Holland’s Spring Highlights
Netherlands Bike & Boat Tours
Bike and boat through tulip fields, Keukenhof, historic cities, and quintessential Dutch countryside
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Overview
Experience the highlights of Dutch spring on this five-day guided bike and boat tour from Amsterdam. Cycle through the Netherlands at its most colorful, where brilliant flower fields, historic cities, peaceful waterways, and classic countryside create an ever-changing backdrop.
Ride through Holland's renowned bulb-growing region, explore the historic centers of Haarlem and Leiden, and visit Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world's most celebrated displays of spring flowers. Beyond the blooms, cycling routes lead through polders, villages, and green landscapes shaped by water, offering a wonderful glimpse of life beyond Amsterdam.
Highlights
- Cycle through Holland's colorful tulip fields
- Visit world-famous Keukenhof Gardens
- Explore historic Haarlem and Leiden
- Pedal through polders, villages, and along scenic waterways
- Follow the Amstel River into Amsterdam
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Itinerary
Day 1: Amsterdam – Spaarndam – Haarlem, 9 mi (15 km)
Day 2: Haarlem – Keukenhof – Leiden, 25 mi (40 km)
Day 3: Leiden – Kudelstaart, 28 mi (45 km)
Day 4: Kudelstaart – Uithoorn – Amsterdam, 25 mi (40 km)
Day 5: AmsterdamDay 1: Amsterdam – Spaarndam – Haarlem, 9 mi (15 km)
Board your barge in Amsterdam between 12:30 and 1:30 pm and meet your guide, crew, and fellow travelers. At 2 pm, the barge leaves Amsterdam and cruises to Spaarndam, a small village with a long history tied to Holland's waterways and dikes. From here, set out on an easy introductory ride to Haarlem, where you'll spend the first night.Day 2: Haarlem – Keukenhof – Leiden, 25 mi (40 km)
Today's route leads through Holland's historic bulb-growing region, where tulips and other spring flowers brighten the countryside. A major highlight is Keukenhof Gardens, with time to explore its elaborate displays of tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and other seasonal blooms; admission is included. The day ends in Leiden, a lively canal-lined university city and the birthplace of Rembrandt.Day 3: Leiden – Kudelstaart, 28 mi (45 km)
Leave Leiden and continue around the Haarlemmermeer, now a vast polder but once one of Holland's largest lakes. The route leads into the Green Heart of Holland, a pastoral landscape of narrow bike paths, grazing cattle, waterways, and reclaimed land. Your destination is Kudelstaart, a small town on the shores of the Westeinderplassen, an expansive area of lakes and islands.Day 4: Kudelstaart – Uithoorn – Amsterdam, 25 mi (40 km)
Ride first to Uithoorn through a landscape transformed over centuries by peat cutting, drainage, and land reclamation. The area also holds remnants of the Defence Line of Amsterdam, the historic ring of fortifications surrounding the capital. From Uithoorn, follow the Amstel River into Amsterdam, arriving with time to explore the city before dinner. Afterward, you may want to take an evening stroll or enjoy a canal cruise on your own.Day 5: Amsterdam
After breakfast, your bike and boat tour comes to an end. Disembark before 10 am and continue with your onward travel. -
Boats & Bikes
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Anna van Aemstel
Comfort Class Barge
Touring BicycleElectric Bicycle (E-Bike)![]()
Touring Bicycle … • 24 speeds … • Handbrakes … • Step-through frame: for passengers from 4'11 to 5'10 / 150 cm - 178 cm … • Men's frame: for passengers from 4'11 to 6'8 / 150 cm - 203 cm … Read More![]()
KTM … • 9 speed … • Bosch motor … • Integrated battery … • Handbrakes … • Shimano Derailleur … • Selle Royal Essenza+ saddle … • For passengers from 5'1 to 6'6 / 155 cm - 198 cm … Accessories … •… Read MoreThe Anna van Aemstel (formerly called the Wending) is a former freight barge. In the early 90's, it was converted into a passenger motor barge and has undergone a full renovation just in time for the 2025 season. Read More
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Elisabeth van Aemstel
Comfort Class Barge
Touring BicycleElectric Bicycle (E-Bike)![]()
Touring Bicycle … • 24 speeds … • Handbrakes … • Step-through frame: for passengers from 4'11 to 5'10 / 150 cm - 178 cm … • Men's frame: for passengers from 4'11 to 6'8 / 150 cm - 203 cm … Read More![]()
KTM … • 9 speed … • Bosch motor … • Integrated battery … • Handbrakes … • Shimano Derailleur … • Selle Royal Essenza+ saddle … • For passengers from 5'1 to 6'6 / 155 cm - 198 cm … Accessories … •… Read MoreIn 1998, the Elisabeth van Aemstel (formerly the Allure) took to the water as a cruise vessel, but after undergoing a rejuvenating restyle, was transformed into a welcoming and cozy passenger barge boasting sleek lines and contemporary design. Since then, the it has become a staple for boat and bike tours across the picturesque regions of the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. Read More
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Floor van Aemstel
Comfort Class Barge
Touring BicycleElectric Bicycle (E-Bike)![]()
