Self-Guided Pearls of Holland Easygoing Bike Tour

The Pearls of Holland tour is an easy-paced cycling journey through the cultural and scenic heart of the Netherlands. Designed for riders who prefer shorter distances and more time to explore, this self-guided tour links some of the country’s most charming historic cities, including Amsterdam, Haarlem, Leiden, Delft, Gouda, and Woerden.

While cycling through the Randstad region, you will be surprised by how peaceful and rural the landscape feels. Quiet country lanes lead past polders, canals, windmills, lakes, and green meadows, offering a perfect balance between city life and countryside calm.

With comfortable hotels, mostly flat terrain, and excellent cycling infrastructure, this tour is suitable for cyclists of all experience levels. The relaxed daily distances leave ample time for sightseeing, museums, café stops, and spontaneous discoveries along the way.

Tour Type

Self-Guided

Lodging

Casual+ hotels

Start

Amsterdam

Finish

Amsterdam

Level

easy

Avg. Daily Distance

238 km / 148 mi

Cycling Days

8

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 12

Fly-In

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)

Fly-Out

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)

Highlights

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Cycling Through the Green Heart of Holland

Even though you’re riding within the Randstad, the route repeatedly slips into quiet countryside: peat landscapes, canals, lakes, rivers, polders, and long open horizons. This contrast is a defining feature of the tour.

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Gouda’s Historic Cheese Heritage

Spend time in Gouda, one of the Netherlands’ most iconic cheese cities, where centuries of dairy tradition come to life. During your stay, explore the historic town centre and learn about the famous Gouda cheese trade, once conducted at the Weighing House. If travelling in summer, you may witness the traditional Thursday morning cheese market, a living reminder of the city’s role in Dutch culinary history.

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Historic Dutch Cities Linked by Bike

The itinerary isn’t about just one city — it strings together the Netherlands’ most character-rich historic towns, each with canals, old centres, cafés, and museums. This city-to-city flow is the backbone of the tour.

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Easy, Flat Cycling with Time for Sightseeing

Distances are intentionally short (30–49 km), terrain is mostly flat, and the tour is designed for comfort. This makes it suitable for first-time cycling holidays, older riders, or anyone who values exploration over speed.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.

Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Amsterdam

Your cycling holiday begins in Amsterdam, one of Europe’s most characterful capital cities. Built around a network of 17th-century canals, the city blends historic architecture with a lively cultural atmosphere. Spend the day at leisure exploring cobbled streets, leafy waterways, and vibrant neighbourhoods that define the Dutch capital.

You may choose to wander along the historic canal belt, visit one of the city’s many museums, or simply enjoy the cafés and public squares scattered throughout the old town. This arrival day allows time to settle in and soak up the atmosphere before the cycling journey begins.

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Meals:
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Day 2: Haarlem / Santpoort

After breakfast, your first cycling stage leads you gently out of Amsterdam and into the open landscapes of Zuid-Kennemerland. Urban scenery gradually gives way to waterways, peat meadows, and quiet countryside paths that showcase the Netherlands’ low-lying terrain.

Along the route, you pass the historic Cruquius steam pumping station, a striking reminder of Dutch water management history. By afternoon, you arrive in Haarlem, a city known for its historic market square, elegant streets, and traditional hofjes. Time permitting, explore the compact old town before settling in for the night. (Accommodation in Santpoort may be arranged depending on availability.)

Paved: 98% Unpaved: 2%

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 30 km / 19 mi
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Day 3: Leiden

Before leaving Haarlem, you may wish to spend additional time discovering its historic centre. Today’s ride takes you through the Dutch Bulb Region, an area shaped by dunes, coastal scenery, and agricultural landscapes.

Cycling routes pass close to seaside resorts such as Noordwijk and Zandvoort, offering a mix of open views and sheltered paths. The day concludes in Leiden, one of the Netherlands’ oldest cities and home to a historic university, picturesque canals, and centuries-old buildings that give the city its scholarly character.

Paved: 98% Unpaved: 2%

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 378 km / 235 mi
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Day 4: Delft

Leaving Leiden behind, the route enters classic Dutch polder landscapes formed through centuries of land reclamation. You cycle past lakes, canals, windmills, and farmhouses that define the rural character of the region.

The day ends in Delft, a city internationally recognised for Delftware pottery and its association with the painter Johannes Vermeer. The historic centre is compact and crisscrossed by canals, making it ideal for an evening walk.

