Bruges – Antwerp – Amsterdam by Bike and Boat
Guided from EUR € 1210
Bike and Boat Tour aboard Sailing Home, Liza Marleen or Anna Antal
Countries: Belgium and Holland
Tap above to jump to different sections of this tour
-
Bike between the iconic canal cities of Belgium and Holland
Two fascinating countries - Holland and Belgium - united along one route. This bicycle and boat tour combines the highlights of the Netherlands' Golden Age with the history of the medieval Flemish trade cities.
Variety is the keyword on this captivating tour. You'll cycle and sail your way across spectacular landscapes, including the lush green of the Dutch polders where water is aplenty and quaint villages dot the view, to the picturesque countryside between the dynamic, historical cityscapes of Amsterdam, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges.
The Amsterdam - Bruges (and reverse) itinerary is available on a number of boats on various dates. Please check Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Princesse Royal, Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique II (and reverse), Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique III (and reverse), Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Magnifique IV (and reverse), Amsterdam – Gouda – Bruges by Bike and Boat, Bruges – Antwerp – Amsterdam by Bike and Boat, and Amsterdam – Bruges by Bike and Boat – Fluvius (and reverse) for additional dates.
Highlights
- Bruges, 'Venice of the North'
- Ghent, picturesque port city
- Antwerp, distinguished and diverse
- Windmills of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Fortified towns along the Maas
- Breukelen (Dutch Brooklyn)
- Amsterdam, iconic Dutch canal city
Learn More
Learn more about guided tours.
Interested in adding to your itinerary? Take a look at our cycling day tours in Bruges, Antwerp, and Amsterdam. -
CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Antwerp, Belgium. CC:Maros' data-type='image'>CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Lys River, Ghent, Belgium. CC:Graham Richter' data-type='image'>CC-BY-ND-2.0 - Mussels & fries in Bruges, Belgium. CC:FLEandJS Film Crew Fries' data-type='image'>CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Ghent, East Flanders, Belgium. CC:Gregd1957' data-type='image'>CC-BY-2.0 - Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. ContextTravel, Flickr' data-type='image'>CC-BY-ND-2.0 - Waalseilandgracht in Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Steven dosRemedios, Flickr' data-type='image'>CC-BY-ND-2.0 - Magna Plaza, Amsterdam, North Holland, the Netherlands. Steven dosRemedios, Flickr' data-type='image'>CC-BY-SA-4.0 - Ghent, East Flanders, Belgium. CC:Michielverbeek' data-type='image'>CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Frikandel with fries, a favorite Dutch delicacy. CC:Guusbosman' data-type='image'>CC-BY-SA-4.0 - Antwerp, Belgium's grand Cathedral! CC:Rolf Kranz' data-type='image'>
Traveler photos
-
Daily program
Day 1: Bruges – Aalterbrug – cruise to Ghent (13 miles/21 km)
When you arrive on board your ship (between 12:30-1:30 pm), you can put your luggage in your cabin and settle down for a cup of tea or coffee. It's a great moment to become acquainted with your guide, skipper, crew, and of course, your fellow passengers. At 2:00 pm, you'll start off from the city walls of Bruges towards Ghent. The barge will mostly be following the canal between Bruges and Ghent to Aalterbrug.At 2:00 pm, You will cycle along the canal from Bruges to Ghent. Easy riding on towpaths and quiet roads. At Aalterbrug the barge picks you up and sails to the bustling city Ghent. During dinner aboard the ship, the program for the next day and the global planning of the week are discussed. Instructions on cycling and safety procedures will also be given.
Overnight in Ghent.Day 2: Rest day in Ghent
Ghent wears its history like a badge of honor, boasting a vibrant tapestry of well-preserved guilds, patricians' houses, and ancient landmarks. The Gravensteen, a medieval castle, stands as a formidable relic, while the St Nicholas Church and St Bavo's Cathedral, rooted in 13th-century foundations, echo the city's enduring past. The 'Belfort' (Belfry), a 14th-century marvel, completes this historical ensemble.Yet, Ghent transcends the confines of a mere museum town. Its lively spirit emanates from numerous squares and cozy pubs, creating a delightful fusion of medieval grandeur, stylish shopping streets, splendid mansions, and the charming working-class quarters of the early 20th century—now often inhabited by students. Picture busy little squares where the air is filled with the joyous chatter of people dining until the late hours on warm summer nights.
For a different perspective, hop on a bike with your guide(optional). Explore the silent witnesses of Destelbergen's history, where castles and luxurious villas line the landscape, narrating tales of the municipality's rich heritage along the serene banks of the river Scheldt, just a stone's throw away from the heart of Ghent.
