Amsterdam is a city built for cyclists. With its flat terrain, well-designed bike paths, and biking culture, cycling is the best way to explore the city like a local.
Learn How to Ride a Bike in Amsterdam Like a Local
Whether you're in Amsterdam for a short visit or an extended stay, learning to ride a bike will enhance your trip by making it easier, safer, and more enjoyable. If fear holds you back, don't worry. The biking culture in Amsterdam is intense and can be intimidating. It wasn't until my third visit to the country that I felt confident enough to ride a bike. Moreover, the number of times I've nearly had a mishap by mistakenly stepping into the bike lane is embarrassingly high.
This blog post is your ultimate guide to biking in Amsterdam, covering everything from renting a bike to navigating cycling routes and understanding local traffic rules.
Why Biking in Amsterdam is the Best Way to Get Around
Biking in Amsterdam isn't just for locals—tourists can easily blend in by hopping on a bike.
With over 500 kilometers (310 miles) of designated bike lanes (some where no vehicles are allowed), cycling is one of the fastest and most scenic ways to explore the city. From picturesque canals to vibrant neighborhoods, cycling gives you the freedom to see more of Amsterdam at your own pace.
You’ll experience the city’s rich architecture, historic landmarks, and hidden gems up close. Plus, cycling reduces your environmental footprint and lets you immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s active, eco-friendly lifestyle.
As a tourist, you’ll quickly realize that biking offers advantages that walking or public transport simply can’t match. There’s nothing quite like cruising down a cobblestone street, the breeze in your hair, as you take in the stunning beauty of Amsterdam.
How to Rent a Bike in Amsterdam
Before you start riding, you’ll need to rent a bike. Amsterdam has no shortage of rental shops, making it easy to find a bike that suits your style and needs.
Some popular bike rental companies include:
MacBike – With several locations across the city, MacBike offers a variety of bike types, including city bikes, e-bikes, and kids' bikes. For instance, you can pick up a robust Dutch-style city bike at their Central Station location, perfect for a day of urban exploration.
Yellow Bike – Known for their signature yellow bikes, they offer guided bike tours in addition to rentals. Imagine joining a tour where you’re led through hidden alleys and learn fascinating history while pedaling.
Black Bikes – Offers sturdy, traditional Dutch bikes for rent with no branding, perfect for blending in with the locals. If you’re aiming to avoid standing out, renting here means you’ll look just like any Amsterdam local.
Rental prices usually range from €8-€15 per day, with discounts for longer rentals. Make sure to ask for a bike lock (or two!), as bike theft is a common problem in Amsterdam.
Pro Tip: Check with your hotel, or look for bikes in the amenities section. Many hotels and hostels provide bikes for guests, sometimes free of charge or for a small fee.
If you’re planning on biking a lot, consider renting an e-bike for extra ease, especially if you’re not used to biking long distances and plan to bike between cities. Families traveling with kids can also rent cargo bikes (bakfiets), a uniquely Dutch way of carrying children and luggage.
Navigating Amsterdam’s Bike Lanes
Amsterdam’s cycling infrastructure is one of the best in the world. Most main roads have dedicated bike lanes, which are marked by red asphalt. You will want to remember the phrase “red = dead,” and stay out of the lanes at all times if you are not in motion on two wheels.
While it might seem intimidating at first, biking in Amsterdam is quite straightforward if you follow the basic rules of the road:
Stay in the bike lanes – Always use the designated bike paths. If you must share the road with cars, stick to the right side. For example, when cycling along Prinsengracht, one of Amsterdam’s iconic canals, you’ll find clearly marked bike lanes that separate you from pedestrian and car traffic.
Follow the traffic lights – Amsterdam has traffic lights specifically for cyclists! They’re easy to spot and must be obeyed at all times. Picture arriving at a busy intersection like Museumplein, where dedicated bike signals ensure smooth traffic flow for riders.
Watch out for pedestrians – Pedestrians might wander into bike lanes, especially around tourist-heavy areas. Be prepared to slow down or ring your bell. For instance, near Dam Square, you’ll frequently encounter distracted tourists stepping into bike paths.
Use hand signals – Signal with your left or right hand before making a turn. This lets other cyclists and drivers know where you're heading. If you’re taking a sharp left to head toward Anne Frank House, raising your left hand is the courteous and safe thing to do.
