There’s no better way to experience Amsterdam than by bike. With more than 500 kilometres of cycle paths, dedicated cycling infrastructure and beautiful scenery around every corner, cycling is part of everyday life in the Dutch capital.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying a little longer, exploring Amsterdam on two wheels gives you the freedom to move at your own pace. You can avoid traffic, discover hidden streets, and stop whenever something catches your eye. From peaceful forests and historic canals to riverside villages and modern architecture, there are plenty of cycling routes to explore near Cityden Aparthotels.

Why Explore Amsterdam by Bike?

Cycling is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to discover Amsterdam. The city is mostly flat, the cycling network is extensive, and many of the main attractions are within easy riding distance of one another.

It also allows you to experience the city more like a local. Instead of moving from attraction to attraction by public transport, you can explore neighbourhoods, parks and quieter streets that you might otherwise miss.

Whether you’re travelling alone, with friends or as a family, there are routes suitable for different distances and experience levels.

Amsterdamse Bos: Nature Close to Cityden Zuidas and Stadshart

If you’re looking for greenery and fresh air, Amsterdamse Bos is one of the best places to explore by bike. It is especially convenient for guests staying at Cityden Zuidas and Cityden Stadshart.

Depending on the route you choose, you can easily cycle between 10 and 20 kilometres through woodland, open meadows and areas around the water. Along the way, you’ll pass the famous Bosbaan rowing lake, quiet forest paths, picnic spots and waterside cafés.

You may also come across Scottish Highland cattle grazing in open fields, while families can make a stop at the popular goat farm. Because most of the paths are flat and easy to follow, Amsterdamse Bos is a great option for a relaxed afternoon ride.

Discover Amsterdam’s Historic Canal Belt

Guests staying at Cityden BoLo District can easily cycle towards Amsterdam’s historic centre and explore the famous canal belt.

A route of around 12 to 15 kilometres can take you through some of the city’s best-known neighbourhoods and landmarks, including the Jordaan, De Negen Straatjes, Westerkerk, Dam Square and Museumplein. You’ll also cycle across many of Amsterdam’s characteristic bridges and alongside its historic canals.

This route is perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with cycling. There are plenty of cafés and restaurants along the way, so you can stop for coffee or lunch before continuing your ride.

Cycle Along the River Amstel

For a longer and more peaceful ride, follow the River Amstel south of the city. This route is especially convenient from Cityden Zuidas and Cityden Stadshart and can be adapted to around 25 to 35 kilometres.

As you leave the busier parts of Amsterdam behind, the scenery gradually changes into green meadows, quiet riverside roads and traditional Dutch landscapes. One of the highlights is Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, a historic village where you can stop for a drink or lunch by the water.

Along the way, you’ll also find traditional windmills and scenic terraces. It’s a great route if you want to experience the Dutch countryside without travelling far from Amsterdam.

Vondelpark and the Museum Quarter

If you’re looking for a shorter and more relaxed cycling route, combine Vondelpark with Amsterdam’s Museum Quarter.

From Cityden BoLo District, you can create an easy route of approximately 10 kilometres that takes you through Amsterdam’s most famous park before continuing towards Museumplein.

Along the way, you’ll pass landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum. You can stop in Vondelpark for a break, enjoy a picnic on the grass or simply watch local life go by before continuing your ride.

This route works especially well for visitors who want to combine a little cycling with museums, cafés and sightseeing.

Explore Amsterdam’s Modern Waterfront

Amsterdam isn’t only about historic canals and traditional architecture. For something completely different, cycle towards the eastern waterfront and discover some of the city’s most modern and creative neighbourhoods.

A longer route of around 20 to 30 kilometres can include Java Island, the Eastern Docklands and Amsterdam Noord. From there, you can take your bike on the free ferry across the IJ and explore areas around NDSM Wharf, Eye Filmmuseum and the A’DAM Tower.

This route combines modern architecture, industrial spaces and waterfront views. It’s an excellent choice if you’ve already seen Amsterdam’s historic centre and want to discover another side of the city.

Cycling Safely in Amsterdam

Cycling in Amsterdam is convenient, but the city’s cycle paths can be busy. Locals often ride quickly and confidently, so it’s important to stay alert and follow the basic rules.

Always use dedicated cycle lanes where available and follow traffic lights specifically designed for cyclists. Use hand signals when turning, keep an eye out for pedestrians, and always check carefully before crossing tram tracks.

When you stop, make sure your bike is properly locked. It is also important to follow priority signs and avoid stopping unexpectedly in busy cycle lanes.

Once you become familiar with the flow of Amsterdam’s cycling traffic, getting around by bike quickly becomes one of the easiest ways to explore the city.

Stay at Cityden and Start Exploring

All Cityden Aparthotels are well positioned for discovering Amsterdam and Amstelveen by bike.

Whether you stay at Cityden Zuidas, Cityden Stadshart or Cityden BoLo District, you’ll have easy access to parks, canals, neighbourhoods and scenic cycling routes.

After a full day on the bike, you can return to your spacious serviced apartment, take a shower and relax in your own living area. You can prepare dinner in your fully equipped kitchen or enjoy food and drinks at Lucia’s Restaurant & Bar.

This combination of space, flexibility and convenient locations makes Cityden a comfortable base for an active stay in Amsterdam.

Book Direct for Exclusive Benefits

Booking directly through the Cityden Aparthotels website gives you additional benefits during your stay.

Every direct booking includes a Best Rate Guarantee, 10% discount at Lucia’s Restaurant & Bar and maximum flexibility to change or cancel your stay.

You can also subscribe to the Cityden newsletter to receive an exclusive discount code by email. This unlocks additional complimentary benefits, including late check-out until 12:00 PM, subject to availability, a complimentary room upgrade, subject to availability, and 25% discount on breakfast.

These extras give you even more flexibility to enjoy a relaxed cycling getaway in Amsterdam.

Discover Amsterdam Like a Local

Some of the best parts of Amsterdam are found away from the busiest tourist attractions. By bike, you can discover peaceful canals, hidden streets, beautiful parks, riverside landscapes and authentic neighbourhoods at your own pace.

Whether you prefer a short ride through Vondelpark, a peaceful afternoon in Amsterdamse Bos or a longer journey along the River Amstel, cycling gives you the freedom to experience Amsterdam in your own way.

Book your stay directly with Cityden Aparthotels, hop on a bike, and discover Amsterdam the way locals do.