Bike and Barge
Amsterdam and Flanders
- NL263 / Netherlands, Belgium
- Bike and Barge Bike and barge In the daytime by bike, in the evening on board a hotel-boat that follows the cyclists along the route. Your luggage stays in the cabin and you can stay on the boat if you don't feel like cycling. Details
- Self-guided Self-guided Travel at your own pace following maps, roadbooks and information material. When travelling, you can always count on our assistance.
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Bronze
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Comfort and accommodation
Four levels of comfort to describe the different types of accommodation.
Find out more about comfort on this trip under comfort and departures.
- Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
- 8 days
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- linear from Amsterdam to Bruges
- Some meals included
Highlights
The best of Holland and Belgium by bike and boat, along the Scheldt River and its canals. Set off from Amsterdam, the bustling Dutch capital, and pedal through a tranquil rural landscape dotted with windmills to Flanders. Discover the charming towns of Antwerp and Ghent, savoring their sparkling cultural atmosphere. At the end of the tour Bruges welcomes you with its medieval center. Embellishing the experience is a stopover at the picturesque beaches of the North Sea.
- Kinderdijk's 19 windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- The brilliant Antwerp, the "city of diamonds"
- The dunes of the North Sea
What awaits you
A week-long bike and barge tour in Holland and Belgium: the land of bicycles! The terrain is completely flat, and the bike paths, almost all of which are paved, are always well marked. Some stages include a choice between a short and a longer ride, and if one day you don't feel like cycling, you have the option of staying on board the boat. The only variable to keep an eye on is the weather: a little wind or rain could make your ride more adventurous.
Accommodation
There are seven overnight stays on board a riverboat, a real floating hotel ready to follow you during the biking stages and welcome you on board in the evening. The atmosphere is comfortable and is designed down to the smallest detail to ensure that you have an unforgettable stay. At dinner and in moments of relaxation, our chefs and crew treat you to a feast of flavors and aromas. The cabins have private bathrooms and air conditioning.
1. Boarding in Amsterdam and off we go: direction Vianen!
Arrival in Amsterdam and boarding by 1:00 p.m.: let the journey begin!
At 2 p.m. the boat departs for Vianen, a fortified town on the banks of the Lek River. Here you can try out your bikes with a short evening ride in the surrounding area.
2. Cycling through the windmills of Kinderdijk to Dordrecht
After breakfast, it’s time to start cycling. The day begins with a ride to Schoonhoven, also known as “the city of silver,” and then on to the magnificent windmills of Kinderdijk. You will find them all in a row: 19 historic mills, side by side and built on this spot to drain water from the polder. When you arrive in Alblasserdam, a boat (ticket not included) awaits that takes you in less than ten minutes to Dordrecht, one of the oldest cities in Holland.
3. From Holland to Belgium on two wheels to Antwerp
In the morning we set off in the direction of Tholen, once a real island, now connected to the mainland. Here you’ll get off the boat to continue on the pedals in a southerly direction to the Kreekrak lock, passing through the forested Wouwse Plantages area. The barge awaits you at the end of this dyke: once aboard, you set sail for Antwerp, the diamond capital, crossing the border between Holland and Belgium. After dinner, you can explore the city by strolling through its lively historic center between the town hall, the medieval Steen Castle and the market square.
*Possibility to lengthen the bike stage by about 15 kilometers.
4. From Antwerp to Dendermonde along the Scheldt
Today you leave Antwerp to cycle a picturesque route immersed in the nature of the magnificent Belgian countryside: guiding you is the quiet bicycle path that runs along the Zeescheldee and takes you to Dendermonde, where you will find your floating hotel waiting for you for the evening.
*Possibility to lengthen the stage by about 15 kilometers.