Overnight in Ghent.Day 3: Ghent – Middelburg (28 miles/45 km)
Today you'll leave Belgium and arrive in the Netherlands. During breakfast, the ship will cruise to Sas van Gent from where you'll depart to cycle through the Zeeuws-Vlaanderen (Dutch-Flanders). Enjoy a short ferry trip from Breskens to Vlissingen (Flushing), crossing the Westerschelde. From Vlissingen, it's just 30 more minutes of cycling to reach Middelburg, the capital of Zeeland.Modern Middelburg has regained as well as preserved much of its historic and picturesque character. You'll discover lavish 17th- and 18th-century merchant houses and storehouses standing along the canals and a medieval abbey that's still in use today as a museum and seat of provincial government.
Overnight in Middelburg.Day 4: Middelburg – Zierikzee (31 miles/50 km)
Start today with a ride to the town of Veere, formerly an important center for trade. From Veere, you'll cycle over the Veersgatdam (with the possibility of a beach visit here) to North Beveland. Soon, you'll reach the Oosterscheldedam. The enormous locks are built in this embankment and can be closed during storms and high tides to protect the south-west of the Netherlands from the sea. This embankment was one of the last in a series of barriers built against the ocean. When cycling along the embankment, you'll see why protecting the country now and in the future, and letting seawater into the widespread Delta area, has been one of the most difficult and costly challenges for the Netherlands. This is precisely why the Deltaworks are referred to as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers. After visiting the dam, you'll continue pedaling to Zierikzee.
Overnight in Zierikzee.Day 5: Zierikzee – Willemstad – cruise to Dordrecht (34 miles/55 km)
Enjoy cycling on the island of Schouwen-Duiveland towards Bruinisse. This village is known to be a very isolated community, where the main source of income is the mussel fishery - as you cycle along the dike to the Grevelingen, you'll find a statue of an opened mussel.From here, you'll continue your ride towards Willemstad (an old fortified town). In Willemstad, you will board the ship and cruise to Dordrecht, one of the oldest cities in Holland, located at the crossroads of busy waterways.
Overnight in Dordrecht.Day 6: Dordrecht – cruise to Gorinchem – cycle to Vianen (31 miles/50 km)
In the morning, you'll sail from Dordrecht to Gorinchem where you'll visit Woudrichem (an old fortified town) and the most famous castle in the Netherlands - Loevestein.Afterwards, you'll follow the meandering River Linge through the Betuwe. This area is known for its large number of verdant orchards and will be covered in blossom in the months of April and May. Along the city of Leerdam, famous for its glass, you'll continue your tour northwards towards Vianen.
Overnight in Vianen.Day 7: Vianen – cruise to Breukelen – cycle to Amsterdam (25 miles/40 km)
During breakfast, you'll cruise to Breukelen and cycle onwards to Amsterdam via the Vecht and Amstel, Holland's two most beautiful rivers. Along the route, you'll catch sight of magnificent country mansions with splendid, well-kept gardens dating back to the 18th century. After dinner, there's the option to take a canal cruise through iconic Amsterdam, famous for its wonderful waterways.
Overnight in Amsterdam.Day 8: Amsterdam
End of the tour and disembarkation after breakfast (before 10:00 am). Don't want the adventure to end? Consider taking a cycling day tour in Amsterdam to maximize your experience in this iconic Dutch city.This itinerary is subject to change with no notice.
Surface and terrain
The tour follows a flat terrain route.
Boats
Many of these barges are former working river vessels, converted specifically for this kind of passenger vacation. The barges comply with the strict safety regulations set forth by the Dutch Shipping Inspection Authorities. Do not expect a luxury cruise ship. The experience of the tour is built around guests being active cyclists, and the layout of the barge supports a social environment in common spaces.
How to get there
Tour start
Nearest airport: Brussels (BRU)
Nearest train station: BrugesTour end
Nearest airport: Amsterdam Schipol (AMS)
Nearest train station: Centraal stationTips on getting to and from your tour.
-
Dates
Sailing Home: May 16, 30; Jun 13, 27; Jul 11, 25; Aug 08, 22; Sep 05, 19; Oct 03, 17, 2024.
Wending: May 23; Jul 18; Aug 15, 29; Sep 12, 26, 2024.
