Amsterdam to Paris E-Bike Tour

Day 1: Arrival Amsterdam
Day 2: Amsterdam - Gouda/Bodegraven, 42 mi. (68 km) 
Day 3: Gouda/Bodegraven - Breda, 50 mi. (81 km)
Day 4: Breda - Antwerp, 45 mi. (73 km)
Day 5: Antwerp - Ghent, 56 mi. (90 km)
Day 6: Ghent - Tournai, 49 mi. (79 km)
Day 7: Tournai - Cambrai, 46 mi. (74 km)
Day 8:  Cambrai - Saint-Quentin, 32 mi. (51 km)
Day 9:  Saint-Quentin - Compiègne, 46 mi. (75 km)
Day 10: Compiègne - Senlis, 42 mi. (67 km)
Day 11: Senlis - Paris, 45 mi. (72 km)
Day 12: Departure from Paris

All distances are approximate.

Day 1:  Arrival Amsterdam
Your holiday begins in Amsterdam, one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. With its picturesque canals, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, there’s no better place to start your journey. If you arrive early, take a stroll through the 17th-century canal district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the elegant townhouses that line the waterways.

If you still have time and energy, wander through the world-famous Red Light District, which draws millions of curious visitors each year, or enjoy the lively street performances at Rembrandtplein, a favorite gathering place for both locals and travelers.

Preferred hotel: Westcord Art Hotel, Amsterdam

Note: Bikes from Paris to Amsterdam are prohibited on the train (or vice versa!) We therefore strongly recommend booking this trip with rental bikes so that you can leave the rental bikes at the hotel in Paris at the end of the trip.  

Day 2:  Amsterdam - Gouda/Bodegraven, 42 mi. (68 km) 
Your cycling adventure begins with a beautiful ride through the Green Heart of Holland, a region rich in waterways and dotted with charming villages. This area is a true cycling haven, characterized by its peat meadows, polder landscapes, and small farming communities that showcase the timeless Dutch countryside.

As you make your way toward Gouda, you’ll pass through peaceful rural scenery and historic towns that invite you to slow down and enjoy the journey. End the day in medieval Gouda, a town famed for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and beautifully preserved center. Stroll through the cobbled streets to see the impressive Gothic town hall and St. John’s Church, known for its stunning stained-glass windows.

Don’t miss the chance to indulge in Gouda’s local specialties, fresh syrup waffles (stroopwafels) and the world-renowned Gouda cheese, for the perfect end to your first day on the road.

Preferred hotel: City Hotel Goulda, Gouda

Day 3:  Gouda/Bodegraven - Breda, 50 mi. (81 km)
Today’s route is filled with classic Dutch charm and remarkable sights. The highlight of the day is Kinderdijk, one of the Netherlands’ most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, nineteen historic windmills stand proudly against the sky, symbols of the country’s centuries-long battle with water. Take the time to visit an authentic mill workshop and discover how these ingenious structures were built and operated.

Continue your journey through Dordrecht, one of the Netherlands’ oldest towns. The scenic harbor quarter, lined with beautiful historic buildings, is perfect for a short stroll or a coffee break. The route then takes you past Biesbosch National Park, one of the few remaining freshwater tidal areas in Europe, a serene landscape of rivers, creeks, and willow forests.

After crossing the Hollands Diep River by ferry, you’ll find yourself in the province of Brabant, where the atmosphere changes noticeably. The southern Dutch hospitality shines through in every café and village you pass, tempting you to stop for a cup of coffee and a generous slice of fruit tart. End the day in Breda, a lively city rich in history and culture.

Note: Biesbosch National Park can only be cycled on days when the ferry operates. On days without ferry service, an alternate route will be provided.

Preferred hotel: Intercityhotel Breda, Breda

Day 4:  Breda - Antwerp, 45 mi. (73 km)
Begin the day exploring Breda, once the seat of the House of Nassau in Holland. The ancestors of the Dutch royal family transformed this city into an elegant destination filled with richly decorated monuments and stately buildings.

As you leave Breda, the route leads you through peaceful, wooded landscapes on your way toward Belgium. Near the border, take a well-deserved break in De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide, a scenic cross-border nature reserve of heather fields, forests, and sand dunes that beautifully mark the transition between the two countries.

