The Netherlands is often called a ‘cycling paradise’. But to make sure it stays that way, there are a whopping 53 different ways you can get fined while biking in the Netherlands!

I was cycling through the streets of Utrecht one evening when I was suddenly flagged down by the police. Before I knew what was happening — BAM, a fine of €55 for not having bike lights.

I also got a €90 fine for not carrying my ID, which I left at home for the day, together with my wallet.

This little bike adventure cost me a nice lump sum of €145. Rough.

READ MORE | Do’s and don’ts of riding a bicycle in the Netherlands

To ensure that your biking trip doesn’t wind up as expensive as mine, here’s a basic guide to fines while cycling in the Netherlands.

Make sure you’re familiar with the at last some of the laws before jumping on your favourite two-wheeler.

1. Cycling without lights or reflectors

Cycling in the dark without bike lights is probably the most common reason for getting a fine. Like me, some people forget to buy new bike lights, and they also frequently get stolen.

You need to have both front and backlights for it to count; otherwise, you can still get a €60 fine. You can also get a €40 fine for not having reflectors on your bike.

On the bright side (as the officer who fined me also ironically said), bike lights are only like €4 or €5 at the HEMA. A pretty small price to pay for safety, right?

2. Cycling under the influence

This one is a little more than self-evident. Clearly, you shouldn’t step into any kind of vehicle drunk.

In the Netherlands, this also applies to cycling (not that this stops people from cycling drunk, anyway). You can be fined up to €200 if your alcohol blood level is above 0,54 mg/ml.

This translates to roughly two and a half beers, so watch out! In addition to this, you can get a €100 fine for not cooperating with the alcohol test.

Next time you’re coming home after drinking, consider walking your bike instead.

3. Not indicating the direction

If you’ve ever cycled in the Netherlands, you’ve seen people sticking their arms out when changing direction on a bike. While it may sometimes seem extravagant, it is actually very handy to avoid accidents.

Beyond this, not indicating direction can land you a €40 fine. So stick those arms out, people!

4. Not having a bell (and other stuff)

There’s a scarily long list of fines that you can get for a badly maintained bike. If you take one look at bikes in Utrecht or Amsterdam, you can conclude that the police don’t check most of these.

In principle, however, you could be fined for the following:

• Brakes that don’t work: €60
• Broken pedals: €60
• Not having a bell: €40
• Broken bike frame: €60

5. Texting while cycling

Texting while cycling might be a more recent addition to the list of infractions you can commit while cycling in the Netherlands; however, it’s far from a rare occurrence.

Since 2019, you can get a fine over this — the amount of which has changed over the years and has now gone up to a whopping €140.

READ MORE | Fined for phoning while ‘fietsen’: over 850 cyclists caught on the phone every week

Luckily, Google Maps has a speaker function — so listen closely to directions through your earphones and let Maps guide you verbally.

6. Not following traffic rules

While it may seem like cyclists in the Netherlands think they’re above traffic rules, on paper, at least.

You can get a €100 fine for running a red light, a €60 fine for driving on the bus lane, and a €40 fine for driving on a road where bikes aren’t allowed.

READ MORE | Cycling like a Dutchie? First, you have to pass their bike exam!

The bottom line: follow the traffic signs, and you should be fine.

7. Parking in the wrong place

If you don’t want your bike to be removed, you may want to remember this one: you can get a €30 fine for parking your bike in the wrong place, so just head to the nearest bike stall to park instead.

In some places in the Netherlands, you can even get a €40 fine for not locking your bike. (Although the risk of getting your bike stolen or thrown into a canal should be reason enough.)

READ MORE | Bike fishing: a Dutch occupation you never knew existed

In a country with so many cyclists, it makes sense that there are a lot of laws for them too. While overwhelming, most of these rules aren’t usually policed.

As long as you have good lights and follow the general traffic rules, you won’t have any problems.

Keep safe and happy cycling!

Have you ever been fined while cycling in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!

Ever had the displeasure of cycling against the wind in the Netherlands? Well, turns out Dutch people are crazy enough to make a sport out of it.

Introducing: the NK Tegenwindfietsen, or Dutch Headwind Cycling Championship, where 300 brave participants cycle 8.5 kilometres across the Oosterscheldekering storm barrier in Zeeland, facing wind speeds of up to 120 kilometres an hour. Why? Because it’s cool.

The race originally began in 2013 but hasn’t happened every year. The organisers tend to wait until a big storm or strong winds are headed to the Netherlands.

READ MORE | 11 Dutch sports that are 100% weird (but wonderful)

How does it work?

All participants in the race have to use a plain ol’ regular bike with simple breaks and no gears. Anyone can take part, but the competition limits participants to 300 for safety reasons (we just hope no one gets picked up by the wind and flies away like a kite).

Then, they just cycle headfirst against the wind — it’s as simple as that.

Curious to see what it looks like? Take a look:

As the best cyclists in the world, it’s no surprise Dutchies would create a competition to show off just how good they are at it.

Would you ever participate in a competition like this? Tell us in the comments!

Renting a bike in Amsterdam is the best way to make the most of your visit! 

Once you’ve got your very own bike, you’ll be able to discover every beautiful corner of Amsterdam in no time and save money on public transport. 

Here’s how to rent a bike in Amsterdam in 2023!

READ NEXT | 33 best things to do in Amsterdam in 2024 [UPDATED]

Zoom to it

• How to hire a bike in Amsterdam
• The best bike rental shops in Amsterdam
• The do’s and don’ts of renting a bike in Amsterdam
• Safe places to cycle as a tourist in Amsterdam
• How to rent a bike in Amsterdam: frequently asked questions

How to hire a bike in Amsterdam

There are many different ways to rent a bike in Amsterdam.

You can rent a bicycle for several minutes, a few hours, a full day, or even longer! There are also many possibilities depending on your preference — Amsterdam won’t disappoint you. 

OV-fiets: The cheapest option with a catch

One of the easiest and cheapest ways to get a bicycle in Amsterdam is to rent an OV-fiets. You’ll likely see Dutchies pedalling on these typical blue and yellow bikes. 

These can easily be picked up from most metro and train stations. Best of all, they are by far the cheapest bike rental option at less than €5 per 24 hours.

