Magnifique Tulips of Holland
Netherlands Bike & Boat Tours
A Premium Bike & Boat Tour Among Holland’s Tulip Fields, Windmills, and Historic Towns
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Overview
Experience the Netherlands in bloom on this 9-day premium bike and boat tour through North Holland at the height of tulip season. Combining cycling and small-ship cruising aboard the deluxe Magnifique X, the itinerary includes Amsterdam, Keukenhof, Zaanse Schans, Haarlem, and Alkmaar, as well as Hortus Bulborum, home to one of the world's most important collections of historic flower bulbs.
Cycling routes follow tulip fields and windmills on quiet country roads, coastal dunes, and waterside paths. Back on board, the Magnifique X offers suites and attentive service in a relaxed atmosphere – less cruise ship, more floating boutique hotel. The result is an experience that combines cycling, cruising, culture, and some of the Netherlands' most spectacular spring scenery.
Highlights
- Holland's famous tulip fields in peak bloom
- Keukenhof Gardens & Hortus Bulborum
- Amsterdam, Haarlem & Alkmaar
- Traditional windmills at Zaanse Schans
- Scenic cycling through coastal dunes, waterways & the Dutch countryside
- Private canal cruise in Hoorn
- Deluxe small-ship cruising aboard the Magnifique X
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Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
Day 2: Amsterdam – Zaandam, 18 miles (29 km)
Day 3: Zaandam – Alkmaar, 24 or 31 miles (39 or 50 km)
Day 4: Alkmaar – Haarlem, 31 miles (50 km)
Day 5: Haarlem – Haarlem, 29 miles (47 km)
Day 6: Haarlem – Zaandam, 18 miles (29 km) | Cruise to Hoorn
Day 7: Hoorn – Volendam, 15 or 34 miles (24 or 55 km) | Cruise to Huizen
Day 8: Huizen – Amsterdam, 21 or 30 miles (34 or 48 km)
Day 9: Departure from AmsterdamDay 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
Welcome to Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands and one of Europe's most picturesque canal cities. Upon arrival at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, a transfer is provided to the hotel. In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner and tour briefing before the adventure begins. (D)Day 2: Amsterdam – Zaandam, 18 miles (29 km)
After a bike fitting and safety briefing, the route heads into the Waterland region north of Amsterdam. Characterized by waterways, farmland, and traditional Dutch villages, it provides an easy introduction to cycling in the Netherlands. Pass through communities such as Broek in Waterland while a support van accompanies the ride, serving refreshments and a picnic lunch along the way. Later, board the deluxe Magnifique X, a boutique-style vessel that will serve as your home for the week. Settle into your suite before an afternoon cruise to Zaandam, a historic trading town closely tied to the region's maritime past. Upon arrival, there is time for an evening walk through the town's historic harbor district (B, L, D)Day 3: Zaandam – Alkmaar, 24 or 31 miles (39 or 50 km)
The day begins at Zaanse Schans, one of the Netherlands' best-known heritage sites, where working windmills still turn along the River Zaan. Continue through the North Holland countryside to Hortus Bulborum, home to one of the world's most important collections of historic flower bulbs. Unlike the larger gardens visited later in the week, this living collection preserves rare tulip varieties that have largely disappeared from commercial cultivation. The ride ends in Alkmaar, a canal city best known for its centuries-old cheese market. The evening is free to explore the historic center, with its canals, narrow streets, and traditional Dutch architecture. (B, L)Day 4: Alkmaar – Haarlem, 31 miles (50 km)
Before leaving Alkmaar, enjoy a special early-morning visit to the famous cheese market while preparations are underway, offering a more intimate view of this centuries-old Dutch tradition before the crowds arrive. The route then follows the North Holland Dune Reserve, a protected landscape of rolling dunes stretching along the North Sea coast. Arrive in Haarlem, a historic city often overlooked in favor of nearby Amsterdam. Its lively Grote Markt, St. Bavo Church, independent shops, and canal-lined streets make it one of the most appealing towns in the Netherlands. (B, L, D)Day 5: Haarlem – Haarlem, 29 miles (47 km)T
Today's ride explores the heart of Holland's bulb-growing region. Cycle through colorful flower fields before arriving at Keukenhof, the centerpiece of the Dutch spring season and one of the most visited gardens in Europe. More than seven million flower bulbs bloom here each year, creating a spectacular display of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other spring flowers. After time to explore the gardens, continue through the surrounding countryside before returning to Haarlem and the Magnifique X. (B)Day 6: Haarlem – Zaandam, 18 miles (29 km) | Cruise to Hoorn
The morning begins at the Aalsmeer Flower Auction, the largest flower marketplace in the world, for a fascinating look at the scale of the Dutch flower industry. After breakfast, cycle toward Zaandam through villages including Spaarndam. Later, cruise across the IJsselmeer to Hoorn as the tour leader presents an informal lecture on the history, culture, and landscapes of North Holland. Wealth generated through maritime trade helped shape the town's elegant waterfront and historic center, much of which remains intact today. In the evening, explore Hoorn from the water on a private canal cruise. (B, L, D)Day 7: Hoorn – Volendam, 15 or 34 miles (24 or 55 km) | Cruise to Huizen
Cycle through one of the Netherlands' principal tulip-growing regions. Because flower bulbs are rotated between fields, the landscape changes from year to year, making each spring departure slightly different. The route ends in Volendam, one of Holland's best-known harbor towns, where fishing boats, traditional architecture, and a lively waterfront reflect the area's maritime heritage. Dinner is served on board as the Magnifique X cruises to Huizen. (B, D)Day 8: Huizen – Amsterdam, 21 or 30 miles (34 or 48 km)
The final ride passes through Naarden, renowned for its remarkably preserved star-shaped fortifications, considered among the finest examples of military engineering in Europe. Continue to Muiden, home to the medieval Muiderslot Castle, one of the country's best-preserved castles, before following quiet cycling routes back to Amsterdam. Gather aboard the Magnifique X for a farewell dinner celebrating a week of tulips, historic towns, and life on the water. (B, D)Day 9: Departure from Amsterdam
After breakfast, a transfer is provided to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Additional nights in Amsterdam may be arranged for those wishing to extend their stay. (B)Please note that cycling distances are approximate. To ensure the best possible travel experience, the itinerary and cycling routes may be subject to change due to navigational, technical, weather-related, or other unforeseen circumstances.