Continue cycling into the heart of Antwerp, Belgium’s largest city and most important port. The historic city center is a lively mix of grand squares, ornate guild houses, and the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady. For a modern twist, explore the trendy districts of ’t Zuid and Het Eilandje, filled with art galleries, waterfront cafés, and stylish boutiques.

If you’re a beer enthusiast, end your day with a visit to De Koninck Brewery, a beloved Antwerp institution since 1833. Its interactive visitor center offers a glimpse into local brewing traditions—along with a chance to enjoy their signature “Bollekes” beer.

Preferred hotels: Mercure Antwerp City South, Antwerp

Day 5: Antwerp - Ghent, 56 mi. (90 km)
Today’s route follows the scenic banks of the River Scheldt as you cycle south along the LF2 Cities Cycle Route. The Scheldt is not only a vital waterway but also a serene natural corridor that offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Later, you’ll connect with the LF5 route toward Dendermonde and Ghent. Along the way, the surrounding polders, meadows, and riverside landscapes highlight the untouched beauty of this region.

Your destination for the day is Ghent, a vibrant and culturally rich city often hailed by the Belgians as their most beautiful. Ghent’s historical center, filled with Gothic architecture, canals, and cobblestone streets, offers a magical end to your day. Take time to wander through its charming lanes, relax at a café terrace, or explore one of its fascinating museums.

You may wish to extend your stay here to fully enjoy the city’s atmosphere. If you’d like to add an extra night in Ghent, simply mention it when booking. Please note that choosing an additional rest day in Ghent will shift your tour start date to Wednesday instead of Thursday, while the arrival date in Paris remains the same.

Preferred hotel: Hotel Chamade, Ghent

Day 6: Ghent - Tournai, 49 mi. (79 km)
Leaving Ghent behind, the River Scheldt continues to guide your route southward toward the historic town of Oudenaarde, founded in 974 AD. Known as the heart of the legendary Tour of Flanders cycling race, Oudenaarde has a long-standing connection with cycling culture and offers plenty of opportunities to pause and soak up the local atmosphere.

The path follows converted towpaths that once served river barges, now transformed into smooth, tree-lined cycling trails. The ride alternates between shaded stretches and open countryside, showcasing the gentle beauty of the Flemish landscape.

Along the way, make time for a treat—try the Geraardsbergse mattentaart, a traditional pastry made from milk curds and puff pastry, cherished as one of Belgium’s oldest delicacies. Beyond Kluisbergen, the scenery begins to change as you cross from Flanders into the French-speaking province of Wallonia. From there, a final 20 kilometers of pleasant countryside riding brings you to Tournai, one of Belgium’s oldest cities and a fittingly historic stop for the night.

Preferred hotel: Hotel Alcantara, Tournai

Day 7: Tournai - Cambrai, 46 mi. (74 km)
As you leave behind the skyline of Tournai, marked by its five majestic bell towers, the journey continues along the final stretch of the Belgian cycle path following the River Scheldt before crossing into France. The route offers a gentle and scenic transition between the two countries, leading you into the Parc Naturel Régional Scarpe–Escaut, the first regional nature park established in France.

This peaceful landscape blends forests, wetlands, and ponds teeming with birdlife. You’ll also pass through small mining villages recognized by UNESCO for their cultural and historical significance, as well as traditional farming communities that reveal the rural character of northern France.

Your destination is Cambrai, a charming and historic city known for its blend of Flemish and French architectural styles. Stroll through its old streets lined with half-timbered houses and elegant mansions, and don’t leave without trying the local specialty “Bêtises de Cambrai,” a sweet treat famous throughout France.

Preferred hotel: Hotel Mouton Blanc, Cambrai

Day 8: Cambrai - Saint-Quentin, 32 mi. (51 km)
Depart Cambrai following the Canal de Saint-Quentin, inaugurated in 1810 by Emperor Napoleon I. The route winds through the Haute Vallée de l’Escaut, a serene stretch of countryside where you’ll encounter the impressive 12th-century Abbey of Vaucelles, one of the largest Cistercian abbeys in Europe, beautifully restored and rich in history.

Not far beyond lies the source of the Escaut River, whose long journey you’ve followed since Belgium. A short optional detour (6 km) offers the chance to visit the Touage Museum and the fascinating canal tunnel nearby.

The ride continues over gently rolling roads, passing through small agricultural villages and several poignant World War I memorials, cemeteries, and remnants of the Hindenburg Line. The day ends in Saint-Quentin, a city renowned for its Art Deco architecture. Its striking façades and decorative details reflect the city’s post-war reconstruction and vibrant rebirth.