However, this option does come with a catch: you need a Personal OV-chipkaart, which is only available to residents in the Netherlands.

Bike rental shops: Perfect for tourists

Many stores in Amsterdam rent out bikes for the day or week. These are perfect because you can explore all the capital city’s gems at your own tempo — from the Rijksmuseum in the south to the Eye Film Museum on the other side of the city.  

All you need to do is pick up your bike at the start of the day and bring it back before the store closes or within 24 hours, depending on the store’s policy.

Depending on the rental store, these day hires can cost between €9 and €18.

READ MORE | The 18 best street markets in Amsterdam: The ultimate guide

You can also pay more to reserve the bike for a full week. This is cheaper than paying the single-day fee multiple times. Most bike rental places will offer this — ask!

Stay tuned for our top recommendations for Amsterdam’s best bike rental places.

Share bikes: Easy but more expensive

Another great option if you want to hire a bike for a short distance is share bikes. The advantage? These bicycles can be picked up and dropped off almost anywhere in the city, anytime!

You’ll most likely spot share bikes around Amsterdam as you’re strolling. Some of the major companies you’ll quickly notice are Tier, DonkeyRepublic, and FlickBike. 

They are perfect if you love walking but want the convenience of a bike for a single trip —  or a spontaneous bike ride through Amsterdam’s beautiful parks. 

These companies usually have apps where you need to make an account with them and link a bank account or credit card, but that’s usually all there is to it — it’s that easy!

Hotel bike hire: The no-stress route

Staying at a hotel while visiting Amsterdam? Then there’s a good chance that your hotel has its own bicycles that they offer (sometimes even for free!). 

This is the easiest way to rent a bike in Amsterdam because you can pick them up, drop them off right by your hotel, and then head into bed to rest your legs.

Long-term subscriptions: When you’re really dedicated

If you plan on making a mini-move to Amsterdam for a few months and don’t want to spend tons of money on public transport, think about a long-term subscription. 

Some bike rentals specialise in long-term subscriptions. For example, Swapfiets offers a monthly subscription for less than €20 a month. That means less than €1 a day! 

Plus, the monthly fee usually includes repair costs, meaning you don’t have to worry if you get a flat tire or your chain starts making a clanky noise. 

The best bike rental shops in Amsterdam

Now that you know what type of bike rental subscription is best for you, here are the best places to rent a bike in Amsterdam. 

You can reserve and pay online at almost all the places listed below. Plus, they almost always come with a lock, so you can hop off anywhere and know your bicycle will still be there when you return. 

Rent a bike 

Go with a classic and get a bicycle from Rent a Bike, Amsterdam’s oldest bike rental shop. There is a huge selection of bikes and different types of offers. 

READ MORE | From omafiets, to mamafiets, and bakfiets — Dutch bikes, explained

They rent city bikes with pedal or hand brakes, tandem bikes, bikes with a child seat, children’s bikes, cargo bikes, e-bikes, and, believe it or not, more!

Discount Bike Rental Amsterdam

If you’re looking for a great deal to rent a bicycle in Amsterdam, look at Discount Bike Rental. They offer low prices, especially if you want to rent a bike for more than one day. The longer you rent, the cheaper it gets!

This shop offers classic city bikes with gears and touring bikes with seven gears. 

Bike Rent Amsterdam

Bike Rent Amsterdam is one of the best-rated places to rent a bike in Amsterdam. They offer basic city bikes, tandem bikes and bikes for children. They even offer scooters if you want to go further out (with a valid driver’s license, of course).

Amsterdam Bike Rent

At Amsterdam Bike Rent, not only are there plenty of options to rent bikes, but their extra services make them perfect for tourists who have just stepped off a plane or train. 

READ MORE | How to get to and from Amsterdam’s airport: The easy guide

They have luggage storage, will print boarding passes, and ports to charge your phone. 

Amsterdam Bike Rent’s got city bikes with seven gears and cargo bikes to put the kids. 

Black Bikes 

Black Bikes has a great range of bicycles, and 16 locations spread all around Amsterdam. Wherever you’re staying, chances are that a Black Bike rental shop is only a short walk away! 

Here, you can rent city bikes of different sizes, electric bicycles, cargo bikes, children’s bikes, and tandem bikes for both kids and adults. 

They’ve also got many little deals if you book through their website, so it’s worth a quick look. 

A-Bike Rentals

A-Bike Rentals is another top-rated place to rent a bike in Amsterdam. You can rent a bicycle and explore Amsterdam at your own pace, or even book a bike tour with them and be sure to hit all the best sights. 

If you want to rent a bike, you can choose between city bikes with three gears, touring bikes with seven gears, e-bikes, tandem bikes, cargo bikes, and children’s bicycles.

They’ve also got four prime locations around the city, near Vondelpark, Leidseplein, Rijksmuseum, and the main train station (Amsterdam Centraal). 

Strabikes Rental

Looking for a little extra fun for a low price? Check out Strabikes Rental. They rent out classic granny bikes (omafiets) for the ultimate Dutch experience, electric bicycles, and some quirky bicycles. They’ve got a bike for two people to sit beside each other. 

READ MORE | The 18 most magnificent lakes in the Netherlands (near Amsterdam and beyond)

Strabikes even have many bicycle options for people with reduced mobility, including bikes where wheelchairs can be incorporated!

Plus, they’re located next to Amsterdam’s Central Station and have a little cafe — how practical!

MacBike

No, McDonald’s hasn’t launched a new line of rental bikes in Amsterdam (although we’d be down to see that happen). Despite the similarities in name and colour, MacBike has nothing to do with McDonald’s. 

MacBike’s got a selection of city bikes, bikes with a child seat, tandem bikes, kid’s bikes, cargo bikes, electric bikes, and a whole 21-gear touring bike if you want to pedal through all of Amsterdam. If you’re with kids, you can even rent a parent-child tandem bike together!

MacBike has four locations spread around Amsterdam, perfect whether you’re coming from the train or a hotel in the south or east of the city. 

The do’s and don’ts of renting a bike in Amsterdam

Now that you’ve hopefully snagged yourself a bike, there are a few rules you should know about before hopping on and getting hit by the locals zooming by. 

