Cycling, Amsterdam

A nice and relaxing sport in Amsterdam is bicycle watching. And bicycle watching in Vondel Park is even more relaxing as it's a great place to sit around in, have a picnic lunch, and watch a multitude of bicycles in all shapes and colors drift by.

We relaxed, picnicked and bicycle-watched for at least 2 hours, which was a welcome break for our feet from walking around in Amsterdam all day.

Vondel Park is a nice and large park, located in Amsterdam's Oud-Zuid neighborhood, west of (and not too far from) Leidseplein (Leidse Square) and Museumplein (Museum Square). The park was opened in 1865, originally named "Nieuwe Park" (New Park) and later renamed to "Vondelpark", after the 17th century author and poet Joost van den Vondel. My excuse for never having read any of his works is that his books are most likely out of print these days. You'll have the chance to say hello to Joost van den Vondel near a small lake. He also enjoys resting and watching bicycles, so you'll always find him at that very same lake in exactly the same posture. That's not really so unusual, I guess that's just what happens to someone who has turned into a statue.

Equipment: Bicycles, feet, preferably a picnic lunch and definitely beverages (as the beverage vending stall, or rather vending cart, is way too expensive) and walking (or even sitting around) in Vondel Park will make you quite thirsty after a while.

If you are planning to stay in Amsterdam for more than a couple of days then why not head out of town on a (half)day trip ? Although Amsterdam itself is the ultimate tourist destination you still might consider a day off.

Waiting for the night when Amsterdam if full of action can be quite long and boring. Museums and streetlife are some options but there is an other easy way to enjoy your day: discover Holland on a bike trip. This one is a solution to your boredom: eye-opener, outdoor, easy, fun, keeps you in shape ! There are so many places around, we can surely find some of your interest.

Equipment: Of course you can bring your own bike with you and use it freely whernever you want. If you are not a sport-biker then renting a normal city bike would be a cheaper option. There are many bike rentals charging some € 12 a day.
If you want a good mountainbike or a racebike this can be a problem. So think twice before taking a decision. Check this commercial site so you can get a better orientation. Success !

A great way to visit The Netherlands by sunny weather. Everything is foreseen for bikers. I was struck to see such large cycling paths ! It's great to cycle side by side. Moreover these paths are very often well separated from the road (look at the pic, we're cycling along the wotorway !) and surrounded by nature. It's a real joy !