Lined with flowing canals, cobblestoned bridges and picturesque, waterside houses, Amsterdam has developed a reputation as being one of Europe's most beautiful cities. But its reputation extends far beyond its aesthetic — the progressive city is famous around the world for its biking culture.

Come rain, hail or shine, it's not uncommon to see swarms of cyclists navigating the Dutch capital’s bustling streets. So if you're looking for an adventure that will show you the city in a whole new light – from an authentic, local perspective – then make sure to add one of the Amsterdam bike tours to the itinerary.

Here's all you need to know about bike tours, some of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Amsterdam.

What are the best bike tours in Amsterdam?

There are several bike tour companies offering guided tours of Amsterdam and its surrounding areas, so there’s something for everyone. From leisurely rides with a focus on sightseeing to more intense cycling trails that take you through the city’s many parks and windmills, here are some of the best bike tours in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam main highlights bike tour

Perfect for first-time visitors, this tour takes you on a journey of Amsterdam's key sights, from the historic Begijnhof to the lively Dam Square.

You'll pass through beloved neighborhoods like De Negen Straatjes, Grachtengordel, the Museum Quarter and De Pijp, as well as the sprawling Vondelpark and the city's iconic canals.

Along the way, your guide will regale you with tales about Amsterdam’s long and varied history while pointing out interesting landmarks like Anne Frank's house, Leidseplein Square, and Rembrandtplein.

Since you'll be in a small group, this bike tour is a great way to meet fellow travelers and is usually the most budget-friendly option.

Amsterdam backstreets and hidden gems bike tour

An excellent opportunity to venture off the beaten path and explore Amsterdam’s lesser-known attractions, this backstreets bike tour focuses on the city's best-kept secret. You'll cycle through old alleys and forgotten neighborhoods that don't usually appear in tourist guides — like the Jordaan area, Oud-West, and Begijnhof — all while learning fascinating stories about the everyday lives of locals.

Depending on the tour operator, the route might also take you through stunning natural areas such as Westerpark, Sarphatipark and the Amstel River, giving you plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind.

Despite being focused on backstreets, you'll certainly tick off a few main attractions in the Museum Quarter and Jordaan, so you won’t miss out on the classic Amsterdam experience.

Amsterdam private bike tour of the City Center

Best suited to families, couples and groups of friends, private bike tours offer a more personalized experience and the chance to visit attractions that are off-the-beaten-path.

This tour is all about exploring Amsterdam’s city center, from the iconic landmarks to lesser-known gems in De Pijp and other nearby neighborhoods.

Since it's a private tour, your guide can tailor your route to include the places that you really want to see, so don't forget to communicate your requests before the tour starts. You can also choose from different departure times and pick-up points, making it easy to fit this bike ride into your busy schedule.

Amsterdam countryside bike tour

Beyond the canals and intersecting city streets lies a rural landscape full of natural beauty and quaint Dutch towns. This countryside bike tour allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, giving you a chance to explore the countryside's winding paths, lush meadows and ancient windmills.

Depending on your specific chosen tour, your journey will likely take you past traditional farms in Loenen, where you can learn about the cheese-making process and taste some local delicacies.

You can also explore inside and out of the historic Zaanse Schans windmills and the picturesque fishing villages of Marken and Volendam.

You'll most likely also get to visit a clog maker's workshop, where you can learn all about Dutch shoe history and watch an artist demonstrate wood carving techniques.

The Dutch countryside is full of rolling hills, winding rivers and exudes a peaceful atmosphere, making this Amsterdam bike tour a must for nature lovers.

Anne Frank private bike tour in Amsterdam

Ideal for WWII history buffs who also want to explore the city on two wheels, this Anne Frank tour is led by a knowledgeable guide, and will include all of Amsterdam’s key sights related to the famous diarist.

You will discover from her secret annex where she wrote her diary and spent the last years of her life in hiding, to the places that shaped her childhood in the Merwedeplein (River Quarter).

Your guide will bring the city's rich Jewish culture to life with vivid stories and interesting anecdotes, giving you an in-depth understanding of Anne Frank’s life and her contribution to Amsterdam’s unique history.

Depending on you tour, you may also visit other important, related sites such as the Joodse Schouwburg (Jewish Theater) museum and the National Holocaust Names Monument, learning about the Holocaust and its lasting impact on Dutch society.

Amster bicycle food tour

Combining two of the locals' favorite pastimes — biking and eating — this Amsterdam food tour is a great choice for anyone who wants to sample the city’s local cuisine while taking in its quintessential attractions.

The type of tour will generally take you through some of Amsterdam's top culinary hotspots, such as Foodhallen and De Hallen, where you can taste a variety of local dishes, from traditional Dutch pancakes (poffertjes) to cheeses, smoked mackerel, stroopwafel, bitterballen, oorlog French fries and craft beers.

These tours last around three hours and pass by a handful of iconic locations, such as the Albert Cuyp Market and Rembrandtplein (Rembrandt Square).

Amsterdam North bike tour

Venturing away from the tourist-trodden streets of the city center, this bike tour takes you to the northern part of Amsterdam. Led by an in-the-know local, you'll explore some unique neighborhoods like Nieuwendam and Buiksloot, where you can discover hidden gems.