Do follow the rules of the bike path

First and foremost, stay on the bike paths and don’t cycle on the pedestrian sidewalks — trust us, there’s no space anyway. 

Stick to the right side when you’re pedalling on the bike path. If you’re feeling brave and want to overtake slower cyclists, do this on their left. 

Do use hand signals 

To make it to your destination in one piece when cycling in Amsterdam, it’s crucial to signal before you turn. The capital gets crazy busy with cyclists coming from every direction and at all speeds. 

Before turning, hold out your right hand by your side before turning right. When you want to turn left, hold out your hand on the left — that’s it!

Do watch out for other tourists

Here’s your warning: You’ll have to dodge many lost tourists while cycling in Amsterdam. 

Sometimes, a family will decide that the cycle path is the perfect spot to walk on or photograph the canals. Always keep a close eye if anyone is getting scarily close to the bike path.

Do not overestimate your bike skills 

Between the hectic locals and the oblivious tourists, cycling in Amsterdam can be intimidating at first (and even the fifth time). If it’s your first time, maybe start on the outskirts of Amsterdam or at the spacious Westerpark. 

Also, don’t feel weird wearing a helmet, even if most Dutchies don’t. They’ve been practising since they could walk! 

Do not use your phone while cycling

Even though you may spot Dutchies texting while cycling, don’t try it. Not only is it super dangerous, but it’s also illegal in the Netherlands. If caught, you could get slapped with a €100 fine!

Do not cycle while high or intoxicated 

Sure, if you’re in Amsterdam, why not stop by some of the best coffeeshops? Just opt to walk after instead of hopping on your bike. Cycling while high or after a few alcoholic drinks could cost you a fine of up to €200.

READ MORE | 7 things that will get you fined while cycling in the Netherlands

Safe places to cycle as a tourist in Amsterdam

You’re now ready with a sturdy bike and tips on cycling in Amsterdam, but you’re still feeling a little antsy about actually doing it? Here are the best spots for beginners to cycle in Amsterdam. 

Westerpark: for nervous beginners

One of the best places to get more comfortable with cycling in Amsterdam is Westerpark. It’s a huge park with lots of space to avoid crowds and zig-zag on your bike until you pedal straight. 

There’s enough space that there won’t be anyone behind you pressuring you to speed up, so you can take it as slow as you want.

Ijburg: For a long or short ride, you choose! 

A little away from the city centre, Ijburg is a lovely neighbourhood with calm streets, wide bridges, and modern floating homes. This is a perfect place to admire Amsterdam’s water for however long you want, without the stress of the city’s craziness. 

NDSM Werf: For a hip excursion

If you want to explore Amsterdam’s hip, artsy side, take a bike ride around the NDSM Werf and cycle along the water. This colourful spot is full of music, art, and other cultural events. 

You can bring your bike on the free ferry from behind Amsterdam Central Station, which will whizz you right across the water. 

Vondelpark: For the classic tourist experience

How can you not stop by the most famous city park in the Netherlands? Take your bike for a spin and unpack your picnic basket in the tranquil greenery of the huge Vondelpark.

The cycle lanes

The cycle paths in Amsterdam are often dark red and with a white bicycle symbol on them. Sometimes, they’re separated from the road; other times, they are just a lane at the road’s edges.

Remember that they will sometimes get very busy and unpredictable, especially during peak times when locals head to or leave the office. 

But don’t panic; it’s very doable. The Netherlands has done a lot to make biking easy and safe, like having some of the best cycling infrastructure in the world. 

Once you’re on a cycle path, place your trust in them, follow the rules of the road, and they will take you where you need to go.

Here’s a bonus cycling route through the city centre that passes by the Jordan neighbourhood, the IJ water, and the Rijksmuseum!

Where are your favourite spots to cycle in Amsterdam? Tell us in the comments below!

How to rent a bike in Amsterdam: frequently asked questions

It can be hard to separate yourself from the tourist traps — they’re popular for a reason. But for a slightly more authentic experience, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best hidden gems in the Netherlands.

Amsterdam has become so overrun with visitors that the Dutch Tourism Board has made efforts to disincentivise travellers from visiting the capital over the past years.

Venture to these hidden gems instead to spend some time exploring this flat land — without shuffling heel to toe amongst hordes of people lining up for the Heineken Experience or taking selfies at Keukenhof.

1. Visit the abandoned Kootwijk Radio station

Radio Kootwijk is an abandoned building situated in the middle of a forest clearing. It was built in 1923 to emit radio frequencies between the Netherlands and Indonesia (known back then as the “Dutch Indies”). Only five years after it was built, the station was deemed outdated and abandoned.

Meander around the nearby forest, sand dunes, and heath before exploring this ominous building.

2. Have lunch in the garden of Villa Augustas

Villa Augustas is a hotel and restaurant situated in the middle of a flourishing vegetable garden in Dordrecht.

It boasts an enticing market that’s open daily, selling freshly baked sourdough bread, a variety of fruit and vegetables, and ceramics. They also put on excellent concerts. You can easily make a reservation and check out the concert program online.

3. Get the best panoramic views at Zoku Amsterdam

Zoku is a great place to hang out, with its welcoming vibes and beautiful decor. You can come with friends for a casual drink, relax on the hammocks outside, play ping pong indoors, or spend your day working at one of their epic work tables, with a coffee, of course.

The best part is that there are free sweets, fruit, and biscuits! So eat your heart out, stingy travellers!

4. Visit the public bar in the Vrankrijk squat house

This building has an extremely varied and rich history as one of the oldest squat houses in the Netherlands.

It began as a woodwork shop in 1875 before turning into a print shop used by Martin Toonder to print fake documents for the resistance during World War II. It was first squatted in 1982 by protesters who wanted to prevent its demolition.

READ MORE | 33 best things to do in Amsterdam in 2023 [UPDATED]

Now, alternative bands play in the public bar, so if you want a funky night out, this is the place to go!

5. Spot the tiny hidden houses in Amsterdam

Hidden in the crack next to number 54 on Westerstraat in Amsterdam’s Jordaan area are a bunch of miniature houses.

They were inserted between two houses to make a statement when the courtyard situated behind the building was removed in order to make room for more houses.

