A RELAXING AMSTERDAM COUNTRYSIDE BIKE TOUR
From Centraal Station, we take the ferry across the IJ river. On the north side, Amsterdam expanded significantly in the 20th century, but before that, the region was made up of water, grasslands, and small villages. Today, smooth bike lanes wind through the entire area. We’ll follow a scenic route past a few villages, where we can stop for coffee or picknick break if you’d like.
Rural North
This tour is all about the countryside—yet, technically, we never leave the city. These villages have been part of Amsterdam’s administration for about 100 years, but they maintain their unique character thanks to protected status.
Rural North covers about 28 km² and is home to 2,200 people across five villages.
As we cycle, you’ll find yourself riding through charming villages, across open meadows, along ditches and canals, and even on top of dikes.
Rembrandt in Ransdorp
One of these villages is Ransdorp, which has an unexpected connection to the famous artist Rembrandt. Geertje Dircx, Rembrandt’s maid and lover after his wife Saskia passed away, was from Ransdorp. The couple visited frequently, and during those visits, Rembrandt sketched the village’s distinctive tower.
That same tower still stands today. If you’re up for it, we can take a break from cycling and climb its 32 meters to the roof. From the top, you’ll have breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The Dutch and our bikes
Amsterdam—and the Netherlands as a whole—is one of the most bike-friendly places in the world. Here, learning to ride a bike is just as essential as learning to walk or swim. Nearly everyone owns a bike, and many people don’t even have a car.
Cyclists are at the heart of city planning, with bike lanes expanding and cars becoming less dominant. In some streets, you’ll even see signs that say: “Bike street – cars are guests.”
We ride in all weather. There’s a Dutch saying: ‘Bad weather doesn’t exist, only bad clothing.’ That said, we do enjoy cycling more when it’s not pouring rain!
FAQ
I have particular interests and/or special wishes. Can this tour be customized?
Yes. We always customize each tour to befit your wishes and interests. Please contact us and we will be happy to come up with a tailor made solution for you.
Is the tour suitable for young children?
This tour is suitable from the age of 15 – if used to cycling in traffic.
I am not that used to cycling. Can I do this tour?
The distance we cover, is about 20 km. Even though the biggest part of the route is through quiet area, cycling experience is a must for this tour..! To go and come back from the rural area, we cycle through busy city traffic. As with all our tours, participating is at your own risk.
The weather is bad, what happens now?
Amsterdam Odyssey tours will take place under any weather conditions, unless a formal warning regarding the weather has been issued by the Royal Dutch Meteorological Institute (KNMI). Dutch weather can be unpredictable. Make sure to pack and dress accordingly.
