Amsterdam’s bike-friendly streets, scenic canals, and flat terrain make it ideal for a self-guided bike tour. Discover why it’s the best way to explore the city.
We lived in Amsterdam for two years and there’s something about Amsterdam that just clicks with travellers and locals alike... and not just the gears of its millions of bicycles. With flat streets, charming canals, and more bikes than cars, the Dutch capital is a dream for exploring on two wheels. If you're wondering why self-guided bike tours of Amsterdam are so popular, it's simple: freedom, flexibility, and an authentic local experience. In this post, we explore why Amsterdam is made for self-guided cycling and how you can make the most of your ride.
Amsterdam isn’t just bike-friendly, it’s bike-first. With over 800,000 bicycles in the city, cycling is the preferred way to get around for locals and visitors alike. The city is built for it: separate bike lanes, clear signage, and respectful traffic rules make cycling safe, even for beginners.
This bike-first infrastructure means you can confidently explore without needing a guide or a group. With a self-guided bike tour from MyGuideGuru, you'll navigate the city like a pro while discovering landmarks, stories, and hidden corners at your own pace.
Unlike cities with challenging hills or sprawling layouts, Amsterdam is flat and compact. We used to say, if you can't get there in 15 mins on a bike, why are you going? Most major sites are within a short ride of each other, which means you can cover a lot of ground without working up a sweat.
Want to stop for a canal-side coffee or snap a photo of a windmill? You can. With a self-guided format, you're not tied to a rigid schedule. You choose your start time, speed, and detours. That’s the beauty of exploring on your terms.
While the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum are must-sees, there’s so much more to Amsterdam when you stray just a little from the main routes. Cycle through De Pijp for multicultural eats, wind through the Jordaan’s quiet courtyards and bustling markets, or explore the industrial cool of Noord, which accessible by a free bike ferry!
MyGuideGuru’s bike tour takes you to both iconic sights and under-the-radar spots locals love... giving you a deeper, more personal feel for the city. Read more about avoiding crowds and still seeing it all.
Group tours come with time limits and tight itineraries. With a self-guided option, you can stop whenever you want! Whether it's for a stroopwafel break or a leisurely picnic lunch in Vondelpark. Start early to enjoy the quiet streets, or head out in the golden light of late afternoon.
This flexibility is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families who want freedom without sacrificing the depth of the experience. The MyGuideGuru app guides you with stories, directions, and insider tips, so you’re always supported, never rushed.
Cycling isn’t just fun, it’s sustainable, and this is an issue close to the heart of many of the Dutch. By touring Amsterdam on a bike, you reduce your footprint and engage more deeply with your surroundings. No taxis, no tour buses, no waiting... just you, your wheels, and the rhythm of the city.
This mindful way of travelling aligns with what many modern travellers are seeking: less stress, more connection, and a chance to truly feel a place rather than just tick off a list.
Amsterdam is a city best explored on two wheels, and a self-guided bike tour is your ticket to freedom, culture, and discovery. All without the crowds!
Download the MyGuideGuru app today to plan your perfect ride, or explore our full blog collection for more travel inspiration across Europe. Your next unforgettable journey starts here.