6. Race around the dreamy Van Gogh Cycling Path

This cycling path in Eindhoven lights up to display Van Gogh’s famous Starry Night painting.

Thousands of glistening pebbles ingrained into the concrete absorb light during the day and emit colour at night. It’s a truly wonderful sight and oh-so-quintessentially Dutch!

7. Drink a beer in a Cold War bunker

Sure, you’ve been to Vondelpark before, but did you know about this hidden gem? The park’s old cold war bunker hosts a variety of events, from art exhibitions, movie nights, dinners, and even their own brewery called Bunkerbier.

The Vondelbunker is hidden underneath a bridge in Vondelpark — get exploring!

8. Ride the free white bikes in Veluwe

You might have heard of De Hoge Veluwe National Park (the largest in Holland), but few have heard about the free “white bikes”.

If you’re visiting this national park, you can grab one free of charge and explore over 40 kilometres of cycling paths!

READ MORE | The 8 greatest forests in the Netherlands for a nature escape

This concept dates back to the sixties when a group of social innovators wanted free bikes to be available to everyone and anyone in Amsterdam.

The project was never implemented in the capital, but stuck in De Hoge Veluwe. There are over 1,800 white bikes scattered around the park, and you can pick up and drop them off wherever you fancy (with no need to lock them). What a Dutch utopia!

9. Cycle from Leiden to Nordwijk

From a west coast city in the Netherlands, it’s often far quicker to cycle to the coast than to use public transport.

The cycle trip from Leiden to Noordwijk only takes around 30 minutes and will reward you with undulating sand dune views, cute seaside towns and, of course, the North Sea.

Pack a picnic and go and enjoy the ride!

10. Go to a (reasonably priced) music festival every Sunday

Ruigoord is located near Amsterdam and hosts a different festival each Sunday. The set-up is whacky, with entrancing lights and colourful sculptures dotted around a looming church.

READ MORE | The 17 best live music venues in Amsterdam (from a local)

Ticket prices are usually between €10 and €40, so you really have no excuse not to check it out.

So there you have it! A few ideas for a unique and memorable experience in the Netherlands.

You won’t always evade tourists or tourist traps (and sometimes they definitely can be worthwhile), but it’s nice to discover hidden gems for yourself and explore the Netherlands off the beaten track too.

Have you already done a few of these? Did we miss any hidden gem experiences? Tell us in the comments below! 

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in September 2019, and was fully updated in December 2023, for your reading pleasure. 

Once on their fiets (bike), the Dutch own the road and it’s truly amazing to watch as you know in your heart it’s possibly the worst mistake to stand in their way.

Here are the eight most amazing superhero things the Dutch effortlessly do when it comes to biking.

1. On a bike, all dressed up

Dutchies ride their bikes everywhere — no exceptions.

Going to a wedding dressed in their finery on a bike? Of course! Why not? Especially since there’s no helmet involved.

After all, who said a bike can’t do what a car can.

2. One bike is never enough

Echt serieus! The Dutch own bikes like farmers own cows!

You can easily find more bikes in a house than the actual number of family members.

READ MORE | How the Netherlands became a cycling country

It’s not abnormal for a Dutchie to own three bikes: one for everyday use, one for road cycling, and one as a backup — just in case the other two fail.

3. Cycling the dog

The Dutch really like to maximize their me-time. So they have their very own version of walking the dog: cycle the dog!

The smaller dogs sit in the front basket, while the larger ones are leashed and run alongside the bike.

Finally, you’ve heard of putting your kids in a bakfiets, but why not put your fur-baby in a carrier of their own? A hondentrailer attaches to the back of Dutchies’ bikes so they can bring their dogs wherever they go.

4. Breeding the next generation of biking champions

Starting early? We think the Dutch invented it. I often see Dutch parents in the park, encouraging their toddlers who can barely waddle, to ride bikes of their own.

I honestly think Dutch kids learn how to bike before they walk!

READ MORE | 7 types of cyclists found when biking in the Netherlands

5. Bikes should be pretty too

The amount of money that the Dutch spend on their bike accessories is jaw-dropping.

Dutch bikes are equivalent to a Batmobile, coming fully equipped with everything: storm umbrellas, baskets, grocery bags, bottle holders, extra lights, special lights, baby carriers, and a phone holder.

Some even accessorize their bikes when the weather changes in the spring and summer to celebrate!

Of course, when something is so dear to your heart (and wallet) you lock it up! You’ll typically find at least two to three locks on the average Dutch bike.

Here’s another fun fact: the locks on a bike can sometimes cost half as much as the bike itself.

6. Tandem biking

Date a Dutchie, and you will always be their second love (after the bike, of course).

I wouldn’t be surprised if the idea of a fun date with a Dutchie would be on a tandem bike because forget the third wheel… not.

7. Texting on the bike

The Dutch should seriously coin a name for this one because they make it look like the norm as they showcase effortless balance biking while texting, even in their high heels, jackets or corporate wear!

That’s despite a ban on using a smartphone while cycling.

READ MORE | 7 things that will get you fined while cycling in the Netherlands

8. Bike fishing

Biking has also created a new division of secretly operating professionals called bike fishermen.

Yes, that’s an actual profession here in the Netherlands.

After all, it’s very necessary: after a hard night of partying, and especially after an Ajax game or New Year’s, a huge number of bikes end up in canals — and someone has to get them out!

What do you think is the most amazing thing about Dutchies on their bikes? Tell us in the comments below!

This article was originally published in June 2018 but was fully updated in November 2023 for your reading pleasure.

Riding a bicycle in the Netherlands is one of THE main reasons why people are so happy here. But there are some rules you need to get used to.

Before moving to the Netherlands, many of us lived in a place with no biking infrastructure (or at least, one that cannot be compared to the Netherlands’).

Riding a bicycle to work was basically asking for a shorter life, and being stuck in traffic in a car was as common as breathing.

But hooray! Once you move to the Netherlands, you’re putting those days behind you, and now you can go everywhere with your trusty fiets!

And sure enough, after a while of biking, you’ll notice that there are some important do’s and don’ts of riding a bicycle in the Netherlands.

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Legal requirements for riding a bicycle in the Netherlands

In a country that built its cities with bikes in mind, you won’t be surprised that the legal system has also been shaped around cycle culture. Here are some legal requirements to note to avoid getting a hefty fine.