Preferred hotel: Hotel Le Picardy, Saint-Quentin

Day 9: Saint-Quentin - Compiègne, 46 mi. (75 km)
Continue through the fertile Oise Valley, cycling along tranquil canal paths toward Chauny. This region is a haven for birdlife, home to over 200 species. From there, the route leads toward Noyon, a city steeped in history and art, where Hugues Capet was crowned king in 987.

As you follow the canal toward Compiègne, take time to visit the Abbey of Ourscamp, a peaceful and atmospheric stop along the way. The final stretch leads through the vast Compiègne Forest, where you’ll pass the historic “Clairière de l’Armistice”—the site where the 1918 Armistice ending World War I was signed, and where history echoed again in 1940.

Arrive in Compiègne, a graceful city surrounded by forest, known for its royal heritage, elegant streets, and inviting cafés and museums.

Preferred hotel: Aiden by Best Western T'Aim Hotel, Compiègne

Day 10: Compiègne - Senlis, 42 mi. (67 km)
This stage combines royal elegance, medieval charm, and tranquil forest scenery. Begin your ride through the majestic Forest of Compiègne, where quiet roads lead to the fairytale village of Pierrefonds, home to the magnificent Château de Pierrefonds, an impressive fortress restored by architect Viollet-le-Duc.

Continue to the peaceful Abbey of Saint-Jean-aux-Bois, a small village steeped in history, with its well-preserved abbey gate and an ancient oak tree that has stood for more than eight centuries. The route then winds past traces of Gallo-Roman ruins before descending into the picturesque Automne Valley.

A gentle climb brings you to Néry, a charming village surrounded by forested hills. From here, follow shaded paths through the Halatte Forest to reach Senlis, a beautifully preserved medieval town. Its cobblestone streets, old ramparts, and elegant architecture reveal a long and fascinating history.

If you still have energy left, consider adding a 15 km extension to Chantilly. This detour takes you to the Château de Chantilly, often compared to the grand castles of the Loire Valley. The town is also famous for its equestrian heritage, lacework, porcelain, and, of course, the world-renowned Chantilly cream said to have been invented here.

Preferred hotel: Logis Hostellerie de la Porte Bellon or Logis Hôtel le Petit Bellon, Senlis

Day 11: Senlis - Paris, 45 mi. (72 km)
The final stage of your cycling adventure leads you to the grand finale, Paris, the City of Light. Depart Senlis and enjoy a refreshing start through tranquil forest paths surrounded by tall pines, offering a peaceful contrast to the urban excitement that awaits. The route avoids villages for much of the way, immersing you completely in nature until you reach the outskirts of the Île-de-France region.

From Gressy onward, follow the scenic cycle path along the Canal de l’Ourcq. The final 30 kilometers provide a safe, car-free ride into the heart of Paris. As you trace the Canal de l’Ourcq and then the Canal Saint-Martin, the city’s atmosphere gradually unfolds—bridges, locks, and lively quaysides give a sense of cycling through an open-air museum.

For those wishing to end the journey with a flourish, an optional 24 km loop through Paris offers a memorable finale. Beginning from your hotel, this route follows the River Seine past Notre Dame Cathedral and continues to the Eiffel Tower before returning—an unforgettable way to celebrate your arrival in one of the world’s most iconic cities.

Preferred hotel: Holiday Inn Express - Canal de la Villette, Paris

Day 12:  Departure from Paris
After breakfast, your cycling holiday comes to an end. Consider extending your stay to fully experience Paris, wander its elegant boulevards, visit its world-famous museums, and relax at a café terrace to reflect on your incredible journey from Amsterdam to the City of Light.

It is possible to book an additional night in Ghent to insert a day of rest into the schedule (see day 5). Note, this is only possible for the Amsterdam to Paris itinerary/direction. 

Day 1: Arrival in Paris
Day 2: Paris - Senlis, 45 mi. (72 km)
Day 3: Senlis - Compiègne, 41 mi. (66 km)
Day 4: Compiègne - Saint-Quentin, 49 mi. (79 km)
Day 5: Saint-Quentin - Cambrai, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 6: Cambrai - Tournai, 47 mi. (75 km)
Day 7: Tournai - Ghent, 49 mi. (79 km)
Day 8: Ghent - Antwerp, 56 mi. (90 km)
Day 9: Antwerp - Breda, 45 mi. (73 km)
Day 10: Breda - Gouda/Bodegraven, 50 mi. (81 km)
Day 11: Gouda/Bodegraven - Amsterdam, 49 mi. (79 km) 
Day 12: Departure from Amsterdam

All distances are approximate.

