Cycling day trip from Amsterdam to Velsen

Ready for a scenic Dutch ride? Start your cycling adventure right in the heart of Amsterdam, famous for its canals, lively neighborhoods, and iconic cycling culture. The route to Velsen is a leisurely 24 km stretch—perfect for a half-day outing.

You'll mostly coast along smooth, paved cycleways (over 90%!), weaving out of the buzz of Amsterdam and into greener, quieter surroundings. Keep an eye out for classic polder landscapes, windmills, and maybe even a few grazing cows as you skirt alongside waterways and through leafy parks.

There’s barely any climbing here (just 28 meters up and 34 meters down), making it super-friendly for all fitness levels. Velsen is your finish line—a peaceful North Holland town near the Noordzeekanaal, known for its ferry crossing and proximity to the sand dunes and beaches of IJmuiden.

This ride offers a true taste of the Dutch countryside, with city highlights at the start and a relaxed vibe at the end. Don’t forget to pause for some photos (and maybe a coffee) along the way!