Don’t ride under the influence (RUI)

Despite what most Dutchies (and us internationals) do, it actually illegal to ride your bike drunk or stoned. If caught, you can get a hefty fine. How hefty? Well, up to a whopping €140!

Riding drunk is dangerous, no matter what type of bike you’re on. So, no drinking and biking!

READ MORE | 7 things that will get you fined while cycling in the Netherlands

Rule of thumb: don’t get on your bike if you want to drunk-call your ex at 3:00 AM.

Get yourself a bicycle bell

Step outside in a Dutch city, and within a few minutes, you’ll hear it: the “tring-tring” of a bike bell. Romantic at first — then slightly annoying.

But alas, every bike should have a bike bell; it’s compulsory. They let you know when someone is behind you and wants to overtake you or if you’re in the way. It’s very handy and much more polite than being yelled at by an angry Dutchie.

Use your bright lights

Using a properly attached white or yellow light on the front of your bicycle and a red light on the back is required if you’re riding at night. Not having a light can result in… you guessed it, a fine. Also, worse, it could result in a car running you over.

READ MORE | Dutch Quirk #60: Have ginormous bike parking lots

Bicycle lights are very easy to find, and you can purchase some very cheap ones at Hema or Action. If you get detachable ones, make sure you take them with you when you park. Stealing bike lights is the top Dutch national pastime right after getting cheap groceries.

Signal before you turn on your bike

I think the first time somebody yelled “lul!” at me, was when I did a tight turn with 10 high schoolers behind me. At first, I thought it was the Dutch variant of “lol.” Naturally, because I’m hilarious.

But then, I realised I was called a d*** because I didn’t signal before I turned a corner.

After being the cyclist behind someone who doesn’t signal a couple of times, I understood how important it is!

If you want to go left or right with your bike, stick your left/right hand accordingly! It lets non-psychic people know what direction you’re turning towards. It makes traffic more fluid and prevents any name-calling that may hurt your feelings.

Do not text and cycle

Much like how you shouldn’t text while driving, you also shouldn’t text while cycling. At first, this was only discouraged amongst Dutchies — have you seen them cycle?

What’s good to know when cycling?

That’s enough on law. Let’s discuss some helpful tips for things like not getting your bike stolen.

Put a lock on it — properly!

It’s surprising how many people get their bikes stolen because they don’t know how to put a bike lock on properly. Now you might say “c’mon that’s easy! Besides, nobody steals anything in this country.” Well, that’s where you’re wrong.

If you want to cheap out on something while living here, it better not be your bike lock! Although there are many types of locks out there, U-locks and sturdy chain locks are the best.

READ MORE | 24 TikToks explaining why the Dutch are ahead of their time with bikes

Also, there is a proper way to lock your bike. You should always lock your bike to a pole or biking rack, and your lock should surround your frame and your tire.

Don’t have bike insurance yet? We recommend Univé for their bike and e-bike insurance.

Don’t buy €10 bikes in alleyways

Who doesn’t dream of buying a cheap bike after moving to an expensive city? But any bicycles you buy from shady guys in the inner city are probably stolen.

If you’re buying a stolen bike, you’re supporting and boosting the stolen bike market. This perpetuates the cycle and might even end in your newfound stolen bike getting stolen again. So, don’t do it.

READ MORE | Where to buy a bike in the Netherlands: the ultimate beginner’s guide

The Netherlands is filled with second-hand bicycle shops. While a second-hand bike shop will not sell bicycles for €10 euros, there are many affordable and fair options.

Get your head in a helmet — maybe

Wearing a helmet while biking is important because it protects your brain in the case of an accident. And brains are important.

Although not compulsory, and although there’s a big helmet/no helmet debate, we recommend wearing a helmet — at least if you cycle really fast.

It would appear that the traffic infrastructure and a superb biking culture are better than enforcing helmet laws, though, as the Netherlands (right after Denmark) is the European country with the least amount of accidents that result in cyclists dying. Maybe that’s why not a lot of Dutchies wear helmets.

So wear a helmet! Or not! It’s your choice.

Pay attention when wearing headphones

There are two things we love doing but we know we shouldn’t do. One of them is having Ben & Jerry’s cookie dough ice cream for breakfast every morning, and the other is riding our bicycle while listening to music.

While it’s not technically illegal to ride your bike while listening to some Iron Maiden on your headphones, it can be detrimental to your health. By detrimental to your health, we mean not hearing a tram and getting run over by it.

READ MORE | How to use your bike like a real Dutchie: from trampling pedestrians to running red lights

So, like the helmet thing, it’s not illegal… but it is highly recommended not to listen to music while riding your bike.

Read and respect the traffic signs

Lastly, there are three things you should always keep in mind when riding your bicycle: signs, pedestrians, and tram lines. There’s a wide range of road signs that you need to keep an eye out for.

Four of the most important ones to recognise are:

• uitgezondered fietsers (except people on bicycles);
• rechtsaf voor fietsers vrij (right turn free for bikers);
• let op! Uitrit bouwverkeer (watch out for construction traffic);
• and “pedestrian zebras” (pedestrian crossings).

If you see a white sign with a red line around the edge (no entrance), but it is followed by uitgezondered fietsers, you may follow that road — if you’re on a bike, of course.

You’ll see the blue signs with white letters saying rechtsaf fieters vrij. These mean “right turn free for bikers.” So even if they’re next to a red traffic light, if you’re on a bike, you can turn right freely — just remember to signal!

Tram lines: criss-cross

There are three things I have deep and crippling fears towards: spiders, that one scene in Lord of The Rings: The Fellowship of The Ring, and crossing a tram line while I’m on my bicycle.

No matter how many times I’ve done it, my pulse skyrockets when I have to cross a tram line. If you fall in one, it’s almost a guarantee you will fall embarrassingly.

The best way to cross a tram line while riding a bicycle in the Netherlands is to cross one as perpendicularly as possible. Here’s a handy picture to save your life in the future.

Well, that’s about it for the do’s and don’ts of riding a bicycle in the Netherlands. Hopefully, you’ll find this list useful if you’re new to this charming little country. Riding a bicycle here is easy and incredibly safe.