One thing to note: locals are expert cyclists and navigate the streets at a brisk pace, sometimes without any hands. Take your time, especially on your first day, to adjust to the flow of traffic and avoid feeling rushed. Do not feel that you have to keep up with anyone, just be alert and ready to maneuver out of the way.
Best Cycling Routes in Amsterdam
Once you're comfortable riding, it’s time to explore! Here are some scenic routes for cycling in Amsterdam:
Vondelpark – The city's most famous park is a perfect spot for a leisurely ride. Its wide paths and scenic views make it ideal for cyclists of all levels. Picture yourself gliding past serene ponds and green lawns, stopping for a coffee at a quaint park café.
Jordaan District – This trendy neighborhood offers narrow streets and charming canals. Take a slow ride through Jordaan to experience its cafes, boutiques, and galleries. You might discover a hidden courtyard or stumble upon a street performer along Westerstraat.
Amsterdamse Bos – If you want to escape the urban landscape, head to the Amsterdam Forest. It’s a peaceful, nature-filled route perfect for longer rides. Imagine pedaling through lush greenery and coming across a goat farm where you can stop for fresh cheese.
Along the Canals – Explore the iconic Amsterdam canals by bike. Ride through the Grachtengordel (Canal Ring), where you can soak in views of historic houses, charming bridges, and local cafes. Picture ending your ride with a picturesque sunset view from Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge).
Safety Tips for Cycling in Amsterdam
Staying safe while cycling in Amsterdam is all about being aware and prepared. Here are a few key tips to ensure a smooth ride:
Wear a helmet – Although not required by law, wearing a helmet is always a good idea, especially for children or inexperienced riders. Imagine cycling along the busy streets of De Pijp—a helmet adds peace of mind amidst the bustling activity.
Use your bell – A bike bell is essential in Amsterdam. Use it to warn pedestrians or alert fellow cyclists when you’re passing. For example, ring your bell gently when approaching groups of tourists on bridges.
Lock your bike – Bike theft is very common in Amsterdam, so always lock your bike to a secure post or designated bike rack. Use two locks—one for the front wheel and one for the back. If you’re leaving your bike near Centraal Station, taking extra precautions is a must.
Be cautious at intersections – Many intersections in Amsterdam have separate traffic lights for bikes. Be mindful of these and ensure you're paying attention to both vehicles and other cyclists. Imagine approaching Leidseplein, a hub of activity, where attentiveness can make your ride stress-free.
Don’t rush – Cycling here is about enjoying the ride. Take your time, especially on unfamiliar routes. For example, as you meander through the Plantage area, take in the beauty of Artis Zoo or the Hortus Botanicus without hurrying.
What to Avoid When Riding a Bike in Amsterdam
While biking in Amsterdam is generally safe and convenient, there are a few things you should avoid:
Don’t ride on the sidewalks – Sidewalks are for pedestrians only. Stick to the bike lanes. For instance, along busy streets like Kalverstraat, respect pedestrian zones to avoid fines and collisions.
Avoid biking during rush hour – If you’re a beginner, try to avoid cycling between 7:30-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:00 PM, when the bike lanes are packed with commuting locals. My first time cycling in Amsterdam was at 6:00 AM on a Sunday morning, a much calmer time to navigate the city.
Don’t use your phone while biking – It's illegal to use a mobile phone while cycling. Always pull over to make a call or check directions. Imagine cycling along Herengracht while trying to text—the risks aren’t worth it.
Embrace the Cycling Culture of Amsterdam
Riding a bike in Amsterdam is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a way of life.
Locals use their bikes for everything, from commuting to grocery shopping, rain or shine. To truly bike like a local, adopt this mindset: stay calm, go with the flow, and enjoy the ride.
Pay attention to how locals cycle—you’ll notice their confidence and ease on two wheels. While it might take some time to feel entirely comfortable, don’t stress. Remember, biking is meant to be fun!
Now that you know how to ride a bike in Amsterdam, you're ready to explore the city like a local. Renting a bike is easy, the cycling routes are plentiful, and once you get the hang of the traffic rules, you'll find that biking is the best way to see all that Amsterdam has to offer.
So, hop on a bike, pedal through the charming streets, and discover the magic of this iconic city from the two wheels.
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