Amsterdam Centraal Station is not simply a transportation hub — it is the ceremonial gateway into the soul of the Dutch capital. Long before the bicycles, the canals, the tulips, and the postcard-perfect bridges reveal themselves, this immense neo-Renaissance masterpiece rises dramatically from the waterfront like a palace built for travelers. For many visitors, this is the first true moment they feel they have arrived in Amsterdam. The experience begins even before you step fully outside. Inside the station, the rhythm of the city is already alive: trains gliding in from across Europe, the echo of footsteps beneath vaulted ceilings, the smell of fresh espresso drifting from cafés, and the unmistakable sound of bicycle bells somewhere beyond the station doors. There is a sense of movement everywhere, yet nothing feels rushed. Amsterdam has mastered the art of motion without chaos.

From Centraal Station, cycle into the beating heart of Amsterdam: Dam Square. This historic plaza has been the center of Dutch public life for centuries and remains one of the city’s busiest and most iconic gathering places. The square is surrounded by monumental buildings, including the Royal Palace, which originally served as the city hall during the Dutch Golden Age. The National Monument stands proudly in the middle of the square, commemorating victims of World War II. Street performers, pigeons, cafés, and international visitors create a vibrant energy that captures Amsterdam’s cosmopolitan spirit. Highlights * Royal Palace * National Monument * Street performers and cafés * Historic city center energy

This stop takes you into one of the oldest and most historically fascinating parts of Amsterdam. At the center stands the Oude Kerk, the city’s oldest building, dating back to the early 1300s. Its towering Gothic architecture rises dramatically above the narrow medieval streets and canals. Surrounding the church is the famous Red Light District, a neighborhood that blends centuries of history with Amsterdam’s modern culture of openness and tolerance. During the daytime, the area feels surprisingly peaceful and offers beautiful canal scenery, historic bridges, hidden alleyways, and a glimpse into the city’s medieval origins. Highlights * Medieval architecture * Historic canals * Narrow alleyways and bridges * One of the city’s oldest neighborhoods

Nieuwmarkt Square offers one of the most authentic local atmospheres in Amsterdam. At its center stands De Waag, a striking medieval gatehouse that once formed part of the city walls. The building looks almost like a small castle rising above the square. The area is lively throughout the day with outdoor terraces, market stalls, cyclists, and locals enjoying coffee in the sun. It’s a wonderful contrast between old-world architecture and modern Amsterdam life. Highlights * De Waag medieval gatehouse * Market square atmosphere * Outdoor cafés * Historic trading district

This beautiful canal-side house was once home to Rembrandt van Rijn, one of the greatest painters in European history. Riding here feels like stepping directly into the Dutch Golden Age. The surrounding neighborhood is lined with elegant canal houses and narrow streets that still preserve the atmosphere of 17th-century Amsterdam. Even if you do not enter the museum, the exterior and nearby canals make this an unforgettable cultural stop. Highlights * Historic canal house * Dutch Golden Age atmosphere * Art and cultural history

The famous Skinny Bridge crossing the Amstel River is one of Amsterdam’s most photographed locations. Its elegant white wooden structure and symmetrical design create a postcard-perfect view, especially when reflected in the calm river waters. Cycling along the Amstel here feels peaceful and cinematic. Boats glide beneath the bridge while historic canal houses frame the riverbanks. It is one of the best places in the city to stop for photos and enjoy the classic Amsterdam scenery. Highlights * Iconic white wooden bridge * Classic canal photography spot * Beautiful river views Photo Tip One of the best panoramic canal shots in the city.