But of course, if you keep these handy tips in mind, we’re confident your biking experience will be considerably better.

Did we miss any important do’s or don’ts? If we did, tell us in the comments below!

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in February 2018, and was fully updated in November 2023 for your reading pleasure.

The bike industry is booming. In the Netherlands, life without a bicycle is already unthinkable, and many retailers benefited in 2020 due to a surge in demand.

However, owning a bicycle is just the beginning. The Dutch definitely have an unwritten code when it comes to cycling. So the real question is this: are you doing it correctly? Are you cycling like a Nederlander, yet?

If not, here are some easy tips to get you pedalling like a native in no time.

Cruise like a Dutch e-bike user

The main misconception with e-bikes is that although the regular version assists you up to 25 km/h (speed pedelecs up to 45 km/h), it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be going faster.

In reality, cycling like a Dutchie means you’ll find it is best practice to go unbearably slow to the point where it’s almost harder to keep your balance.

READ MORE | 7 things you need to know when buying a refurbished e-bike

Here are some additional points to keep in mind:

• take up the whole cycle path (especially in pairs);
• buy a mirror that is attached to your handlebars and that you have no intention of ever using;
• under no circumstances check behind you, signal, or give other people the right of way — or better yet, don’t even look ahead of you, look to the side and point at a bird or something;
• have the turning circle of a lorry.

Remember, don’t look behind you before attempting this, and preferably swerve dangerously in the direction of other cycle path users. The trick is to let others know that you have no control over your heavy bike.

Remember: weight limits are subjective

If you take a closer look at your bagagedrager (pannier rack), many recommend a weight limit of just 25 kilograms. Similarly, many wheels actually have weight limits of around 125 kilograms.

But don’t worry, these are obviously subjective. The natives carry their friends on the back all the time and they are fine, which is all the evidence that you will ever need.

READ MORE | 24 TikToks explaining why the Dutch are ahead of their time with bikes

First rule of bike maintenance: don’t bother

Your bicycle probably didn’t cost much to begin with, so that voids pretty much all the necessity for bike maintenance.

Is your chain so rusty and loose that it impairs performance and could snap at any moment? Are the tires so soft you have a higher risk for punctures?

Listen, if you can still get from A to B, then that’s all that matters. Don’t complicate your life.

Traffic light blindness is a thing

It goes without saying that if the traffic light is red: stop. However, don’t be surprised to see natives suffering from temporary colour blindness and mistaking all colours for green.

Years of interpreting traffic laws to suit their own personal situation have left the Dutch very capable of not getting hit by an oncoming car whilst breaking the law.

READ MORE | Dos and don’ts of riding a bicycle in the Netherlands

But this is a cultural trend we recommend you simply observe and absolutely do not copy.

Parking your bike

This one is easy. Unless the pesky gemeente starts intervening and takes your bike away, you have more or less free reign to park your two-wheeled amigo wherever you find necessary and convenient to you.

Chances are it will probably get stolen anyway.

READ MORE | Take it from a former thief: this is how you can prevent your bike from being stolen

If you follow all these cycling tips, you’ll be looking like a pro in no time!

What’s your top tip to cycle like a native Dutchie? Tell us in the comments below!

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in June 2020, and was fully updated in August 2023 for your reading pleasure.

Welcome to the Netherlands! As you know, the Dutch get around on two wheels more than they get around on two legs.

We know you’re ready and rearing to join the bike club, and that’s why we’re bringing you the ultimate bike purchasing guide to help you with buying your first bicycle in the Netherlands.

See, with more bikes than people in this tiny lowland state, it means that some of them are of questionable quality.

In fact, they can easily become the bane of your existence. Dodgy gears, dropping chains, squeaky brakes, and flat tyres are all things that can hamper your bike-riding experience.

Choices to make when choosing your bike

Bikes in the Netherlands can differ pretty wildly — so how do you know which option is the one for you?

Do you want a male or female bike?

For a start, bikes have genders: male or female. But never fear because, in this analogy, bikes swing both ways.

A male bike features a bar that runs parallel to the ground and can be a little more difficult for women to swing their legs over. On women’s bikes, this bar typically curves toward the ground.

However, whether you choose a male or female bike is a matter of preference — not your gender.

Women almost always choose a women’s bike. Men sometimes choose a men’s bike, sometimes a women’s bike.

The reason for this could be that there is more choice in women’s bikes, getting on is easier, and if you share your bike with a woman, this is also more practical.

Which type of brakes do you prefer?

Brakes are another point of difference. Do you prefer hand brakes or pedal brakes? A pedal brake requires you to move the pedal in a reverse direction to slow down.

Still, some people feel uncomfortable with this if they’ve used hand brakes their whole life.

READ MORE | Dos and don’ts of riding a bicycle in the Netherlands

With hand brakes, you squeeze two levers on the handlebars to brake. One side of the steering wheel’s brake controls the back wheel, and the other the front.

However, you almost always use them together to avoid popping up on one wheel.

A pedal brake is the most common option for internationals. Students often buy a bike with a pedal brake because these are cheaper.

Additionally, hand brakes have a lot of cables which easily break in bike sheds. More breakages equal more money in maintenance, Willem explains.

Which type of gear do you want?

Many bikes are “fixed-gear” — meaning they have just one gear. This makes them easy to ride if you’re nervous about the mechanics of gear changes but can be a bit more tiring on the rare Dutch slope.

Gears are handy, especially if you have to cover long distances — but, don’t go all out when buying a bike with gears.

Unless you’re planning on riding to the next country or completing the Tour de France, three gears will do you just fine in this notoriously flat land.

What size do you want your bike to be?

Some bikes are more adjustable than others. Make sure you can adjust the bike so that you can be fully comfortable.

Check it out before you start to mount

To find out if a bike is even worth a test ride, it needs a good look first. You should check:

• Whether the tires are buckled
• Are the brakes functioning well
• Finally, see if elements such as the mudguards are well-secured

If you’re buying a cheap bike, you have to be prepared for some rust spots or lights that don’t work, explains Willem. If you want something a little shinier, you may need to raise your budget.

READ MORE l Meet Upway: the new online marketplace for refurbished e-bikes (that won’t make your wallet cry)

However, take note: bikes say little of class in the Netherlands.

