The Netherlands has long been one of the most bike friendly countries in the world, with miles of quality networks and routes. Moreover, the flat terrain is easily traversed by people of all levels of fitness, as well as all members of the family.
Getting Started
As Holland is so famous for its cycling culture, it's simple to hire a bike throughout the country. Just head to a tourist office near the station or port where you arrive for details of the nearest hire shop.
Travelers should note that most Dutch bikes use back-pedal brakes rather than the traditional hand-operated disk brakes typically found in other countries. However, most places will have both types of bicycle available for hire when asked.
Whilst it may be practical for some, using hired bikes for a length of time or for a whole family can be fairly pricey. Cyclists from across Europe often choose to take their own equipment from home, either by car using a rack or on the train.
In the Cities
Packed with quaint historic architecture, narrow streets and picturesque canals, most Dutch cities don't exactly lend themselves to public transport or cars.
Instead, built-up areas are perfect for cycling and there are great networks within major cities including Amsterdam and Leiden which make exploring by bike both practical and safe.
Unlike much of Europe, cyclists have a respected right of way amongst urban traffic and even have integrated traffic light systems for their sole use at junctions.
There are also lots of bike stands at various intervals across every city, from famous museums to small restaurants and cafés. Although it’s advisable to lock up your bike, there's actually rarely a problem with theft or vandalism, even in the bustling capital.
Going the Distance
Just 350 kilometers from north to south and 200 kilometers east to west, Holland is small (and manageable) enough to cover by bike, even for long distances.
Most of the motorways and main roads have decent routes along their edges individually signposted for cyclists, just like the smaller routes and highways.
It helps, of course, that much of the country is both flat and straight, with the exception of a few gentle hills in the southern province of Limburg.
However, for those moving wishing to move around quite rapidly (or perhaps conserve some energy) cyclists can use the Netherlands efficient and affordable rail network. Bikes are allowed on most trains with a special ticket, except when the lines are busiest during rush hours.
To the Countryside
Cycling becomes even more convenient in the countryside as well as scenic. Public transport extends as far afield as the island of Texel but, aside from the great buses and trains linking destinations, the services can be few and far between in local areas.
Planning a Route
The Netherlands also has an extensive and very helpful fietsroutenetwerk - a system of routes that consists of junctions with a unique number.
Cyclists can explore specific areas in each province by using these routes, starting from any point on the network and linking up the nodes to create their own unique and interesting trips.
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