Paved: 88% Unpaved: 12%

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 305 km / 190 mi
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Day 5: Gouda

Today’s ride takes you into the Green Heart of Holland, a protected rural area surrounded by major Dutch cities. The route follows dikes and waterways through open farmland and quiet villages, offering long views across the lowlands.

You arrive in Gouda, a historic city known for its gothic town hall, the Weighing House, canals, and the stained glass windows of St John’s Church. Gouda’s long cheese tradition is an important part of the city’s identity, particularly during the summer months when the cheese market takes place.

Paved: 92% Unpaved: 8%

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 334 km / 208 mi
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Day 6: Woerden

Leaving Gouda, you follow waterways such as the Hollandsche IJssel through scenic countryside. The route passes Haastrecht and continues toward Schoonhoven, historically known as the Silver City.

You then cycle through Oudewater, a town with a well preserved historic centre and the Heksenwaag, before arriving in Woerden. Located in the heart of the Green Heart region, Woerden reflects the agricultural history of the area.

Paved: 99% , Unpaved: 1%

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 378 km / 235 mi
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Day 7: Amsterdam

On the final cycling day, the route follows the Kamerikse Wetering canal through open countryside. You pass the village of Wilnis, known for a historic dike breach commemorated by a monument.

The ride continues along the Vinkeveense Plassen, an area of lakes created through peat extraction. As you approach Amsterdam, you encounter parts of the Defence Line of Amsterdam, a UNESCO listed water based fortification system, before returning to the city’s historic canals.

Paved: 98% Unpaved: 2%

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 478 km / 297 mi
Accommodation: Westcord Art Hotel

Day 8: Departure from Amsterdam

After breakfast, the tour comes to an end. You depart Amsterdam or continue your journey independently.

Meals: Breakfast

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Dates and Prices

Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.

Single Supplement

From US $750

E-Bike Upgrade

From US $200



Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?

Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.


Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

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.

Exclusions

Airport pickup

We recommend to book direclty from airport.

Airport drop

We recommend to book direclty 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.

Bikes

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.

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Kalhoff Pro Connect i27 27-G Wave or similar

hybrid

Included in your trip price

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KTM E-bike or similar

ebike

Available at a surcharge

Arrival & Departure Details

Arrival

Your tour begins in Amsterdam.

The nearest international airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, located approximately 20 kilometres from the city centre. Schiphol is one of Europe’s major aviation hubs and is well connected to Amsterdam by frequent trains, buses, and taxis.

Direct trains run from Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central Station multiple times per hour, with a journey time of around 15 to 20 minutes. Taxis and ride services are also readily available for direct travel to your hotel.

Departure

The tour ends in Amsterdam.

For onward travel, you can depart from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which offers a wide range of domestic and international flight connections. Trains and taxis from central Amsterdam provide easy access to the airport throughout the day.

Guests continuing their journey by rail can also connect to other major Dutch and European cities directly from Amsterdam Central Station.

Weather

Weather

The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate, making it well suited for cycling for much of the year. Weather conditions are generally mild, with moderate temperatures and changing skies.

The most popular months for cycling are April through October, when daylight hours are long and temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activity. Spring and early summer bring fresh green landscapes, while late summer and early autumn offer pleasant riding conditions with fewer visitors.

The winter months are cooler and can be wetter, which may result in more challenging cycling conditions. Weather can be variable at any time of year, so riders are advised to come prepared for occasional rain and changing temperatures.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Offseason

April

Good

May

Best

June

Best

July

Good

August

Good

September

Best

October

Mixed

November

Offseason

December

Offseason

Best

Good

Mixed

Offseason

What to Pack

Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.

Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear

  • Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
  • Padded cycling shorts.
  • Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
  • Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
  • Synthetic cycling socks.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
  • Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
  • Rain jacket or windbreaker.
  • Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).

Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.

Clothing

  • Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
  • Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
  • Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
  • Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
  • Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.

Other Necessities

  • Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Plug socket adaptor.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.

Pro Tips

  • Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
  • Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
  • Pack light to leave room for shopping.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.

Visa Information

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Insurance

Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.

We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and 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 (including Covid-19), 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 via our reservation form. This is mandatory. 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. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.

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, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.

For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.

Before Your Tour

When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.

At the Start of the Tour

The setup experience varies by destination:

  • In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.


  • In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.


All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.

During the Tour

You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.

What to Expect

The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:

  • You start with the correct frame size

  • You can fine-tune your comfort easily

  • You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route


It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.

We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.

Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.

To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.

A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.

We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.

For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.

Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.

For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.

Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.

Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.

Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.

It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.

We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.

We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.

Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.

For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.

For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.

We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.

We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.

On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.

Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.

We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.

The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.

Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.

Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)

Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.

Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.

You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.

The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.

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