Almost all students ride around on rust buckets without an inch of embarrassment or self-consciousness. It’s just easier — especially because most people have had their bikes stolen at least once.

Test ride to find your stride

Before splurging the cash, you should always take a test ride. Make sure you feel comfortable on the bike, test whether the brakes are working properly, and test the gears (if the bike has them).

Sometimes the seat and/or handlebars will need adjusting. Check if the cycle crank is nice and smooth too.

Using your ears while on your test ride is also important. You have to listen to hear if everything is secured properly — make sure you don’t hear anything rattling.

But the most important part of your test ride is how you feel. A good bike will make you feel like the best two-wheeled extension of yourself possible.

Price is a roll of the dice

How much should you spend on your first bike? That’s a hard question. It’s best to weigh up a few variables: how much you will use it, what distances you will cover, and where you will store it. Why? Bikes tend to get stolen.

READ MORE l Where to buy a bike in the Netherlands: the ultimate beginner’s guide

Students are often the victims since they tend to park their bikes outside, which increases the chance of getting their bike stolen — which would suck if you just bought a brand new one.

If you use your bike to commute and therefore have a safe space to park it, you can decide to spend some more money and buy a better ride, or even a brand-new bike.

Lock and key doesn’t equal theft-free

Even though your bike may be your baby, your best friend, and your banging ride for picking up lekker chicks, you can’t get too attached — because bikes don’t often stay attached to their locks.

No matter how devoted and faithful you are to your bike, it may just end up being the town’s bicycle.

It is estimated that about 735,000 bikes were stolen in the Netherlands in 2021. Almost every Dutch person has had a bike stolen from them, and realistically they’ve probably stolen one too (the Dutch were always good at trade).

READ MORE l Take it from a former thief: this is how you can prevent your bike from being stolen

But don’t be too discouraged, there are a few things you can do to try and stall fate:

• Lock your bike with a permanent lock on the bike frame and a good additional chain lock
• Wrap your chain lock around a tall pole or rail, then through the back wheel through the spoke where the air valve is. (This increases the chance of breaking the valve when trying to steal it, which leads to a flat tyre.)
• Your best chance for a safe bike is to lock it in a secure area. Many cities offer free guarded undercover bicycle parking for the day, so take advantage of these!

Ready to ride? If you’re itching to find your next two-wheeled companion, quit reading this article and get going! Have any questions? Drop them in the comments below. Do you have any tips? Let us know in the comments
Editor’s note: This article was originally published in July 2018 but was fully updated in August 2023 for your viewing pleasure.

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Nope, it’s a wielrenner. Although, seeing as they’re decked out in skin-tight spandex from head-to-toe, ‘Superman’ might be what they were going for. 

Let’s just say, it takes a special kind of person to wriggle into a full-body lycra suit every morning (which probably also requires lying down and asking for the assistance of a family member) and then mount an athletically superior, two-wheeled machine designed to intimidate teenagers on their oma-fiets. 

We’re not talking about motorcyclists, no — we’re talking about wielrenners in the Netherlands: lycra-clad hobby cyclists zooming around on €3000 race bikes. 

Who are the real men beneath the masks/helmets? In their normal lives, they’re dads, husbands, grocers, cops, or bankers. But once they put on that suit, and step into their alter-egos, it’s as though they become one with their racefiets. 

Here are seven reasons why an intervention is truly needed: 

1. They bike too fast

Picture this: you’re cruising through the bike lane minding your own business, birds are twittering, and your thoughts are in a peaceful, meditative state. 

…Until the scene is rudely interrupted by a spandex-coated flash of lightning whizzing past you, very nearly severing your arm.

Wielrenners cycle at dangerous speed levels that never really seem justifiable. Seriously, 150 kilometres per hour on a normal bike path? And for what? 

READ MORE | 5 reasons the Dutch cycle without bike helmets

Sorry, but you breaking your personal fitness record can’t be more important to you than everyone else keeping their limbs intact…right? 

Every encounter with a wielrenner feels like a “close shave” that had a high chance of causing a crash — one that would entirely be their fault. 

The way they lean forward makes it seem like they’re always bracing for impact. Which…can and does happen, apparently : 

2. They shout at everyone because…no bell 

If your peaceful biking session isn’t cut off by the abrupt presence of an unwanted spandex-clad pest — I mean, guest — maybe you’ll hear them first. 

Ah yes, the sound all other bikers and pedestrians have come to recognise. Piercing through the harmonious silence of nature, the sound of a grown man 15 metres behind you shouting: 

“PAS OP!”

“Watch out!”, he’ll say. Hah! Good one. 

Only you physically can’t watch out, because if you turn around to investigate the source of this noise, you run the risk of being decapitated. 

Also, his ticked-off tone implies that you’re the one who’s a nuisance to society for calmly trying to make your way to work. 

Seeing as a lycra biker’s skimpy racefiets usually doesn’t support a bell, their preferred method of alerting others to their unpredictable presence is, you guessed it, screeching bloody murder at the top of their lungs. 

At best, it’s just a bit anti-social. At worst, it’ll induce cardiac arrest for the faint of heart. 

Lycra bikers, we know you mean well, but please just tone the volume down a notch — it’s not as if we’re all wearing noise-cancelling headphones. 

3. They’re often on roads they shouldn’t be on 

Whether you’re on a horse trail, driving through the motorway, or walking, a wielrenner can manifest himself. They are omnipresent, and nobody’s safe. 

Try as you might, you can never entirely manage to escape the wrath of wielrenners. 

Remember, these people are shapeshifters, godlike entities existing outside of space and time, and normal traffic rules seem to evade them. 

If you wanna work out your glutes and hamstrings, that’s cool and all, just please don’t subject the rest of us to it everywhere, constantly.  

It’s a very dangerous sport, and maybe people should find a different way to blow off steam on weekends with buddies or take out their (potentially marital) frustration. 

4. They have visible netherregions no one asked to see 

Riddle me this: what’s more frightening than a wielrenner on a fiets? 

As it turns out, the answer to that is a wielrenner off of a fiets. Specifically, one that’s strolling around a shopping street just wheeling his bike beside him.

A word of advice: if you want to spare your retinas from being scarred, avert your eyes. Pretend to be fixated on something that’s a 45 degree angle above their head. 

