Whoever thinks of the Netherlands, thinks of water, mills and... bicycles!
We Dutch do nothing better than hop on the steel steed and discover the most beautiful places in our country. In almost every hostel you have the possibility to reserve a bike and set off for yourself.
Ready to roll? Jump straight to our Safe Cycling Tips.
Hop on your bike and discover how beautiful the Netherlands is. Cycle through the most beautiful nature reserves, through the dunes or explore the nicest cities by bike. From the hostels you have plenty of options!
No plan yet? No problem, just ask at reception and we'll be happy to help you on your way to explore the area.
After a beautiful day of cycling you can have a nice drink in the bar or join us for dinner (ask about the possibilities in the hostel).
You can rent a bike at almost all our locations! You add the bike as 'extra' during the booking process. If you indicate in advance that you wish to hire one or more bikes, we will make sure they are ready for you before you leave!
If you can't book in advance, our colleagues at reception will be happy to help you where you can easily rent a bike near the hostel. This keeps your Stayokay holiday running smoothly!
Are you coming with your own bike? Then send an email to the hostel to ask about parking options.
Do you want to explore the city like a real local? Go for it! Cycling is fun, efficient, easy and safe. Motorists here know how to make room for cyclists, so they will take you into account... most of the time. We've created these 10 simple rules for you to follow. Follow all 10 and you should be fine. Happy cycling!
You'd think the locals would set a perfect example for city cycling, right? Think again. A lot of Dutchies don't give right of way, they jump red lights and cycle in pedestrian areas. But let's face it: their behaviour is based on years and years of cycling experience.
You can recognise a cycle lane ('fietspad') by its reddish colour, white lines, and bike symbols. They were specially made for cyclists, which means the footpaths, shopping streets, pavements, and motorways are not. It's as easy as that! You can also tell a bicycle lane by these signs:
Give way to all traffic approaching from the right, unless otherwise indicated. Traffic from your left-hand side should give you right of way, but it doesn't always happen like that. Don't put on that party hat too quickly: never take right of way for granted!
You should always indicate before changing direction. If you want to turn a corner, first look behind you, then stick out your arm, pointing in the direction you want to go. Is it busy? Getting off your bike and walking across the road might be the best (read: safest) plan.
It's a good idea to check your headlight and taillight after dark. This way cars, taxis, trams, and buses will be able to see you, and no-one gets hurt. Not only that, but if you're caught riding at night without them you can end up with hefty fine, and nobody wants that.
You don't want to go home without a bike. So never ever ever leave your bike unlocked. And please make sure you lock it to something unmovable, like a tree, lamppost, or bike rack.
Be careful where you park your bike... If you park in the wrong spot (usually marked with this sign) you can get fined, or even worse, there's a chance your bike will be towed. If this happens to a rented bike, you will get charged a re-collection fee.
Yes, this also applies to cycling!
Head to the nearest bike shop ('fietsenmaker') or simply ask someone for a bicycle pump ('fietspomp'). Most locals have one. If you're already close by, just walk your bike back to the hostel. We'll be happy to fix it for you. Whatever you do, always bring your bike back, and don't leave it downtown.
Time to hop on that bike and explore the area. Enjoy the ride!
Cycling holiday? Yes please! The Netherlands has hundreds of beautiful cycling routes along the most special places. Places you may never discover otherwise.
