The Best Road Cycling Routes in Amsterdam

The Ringvaart loop is a go-to route for many riders heading out from Amsterdam, right up there with the Rondehoep. It’s simple to follow, has very few traffic lights, and keeps you moving. Just be ready for some wind, it’s pretty open out there. The loop follows the Ringvaart canal, which circles the Haarlemmermeer polder. This canal was built to drain water from the polder, and its name literally means “ring canal.”

The most popular loop around Amsterdam is the Rondehoep. You can ride it in either direction, and no matter the time of day, you’ll spot plenty of other cyclists out there. What makes it such a favorite is the low traffic. Cars are allowed, but it’s usually quiet, and the mix of winding roads and wide-open views keeps things interesting.

Head west out of Amsterdam and you’ll start to hit some little hills. It kicks off in Spaarnwoude, then takes you through the dunes before looping back toward the city. You can ride each climb a few times if you’re looking to put in some training, or just stick to the route and enjoy the flow.

On this coffee ride, we head north to the town of Marken, tucked on a small peninsula in the Markermeer. Until 1957, Marken was actually an island in the old Zuiderzee. Its classic wooden houses are a real draw for visitors. Before heading back to the city, the route rolls through the historic center of Monnickendam. A perfect spot to stop for coffee. If you’re feeling touristy, you can hop on the ferry from Marken to Volendam and ride back from there. Check the Marken Express website for the latest info.

For this short ride, head west out of Amsterdam to take on Het Kopje. You can keep it chill and ride it once, or turn it into a solid training session and hit het Kopje a few times.