Liza Marleen: Jun 20; Sep 26, 2024.Low season: Jul 27, 2024 - Aug 15, 2024, Oct 17, 2024 - Oct 24, 2024
Standard season: May 16, 2024 - Jun 27, 2024, Aug 15, 2024 - Sep 05, 2024, Sep 26, 2024 - Oct 10, 2024
High season: Sep 05, 2024 - Sep 26, 2024Prices
Sailing Home
Per person, double occupancy Low season Standard season High season Standard twin cabin €1380 € 1535 €1685 Single cabin use (1 person/1 cabin) €1995 €2220 €2420 Wending
Per person, double occupancy Low season Standard season High season Standard twin cabin €1210 €1334 €1460 Triple cabin (per person, triple occupancy) €1130 €1250 €1370 Single use (1 person/1 cabin) €1530 €1695 €1840 Liza Marleen
Per person, double occupancy Standard season Standard twin cabin €1470 Superior twin cabin €1700 Superior triple cabin (per person, triple occupancy) €1350 Single cabin use (1 person/1 cabin) €2110 Bike Rentals
Standard touring bike €110 Electrically assisted bike €220
Additional Options
Gluten free or vegan meals €75 Discounts
Child, 0-2 sharing cabin with at least 1 full-paying adult (on base package price) 100% Child, 3-11 sharing cabin with at least 1 full-paying adult (on base package price) 30% Included services
- 7 nights accommodation on board (including bed linens, 2 towels)
- Breakfast and dinner on board
- Lunch packages when on the road
- Minimum 3 city walks with tour guide
- Coffee and tea on board
- Tour guide
- Road book (1 per cabin)*
- Ferry fares on the route
- Wifi available in lounge and on deck (available in the Netherlands; up to 100MB free)
- GPS tracks (upon request)
*The road book (1 per cabin) includes the detailed itinerary. Although the tour is guided, if you wish to cycle any of the days on your own, you may request the GPS tracks to assist you with navigation.
Please note that special dietary needs can be accommodated upon request. Extra fees may apply; gluten-free/Celiac/vegan/lactose-free meals are an additional €75 charge. Please inform us of dietary requirements when booking your tour.
Bike rentals
Bikes available to be rented (booked in advance at the time of booking) include:
- Standard touring bike, 24-speed
- Electrically assisted bike, 24-speed, unisex*
- Children's bike, child seats (rear of bike), trailer bike (one-wheeled bicycle attached to adult standard bike)
- Bike insurance included with bike rental
*More about electrically-assisted bikes >
All above bike rentals will be equipped with the following at no additional charge:
- Helmet
- Pannier bag
- Lock
- Water bottle
- Repair kit (when cycling self-guided)
Pedals:
The bikes will have flat pedals. If you want to bring your own pedals, please bring your own shoes and also the necessary equipment to change the pedals.Helmets:
Helmets are available with your bike rental. A helmet is required for children in the Netherlands; however, we recommend, for safety and hygiene reasons, that you bring your own helmet.More information about the electrically assisted bike
Your electrically assisted bike has 24 gears, a detachable lithium-ion battery, hand brakes, pannier bags, a good lock, water bottle and you can get a repair kit. We draw your attention to the fact that you will be held responsible for damage to or theft of the bike, as long as the bike is not on board. (the E-bike has a value of more than € 2000). Never leave it unattended. Always lock it and fasten it to a fixed object, and don’t forget to remove the information panel from your steering wheel. If you didn't arrange cycle insurance when booking you can do this on board (the first day). Payment in cash is required.
-
Route Map
Maps are for information purposes only and reflect typical routes between overnight locations. They may not reflect your actual route.
-
Reviews
-
★★★★★ Kris Krause 7 months ago
Great way to see Belgium and Netherlands!
Being our first bike tour, we didn't know what to expect going into the tour, but we had a great time. The whole team was amazing from the first day to the last day. Having dietary restrictions, they were more than accommodating and didn't make it seem like a burden. All the stops along the way were great and our guide was so knowledgeable. Can't wait to do another one!
- What was the date of your tour?
- May 2023
- How many tours have you completed?
- 0
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ Casey York October 21, 2022
Amazing way to travel!
Can’t wait to go on another trip! The barge was comfortable, food tasty, guide and staff wonderful and I really enjoyed the whole itinerary. The fortified cities shaped like stars were so unique and I enjoyed sailing on the boat, enjoying a happy hour glass on the deck after a long day biking.
- What was the date of your tour?
- October 2022
- How many tours have you completed?
- 2
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ Razz October 12, 2019
Bruge to Amsterdam by Bike & Boat
I loved seeing Belgium and Netherlands by the calm pace of the bike and barge. It was exciting to see and experience the cities, small towns and villages, countryside, canals, forests, and farms & communities where people lived. The barge was comfortable, staff was great and the food on the barge was fabulous. I would definitely consider another trip by bike and barge.
- What was the date of your tour?
- September 21-28, 2019
- How many tours have you completed?
- 1
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with young kids, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ J1951 September 23, 2019
Bike & Barge Tour
My husband and I both had a great time on our tour. We biked from Brugge to Amsterdam. Our guide was knowledgeable, the food was fabulous and we enjoyed getting to know the other bikers as we traveled through beautiful country. We highly recommend.