This section of the ride offers a slower and more relaxed cycling experience along the Amstel River. The wide streets, elegant bridges, and calm waterfront atmosphere create one of the most enjoyable riding stretches in the city. Historic buildings line the riverbanks while boats drift quietly through the canals. The area feels open and spacious compared to the tighter streets of the old city center, making it an ideal place to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery. Highlights * Wide cycling lanes * Historic riverfront buildings * Scenic bridges and canal crossings

Museumplein is Amsterdam’s cultural heart and one of the city’s most prestigious areas. Surrounded by world-famous museums and grand open spaces, this district combines art, architecture, and urban beauty in one spectacular setting. The Rijksmuseum’s monumental facade dominates the square while the Van Gogh Museum and Stedelijk Museum showcase modern creativity. The wide lawns and reflective pools make this an ideal location to relax, take photos, or enjoy lunch during your ride. Highlights * Rijksmuseum * Van Gogh Museum * Stedelijk Museum * Massive open square

Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s green escape and the perfect place to experience the city’s relaxed lifestyle. Locals picnic on the grass, musicians perform near cafés, and cyclists cruise beneath large tree-lined avenues. The park offers a refreshing contrast to the busy historic center. Its winding paths, ponds, sculptures, and open lawns make it one of the most enjoyable cycling sections of the entire route. Highlights * Relaxed bike paths * Open green spaces * Lakes and sculptures * Street musicians and cafés

Leidseplein is one of Amsterdam’s liveliest entertainment districts. The square is filled with energy from theaters, restaurants, cafés, and street performers, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day and evening. Cycling through this area gives you a taste of Amsterdam’s social and nightlife culture. Outdoor terraces are usually packed with people enjoying drinks and conversations while trams and cyclists move continuously through the square. Highlights * Historic theaters * Street life * Restaurants and terraces * Music venues

The Jordaan is often considered Amsterdam’s most beautiful neighborhood. Originally a working-class district, it has transformed into a charming maze of canals, boutique shops, art galleries, hidden courtyards, and cozy cafés. Every corner feels photogenic here. Narrow streets lined with flowers and leaning canal houses create the classic Amsterdam atmosphere travelers dream about. This is one of the best places to slow down, explore on foot, and simply enjoy the character of the city. Highlights * Narrow canals * Boutique shops * Traditional Dutch houses * Hidden courtyards

This stop is one of the most emotional and historically important locations in Amsterdam. The Anne Frank House stands beside the beautiful Westerkerk tower along the Prinsengracht canal. The area carries a quiet and reflective atmosphere. Visitors from around the world come here to remember Anne Frank’s story and the realities of World War II. The nearby Westerkerk adds monumental beauty with its tall bell tower rising above the canals. Highlights * Westerkerk tower * Historic canal setting * Important World War II history

The Nine Streets district is one of the most stylish and picturesque parts of Amsterdam. The small interconnected streets crossing the canals are filled with boutique stores, vintage shops, cafés, bakeries, and beautiful bridges. Cycling here feels intimate and cinematic. Every canal crossing reveals another perfect Amsterdam postcard view with bicycles, flowers, boats, and historic facades. Highlights * Canal crossings * Independent boutiques * Photogenic bridges * Cozy cafés

Take the free ferry across the IJ River for a completely different perspective of Amsterdam. The crossing itself is a fun experience, offering beautiful skyline views back toward the historic center. On the northern side of the river, the atmosphere changes dramatically. NDSM Wharf is creative, industrial, and modern, filled with massive street art, converted warehouses, trendy cafés, and artistic spaces. The A’DAM Lookout tower provides some of the best panoramic views over the city. Highlights * Industrial creative district * Skyline viewpoints * Modern Amsterdam atmosphere * Riverside cycling paths

End your bike tour at Brouwersgracht, widely considered one of Amsterdam’s most beautiful canals. As the evening light reflects on the water and the canal houses begin to glow, the atmosphere becomes calm, romantic, and unforgettable. The canal is quieter than many central areas and offers the perfect final moment to relax after a full day of cycling. Nearby restaurants and cafés make it an ideal location for dinner while watching boats pass slowly through the water. Highlights * Historic canal houses * Quiet waterside atmosphere * Beautiful evening lighting * Excellent dinner spots nearby