Amsterdam Cycling Routes With the Best Views

20km south along the Amstel through open polder landscape to Ouderkerk — flat, fast, and peaceful. The river bends, the old church, and the working windmill at Waver make this the most beautiful short ride out of the city. Easy return by same path

17km east along the IJ waterfront and through the Diemerbos forest to a 13th-century moated castle on the IJmeer. The approach across the flat fields with the castle appearing on the horizon is a genuine arrival. Combine with a boat tour of the castle

40km west through Spaarnwoude and into the Kennemerduinen national park dunes — sudden elevation changes that feel impossible in flat Holland, views over the North Sea, and Haarlem at the end. Take the train back if your legs disagree

The city's own forest — 1000 hectares of woodland, meadows, and lakes 20 minutes by bike from the centre. A full loop is about 12km; the rowing course and the goat farm mid-route are the scenic highlights. Excellent for an early morning before the city wakes

A 12km urban ride east across the IJmeer bridges to Amsterdam's island neighbourhood — the crossing over open water with the city skyline behind you is unlike anything else. Continue past IJburg for the empty IJmeer shoreline and views back toward the city