The Netherlands by Bike and Boat

The North Sea, the IJsselmeer, and the countless canals that cross the flat Netherlands make this country perfect for Bike and Boat holidays! Whether you prefer a small riverboat or an impressive tall ship – there are diverse options for Bike and Boat holidays in the Netherlands!

Do you also get the impression that everyone in the Netherlands cycles? Bank directors, students, pupils, and pensioners – the flat landscape is ideal for traveling on two wheels. However, the Netherlands was once a great seafaring nation, therefore traveling on water has a long tradition here. Maybe that’s why the Dutch were the first to combine boat trips with bicycle tours: they are said to be the inventors of the popular Bike and Boat holidays. You will spend the days on your bike, whizzing past colorful windmills and visiting venerable towns, which were once centers of global trade. In the evening you return to your ship, which is waiting for you in the next port. While you end the evening on board, you are already sailing to your next stage. Be inspired by the different routes through the Netherlands.

There are numerous different trips available to you by bike and boat in the Netherlands. A classic bike and boat holiday in the Netherlands takes you from the capital Amsterdam via either the northern or southern route:

In the north of the Netherlands, the famous Zaanse Schans open-air museum, the orchid island of Texel in the North Sea and detours to the province of Friesland and Waterland await you. Along the way, you will sail across the IJsselmeer, the North Sea and small and large canals and canals.

A completely different charm opens up to you on the South Route, in the Green Heart of the Netherlands. Lively cities such as Rotterdam, Delft and The Hague are surrounded by seemingly untouched natural landscapes. A souvenir photo in front of the famous 19 windmills of Kinderdijk is of course a must along the way in the south of the Netherlands!

And why not start and end your bike and boat holiday with Amsterdam and Bruges? The route through the Netherlands and Belgium is one of the most popular around the Netherlands. And rightly so, as not only are there two cities worth seeing along the route, but with the windmills of Kinderdijk, Antwerp and Ghent, a new highlight awaits you every day. In addition, you will not only get to know the ideal cycling conditions in the Netherlands by bike and boat but also enjoy Belgian cuisine, art, and culture.

Your bike and boat holiday in the Netherlands is usually spent on a classic riverboat, such as the MS Gandalf, the MS Serena or the MS Normandie. These ships lie flat in the water and there is usually a relaxed, informal atmosphere on board. And if you don't feel like cycling one day, just stay on board and enjoy the view from the water!

A completely different kind of cruise awaits you on the imposing tall ships that sail around the IJsselmeer and the North Sea islands. Sail to your next cycling stage under full sail on the Elizabeth, the Mare fan Fryslân or the Wapen fan Fryslân. If you like, you can help to set sail and get a first taste of life as a sailor. Our tip: This holiday is a real adventure and perfect for families with older children!