5. Cycling along the Scheldt River from Dendermonde to Ghent
Also today the River Scheldt will guide you until Ghent, a historic and lively university town. In the afternoon you can devote yourself to discovering Ghent’s rich past, from its founding in the time of the Roman Empire to its development into an important center of textile production. We recommend that you start with a visit to the Castle of the Counts, dating back to 1180, from which there is a splendid view of the city. Don’t miss the cloth market and St. Bavon’s Cathedral where there are some masterpieces of medieval art, including Jan Van Eyck’s famous Polyptych of the Mystical Lamb, also known as the Ghent Altarpiece. If you want to savor the city’s atmosphere, take a walk in Graslei and Korenlei, on the banks of the Leie River, where you can enjoy good local beer in one of the many bistros.
6. From Ghent to Bruges, cycling through the beautiful Flemish countryside
This day on the pedals begins on the outskirts of Ghent and continues through rows of trees and verdant meadows where cows and sheep graze undisturbed. Numerous canals and rivers make the route even more picturesque as you ride to today’s destination, Bruges, probably the most beautiful town in Flanders. Its old town center built in the Middle Ages is still intact: the houses, aristocratic palaces, and ancient churches along the canals seem to have been frozen in time five centuries ago, when the town was an important commercial and artistic center. You can choose from the city’s many attractions or just sit in one of the outdoor cafes and enjoy the extraordinary beauty of Bruges.
7. Loop stage: from Bruges to the North Sea and back
Your last day of cycling has you immersed in the romantic landscape of Flanders. You’ll pass the beautiful town of Damme, the ancient Cistercian abbey of Groot Ter Doest and the village of Lissewege, with its typical white houses. Finally, you reach the North Sea, where wide beaches, numerous cafes and the attractive dune landscape of Het Zwin, one of Belgium’s most important nature reserves, await you. After lunch, return by bike to Bruges to enjoy a few more hours in this beautiful city.
*Possibility to lengthen the stage by about 10 kilometers.
1. Arrival in Bruges, the "Pearl of Flanders" and boarding
Arrival in Bruges and embarkation at 1 p.m. After settling into your cabin, you’ll have time to visit the city known as the “Pearl of Flanders.” Its ancient old town, built in the Middle Ages, is still intact: the houses, aristocratic palaces, and ancient churches along the canals seem to have been frozen in time five centuries ago, when the town was an important commercial and artistic center. You can choose from the city’s many attractions or just sit in one of the outdoor cafes and enjoy the extraordinary beauty of Bruges.
2. From Bruges to Ghent, cycling through the beautiful Flemish countryside
Start cycling frodm Bruges through the green territory of West Flanders. Today’s destination is Ghent, a bustling university town. In the afternoon you’ll have the opportunity to discover Ghent’s rich past, from its founding in the time of the Roman Empire to its development into an important center of textile production. We recommend visiting Cloth Hall, the cloth market since 1425, and St. Bavon’s Cathedral, built in different architectural styles. Inside, you can admire some masterpieces of medieval art, among which the most famous is The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Jan Van Eyck, also known as the Ghent Altarpiece. The boat is moored for the night in a lock at Merelbeke on the outskirts of Ghent.
3. Toward Dendermonde, along the Scheldt River
Today you have a nice bike ride along the Scheldt River towards Dendermonde, a charming center at the confluence with the Dender River. Enjoy the beautiful river vegetation that frames the waterway, whose flow rate is greatly influenced by the tides. Finally, reach Dendermonde to stay overnight aboard your floating hotel.
4. Still along the Scheldt River to Antwerp
Today’s stage also runs along the course of the Scheldt, passing through Temse. The route is very naturalistic, immersed in the magnificent Belgian countryside along a picturesque stretch of the river. Today’s destination is the magnificent city of Antwerp, which you can begin to discover with a walk through its lively old town between the city hall, the medieval Steen Castle and the market square.
*Possibility to lengthen the bike stage by about 15 kilometers.