Day 1: Arrival in Paris
Your journey begins in Paris, the world-famous “City of Light.” With its romantic boulevards, grand architecture, and vibrant culture, there’s no better place to start your adventure. Take time to stroll along the banks of the River Seine, wander through the artistic streets of Montmartre, or visit some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks—the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum (home of the Mona Lisa), and of course, the Eiffel Tower.

Note: Bicycles are not permitted on the train between Amsterdam and Paris (or vice versa). For this reason, we strongly recommend booking this tour with rental bikes, which can be conveniently left at your hotel in Amsterdam at the end of the trip.

Preferred hotel: Holiday Inn Express - Canal de la Villette, Paris

Day 2: Paris - Senlis, 45 mi. (72 km)
Your cycling adventure begins with a fascinating route through the heart of Paris, following the Canal Saint-Martin and Canal de l’Ourcq. This stretch feels like gliding through a living history book—bridges, locks, and charming quays lined with cafés and old warehouses that tell the story of the city’s past.

For the first 30 kilometers, the path follows the scenic Canal de l’Ourcq, offering a peaceful and safe ride away from city traffic. The surroundings gradually shift from urban to rural as the cycle path winds through open landscapes and quiet countryside.

As you approach Senlis, the scenery transforms again. Forests of tall pines and sandy paths mark your entry into the Île-de-France region, offering a refreshing contrast to the city. The day ends in Senlis, a charming medieval town surrounded by ancient ramparts and filled with cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture.

Preferred hotel: Logis Hostellerie de la Porte Bellon or Logis Hôtel le Petit Bellon, Senlis

Day 3: Senlis - Compiègne, 41 mi. (66 km)
A day filled with elegance, history, and nature awaits. Begin by cycling through the scenic Halatte Forest, a serene landscape of towering trees and soft hills. Along the way, the charming town of Chantilly invites a stop, world-renowned for its stunning château (often compared to the castles of the Loire), its Great Stables, lace-making heritage, porcelain, and, of course, its famous Chantilly cream.

Continue through the gentle plateau of Néry before reaching Béthisy-Saint-Pierre, a village well worth a short detour. The route then follows the Automne River Valley, known as “The Valley of 35 Bell Towers,” for its many picturesque churches and villages. Your day ends in the historic town of Compiègne, surrounded by lush forest and home to a grand royal palace. The town’s charming streets, museums, and lively atmosphere make it a delightful overnight stop.

Preferred hotel: Aiden by Best Western T'Aim Hotel, Compiègne

Day 4: Compiègne – Saint-Quentin, 49 mi. (79 km)
Begin the day with a visit to the peaceful Ourscamp Abbey, an atmospheric ruin along the Oise River. Continue along the canal toward Noyon, a city of Art and History with medieval charm and an impressive cathedral where Hugues Capet was crowned in 987.

As the route follows the canal through open countryside, you’ll pass natural areas teeming with birdlife where more than 200 species thrive. The final stretch brings you into Saint-Quentin, a city known for its Art Deco architecture, which flourished during the post-war reconstruction. Take time to admire the intricate façades and lively town center before resting for the night.

Preferred hotel: Hotel Le Picardy, Saint-Quentin

Day 5: Saint-Quentin – Cambrai, 31 mi. (50 km)
Leave Saint-Quentin along peaceful rural roads through rolling farmland and villages devoted to agriculture. Along the way, you’ll encounter moving reminders of World War I—memorials, cemeteries, and remnants of the Hindenburg Line.

A short detour leads to the remarkable 12th-century Abbey of Vaucelles, one of the largest and best-restored Cistercian abbeys in Europe. Continuing along the Escaut River, whose source lies nearby, you’ll soon reach Cambrai. This city of Art and History is filled with elegant mansions and half-timbered houses. Before you go, sample the town’s signature treat, the Bêtises de Cambrai, a beloved local candy.

