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expert led adventures
241 km
~34 km/day
easy
Amsterdam
1–14
participants
Casual+ Inns (4★)
Apr – May
Pedal through the vibrant heart of South and North Holland aboard a classic bike-and-barge adventure timed perfectly for peak spring bloom. Marvel at vivid tulip fields, golden daffodils, and fragrant hyacinth stretching across the Dutch countryside, while also exploring charming medieval towns, authentic fishing villages, centuries-old windmills, and sweeping coastal dunes along the North Sea. The tour visits iconic cultural destinations including Amsterdam, Haarlem, and Alkmaar, as well as the renowned Keukenhof Gardens, the fascinating Hortus Bulborum bulb museum, and the living open-air village of Zaanse Schans. Each evening, your floating hotel barge awaits in a scenic harbor, offering comfortable accommodations, hearty meals, and a welcoming social atmosphere. An experienced multilingual tour leader provides daily route briefings, keeping you informed while you ride independently at your own pace.
Highlights
Ride through the second-largest tulip-growing region in the Netherlands and the oldest fields around Haarlem and Keukenhof, with two daily route options giving you full freedom to stop, explore, and photograph the vivid floral landscapes at your own pace.
Experience two of the Netherlands' most remarkable flower destinations: the spectacular 80-acre Keukenhof Gardens, featuring seven million flowering bulbs, and the intimate Hortus Bulborum in Limmen — a living museum preserving over 3,500 rare and historically significant bulb varieties.
Cycle independently between Amsterdam, Haarlem, Alkmaar, and the living open-air village of Zaanse Schans, returning each evening to your floating hotel barge docked in a scenic harbor — combining the freedom of self-guided cycling with the comfort of a ship-based base.
8 Days from $2,795
Fully refundable within 14 days of booking
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Hoorn | - | - | - | cycling |
| 02 | Enkhuizen | - | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| 03 | Alkmaar | - | B, D | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| 04 | Alkmaar | - | B, D | 33 km / 21 mi | cycling |
| 05 | Haarlem | - | B, D | 38 km / 24 mi | cycling |
| 06 | Haarlem | - | B, D | 49 km / 30 mi | cycling |
| 07 | Amsterdam | - | B, D | 31 km / 19 mi | cycling |
| 08 | Departure | - | B | - |
Meals: B = Breakfast · L = Lunch · D = Dinner
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives.
Welcome aboard! Check-in begins at 1:30 PM as the crew greets you on the ship. After a safety briefing, the vessel sets sail across the IJsselmeer, heading toward the historic harbor town of Hoorn — your first destination on this unforgettable springtime journey.
Meals: -
Today you ride through the West-Frisian region, the second largest tulip-growing area in the Netherlands. Two route options take you through the flower fields, and you're free to set your own pace — stopping for photos as often as you like among the brilliant blooms.
Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 40 km / 25 mi
Your floating hotel docks at the picturesque fishing village of Volendam, where today's ride begins. You'll cycle through the waterlogged Waterland region just north of Amsterdam, weaving across canals and bridges from one quaint village to the next. The route wraps up at Zaanse Schans, a living Dutch village where working windmills, wooden houses, and artisans like cheesemakers and clog makers bring the past to life. The ship then continues on to Alkmaar for the night.
Meals: B, D
Cycling Distance: 50 km / 31 mi
Today's loop brings you north of Alkmaar through colorful tulip fields before heading to the charming seaside resort of Egmond aan Zee, nestled in the dunes beside the North Sea. The sandy beach here ranks among the finest in the country — perfect for a walk or a refreshing swim. Nearby, the artists' village of Bergen offers a delightful detour, and both locations border the expansive 5,300-hectare North Holland Dune Reserve. Return to the ship in Alkmaar for dinner.
Meals: B, D
Cycling Distance: 33 km / 21 mi
Ride through the villages of Egmond-Binnen and Limmen, where a stop at the Hortus Bulborum — a unique garden museum dedicated to preserving rare and historic flower bulbs — reveals over 3,500 varieties of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, some nearly extinct elsewhere in the world. Cycling continues through vivid tulip fields to Zaandam, where the ship whisks you to Haarlem on a relaxed afternoon cruise. The barge docks within easy walking distance of Haarlem's magnificent city center, with time to explore the Grote Markt and the awe-inspiring St. Bavo church.
Meals: B, D
Cycling Distance: 38 km / 24 mi
Today is a floral showstopper. Pedal through some of Holland's oldest tulip-growing areas on your way to the legendary Keukenhof Gardens — an 80-acre masterpiece of garden design bursting with seven million flowering bulbs in an extraordinary spectrum of colors. Hyacinths, daffodils, and dozens of other varieties fill the air with fragrance before you cycle back to the ship in Haarlem in the afternoon.
Meals: B, D
Cycling Distance: 49 km / 30 mi
Your final ride brings you back to Amsterdam, entering the city from the west through pleasant green surroundings. Spend the afternoon at your leisure — browse the inner-city flower market, unwind in Vondelpark, dive into one of the city's many world-class museums, or simply soak up the lively canal-side atmosphere. Discounted tickets for an evening canal cruise are available on board.
Meals: B, D
Cycling Distance: 31 km / 19 mi
Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast on board before disembarking by 9:30 AM. It's the perfect close to a week of blooms, history, and open roads through one of Europe's most distinctive landscapes.
Meals: B
Each accommodation has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.