Whatever you do, don’t look down. Lycra is unforgivingly revealing, probably doesn’t allow room for boxer-shorts, and leaves very little to the imagination. 

READ MORE | 24 TikToks explaining why the Dutch are ahead of their time with bikes

5. They feel way too self-important

We get it, you own a racefiets, are among the only people in the Netherlands to wear helmets, and don’t have many other hobbies. But please come back down to Earth. 

The satisfied expression on their faces always seems to suggest, “Move, I’m a wielrenner. I’m better than you”. 

Not only are they convinced their legs have developed a superhuman strength that could out-pedal anyone — and to be fair, it is a little impressive — but they also expect to be given the right of way in any circumstance. 

Anecdotally speaking, I’ve seen them refuse to stop for even a sweet, old granny crossing the road.

They believe everyone should also respect what they see as a profound art form, but is truly just a recreational sport that needs to be taken less seriously.

Seeing how they aggressively dominate other bikes and pedestrian spaces makes you wonder if they’re not just in need of a thorough psychiatric evaluation.  

6. They creep up on you silently 

Silent but violent. Like a jaguar stalking its prey in complete stillness before it’s ready to pounce. 

The tires of a wielrenner’s bike are very thin, to improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics, rolling resistance…yeah, who cares. 

The bottom line is that as the wheels of the bike go round and round, you won’t hear a sound.  

On one hand, this means they take up less space (luckily), but on the other hand, the ambush is made all the more petrifying — like a horror movie jumpscare. 

READ MORE | Where to buy a bike in the Netherlands: the ultimate beginner’s guide

7. They often come in large groups 

It’s basically a cult. Think dad’s fantasy football league but on wheels. 

That means if there’s one there’s bound to be several more, following in sudden succession. A full-blown herd stampeding through the clear, with smoke blowing out behind them. 

The hive mentality of the sport also means they’re trapped in an echo chamber of mutual encouragement from each other. And that is why they’ll never stop. 

Then again, we’re not sure life would be the same without them. Maybe the fabric of reality would disintegrate if we didn’t have to hold our breath anytime we make a turn while biking, or hear the familiar sound of voices screaming to “get out of the way”. 

In all seriousness, it’s fine, we get it, they’re just doing their thing. But maybe they could invest in a nice bell from HEMA from time to time?

How do you feel about wielrenners? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 

While it may be shocking to many expats, most Dutchies cycle without helmets! If you are cycling with a helmet in the Netherlands, people can tell that you’re not a local. 

Cycling is an important part of Dutch culture. As the Dutch dare to do what most people wouldn’t do on bicycles (like carrying an entire TV in their backseat), you would think they’d be super careful by wearing a helmet, right?

Wrong! Most Dutchies wouldn’t be caught dead wearing a helmet. Here are some of the reasons why :

READ MORE | 24 TikToks explaining why the Dutch are ahead of their time with bikes

1. Other road users are more aware of cyclists

Over 27% of all trips in the Netherlands are made by bicycle. Wherever you are in your car (except the motorway, of course), you will almost always share some part of your journey with a cyclist.

Compare this to the UK, where only 4% of journeys are taken by bike, and you can begin to understand why Dutch car users are so used to sharing the road.

READ MORE | Do’s and don’ts of riding a bicycle in the Netherlands

Peter van der Knaap, the director of the Dutch Institute for Road Safety and Research (SWOV), believes that cycling is becoming safer over time due to just how much the Dutchies cycle.

According to the SWOV, travel by bike is less safe than travel by car. However, travel by bike is considered safer than moped or motorcycle travel.

2. No one wears a helmet while walking

OK, this argument may sound a bit weak at first glance, but hear us out because it’s true! Head injuries aren’t as likely to happen when you are cycling. Even more so, they are more likely to happen while driving, or, surprisingly, walking!

General falls are responsible for almost 50% of traumatic brain injuries in the USA. Yet, you don’t see people advocating for compulsory helmets in cars or when out on a summer stroll.

3. Helmets can be ineffective

Many Dutch people argue that bike helmets are restrictive and can obstruct the vision of cyclists, making it difficult to quickly look over the shoulder to check the traffic or make a sharp right turn without hitting anyone.

To further back up this theory, a traffic consultant for Fietsersbond, Theo Zeegers, says: “If you are hit by a car on your bike, there is no helmet that will protect you.”

READ MORE | 19 things the Dutch did to make cycling easy and attractive

While bike helmets protect your skull, none will protect you against the dangerous impacts you may experience at high speeds, unfortunately.

He ultimately says that helmets may be helpful when having a collision with other cyclists. However, if you get hit by a car, a helmet will not make a difference. A very controversial statement!

4. The Dutch teach them young

Verkeerslessen (traffic lessons) start in school when Dutchies are five years old. It may just begin with running around the playground and knowing that red means stop and green means go.

The older the Dutch children get, the more complicated the lessons become, and before you know it, they’re all cycling themselves to school. They do have to pass a cycling exam before they’re officially allowed to start cycling themselves, though.

5. Fewer restrictions = more cycling

As you can imagine, cycling every day (the Dutch manage at least 70 minutes per week!) means that the Dutch have earned their frikandel and fries on the weekend.

A 2015 study quantifying the benefits of cycling in the Netherlands showed that all this cycling and fresh air mean that Dutch people have half a year longer life expectancy and 6,500 fewer deaths per year.

According to Cycling UK, enforced helmet laws in some countries have caused a huge reduction in bicycle use. For example, in Western Australia, bike use has dropped by about 30% since the introduction of such a law.

So what would happen if the government suddenly decided to introduce compulsory helmet use?

Who knows what would happen in the Netherlands if the government introduced a similar restriction? It’s possible that it would put people off the many short cycling trips they take if they didn’t have their helmets.

READ MORE | Dutch Quirk #74: Become exhausted when cycling over a bridge

Instead of promoting and enforcing helmets, the Dutch seem to be more focused on implementing good biking practices such as no drunk cycling, no texting whilst biking, and having well-lit bicycle paths. 

What do you think about the Dutch not cycling with helmets? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below!

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in October 2018, and was fully updated in June 2023 for your reading pleasure.