Touring Bicycle … • 24 speeds … • Handbrakes … • Step-through frame: for passengers from 4'11 to 5'10 / 150 cm - 178 cm … • Men's frame: for passengers from 4'11 to 6'8 / 150 cm - 203 cm … Read More![]()
KTM … • 9 speed … • Bosch motor … • Integrated battery … • Handbrakes … • Shimano Derailleur … • Selle Royal Essenza+ saddle … • For passengers from 5'1 to 6'6 / 155 cm - 198 cm … Accessories … •… Read MoreThe Floor van Aemstel is a distinctive motor passenger barge that blends proven craftsmanship with modern comfort. Launched in 1998 and extensively renovated in 2016, her stylish cabins offer a fresh, welcoming retreat on the water. Read More
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Peter van Aemstel
Standard Class Barge
Touring BicycleElectric Bicycle (E-Bike)![]()
Touring Bicycle … • 24 speeds … • Handbrakes … • Step-through frame: for passengers from 4'11 to 5'10 / 150 cm - 178 cm … • Men's frame: for passengers from 4'11 to 6'8 / 150 cm - 203 cm … Read More![]()
KTM … • 9 speed … • Bosch motor … • Integrated battery … • Handbrakes … • Shimano Derailleur … • Selle Royal Essenza+ saddle … • For passengers from 5'1 to 6'6 / 155 cm - 198 cm … Accessories … •… Read MoreThe Peter van Aemstel is the perfect vessel for those seeking an active bike and boat vacation, providing comfortable accommodations and all the amenities that the more luxurious vessels offer: great food, expert tour guides, hospitable crew, and fantastic cycling! Read More
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Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodations for 4 nights
- Breakfasts, 3 packed lunches, & 4 three-course dinners
- Coffee, tea, and biscuits on board
- Afternoon snacks
- 24-speed touring bicycle equipped with pannier bags, lock, water bottle, & helmet
- Bike insurance
- Guided cycling with an experienced tour leader
- City walks with tour guide
- Keukenhof Gardens entrance
- Ferry fares along the cycling route
- Tour information (1 set per cabin)
- Navigation app with GPS tracks
- Complimentary Wi-Fi in the lounge and on deck (limited availability)
What’s Not Included
- Entrance fees to museums
- Beverages (incl. alcohol) (available on board)
- Gratuites
- Travel Insurance
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Dates & Pricing
Dates & Pricing
Questions about dates or pricing? We’re here to help! Call 800-951-4384 to talk to a Tour Specialist now.
Mar 28Mar 28 Peter van Aemstel € 734 Book Mar 28Mar 28 Peter van Aemstel € 1051 Book Mar 28Mar 28 Floor van Aemstel € 895 Book Mar 28Mar 28 Floor van Aemstel € 1291 Book Mar 28Mar 28 Floor van Aemstel € 866 Book Mar 28Mar 28 Elisabeth van Aemstel € 895 Book Mar 28Mar 28 Elisabeth van Aemstel € 1291 Book Mar 30Mar 30 Anna van Aemstel € 950 Book Mar 30Mar 30 Anna van Aemstel € 1346 Book Mar 30Mar 30 Anna van Aemstel € 916 Book May 1May 1 Anna van Aemstel € 1350 Book May 1May 1 Anna van Aemstel € 2061 Book May 1May 1 Anna van Aemstel € 1286 Book Pricing details and extra options
Value Season
- Peter van Aemstel 2027 Mar 28 from € 7342027 departures: Mar 28
2027 March Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double Occupancy Bunk bed cabin € 734 Twin cabin € 849 Superior twin € 970 Single Occupancy Price Bunk bed cabin for single-use € 1051 Bike Rentals Price Standard bike Included Electric bike € 65
Value Season
- Floor van Aemstel 2027 Mar 28 from € 8952027 departures: Mar 28
2027 March Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double Occupancy Standard twin cabin € 895 Superior twin € 990 Single Occupancy Price Standard twin cabin for single-use € 1291 Triple occupancy Price Superior triple cabin € 866 Bike Rentals Price Standard bike Included Electric bike € 65
Value Season
- Elisabeth van Aemstel 2027 Mar 28 from € 8952027 departures: Mar 28
2027 March Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double Occupancy Twin/double cabin € 895 Single Occupancy Price Twin/double for single-use € 1291 Bike Rentals Price Standard bike Included Electric bike € 65
Value Season
- Anna van Aemstel 2027 Mar 30 from € 9502027 departures: Mar 30
2027 March Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double Occupancy Twin/double cabin € 950 Single Occupancy Price Twin/double for single-use € 1346 Triple Occupancy Price Triple cabin € 916 Bike Rentals Price Standard bike Included Electric bike € 65
Standard Season
- Anna van Aemstel 2027 May 1 from € 13502027 departures: May 1
2027 May Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double Occupancy Twin/double cabin € 1350 Single Occupancy Price Twin/double for single-use € 2061 Triple Occupancy Price Triple cabin € 1286 Bike Rentals Price Standard bike Included Electric bike € 65
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
- Peter van Aemstel 2027 Mar 28 from € 734
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Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy
Daily distances range from 9 to 28 mi (15 to 45 km), with predominantly flat terrain and little elevation gain. Routes follow Holland’s extensive cycling network, including paved bike paths, quiet country roads, and paths through rural areas and along waterways.