Originally built in 1952, De Holland has spent decades navigating the waterways of the Netherlands. In 2012, the vessel was extended by 16 metres to improve onboard comfort and capacity, and during the 2017–2018 winter season it underwent a complete refurbishment and interior redesign. Today, De Holland combines the charm of a traditional Dutch river cruiser with modern comforts, making it one of the most popular vessels for cycling and cruising holidays in Holland and Belgium.
The upper deck features nine comfortable twin cabins and one spacious suite, each equipped with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that create a French balcony experience. These bright, airy cabins allow guests to enjoy uninterrupted views of Holland’s canals, countryside, and historic waterfronts while relaxing in the privacy of their cabin. Individual climate control, ensuite bathrooms, television, and modern amenities ensure a comfortable stay throughout the journey.
Located on the upper deck, the restaurant is surrounded by large panoramic windows that frame the ever-changing Dutch landscape. Whether enjoying breakfast before a ride or a three-course dinner after a day of cycling, guests can watch windmills, waterways, flower fields, and picturesque villages drift past. The bright and welcoming setting enhances every meal and creates a uniquely immersive cruising experience.
Lodging
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
Meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Airport Pickup
We recommend to book directly from airport.
Airport Drop
We recommend to book directly from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases due to height or availability constraints, we may provide an equivalent alternative.
Touring Bike or similar
touring
Included in your trip price
E-Bike or similar
ebike
Included in your trip price
We want you to have a fantastic experience on your tour, so we aim to be upfront about what to expect along the way. Here are key details to keep in mind:
Single occupancy is available in designated lower deck cabins only and is priced separately. Please contact us for availability and pricing.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
**Arrival **
Your tour begins in Amsterdam, one of Europe’s most charming and bicycle-friendly cities. Guests board the ship at approximately 1:30 PM, where the crew welcomes you aboard for embarkation and check-in. The nearest airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, located around 20 minutes from the city center. Travelers can easily reach Amsterdam Central Station via frequent direct trains from the airport, with a journey time of approximately 15–20 minutes. Taxis are also readily available outside the arrivals terminal and generally take 20–30 minutes to reach the docking area. Once onboard, guests receive a safety briefing before the ship departs toward Hoorn, marking the start of this beautiful tulip and Dutch heritage adventure.
** Departure **
The tour concludes in Amsterdam after breakfast on Day 8, with disembarkation scheduled by 9:30 AM. From the docking location, guests may return to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol either by taxi or by train through Amsterdam Central Station. Taxi transfers usually take around 20–30 minutes depending on traffic, while direct trains offer a quick and convenient 15–20 minute journey to the airport. Guests are advised to plan their onward travel with sufficient time for airport check-in and security formalities. Those with later flights may also take the opportunity to enjoy some additional sightseeing, canal walks, cafés, or museums in Amsterdam before departing the Netherlands.
The spring season in the Netherlands offers pleasant and refreshing weather, making it one of the best times for cycling and sightseeing. During the tulip season from late March to early May, daytime temperatures generally range between 10°C and 18°C (50°F to 64°F). Mornings and evenings can feel cool, while afternoons are usually mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. The Dutch countryside comes alive with blooming tulip fields, green meadows, and colorful gardens during this period.
Rain showers are possible throughout spring, but they are usually light and short-lived. Travelers are advised to carry layered clothing, a light waterproof jacket, and comfortable cycling gear. The fresh coastal breeze near the North Sea can occasionally make temperatures feel cooler, especially around seaside towns like Egmond aan Zee. Overall, the climate is ideal for enjoying scenic bike rides, canal towns, flower gardens, and historic Dutch villages.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Best
May
Best
June
Mixed
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Mixed
October
Offseason
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
EU and Schengen area citizens do not require a visa to travel to the Netherlands. Visitors from many other countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK, can enter the Netherlands visa-free for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance, including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses, and personal liability, travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact through our reservation form. If you cannot provide proof, you'll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Keep your emergency contact number and policy number accessible while traveling.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly. We recommend comparing policies and choosing the one that best fits your needs. A useful place to start is Insured Nomads.
Yes, you may bring your own bike or e-bike as long as it has no mirrors or elements that protrude outward. Space on board is limited, so it's best to reserve a spot when booking. A small parking fee applies. Please note that Boat Bike Tours is not responsible for damage or theft of personal bicycles.
No problem — you're welcome to stay on board and relax while the ship sails to the next destination. The tour is flexible, and there is no obligation to cycle every day.
Each day you'll receive a detailed cycling map, printed route descriptions, and GPS tracks via the free Ride With GPS app. The tour leader also cycles the routes and remains reachable by phone for emergencies, questions, or mechanical issues.
No, bicycle rental is not included in the base price. A standard touring bike rents for €91 per week, and an e-bike rents for €252 per week (limited availability, on request only). Damage limitation cover is also available for an additional fee and must be booked in advance.
The tour includes 7 breakfasts, packed lunches (which you prepare yourself on board each morning), and 7 three-course dinners. Coffee and tea are available on board until 4:00 PM. Drinks and coffee/tea after 4:00 PM are not included.
Yes, on most days two route options are offered — a shorter and a longer variant. Please note that on the shorter routes, some highlights mentioned in the itinerary may not be reachable.
No, entrance fees and excursion costs are not included in the tour price. These are paid individually by guests.
The De Holland accommodates a maximum of 66 passengers across 33 cabins, ensuring a comfortable and sociable atmosphere on board throughout the journey.
Wi-Fi is available in the restaurant area. However, data usage costs are not included in the tour price.
Yes, on the day of arrival you may leave your luggage on board from 11:00 AM, even before the official check-in time of 1:30 PM.