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Map
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Boats & Bikes
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Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodations for 8 nights: 1 hotel night in Amsterdam and 7 nights aboard the deluxe Magnifique X in a climate-controlled suite
- 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 6 three-course dinners, including wine, beer, soft drinks, mineral water, coffee, and tea with onboard dinners
- Coffee and tea available on board throughout the day
- Daily suite cleaning
- Daily route briefings
- Standard touring bike with helmet, waterproof pannier bag, and biodegradable water bottle
- Fully guided cycling with two tour leaders and two riding groups
- Support van with a third tour leader throughout the tour
- GPS navigation app and printed cycling map (one per suite)
- Transfers to and from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (tour start and end dates only)
- Entrance fees to Keukenhof, Hortus Bulborum, Zaanse Schans, the North Holland Dune Reserve, and the Flower Auction
- Private canal cruise in Hoorn
- Selected guided walking tours
- One onboard educational lecture
- Ferry fees during the tour
- Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard (signal may vary)
- Carbon offset contribution through Trees for All and Orca
What’s Not Included
- Flights to and from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
- 4 lunches
- 2 dinners (Alkmaar and Haarlem)
- Beverages other than tea, coffee, and drinks included with onboard dinners
- Electric bike rental
- Entrance fees and excursions not listed under “What’s Included”
- Gratuities (at your discretion)
- SGR insolvency protection fee (€5 per person)
- Travel Insurance
- Bike Protection
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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 30Mar 30 (16 cabins left) € 3378 Book Mar 30Mar 30 (16 cabins left) € 4978 Book Apr 20Apr 20 (fully booked) € 4128 Apr 20Apr 20 (fully booked) € 6103 Apr 27Apr 27 (6 cabins left) € 4128 Book Apr 27Apr 27 (6 cabins left) € 6103 Book Pricing details and extra options
- Mid season 2027 Mar 30 from € 33782027 departures: Mar 30
2027 March Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Lower deck - Junior suite € 3378 Upper deck - Suite € 4228 Upper deck - Suite Plus € 4428 Single occupancy Price Lower deck - Junior suite € 4978 Upper deck - Suite € 6253 Bike rentals Price Touring bike Included Electric bike € 133 - High Season 2027 Apr 20, 27 from € 41282027 departures: Apr 20, 27
2027 April Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 20 Double occupancy Lower deck - Junior suite € 4128 Upper deck - Suite € 4978 Upper deck - Suite plus € 5178 Single occupancy Price Lower deck - Junior suite € 6103 Upper deck - Suite € 7378 Bike rentals Price Touring bike Included Electric bike € 133
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
- Mid season 2027 Mar 30 from € 3378
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Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy
This is a relaxed bike and boat tour designed for easy riding on mostly flat terrain. Daily cycling distances range from approximately 15–34 miles (25–54 km), following dedicated bike paths, quiet country roads, coastal dune routes, and canal-side cycling paths. Several days offer a choice of shorter or longer routes, making the tour suitable for a wide range of cycling abilities.
Airport Info
The nearest airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS).
Local Travel
Airport transfers are included on the official tour start and end dates only. Guests arriving outside these dates or extending their stay independently should arrange their own transportation.
Climate
Spring is one of the best times to visit the Netherlands, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 50–65°F (10–18°C). Expect a mix of sunshine, cool breezes, and occasional showers. Tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils are generally in bloom during this period, creating some of the most colorful cycling scenery of the year.
Day of Rest
If you’d prefer not to cycle on a particular day, you’re welcome to remain on board and enjoy a leisurely cruise to the next destination. The support van also provides additional flexibility for guests who wish to shorten a ride.
Recommended
Spring weather can be changeable, so layered clothing and rain gear are recommended.
Important to know
Before you travel, please check the passport and visa requirements of the country/countries you plan to visit. Please be informed that it is your responsibility to ensure that you have proper identification. 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. It is important to research before you travel, as airlines will not permit boarding if you do not have the required valid documents.
*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 Boat Bike Tours.
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
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Reviews
Reviews
Reviews coming soon!
This tour is brand new, which is why there aren’t any reviews yet. Crafted by trusted local partners and backed by our 25+ years of experience, it’s a journey we’re excited to share.
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