These include vibrant street art murals, dyke villages, the NSDM-werf, old warehouses transformed into cultural hotspots and local cafes with charming outdoor seating areas.

These tours usually include a ferry across the IJ river, giving you a chance to soak up the views of Amsterdam’s harbor and iconic skyline.

Amsterdam guided beer bike tour

Suited for party-goers with a penchant for sampling craft beers, this Amsterdam beer tasting takes you on a bike taht doesn't require much peddling at all. Up to 16 people can fit on this "bike," which comes with a sober driver and up to 20 liters of beer on board.

As you ride around town on your mobile bar, journey will take you past some of Amsterdam’s most beloved attractions before you cross over to North Amsterdam. Along the way, your guide entertains you with interesting facts about Dutch history and culture.

This rowdy Amsterdam bike tour lasts around 90 minutes and is the perfect pre-party to a night out in Jordaan or the Dam Square area.

How much do bike tours in Amsterdam cost?

The price of bike tours in Amsterdam varies depending on the type of tour, group size and duration but generally start at around €25 per person. Most Amsterdam highlights guided cost between €25 and €55 per person for a two- to three-hour tour with a small group, while backstreets tours cost around €35-€40.

Anne Frank-themed bike tours with a small group are around €30-€40, while Amsterdam North bike excursions are around €50.

Private tours can cost up to €300 but this is charged per group, so it depends on the number of people in your party – expect to pay between €80 and €120 each.

Countryside bike tours range between €40 and €70 per person; Amster bicycle food tours cost around €50-€60 per person; and the Amsterdam beer bike tours usually start at €300 per group of up to six people, but come with all your drinks included in that price.

Overall, bike tours in Amsterdam offer an affordable way to explore the city and gain new insights into Dutch culture in a short period of time.

What is included?

While every bike tour may vary in terms of what's included, the majority include the use of a bicycle and necessary safety equipment such as helmets. All of your Amsterdam highlights guided tours come with an experienced guide who will share their knowledge about the city’s history and culture as you ride around.

Some guided tours also include a ferry crossing to Amsterdam North, snacks and drinks (especially on the Amsterdam beer bike tour) or free time to explore on your own. Some longer excursions may even include lunch at one of the city’s local eateries or a countryside picnic.

Private tours often also include breakfast or lunch, while some food-focused bike tours offer samples of Dutch delicacies.

Make sure to check the details of your tour before booking, so you know exactly what it includes.

Where does it start?

Every Amsterdam bike tour leaves from a different location, so make sure to check the details of your chosen tour before arriving.

Many tours will start at the company bike shop — generally, these are located close to Central Station, the Cruise Ship Terminal, or Vondelpark. From there, your guide will take you around the main attractions in that area.

The Amsterdam North bike tour usually starts at (or close to) Central Station and then takes you across the IJ river on a ferry.

Some countryside tours will require you to make your own way out of the city center and may start at a nearby train station or in one of Amsterdam’s surrounding villages, such as Stationsplein.

Make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes before the start time, so you can get acquainted with your bike and any safety instructions from your guide.

How long does it last?

Bike tours in Amsterdam usually last between 2 and 3 hours. This usually includes enough time to explore the city’s main attractions and hear some interesting stories from your guide.

Countryside excursions may last longer, with some lasting up between four and seven hours.

When is the best time for a bike tour in Amsterdam?

The Dutch ride year-round come rain or shine, so you can experience a bike tour in Amsterdam at any time of the year. However, if you’d prefer to explore with better weather conditions, it’s best to visit between April and October when temperatures are higher.

The busiest months are July and August when there is more daylight and attractions stay open later. Spring and autumn months are more peaceful, with fewer tourists visiting the city.

Are there any combo available with bike tours in Amsterdam?

Yes, there is a handful of combo deals available with bike tours in Amsterdam.

For instance, you can choose to book an Amsterdam full-day combo tour by foot, bike and boat. Lasting up to 8 hours, this tour will take you around the city’s iconic attractions from several vantage points, with an authentic Dutch lunch included.

Another popular combo tour is that which also visits the Keukenhof flower fields. Considered to be one of the most beautiful places in Holland, Keukenhof is one of the world's largest flower gardens, with over 7 million tulips in bloom between March and May.

Designed for thirsty travelers, you can also book a 'Breweries of Amsterdam' small-group bike tour. These tours take you around the city’s breweries and craft beer bars, with tastings included.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Amsterdam?

Boat tours in Amsterdam
Airplane tours in Amsterdam
Canoeing tours in Amsterdam
Flyboard in Amsterdam

Travel tips

Bring a waterproof raincoat. Amsterdam is known for its frequent rain and you’ll want to be prepared. If a tour includes a boat trip, make sure to wear warm clothes as the wind can be strong on the water.
Most bike tours in Amsterdam include a bike and helmet in the price. However, some companies offer electric bikes for an additional fee — these are great if you want to cover more ground or take hills with ease.
Book your tour online and in advance to ensure you don't miss out on your preferred Amsterdam bike activity.
Finally, don’t forget your camera! Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most photogenic cities and there will be plenty of opportunities to capture stunning shots.

Bike Tours in Amsterdam