3h countryside tour on sidecar motorcycle

Experience the Netherlands in a Whole New Way: A 3-Hour Sidecar Motorcycle Tour

When it comes to exploring Amsterdam and its surroundings, most travelers stick to the classic canal cruise or walking tours. But if you’re craving something truly memorable and a bit different, a 3-hour countryside sidecar motorcycle tour offers a fantastic blend of city highlights and scenic rural beauty. For around $230 per person, you get to relax in a sidecar with a professional guide at the controls, riding through bustling streets and lush Dutch fields—an experience that truly feels like stepping into a vintage travel magazine.

Two things stand out about this tour: First, the chance to see top Amsterdam landmarks—think Central Station, Leidseplein, and the Red Light District—without the crowds and noise of more traditional tours. Second, the scenic ride through the Dutch countryside, with charming wooden houses, grazing sheep, and windmills, culminating in a visit to the picture-perfect fishing village of Volendam. The fact that the tour includes hotel pickup makes the whole experience seamless and convenient.

A possible consideration is the weather, since outdoor tours in the Netherlands are subject to rain or chill, especially in cooler months. The tour does require good weather to run smoothly, which could mean rescheduling if conditions aren’t ideal.

This tour suits travelers who want more than just city sightseeing—those eager to see a different side of the Netherlands, away from the crowds, with the added fun of riding in a vintage sidecar. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, and anyone looking for a unique blend of adventure, culture, and scenery.

Key Points

• Unique perspective: Combines city sight-seeing with countryside exploration from a vintage sidecar motorcycle.
• Expert guide: A knowledgeable driver-guide provides entertaining stories and commentary.
• Comfort and safety: Includes bike gear and headsets for clear communication.
• Flexible itinerary: Visits top Amsterdam landmarks and a scenic rural area, ending in the charming fishing village of Volendam.
• Lunch option: Enjoy a local fish lunch in Volendam, a highlight for food lovers.
• Private experience: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.

Exploring the Amsterdam and Dutch Countryside Sidecar Tour

If you’re like us, the idea of touring Amsterdam by motorcycle sidecar immediately sparks curiosity. It’s a playful way to see the city and countryside, blending nostalgia with real adventure. This tour lasts about 3 hours, and from start to finish, it offers a well-curated mix of urban and rural sights that highlight the diversity of the region.

Starting Off in Amsterdam

The adventure begins with a 45-minute ride around the city’s most iconic spots. You’ll pass Amsterdam Central Station, a hub of activity and history, and glide past Nieuwmarkt, a lively square with markets and cafes. Riding through Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein, you get a sense of the city’s vibrant nightlife and artistic flair—all from the comfort of your sidecar. The guide, who’s often praised for their friendliness and knowledge (like Dean, as one traveler noted), shares lively tales about each neighborhood, making history feel like a story rather than a lecture.

What we loved here is the unusual perspective—seeing the city from a low, sidecar level offers a fresh view of familiar landmarks. Plus, the included headsets ensure you won’t miss any interesting tidbits, even when the city buzzes around you.

Transition into the Dutch Countryside

After about 1.5 hours of city riding, the scenery shifts dramatically. You’ll leave the urban hustle behind and enter the scenic farmland, with sights of grazing sheep, green pastures, and windmills that turn lazily in the breeze. The countryside ride is a highlight for many, offering a sense of peace and a chance to see the low-lying fields and wooden houses that define rural Holland.

Travelers have raved about this part of the tour—Deirdre calls it “what a treat to see the beauty outside of Amsterdam,” and Susan notes how knowledgeable guides made the countryside come alive with stories. The leisurely pace in the countryside allows for plenty of photo stops and a chance to truly soak in the views.

Visiting Volendam

The tour’s final stop is the harbor village of Volendam, one of the Netherlands’ most iconic fishing villages. With its traditional houses and bustling harbor, it’s the perfect spot for a break and a taste of local cuisine. Most visitors opt for a fish-based lunch, a highlight for food lovers, with reviews praising the quality of the local seafood.

In Volendam, you can stroll along the waterfront, browse artisan shops, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere. The visit here is roughly an hour, giving enough time to relax and soak in the scenery before heading back to Amsterdam.

The Return Journey

The journey back to Amsterdam completes the 3-hour experience, wrapping up a day of sightseeing that’s both fun and insightful. The overall pacing is relaxed, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and ask questions.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour’s included features make for a seamless experience: it provides bike gear for safety, a driver/guide who keeps things engaging, and hotel pickup and drop-off—which means no worries about finding your way or transporting gear between locations. The group size is small, since only your party rides together, creating a more intimate and personalized experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that food and drinks are not included, so if you’re a foodie, plan to explore Volendam’s restaurants or bring snacks. Also, the cost per person (about $230) is reasonable considering the unique experience, the personalized guide, and the included transportation.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

From reviews, it’s clear this tour hits the mark for most travelers. Deirdre describes it as “definitely booking this tour,” highlighting how personal guides like Dean make the experience memorable, blending fun and knowledge. Katherine calls it “the best way to see Amsterdam,” emphasizing how riding in a sidecar offers a unique perspective that other tours can’t match. Susan sums it up as “lots of fun,” and appreciates the scenic countryside and the guide’s expertise.

This tour offers excellent value for those interested in combining city sights with rural landscapes, especially if you enjoy a bit of adventure and vintage charm. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who appreciate storytelling and authentic local experiences over generic sightseeing.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 3-hour sidecar motorcycle tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want an intimate look at both Amsterdam and the Dutch countryside. If you’re someone who enjoys quirky transport, loves scenic views, or is keen to learn local stories from a friendly guide, this experience will resonate. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families looking for a fun, memorable outing.

Keep in mind, the tour’s outdoor nature and weather dependence mean planning for good conditions is wise. If you’re after a relaxed pace, fascinating stories, and a chance to see a different side of Holland, this tour delivers on all fronts. Plus, the visit to Volendam adds a special touch, giving you a taste of traditional Dutch life with just enough leisure and food options.

Overall, it’s a quirky, charming, and scenic way to explore Amsterdam and its surroundings—an experience you won’t forget and that many reviewers highly recommend.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with about 45 minutes touring Amsterdam and 1.5 hours riding through the countryside, plus time in Volendam.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from your hotel, making it easy to integrate into your travel plans.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the driver/guide, bike gear, and transportation. Food and drinks are not included, so plan on purchasing lunch in Volendam.

Can I ride in the sidecar myself?
The tour includes one passenger in the sidecar and one behind the driver. There’s an option to switch mid-way if desired.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, along with the provided bike gear, will keep you comfortable during the ride.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
While the experience is generally safe, it might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. Check with the provider if unsure.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 68 days in advance, as the tour tends to fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons.

This sidecar motorcycle tour offers a distinctive way to see the Netherlands—combining the lively city with tranquil rural scenes—all wrapped in a fun, memorable adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a charming addition to your Amsterdam itinerary.