5. From Belgium to Holland: by bike and boat from Antwerp to Dordrecht
Today begins with a boat trip into Holland, along the Schelde-Rhein canal, passing through the giant Tholen locks. Once a fishing village in the middle of the canals of Zeeland province, Tholen was a real island, now connected to the mainland. From here you begin your bike route, which, passing through the impressive Volkerak lock system, takes you to Willemstad, a fortified town. At the end of the stage you’ll reach Dordrecht, one of the oldest cities in Holland.
*Possibility to lengthen the stage by about 15 kilometers.
6. Cycling through the windmills of Kinderdijk to Vianen
In the morning, you’ll take a waterbus (not included in the package) to Kinderdijk and its famous windmills. You will find them all in a row: 19 historic mills, side by side and built on this spot to drain water from the polder. From here, you’ll cycle through Schoonhoven, “city of silver,” to Vianen, a quaint fortified town on the banks of the Lek River.
7. Among mansions, castles and villages toward Amsterdam
Today’s stage begins with a boat ride to Breukelen, from where you start pedaling along the Vecht River. This area is known for its mansions, small castles and stately homes, which serve as the backdrop for your cycling route through the villages of Nieuwersluis, Loenen and Vreeland to Nigtevecht, where you can visit a typical cheese factory. From here you follow the course of the Amstel River to reach your final destination, Amsterdam.
8. End of tour in Amsterdam
After breakfast, disembarkation is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. If you have some free time left, we recommend visiting the city, with its museums and shops, or taking a canal tour aboard one of the many tourist boats.
- comfort Gold
- bathroom and shower en suite
- A/C in the whole barge
- 1 sundeck
- WiFi available
- 71 guests, 34 cabins
De Holland
- comfort Gold
- bathroom and shower en suite
- A/C in the whole barge
- 1 sundeck
- WiFi available
- 71 guests, 34 cabins
The riverboat De Holland was completely renovated in 2018. Common areas are on the upper deck and include the cozy and bright dining room, bar, and lounge area. The large sun deck is furnished with chairs and sun loungers that allow people to enjoy sailing while admiring the scenery. View more details
Cabins
- 24 twin cabins on the lower deck (below deck) with double bed formed by two singles joined together and windows that cannot be opened. Three cabins also have a third folding bed
- 9 superior twin cabins on upper deck (above deck) with sliding patio doors
- 1 upper deck suite with mini bar, sofa bed and sliding patio doors
All cabins have private bathrooms with toiletries, TV, small closet, mini safe and hair dryer.
Common areas
- large upper deck lounge with panoramic windows
- restaurant, bar and lounge area
- sun deck for relaxing moments
2025
Departures on Sunday
go to online quote
- comfort Gold
- bathroom and shower en suite
- A/C in the whole barge
- 1 sundeck
- WiFi available
- 44 guests, 22 cabins
Fluvius
- comfort Gold
- bathroom and shower en suite
- A/C in the whole barge
- 1 sundeck
- WiFi available
- 44 guests, 22 cabins
The friendly river boat Fluvius sails between Belgium and Holland. The cozy cabins and common areas make guests feel at home.
The outdoor terrace, with chairs and tables, allows you to enjoy sailing and admire the scenery. View more details
Cabins
- 14 twin cabins on the lower deck (below deck), 11 m², with two single beds and windows that cannot be opened
- 1 double on the lower deck, 10 m², with two single beds and windows that cannot be opened. On request it can become double single use.
- 4 doubles on the upper deck (above deck), 12 m², with double bed (140 x 200 cm) and large panoramic opening window
- 3 doubles on the upper deck, 11 m², with single beds and windows that cannot be opened
All cabins have private bathrooms with toiletries, air conditioning, TV and hair dryer.
Common areas
- Spacious lounge area with TV, bar and restaurant
- sun deck equipped with tables and chairs
2025
Departures on Sunday
go to online quote
Accommodation
- 7 nights accommodation
- Sheets and towels
Meals
- 7 breakfasts
- 6 packed lunches
- 6 dinners, excluding drinks
- Coffee and tea
If you are vegetarian, gluten-intolerant or allergic to some specific ingredients/substances please indicate it at the moment of booking. A supplement applies for gluten-free, lactose-free or vegan diets.
