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Waterways, Windmills and Perfect Cycling Paths

Experience the Netherlands by Bike & Boat

The Netherlands seem made for Bike & Boat holidays: a dense network of waterways, excellently marked cycling paths, short distances, and plenty of culture along the route. Between historic Hanseatic towns and modern architecture, between polders, dunes and the Wadden Sea, everything lies close together – ideal for varied cycling stages and relaxed hours on board.

Whether it’s South Holland with Rotterdam, Utrecht and the windmills of Kinderdijk, North Holland & Friesland with the romance of the IJsselmeer, dunes and the island of Texel, coastal Zeeland with the Oosterschelde National Park and the Delta Works, or the historic Hanseatic Route along the IJssel – every region has its own charm. Add Dutch culinary classics like Gouda cheese, fresh fish, mussels and stroopwafels – perfect companions for your cycling holiday in Holland.

In short: a cycling trip in the Netherlands means variety, comfort, and the closest possible connection to the country and its people – on two wheels and aboard your “floating hotel.”

Red and white Texel lighthouse stands tall behind a row of traditional Dutch houses with orange tile roofs, surrounded by dunes and grass.

South Holland

Idyllic Waterways & Urban Flair

Few Dutch provinces are as diverse as South Holland. On a Bike & Boat tour, you’ll combine vibrant cities with peaceful countryside and typical Dutch charm. The journey usually starts and ends in Rotterdam – a modern port city with an impressive skyline. Excellent cycling paths lead to the famous windmills of Kinderdijk (UNESCO World Heritage), Holland’s oldest city Dordrecht, the lively cathedral city of Utrecht, and the traditional cheese town of Gouda.

Depending on the route, you may also visit Delft with its world-famous Delft Blue ceramics, the seat of government The Hague, and the seaside resort of Scheveningen. Short cycling stages, plenty of photo stops, and time for personal exploration are typical for South Holland. In the afternoon, your ship awaits you in a central location – ideal for evening strolls through the city. Bike & Boat in South Holland is the perfect blend of culture, nature, and comfort – active travel with a touch of urban energy.

Storefront of a cheese shop in Gouda with large windows displaying stacks of yellow cheese wheels and Dutch-themed decorations.

North Holland & Friesland

Charming Harbour Towns, Dunes & the IJsselmeer

In the north of the Netherlands, you’ll find a region made for Bike & Boat adventures – maritime, open, and full of history. Your journey begins in Enkhuizen, a charming port on the IJsselmeer. A visit to the Zuiderzee Museum brings the age of the old seafarers back to life. From Hoorn, the route leads across the IJsselmeer into the water-rich province of Friesland, where lakes, rivers, and canals shape the landscape.

Cycle through tranquil countryside, past windmills and historic villages. On the North Sea island of Texel, long sandy beaches, dunes, and vast nature reserves await – perfect for a relaxed bike ride with a sea breeze. Along the way, explore towns like Lemmer, Stavoren, Harlingen, or Medemblik, each with maritime charm and cozy harborside cafés. A cycling holiday through North Holland and Friesland offers both relaxation and discovery – ideal for those who love wide horizons, water, and wind.

Row of white and blue beach huts lined up on sandy beach with grass-covered dunes in background under cloudy sky on Texel island.

Zeeland

Endless Horizons, Beaches & the Oosterschelde National Park

Zeeland – the “land in the sea” – is a paradise for cyclists and water lovers alike. This southwestern province consists of islands and peninsulas connected by bridges, dikes, and impressive Delta Works. On a Bike & Boat journey through Zeeland, you’ll experience the region’s diversity: from historic towns like Dordrecht, Zierikzee, Veere, and Middelburg to the engineering marvels of the Delta Works around Neeltje Jans.

The Oosterschelde National Park is one of Europe’s most biodiverse habitats – home to seals, mussel beds, and countless bird species. On clear days, the view stretches endlessly over fields, dunes, and the blue expanse of the sea. Zeeland is also a delight for the palate: try fresh mussels, oysters, or the famous Oosterschelde lobster. Bike & Boat in Zeeland means wind in your hair, salt on your lips, and relaxing moments on board.

Red and white striped Westkapelle lighthouse standing in blue sea water under a bright blue sky with white clouds in Zeeland, Netherlands.

Holland Tulip Tour

5-day mini cruise to see the tulips in bloom

Experience Holland in bloom on a spring trip full of magnificent flowers.

This 5-day mini cruise takes you to enchanting places in their most beautiful season and to hidden botanical treasures in the “Garden of Amsterdam.” Enjoy unforgettable days aboard a comfortable ship with excellent service and a varied itinerary.

Amsterdam is also known as Europe's smallest metropolis. The many special museums, great shopping destinations, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed canals in the heart of the city make your visit to Amsterdam a highlight. Visit the famous flower market in the center of the capital and discover the “Zaanse Schans” open-air museum with its windmills, cheese factory, clog workshop, and typical old Dutch village.

Further highlights await you in the historic city of Haarlem and the world-famous “Keukenhof” flower park near Lisse.

Colorful tulip field with yellow and red tulips in foreground and traditional Dutch windmill blurred in background under blue sky.

Hanseatic Route

Lively Hanseatic Towns & Fishing Villages

The Hanseatic Route takes you through the central, river-shaped part of the Netherlands, through the valley of the Lower Rhine and its tributary, the IJssel. Discover one of the most beautiful and popular cycling regions among the Dutch, with hardly any noticeable inclines. Historic Hanseatic towns from the 12th and 13th centuries, picturesque fishing villages, and the nature areas of Veluwe, Achterhoek and Gooi with enchanting woodland and heath landscapes await you.

Group of cyclists on a path through heathland in Veluwe National Park, with a large apple tree and purple heather under cloudy skies.

River Cruises

Blossoms, Breweries & Baroque Cities

For those who prefer to explore northwestern Europe in complete comfort, our classic river cruises through Holland and Belgium are ideal. Between the Rhine, Scheldt, and Meuse rivers unfolds a unique mix of maritime atmosphere, culture, and cuisine. During tulip season, vast landscapes turn into seas of color, while historic cities like Antwerp, Ghent, Brussels, and Nijmegen bring the past to life.

Rotterdam’s modern architecture, Bruges’ medieval charm, and Flanders’ warm hospitality make every stop a special experience. On board, you’ll enjoy all the comforts of your floating hotel as windmills, dikes, and grand gabled houses drift by. And, of course, the region’s famous treats are never far: velvety chocolates, freshly poured beer, and a touch of spring in the air.

Vibrant tulip field in Holland with pink and red tulips in full bloom. Green stems and leaves create rows across the garden landscape.

Bike and Boat in other Regions

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