Holland is made for cycling. For the locals it’s the natural way to get around – there are more bicycles than people in Holland, and millions hop on daily to go to work, school or just to the shops. For holidaymakers, cycling is one of the biggest attractions for people visiting Holland.

Why is Holland so good for cycling?

• It’s flat. There are very few hills in Holland, so even if you’re not that fit or travelling with children, cycling is easy.
• You can go anywhere. Major roads have cycle lanes and there are cycle-only paths linking cities, towns and villages. You can’t cycle on motorways – but you’ll never need to.
• It’s safe. In Holland, motorists know to look out for cyclists. Holland has the 4th safest roads in the world, well ahead of the UK and Ireland.
• There’s plenty to see. Countryside or city break, windmills, castles or art galleries, cycling gives you easy access to everything Holland has to offer.

Where to go
These are just a few of the top Dutch cycling destinations:

• Amsterdam: Rightly known as the world’s cycling capital, Amsterdam is packed with art, culture, nightlife, architecture – and bikes.
• Zuiderzee route: This 400km route starts in Amsterdam and takes you round the coast and back again. It’s possible to do it within 4 days, but much more relaxing if you spend a whole week.
• Limburg: For serious cyclists, the only hilly part of Holland provides some steep climbs and views over rolling hills. The capital city is Maastricht, known for its beauty and culture.
• Zuid Holland: This southern province is at its best in early summer when the bulbs are flowering. You can also visit Holland’s most famous windmill.

Bring your own bike when you visit Holland
If you have a bike at home, it may be worth taking it with you. Ferry fares with Stena Line start at £40 for bike and rider.
Find out more about travelling with a bicycle

If you don’t fancy cycling from the ferry port, you can usually take your bike on the train, though there are restrictions at peak hours. You need to buy a ticket for your bike and store it in the special bike carriage.

Your bike will need to meet bike regulations in Holland – so you must have a bell, and use lights after dark.
Read about Traffic rules for cyclists in Holland

If you’d rather not take your bike, there are bike hire shops in every city in Holland. Prices depend on how long you keep the bike, but can be as little as €4 per day. You’ll need to give a security deposit.

Holland cycling tips

• Ride on the right hand side of the road
• Use the marked cycle lanes – look out for white cycle symbols or dashed lines by the roadside
• Obey traffic lights (even if the locals don’t)
• Watch out for pedestrians and scooters – they often stray into cycle lanes
• Use your bell
• Take a secure lock
• Don’t cycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol – it’s unsafe and illegal

If you fancy something a bit more challenging, have a look at the North Sea Cycle Route which covers 6,000km and 8 countries.

Find out mor information about travelling with a bicycle or if you are ready for your cycle holiday book now with Stena Line