Once on board, make sure that the kitchen staff is aware of your allergies, in order to avoid unpleasant situations.
Tour leader
- English-speaking tour leader on board
Each evening the tour leader gives a briefing of the next day’s stage, providing tips and information about the route and is your point of reference.
During the day you cycle independently with tracks and route descriptions provided.
The tour leader also cycles the routes and can be reached by phone in case of emergencies, problems or questions.
Tour information
Before departure you will receive by email:
- the link to download the tour information material in Pdf (Tour notes and Final tour details)
On board you will find:
- maps and route description (one set per cabin)
- GPS tracks
Assistance
In the Final Tour Details you will find the contact phone numbers you can call during the tour in case of emergency.
Cancellation policy
In the event of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances occurring at the place of destination or in its immediate surrounding area and having a substantial impact on the execution of the package or on the transport of travellers towards the destination, the traveller has the right to withdraw from the agreement before using the package, without paying withdrawal costs.
In all the other cases of withdrawal from the travel agreement, the traveller is always required to pay a withdrawal penalty. Read more
Withdrawal penalties
- 20% up to 84 days prior to departure date
- 40% from 83 to 42 days prior to departure date
- 60% from 41 to 28 days prior to departure date
- 90% from 27 to 1 day prior to departure date
- 100% no-show
Round trip
Travel to and from start and finish points not included
To pay on the spot
- Meals not mentioned in the section “price includes”
- 1 dinner
- Drinks on board
- Entrance tickets
- Fees for ferries
- Tips
The amount is up to your discretion, we suggest 5-7 % of the cost of the trip.
Rental bikes and accessories
You can rent bikes and accessories from our local partner.
The helmet is not mandatory, but we recommend wearing it and bringing your own.
Additional excluded services
- Accommodation in single cabin
- Limitation of liability of the bike (negligence damage excluded): 15 €/week for the standard bike, 30 €/week for the e-bike
- Fully guided tour
By adding this service you will ride with with a tour leader by your side in a small group up to 20 people. This option is on request and has an additional charge of € 120 per person. - Everything not mentioned in the section “included”
The bike you rented will be waiting for you on board: serviced, adjusted to your height and ready for your tour.
Unisex touring bike
- 7 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Unisex touring bike
- 7 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- rear side pannier
- water bottle
- repair kit
- lock
Unisex E-bike
- 7 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Unisex E-bike
- 7 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- rear side pannier
- water bottle
- repair kit
- lock
- battery charger
Side bag
- waterproof
- to be attached to the roof rack
- Ideal for carrying useful items for the daily stage
Side bag
- waterproof
- to be attached to the roof rack
- Ideal for carrying useful items for the daily stage
Route profile
- Total length: 310 km
- Terrain: mainly on paved cycle paths or on secondary roads with little traffic
Embarkation
Embarkation is scheduled at 1 p.m. in Amsterdam or Bruges. Here you will meet the tour leader and other participants.
How to get there
A) Direction Amsterdam - Bruges
Amsterdam is the starting point of the tour to be reached independently.
Before departure we will send you the exact boarding point.
By plane
Amsterdam is connected with Amsterdam Schipol (AMS) airport.
From Amsterdam Schipol (AMS):
- direct train Dutsch Railways (NS) to Amsterdam Centraal (about 20 min).
B) Direction Bruges - Amsterdam
Bruges is the starting point of the tour to be reached independently.
By plane
Bruges is connected with the following airports: Bruxelles Charleroi (CRL) and Bruxelles Internazionale Zaventem (BRU).
