Rotterdam is a great base for a bike holiday. The city is lively and busy with one of the largest ports in the world yet many of the surrounding towns and villages have retained their small world charm and Olde Dutch-style buildings. The architecture in Rotterdam is a true juxtaposition with everything from ancient, rebuilt churches and buildings to impressive, towering skyscrapers. Cycling is a great way to get around, allowing you to see so much more than you would while walking and avoiding busy public transport.
Round trip to Kinderdijk and Dordrecht – 22km – 67km
The only better way to see the city than by bike is to add in a boat tour! Take the water bus with your bike to Dordrecht disembarking at Krimpen aan de IJssel. Cycle through the peaceful meadows to the next ferry which will take you over the Lek to Kinderdijk. Make sure to take your camera, there are 19 impressive traditional windmills to admire along the way. Cycle further on to the former capital Dordrecht and on to the next ferry. Instead, you could choose to cycle 18 km longer via National Park de Hollandse Biesbosch where you can admire one of our finest nature reserves, rich in rivers, streams, lakes and islands. Experienced cyclists with plenty of stamina may choose to finish the 67km loop or you can opt to enjoy the ride over water with a water back bus back to where you started.
Round trip to Gouda and Rotte Meren lakes – 60km
This day trip if one not for the faint of heart, or weak of calf! Start in the city, crossing the statuesque Erasmus Bridge and following the rivers Maas and Hollandsche IJssel inland. This manmade countryside is a cultural landscape, built on the backs of many centuries of farmers working in wet and difficult conditions. The highlight of the day is a trip to Gouda, where farmers took their cheese to market and people come from far and wide to purchase it. If you can, plan to be there on Thursday to witness the action for yourself. You will also love the 15th-century fairy-tale Town Hall with red shutters and the 16th century stained glass windows in the Great Church of St. John. The return to Rotterdam is all countryside including Rotte Meren lakes and rolling fields; a perfect return to civilisation.
Round trip to Delft, Vlaardingen and Schiedam – 53km
Most of Rotterdam was levelled by WWII bombings so much of what you enjoy in the city is post-1945 rebuild. If you want to see pre-war architecture and charm, the borough of Delfshaven escaped destruction and is perfectly preserved. The university town has a beautiful historical centre with picturesque canals, squares, and quaint houses. The harbour is a highlight of the day with its industrious small-town charm. Follow the River Schie out of the city and cycle through a rural landscape to the town of Delft where you can dismount and visit the Vermeer Centre or climb the steps of the Nieuwe Kerk church tower and enjoy the view from the top. The loop back to Rotterdam takes you through Schiedam to enjoy the tallest traditional windmills in the world.
Rotterdam City Highlights – various lengths
Witness the city centre in all its glory on two wheels and save your feet for dancing. Take pictures of the elegant Erasmus Bridge or learn more about the famous history of the Holland America Line. See the fascinating yellow cube houses, learning more about the architectural history of Rotterdam or stop for a bite to eat in MarktHall. Find some breath-taking skyline views and if you’re with a guide, listen to the stories and legends that made Rotterdam the vibrant city it is today. Book yourself, your friend or your family on one of the many Rotterdam bike tours for an afternoon you’ll never forget.
If you’re planning a bike trip around Rotterdam and want to bring your own wheels, PREMIER SUITES is an ideal accommodation choice. Our suites offer more space, facilities and comfort than a traditional hotel stay giving you the ability to explore the city like a local. Don’t leave your bike out in the cold, take it in and store it safely in your suite. Check out our special offers and discounts exclusively on our website.
