Bike cruise on the Tulip Road, Amsterdam and Haarlem
Discover the Netherlands by bike, linking Amsterdam, Haarlem, and Alkmaar, amidst landscapes dotted with vast tulip fields!
This short break combining cycling and cruising aboard the Magnifique II will take you through the most beautiful regions of the Netherlands. You'll stroll along the canals of the magnificent city of Amsterdam and be charmed by the region's famous flower markets.
Highlights of the Tulip Route:
- The famous Zaanse Schans open-air museum
- Amsterdam
- The world-renowned Keukenhof flower park
- The historic city of Haarlem
Day 1: Amsterdam | From Amsterdam to Haarlem by boat
Boarding and check-in aboard the Magnifique II at 2:00 PM. Once all passengers are on board, a short cruise takes you to Haarlem, passing through a historic lock. Upon arrival, you can test your bike in the surrounding area. The evening is free; take the opportunity to explore Haarlem at your own pace.
Day 2: Keukenhof Loop (50 km)
After breakfast, hop on your bike and head towards Keukenhof Gardens, considered the most beautiful flower garden in the world. There, you'll be dazzled by hundreds of thousands of tulips, as well as daffodils, hyacinths, and many other floral varieties. After a leisurely stroll through this verdant oasis, get back on your bike and cycle back to Haarlem, passing through typical Dutch scenery. Once back in the city, take some time to explore the historic center, its Grote Markt (Main Market Square), and St. Bavo's Church.
Day 3: Haarlem to Alkmaar (50 km)
Optional: Early morning bus excursion (6:30 am) to Aalsmeer, home to the world's largest flower auction. Every morning, millions of stalks are sold here before being shipped to the four corners of the globe. Return to the barge at 9:00 AM to enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Then, set off on today's journey, crossing the North Holland Dunes Nature Reserve. A stop in Egmond is a must for a refreshing swim in the North Sea before continuing on to Alkmaar. With the boat moored close to the city center, you can easily stroll through the charming little streets of the historic heart in the evening.
Day 4: From Alkmaar to Zaanse Schans by bike (40 km) | From Zaanse Schans to Amsterdam by boat
After breakfast, cycle across the Schermer polder, once dotted with windmills, before reaching Rijp. This town transports you back several centuries with its wooden facades, beautiful church, and lock. You then continue to the Zaanse Schans open-air museum, which features splendid windmills, traditional wooden houses, an old Dutch village, a cheese farm, and a traditional clog-making workshop. Finally, you return to the ship for an afternoon cruise towards Amsterdam. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring the city, visiting its museums, or indulging in some shopping.
Day 5: Amsterdam
Disembarkation after breakfast until 9:30 a.m.: your trip comes to an end.
All distances indicated are approximate and correspond to recommended cycling routes. The weekly program is subject to change at any time depending on nautical, technical, or weather conditions.
