village. At Zaanse Schans museums and artisans demonstrate clog making, cheese production and wooden shoe displays. Paths remain smooth and well maintained throughout, making it accessible to casual and seasoned riders. Along the way, cyclists may pause for lunch overlooking the river or photo ops capturing windmills mirrored in canals. The return leads through quiet fields and bridges back toward the city’s docks for a contrast between historic rural setting and urban waterfront. The cultural immersion paired with countryside scenery and classic Dutch landscapes makes this route appreciated by those seeking visual variety and heritage highlights. Safety is assured via dedicated cycle routes, and signage guides the way throughout. A classic choice for cultural exploration by bike near Amsterdam.
6. Around Waterland Rim via IJmeer Dyke
Starting again by ferry to Amsterdam Noord, this loop follows the Waterland dyke along the IJmeer toward Uitdam and beyond, through De Beemster polder and villages such as Grootschermer and Purmerend, totaling up to 50 km depending on detours . The ride treats cyclists to views of the lake on one side and reclaimed farmland on the other, threaded with canals and dotted by historic villages with traditional wooden architecture. Road surfaces remain even and bike only where possible, with occasional shared lanes flagged clearly. The route blends water vistas, cheese farms, narrow ditches and tidy settlements before entering UNESCO protected polder landscapes. In Edam riders can pause in canalside squares, sample farm cheese or enjoy local fish dishes. Further loops pass through the nature reserve, offering wetland birdlife and open terrain. Despite distance this ride stays flat and easy to moderate in effort, making it accessible for riders with stamina. It combines rural scenery, Dutch heritage and engineering marvels in reclaimed land. A popular longer route that remains memorable for sense of space, tradition and tranquillity.
5. Haarlemmermeer Ring Circuit
This longer 78 km ride circles the Haarlemmermeer ring canal, passing Schiphol airport runways, historic pumping stations such as Cruquius, windmills, and Westeinderplassen lakes . The route is flat and fast, favored by experienced cyclists seeking steady open terrain mostly along quiet canal lanes. From central Amsterdam riders head out into reclaimed land built entirely on drained lake bed. The path layout minimizes road crossings and follows a counterclockwise direction to avoid busy junctions. Along the way cyclists encounter engineering heritage, such as the old station pump house and lakes that reflect open sky. The canal path is windy at times, adding challenge and texture to this otherwise even surface. Access points include pit stops near riverside cafés and picnic zones by the water. Even though this ride covers significant miles, its smooth terrain and clear route signage support a steady pace without confusion. The combination of historic infrastructure, engineering landscapes and calm water views make this a standout long‑distance route in the Amsterdam region.
4. Muiderpoort and Muiden Castle Route
Cyclists heading out along the IJ along well marked cycle lanes pass Spaarndam and continue toward Muiden and beautiful Muiderslot castle on this approx 33 km loop . Starting at central station, the tour follows the river eastward through suburbs and open marshland before reaching the medieval castle. Muiden invites castle gardens, cafes and canal cruising. The return path leads past leafy Weesp, with its charming red brick bridges and canals offering quiet charm and lush planting. The terrain holds few elevation changes and uses dedicated cycling paths when possible. You may cross small ferries or lift bridges, adding local travel interest. Historical landmarks, castle walls and winding watercourses combine with calm inland views. This route balances culture with countryside and is recommended for tourists wishing to combine sightseeing and rural pedalling. Lightweight riders and culture fans appreciate the stop at castle grounds and quiet streets of old town centers.
3. Sarphatistraat and City Fietsstraat Stretch
Within the city, this route highlights Amsterdam’s first dedicated cycling street—Sarphatistraat—a fietsstraat where bikes take priority and cars are secondary guests since 2017 . Starting near Leidseplein and extending past the university district and Oostelijke Eilanden, cyclists glide along a nearly two‑kilometre corridor where car traffic is slowed and cycling is smooth. The path links Rembrandtplein, crossing the Amstel via quiet lanes, before reaching the eastern canals. The experience contrasts sharply with central canal chaos, offering calm confidence in safety. Along the way architectural highlights, leafy avenues and urban green patches invite easy observation and undisturbed riding. Traffic signals, tram tracks and intersections are managed to minimize cyclist disruption. The route is fully flat and easy for all levels. As a city centre route, it shows how Amsterdam blends infrastructure with everyday mobility. Ideal for those wanting urban cycling confidence, this bike‐friendly corridor underscores local design thinking.
2. Nescio Bridge and IJ Waterfront Route
From Amsterdam Centraal take a free ferry to Noord and cross the celebrated Nescio Bridge, a nearly 800 m suspension bicycle‑only bridge recognized for its elegant curved design . After the crossing, follow cycle lanes along the IJ waterfront past NDSM Wharf, A’DAM Tower and creative waterfront neighborhoods. Industrial art spaces and dockside cafés open onto open water views. The path continues northward through former shipyard terrain turned for creative reuse, marsh views and green zones intertwined with street art. This route highlights modern engineering, contemporary cityscape and waterside panoramas, all accessible without traffic noise. Return loops via ferry bring riders back to central Amsterdam in minutes. The route’s standout features include architectural beauty, waterway expanses and creative culture hubs. Well maintained lanes and minimal elevation make it accessible to cyclists of all ages. Its modern aesthetic and ease of navigation make it a favourite.
1. Classic Canal Ring and Jordaan Core Loop
This city centre circuit of about 7 km weaves through Amsterdam’s famed canal ring, historic Jordaan district, De Negen Straatjes and landmarks such as Anne Frank House and Westerkerk . Cyclists ride along gently curving canals flanked by traditional gabled houses, pausing at boutique lanes, cafés and local squares. The pace is calm, allowing close observation of narrow bridges and bicycles locked to railings in rows. The streets remain flat though occasionally narrow, so cautious navigation matters. The route passes cultural highlights including street art, independent galleries and scenic courtyards. Quiet corners in Jordaan reveal hidden courtyards and canal reflections. Traffic is shared but lanes are often red bike paths keeping cycling safe. This downtown loop is ideal for first time riders, city lovers and visitors wanting close‑up access to historic heartlands. Frequent stops and compact design make it approachable.