From Bruxelles Charleroi (CRL):
- shuttle bus Flibco (approx. 2,5 hours)
From Bruxelles Internazionale Zaventem (BRU):
- train Belgian Railways (approx 1,5 hours)
For an overview of prices, airlines and flight schedules we suggest rome2rio.com or Google Maps, which also show options via train or bus, even for the last mile. For reliability and security, we recommend purchasing your flight on the official website of your chosen airline.
By train
Amsterdam Centraal is the closest station. For information on timetables and prices you can consult the Dutch Railways NS official website.
How to go back
How to return home
A) Direction Amsterdam – Bruges
Bruges is the city at the end of the tour. From here you can return home.
By plane
Bruges is connected with the following airports: Bruxelles Charleroi (CRL) and Bruxelles Internazionale Zaventem (BRU).
To get to Bruxelles Charleroi (CRL):
- shuttle bus Flibco (approx. 2,5 hours)
To get to Bruxelles Internazionale Zaventem (BRU):
- train Belgian Railways (approx 1,5 hours)
B) Direction Bruges – Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the city at the end of the tour. From here you can return home.
By plane
Amsterdam is connected with Amsterdam Schipol (AMS) airport.
To get to Amsterdam Schipol (AMS):
- direct train Dutsch Railways (NS) to Amsterdam Centraal (about 20 min).
How to go back to the starting point
A) Direction Amsterdam – Bruges
Train from Bruges to Amsterdam with 1 change (approx. 4 hours).
B) Direction Bruges – Amsterdam
Train from Amsterdam to Bruges with 1 change (approx. 4 hours).
Documents
If you are a citizen of the EU or of a Schengen country – i.e. most EU countries and four European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland – you are free to travel to other Schengen countries without having to go through border controls.
Even if you don’t need a passport for border checks within the Schengen area, it is still always highly recommended to take a passport or ID card with you.
If you are a non-EU national wishing to visit or travel within the EU, you will need a passport:
- valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU country you are visiting,
- which was issued within the previous 10 years
- and possibly a visa
You should apply for a visa from the consulate or embassy of the country you are visiting. If your visa is from a Schengen area country, it automatically allows you to travel to the other Schengen countries as well.
Do not forget your travel, health and/or car insurance documents.
For further information visit Your Europe official website.
Do not forget your travel, health and/or car insurance documents.
Always thoroughly check the document you travel with: expiration date and integrity.
Registration of documents is compulsory at check-in in hotels.
Language and time zone
The official language is Dutch.
Internet, telephone, electricity
Internet and telephone
With a European SIM card, roaming services are free throughout Europe. Please check your rates with your mobile/internet provider before departure.
The international phone prefix for the Netherlands is +31.
Electricity
The voltage is 230 volts – 50 Hz. Type C and F power sockets.
We suggest to always carry a universal adapter for electronic devices.
Currency
The currency in the Netherlands is the euro (€).
Equipment and clothing
Luggage
- Bags instead of suitcases (space on board is limited)
Personal equipment
- a reusable water bottle
- a holder to fix for your mobile phone on the handlebar
- a power bank
- basic first aid kit which includes sticky bandages, gauze and low grade disinfectant
- sun glasses for eye protection
- protective sun lotion
- insect repellent
Clothes
- padded cycling shorts
- comfortable shoes with stiff soles
- light weight waterproof/windproof tops
- leggings and long sleeved tops for cooler mornings or evenings
- small close-fitting rucksack to carry small items during the day while cycling
- swimsuit
- clothes to cover your shoulders when you visit churches
Read carefully
Tour programme variations
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Due to organisational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during the holiday.
- Issues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles such as officially ordered – previously not announced – repair work on locks or bridges can modify some of the daily stretches or overnight stays and may even request a transfer by bus. These decisions are only taken by the boat’s captain.
Travel insurance
- It is advisable to take out an insurance policy against expenses arising from cancellation of the tour package, accidents, luggage (loss and damage), as well as a contract covering expenses in case of repatriation. Insurance policies are not included in the tour package offered by the operator.
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