Cycling the Best of Holland Tour

Amsterdam is a city worth arriving early to spend time exploring its fascinating districts and sites. Your tour begins in the vibrant capital, a world of exquisite art and architecture with endless highlights and hidden corners to explore.

Check into your hotel, then head out on a walk to get a feel for the remarkable city. For a taste of the high-life, stroll the glitzy Oud-Zuid district, or admire some historical architecture in the canal district, an entire area designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rise ready to take on another exciting morning exploring the capital. Check out one of the city's several museums this morning, or find a balmy spot at the Rembrandtplein, soaking up the unique vibes of one of the city's major squares in central Amsterdam.

This afternoon, you'll hop on your bikes, leaving the urban buzz behind as you pedal your way through the peaceful rural landscapes of Zuid-Kennemerland, making your way to Haarlem. Arrive at your hotel in Haarlem, then stroll to take in the historic city. You'll discover a charming town, connected by elegant courtyards, known as "hofjes."

If taking this tour in April and early May, the option of extending today's route to visit the tulip fields is highly recommended.

Steal a few last moments to explore Haarlem this morning if you haven’t done so already. The Frans Hals museum, which houses exquisite paintings from the Golden Age, is well worth a visit.

At midday, you’ll return to your wheels to trace the pretty banks of the River Spaarne, bound for the charming village of Spaarndam and the Ijdijk (dike). Take in the quaint old houses here as well as the Kolksluis, claimed by some to be the oldest lock in the world.

Back on your bike, you’ll continue through the Zaan region, pedalling alongside rows of typical wooden houses painted green with white lace curtains on display in each window. Once in Zaandam, known for its famous windmills, head to the famous Zaanse Schans neighbourhood, where you’ll uncover a historical world of wooden houses, barns, windmills, and workshops. Learn to make wooden shoes or Dutch cheese from the masters themselves, then sit down for a well-deserved typical pancake to top off a magical day.

The enchantment continues today with another marvellous day of riding and exploring on foot. First up is the Het Twiske Park, where visitors and locals alike flock on hot summer days for a refreshing dip in the lake.

Then, ride through pretty woods, alongside meadows and sparkling lakes to Monnickendam. Continue towards Volendam, where today’s ride concludes at the town’s lively fishing port. Peruse the gift shops here, then post up at one of the cute cafes overlooking the water.

Get a good night’s rest after a lovely evening in Volendam, as tomorrow’s final ride to Amsterdam is on the horizon.

Before leaving Volendam this morning, head to the old quarter with its quaint red-brick homes. Here you'll find Volendam's Museum, which is worth checking out. The museum showcases the community's fascinating history, folklore, and culture.

Your final ride unfolds on the isle of Marken as you return to Amsterdam to complete the loop. You'll arrive with plenty of time to continue your sightseeing adventure from Day 2. Soak up the unique charm of this alluring city and enjoy a farewell dinner this evening, toasting to a magical five days spent exploring North Holland.

This morning, your tour comes to an end. Enjoy one final breakfast and then check out to depart.