- What was the date of your tour?
- 9/7/19 - 9/14/19
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ SandyPatti August 30, 2019
Great bike and boating trip!
Our guide Seitse was terrific - very knowledgeable about the areas and routes. The crew on board Sailing Home made us feel very welcome and the food was excellent. The riding was quite pleasant (very flat almost everywhere) such that we rarely turned on our ebikes. Overall, it was a great way to see parts of Belgium and the Netherlands.
- What was the date of your tour?
- Aug 17 - 24, 2019
- How many tours have you completed?
- This was the first one.
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ Sweeper July 2, 2018
Terrific introduction to bike touring
From the first moment to the last we had a great time. Thirteen riders and a great guide made for a splendid week touring the countryside between Brugge and Amsterdam. The pace was perfect with plenty of stops for food and drink. Our boat was nicely appointed and the on board chef made a different gourmet meal every night. We recommend a guided tour though we haven't tried a self guided tour yet.
- What was the date of your tour?
- 6/9 - 6/16 2018
- How many tours have you completed?
- one
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ Catherine October 17, 2017
excellent bike adventure
Our barge crew was excellent, the group was wonderful and special, the food was very good and the trip a wonderful entry into bike and barging. Looking forward to more cycling and barging trips in the future.
- What was the date of your tour?
- Sept. 30 to Oct. 7
- How many tours have you completed?
- 1
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ SheRah October 9, 2017
Amazing teip
- What was the date of your tour?
- 9/30-10/7
- How many tours have you completed?
- 2
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
BikeTours.com staff reply from Brittany October 10, 2017
We're glad you had a great time on tour. Thank you very much for your picture and your review!
-
★★★★★ Peterm October 2, 2017
Excellent format - Barge Bike tour
Very enjoyable tour. Excellent crew. Excellent food. Excellent company. It is a good mixture of bike & barge travel. The cycling is gentle and Holland is flat. It is good to have a guide as it is impossible to get lost. Cycle routes in Belgium & Holland are very well organised, safe with minimum traffic and great scenery. Would recommend it. Note cabins are small.
- What was the date of your tour?
- 23September
- How many tours have you completed?
- 0
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
BikeTours.com staff reply from Brittany October 3, 2017
We're delighted to hear you had a great time! I agree that the bike and boat tours are a wonderful way to explore Holland and Belgium. Thank you for taking the time to review!
-
★★★★★ cwr01 August 23, 2017
Great Bike and Barge
The guide and barge crew were wonderful and very helpful and understanding. It was a great way to see the Low Countries. I would suggest they upgrade the quality of the bicycles.
- What was the date of your tour?
- July 2017
- How many tours have you completed?
- 3
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ CamL June 29, 2017
Excellent cycle tour
Such a great way to experience a country! Easy cycling with great sights and experiences. The group wasn't too big, the boat was comfortable and the food was healthy and delicious. The guide kept us moving along excellent trails and he found good places for us to lunch. All the sights he stopped at were very interesting.
(Would like to add a photo but can't)
- What was the date of your tour?
- June 10-17 2017
- How many tours have you completed?
- 3
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Much easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with young kids, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ Le Buts June 21, 2017
Discovering the Natherlands
Excellent value, great tour, excellent food! We will gladly do another one of these small group tours one day. The group was a great size to give the opportunity to get to know each member of the group. Wonderful places and scenery.
- What was the date of your tour?
- 10 - 17 June 2017
- How many tours have you completed?
- 3
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ Shawn June 8, 2017
Great scenery, great boat and easy biking
The food on the boat was terrific, our guide provided wonderful walking tours of the towns and cities and at the end of the day, we can rest, sitting on the top deck of the boat, and look at the views.
- What was the date of your tour?
- 5/27 to 6/3
- How many tours have you completed?
- 2
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ Tahoe Gal June 7, 2017
Excellent--Exceeded My Expectations
Everything was perfect on the Liza Marleen. Captain Els set the tone that was professional and relaxing. Chef Mariah's culinary creations were inventive and delicious. Guide Bert's attention ensured a carefree day of riding. And then there was the scenery! Riding was easy and the distance perfect (30-is miles a day) made for days I will remember for a long time. Room was more comfortable than many boats similar size with AC and fabulous showers.
- What was the date of your tour?
- 10 May
- How many tours have you completed?
- 0
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
-
★★★★★ Beana June 7, 2017
Bikes and Boats! And Lots More!
Comfortable bikes and idyllic rides. The Liza Marleen was a comfortable barge with great staff. Food terrific. A wonderful combination of touring and history, city walks and countryside explorations.
- What was the date of your tour?
- May 26
- How many tours have you completed?
- 1
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes