3h countryside tour on sidecar motorcycle

If you’re after a unique way to see Amsterdam beyond the usual walking or canal cruise, this 3-hour sidecar motorcycle tour offers an exciting blend of city highlights and scenic countryside. With a professional driver-guide at the controls, you’ll ride comfortably through bustling city streets, then escape into the peaceful Dutch landscape, ending with a visit to the charming fishing village of Volendam.

What makes this experience stand out? For many, it’s the intimate, open-air feel of touring in a classic motorbike sidecar — a fun and memorable way to soak up the sights. Plus, the expert guide provides insights into Dutch culture and history, making it both enjoyable and educational.

A possible consideration is the weather — since it’s an outdoor experience, rain or poor weather can impact the ride. However, if the sun is shining, you’ll find this tour offers fantastic value, combining city sightseeing, countryside views, and local flavor all in one package.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who love a bit of adventure, enjoy guided experiences, and want to see more of the Netherlands in a short period. It’s perfect for those looking for a distinctive, fun activity that blends sightseeing with a touch of thrill.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Riding in a classic motorbike sidecar combines adventure with sightseeing.
• City and Countryside: Offers a balanced mix of Amsterdam landmarks and scenic rural views.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable driver-guides share stories about Dutch culture and history.
• Comfort and Safety: Bike gear and headsets ensure a comfortable, audible experience.
• Visit Volendam: The picturesque harbor village is a highlight, with a chance to enjoy a local fish lunch.
• Flexible Group: Only your group participates, with options for a shared or private experience.

A Deep Dive into the 3-Hour Sidecar Motorcycle Tour

This tour covers roughly 45 minutes of city riding followed by 1.5 hours in the countryside, ending with a visit to the enchanting fishing village of Volendam. It’s designed to maximize the best of both worlds in a compact timeframe, making it ideal for travelers with limited time but big interests in the Netherlands’ culture and scenery.

City Tour: Amsterdam Highlights in a Different Light

Starting in Amsterdam, you’ll get a lively and intimate view of the city’s most iconic spots. The ride takes you past the Central Station, an architectural marvel and transportation hub, setting the tone for a city rich in history. From there, the tour weaves through Nieuwmarkt, known for its historic market square, and then onto Leidseplein, a lively hub for nightlife, music, and entertainment.

Guests report that the guides are well-informed and personable. One reviewer, Deirdre, praised Dean, the guide, for being “fun and personable,” and appreciated how he tailored the route to show “the beauty outside of Amsterdam.” It’s clear that the guides know their stuff and are passionate about sharing stories, making the city’s sights come alive beyond just photos and quick stops.

The tour also brushes past Rembrandtplein, De Dam, and the Maritime Museum, offering quick glimpses of the city’s cultural and historic centers. The experience is especially appealing for those who want a lively, up-close perspective of Amsterdam without the crowds of a typical tour bus.

Scenic Ride Through the Dutch Countryside

After exploring the city, the ride transitions into the tranquil countryside. This part, lasting about 1.5 hours, is where you’ll truly feel the difference — lush pastures, low-lying fields, and quaint wooden houses dot the landscape. It’s a chance to breathe in the fresh air, see the traditional side of the Netherlands, and enjoy unobstructed views that would be hard to capture from a car or bus.

Travelers have described the countryside as “beautiful,” and the views are often praised for their authenticity. Guests love how the guides share stories about local life and the significance of windmills and farms, making it more than just a scenic ride.

Visiting Volendam: A Picture-Perfect Harbor Village

The highlight of the countryside leg is a visit to Volendam, one of the Netherlands’ most iconic fishing villages. The town’s colorful houses and bustling harbor appeal to photographers and culture enthusiasts alike. Reviewers mention that they enjoyed trying local fish here, with one describing it as a “delicious lunch,” though the tour doesn’t include food — it’s an opportunity to purchase or enjoy a meal on your own.

Guests like Katherine found this part of the tour to be “a highlight,” emphasizing the charm of the village and the chance to experience authentic Dutch life outside Amsterdam. The visit to Volendam offers a relaxed, picturesque break and a wonderful photo opportunity.

Practical Details and Comfort

Included in the price are bike gear and headsets, which are essential for comfort and communication during the ride. The guides are attentive in making sure everyone is suited up properly and can clearly hear their commentary, even over the engine noise.

The tour also offers pickup and drop-off services, making it convenient to start your adventure without the hassle of finding a meeting point. The experience is private, meaning only your group participates, adding a layer of intimacy and flexibility — including a switch in who sits in the sidecar halfway through if desired.

Pricing and Value

At around $230 per person, this tour offers a distinctive way to explore both urban and rural Holland. Considering it includes a full 3 hours of guided riding, scenic views, and a charming village visit, many will find it offers good value, especially given the personalized experience and expert guides.

While food isn’t included, the optional stop in Volendam for a local fish lunch adds to the overall value, allowing guests to customize their experience. The small-group setting and private tour style also lend a personalized touch that enhances the overall enjoyment.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-seeking travelers who want something more than a typical city tour. If you enjoy motorbiking or open-air rides, this is a fantastic way to see Amsterdam and beyond. It’s also ideal for culture enthusiasts who appreciate storytelling and local insights from knowledgeable guides.

Families or couples looking for a unique, memorable activity will find this tour both fun and intimate. It’s especially suitable for those who don’t mind a bit of outdoor exposure and want to experience the Dutch landscape up close.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, it’s best for travelers who are flexible with their plans and check the forecast beforehand. The reviews highlight that guides like Dean are personable and knowledgeable, making the ride not just scenic but also personalized and fun.

The Bottom Line

This 3-hour sidecar motorcycle tour provides an engaging, authentic glimpse of Amsterdam and the Dutch countryside that few other experiences can match. It combines the thrill of riding in a vintage sidecar with the comfort of a guided tour, offering insight into Dutch life, culture, and history.

Travelers who value a mix of adventure and storytelling, along with stunning views and a touch of local flavor, will find this experience well worth the cost. It’s ideal for those wanting a memorable day out that blends city sightseeing with scenic rural exploration in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

To sum it up, whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour offers a distinctive, fun way to see the Netherlands’s highlights and hidden gems. Just remember to check the weather forecast and book in advance, as it’s a popular choice for travelers seeking something a little different.

FAQ

How long is the city sightseeing part of the tour?
The city portion lasts approximately 45 minutes, providing a quick yet comprehensive glimpse of Amsterdam’s main landmarks.

What are some of the city sights included?
You’ll see Central Station, Nieuwmarkt, Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein, De Dam, Prinsengracht, and the Maritime Museum, among others.

Is the countryside ride scenic?
Absolutely. Guests describe the views as beautiful, with lush pastures, low-lying fields, and traditional wooden houses creating a peaceful scene.

Can I switch seats during the tour?
Yes, the tour allows for the possibility of switching half way through, so both passengers can experience the sidecar and the seat behind the driver.

Are bike gear and headsets provided?
Yes, all necessary gear is included, and headsets ensure you can hear the guide clearly over the engine noise.

Is pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to start and end your adventure hassle-free.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is about $230.48 per person, which includes the guided ride, gear, and private experience.

Is this a private or group tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor riding and weather conditions are recommended. Check the forecast to prepare for rain or shine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for travelers’ schedules.

This sidecar motorcycle tour is a fantastic way to see a different side of the Netherlands — blending city sights, scenic landscapes, and charming villages into one memorable adventure.