Airport Info
Arrival & departure airport: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
Local Travel
From Schiphol Airport, take a direct train to Amsterdam Central Station (approximately 15–20 minutes). From the station, the embarkation point at Oosterdok is about a 10–15 minute walk or a short taxi ride. A taxi directly from the airport takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Tour start: Boarding in Amsterdam is from 12:30–1:30 pm. You must be aboard no later than 1:30 pm, as the boat departs promptly at 2 pm. Luggage may be dropped off from 11:30 am.
Tour end: The tour ends in Amsterdam after breakfast on Day 5. Disembarkation is before 10 am. Amsterdam Central Station provides convenient train connections to Schiphol Airport.
Climate
Spring weather in Holland can be changeable. From late March through May, daytime temperatures generally range from about 50–65°F (10–18°C), with cooler mornings and evenings. Rain and wind are possible throughout the season, along with periods of mild, sunny weather. April is typically prime tulip season, though bloom times vary each year depending on winter and spring temperatures.
Day of Rest
Any day can be designated as a day of rest by remaining on board and taking in the scenery from the deck of the boat.
Remarks
Tulip season in Holland extends from the end of March to the middle of May but is dependent on temperatures and the weather.
Important to know
Before you travel, please check the passport and visa requirements of the country/countries you plan to visit. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have proper identification and documents. For US citizens, the U.S. Passports & International Travel website is a good source of information. The Country Information tab provides details about passport validity, blank passport pages required, etc.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status, as once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Cycletours.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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Photos
![Spring flowers in bloom at Keukenhof. pixabay:mabelamber]()
![A flower-lined canal in Amsterdam. unsplash:LeandroPereira]()
![A quiet historic street in Leiden. pexels:MichaelKnotek]()
![Historic canal houses along Amsterdam’s waterfront. unsplash:AnmolKataria]()
![Colorful tulips in bloom at Keukenhof Gardens. pixabay:Baruya]()
![Colorful waterfront architecture in Haarlem. Pixabay]()
![Traditional stroopwafels, a favorite Dutch treat. toCT]()
![Colorfully painted Dutch clogs. pixabay:creabyasecondlife]()
![A peaceful bike path beside a Dutch canal. pixabay:mabelamber]()
![Traditional Dutch windmill in Leiden. pexels:JanVanDerWolf]()
![Colorful tulip fields in Holland’s bulb-growing region. pexels:Pixabay]()
![Boats reflected in Leiden’s harbor at sunset. pixabay:ariefyusuf]()
![A tempting selection of Dutch cheese. pixabay:barcellosalice]()
![Amsterdam’s historic canal houses at dusk. pixabay:IulianUrsache]()
![Striking orange tulips in bloom at Keukenhof. pixabay:jovanel]()
![Spring gardens and a picturesque footbridge at Keukenhof. pixabay:mabelamber]()
![A scenic canal through historic Leiden. pixabay:manavporwal]()
![A historic windmill in the Dutch countryside. pixabay:mabelamber]()
![A canal in the heart of Amsterdam. pixabay:memorycatcher]()
![Spring flowers beneath the trees at Keukenhof Gardens. pixabay:Simgi]()
![A colorful spring display of tulips at Keukenhof Gardens. pixabay:plukje]()
![Historic church architecture in Haarlem. Pixabay:margreetkeijzer]()
![Tulips and a traditional Dutch windmill at Keukenhof. pixabay:wephotouk]()
![Cycling through Holland’s open countryside. pixabay:mrsbrown]()
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Reviews
Reviews
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