Preferred hotel: Hotel Mouton Blanc, Cambrai

Day 6: Cambrai – Tournai, 47 mi. (75 km)
Enjoy a scenic ride through the Parc Naturel Régional Scarpe–Escaut, France’s first regional nature park. The landscape shifts between forests, marshes, and ponds, home to diverse wildlife. You’ll also encounter mining villages recognized by UNESCO for their cultural heritage, as well as fertile farmlands and quaint hamlets.

After crossing into Belgium, the route follows the Escaut River once more, leading you toward the historic city of Tournai. With its five bell towers and beautifully preserved architecture, Tournai offers a glimpse into Belgium’s medieval past and a peaceful atmosphere to end your day.

Preferred hotel: Hotel Alcantara, Tournai

Day 7: Tournai – Ghent, 49 mi. (79 km)
Leaving behind the five towers of Tournai, the route carries you from Wallonia into Flanders. Follow the Scheldt River through the heart of the countryside and enjoy smooth, leafy cycle paths that once served as towpaths.

Be sure to stop for a local delicacy—Geraardsbergse mattentaart, a traditional cream-filled pastry with centuries of history. Continue to Oudenaarde, a town dating back to 974 AD and famed as the center of the Tour of Flanders cycling race. The day ends in vibrant Ghent, often called Belgium’s most beautiful city, where Gothic spires, canals, and lively squares await.

Preferred hotel: Hotel Chamade, Ghent

Day 8: Ghent – Antwerp, 56 mi. (90 km)
Ride north along the Scheldt River through the serene Flemish countryside toward Lokeren, passing through bushland and polders rich in birdlife. The river itself is both a natural and cultural attraction, offering an ever-changing landscape along its banks.

Arrive in Antwerp, Belgium’s largest port city and a hub of art and history. Explore its grand squares, ornate guild houses, and the Cathedral of Our Lady before heading to the trendy districts of ’t Zuid or Het Eilandje. Beer lovers may want to visit De Koninck Brewery, a local favorite since 1833, where you can enjoy a taste of their classic Bollekes beer.

Preferred hotels: Mercure Antwerp City South, Antwerp

Day 9: Antwerp – Breda, 45 mi. (73 km)
Cycle through wooded landscapes and peaceful farmland as you approach the Dutch border. Pause at De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide, a cross-border nature reserve of heather, dunes, and forest, a perfect spot to rest and take in the scenery.

Cross into the Netherlands and experience the warm hospitality of North Brabant, where charming cafés tempt you with coffee and slices of homemade fruit tart. Your day ends in Breda, the historical seat of the Nassau family, whose influence can still be seen in the city’s grand monuments and decorative architecture.

Preferred hotel: Intercityhotel Breda, Breda

Day 10: Breda – Gouda, 50 mi. (81 km)
Today’s journey is filled with Dutch icons and natural beauty. Pass through Dordrecht, one of the Netherlands’ oldest cities, where the scenic harbor quarter and historic buildings invite a leisurely lunch stop.

Continue toward the Biesbosch National Park, one of Europe’s few remaining freshwater tidal zones, a tranquil network of rivers, creeks, and wetlands. Later, you’ll reach Kinderdijk, a UNESCO-listed site famous for its nineteen historic windmills that perfectly capture the essence of the Dutch countryside.

Finish the day in Gouda, a medieval town celebrated for its charming streets, Gothic town hall, and St. John’s Church. Treat yourself to a fresh syrup waffle (stroopwafel) or a taste of authentic Gouda cheese.

Note: The Biesbosch section can only be cycled when the ferry is operating. An alternate route is available when it is not.

Preferred hotel: City Hotel Goulda, Gouda

Day 11: Gouda – Amsterdam, 42 mi. (68 km)
The final leg takes you through the Green Heart of Holland, a peaceful landscape of water, meadows, and small farming communities. Along the way, you’ll pass picturesque villages and windmills before returning to Amsterdam.

Your cycling holiday concludes in one of Europe’s most captivating cities. Take a stroll through the 17th-century canal district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the elegant townhouses reflected in the water. If you have extra time, explore the lively Rembrandtplein or wander through the famous Red Light District before saying farewell to your bike.

Preferred hotel: Westcord Art Hotel, Amsterdam

Day 12: Departure from Amsterdam
After breakfast, your tour officially ends. We recommend extending your stay to further enjoy Amsterdam’s museums, charming canals, and vibrant neighborhoods before heading home.

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