Table of Contents
Sure, cycling through Amsterdam’s charming streets and along its iconic canals is a bucket list experience. But let’s be honest—dodging a million local commuters, high-speed bike couriers, and the occasional confused tourist wobbling on two wheels can be… a bit intense. Luckily, the Netherlands is a cyclist’s paradise beyond the city limits, offering breathtaking landscapes, peaceful routes, and some seriously cool hidden gems. And the best part? Exploring by bike is not only the most fun and immersive way to travel, but also a green and sustainable way to experience a new country.
If you’re looking to swap city traffic for open skies, these two off-the-beaten-path bike trips from Amsterdam are just what you need. Think golden sand dunes, a medieval castle, wild horses, and the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste—all accessible on two wheels.
Blissful biking on Texel Island
A short journey north of Amsterdam, Texel Island is a dream for cyclists. The best part? It’s flat. Really flat. No hills, no struggle—just smooth, scenic riding through endless dunes, golden beaches, and picturesque villages. Located about 120 km from Amsterdam, Texel is easy to reach via train and ferry, making it a perfect overnight or weekend trip.
Start your adventure in Den Burg, Texel’s largest village, where you can grab a slice of Texel cake from Bakker Timmer Bakery—a local treat with warm spices and a hint of sea salt in the air. From there, it’s time to pedal straight into nature, because the real highlight of Texel is its stunning landscapes.
Covering the entire west side of the island, Duinen van Texel National Park is where you’ll want to slow down and soak in the scenery. Ride through rolling sand dunes, vast beaches, and coastal trails where you’ll spot everything from migratory birds to playful seals and, if you’re lucky, a herd of wild horses galloping across the open fields. If you do see them, stay quiet, stay still, and enjoy the magic—no sudden moves!
For a panoramic view of the island, climb the 118 steps of Texel’s Red Lighthouse at the northern tip. Then, make your way to Oudeschild, a small fishing village where you can refuel with the freshest seafood at Visrestaurant ’t Pakhuus. And if you’re a beer lover, a visit to the Texel Brewery is a must—because what’s better than a cold, locally brewed beer after a day of biking by the sea?
A castle and cycle tour: Amsterdam to Muiderslot
If you’re short on time but still want a fairytale-worthy bike ride, Muiderslot Castle is the perfect day trip from Amsterdam. Just 17 km away, this route is easy, scenic, and packed with history.
The journey takes you along ancient rivers and the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal, through charming countryside and quiet paths where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. And then, rising from the water like something out of a storybook, you’ll see it—Muiderslot Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to 1285. Think moats, drawbridges, knight armor, and perfectly manicured gardens.
After exploring the castle, hop back on your bike and continue to Weesp, a ridiculously picturesque little town where you absolutely need to stop for an ice cream break at Nelis’ Ijssalon. Their flavors change regularly, but if you see stroopwafel ice cream on the menu, don’t even hesitate.
With smooth bike paths, a historic castle, and one of the best ice creams in the Netherlands, this is a cycling trip that delivers big rewards for little effort—perfect for a relaxed day of adventure.
Cover photo credit: ANP / P. van den Akker / NBTC
