Amsterdam: Explore Canals, Guided Tour on Flower Bikes

If you’re looking for a fun, lively, and uniquely Dutch way to explore Amsterdam, a guided tour on a Flower Bike might just be your perfect choice. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a delightful way to soak up the city’s atmosphere, with plenty of charm, picturesque views, and cultural insights along the way.

What immediately catches the eye is the brightly decorated Flower Bikes—these eye-catching bicycles, created by Warren Gregory, a local artist affectionately known as the Flower Bike Man, turn city riding into a mobile art exhibit. Plus, at just $27 per person, it offers an affordable, engaging experience that combines sightseeing with a splash of color and a dash of fun.

However, one thing to consider is that this tour lasts only 1.5 hours, so those wanting a more in-depth exploration might find it a little short. That said, it’s an excellent introduction for first-timers, families, and anyone wanting a lighthearted way to see the highlights of Amsterdam. If you love vibrant visuals, friendly guides, and an active way to explore, this tour promises a memorable ride through the city’s iconic sights.

Good To Know

• Unique Mode of Transportation: Ride colorful, custom-designed Flower Bikes that make sightseeing fun and photogenic.
• Expert Guided Experience: Enjoy insights from a knowledgeable English-speaking guide who brings the city’s stories to life.
• Iconic Sights and Hidden Gems: Pass by landmarks like the Anne Frank House and cruise through lesser-known areas like the Jordaan District.
• Authentic Amsterdam Atmosphere: Cycle along the canals and through historic neighborhoods that are part of UNESCO’s world heritage.
• Affordable Price: At $27, it offers a great value for a city tour that is both entertaining and scenic.
• Small Group Flexibility: With a maximum of 15 people, the tour maintains a personal touch, ideal for photos and questions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Why You’ll Love This Tour

The guided Flower Bike tour is a lively, colorful way to discover Amsterdam’s essence. We loved how the bikes are not only functional but also serve as moving pieces of art—each one in a different vibrant hue. This instantly makes for fantastic photo opportunities, especially with Instagram in mind. Plus, the knowledgeable guides like Victor, who’s praised for his humor and insight, help you connect with the city’s stories beyond just the scenery.

Another highlight is the well-chosen route. You’ll cruise past the Anne Frank House—a profoundly significant site—and pause for photos, giving you a chance to reflect on its history. The tour continues through popular areas like the Museum Square, Dam Square, and the lively Grachtengordel, allowing you to appreciate both Amsterdam’s architecture and its lively street life.

And if you love parks, the stop at Vondelpark provides a breath of fresh air amidst the city’s hustle. The route also includes less touristy neighborhoods like the Jordaan District, which is filled with cozy cafes, boutiques, and secret courtyards, giving you a taste of local life.

Some reviewers mention how easy the bikes are to ride and how the entire experience feels accessible—even for those who don’t often cycle. The fact that the bikes are three-speed and include handbrakes means you can focus on enjoying the ride without worrying about technicalities.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins at a central spot near Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 101, easily recognizable by the vibrant Flagship Bike Tours signage. The guides, usually dressed in bright orange, greet you and help you settle into your colorful Flower Bike. The bikes are sturdy, with a comfortable seat and a stylish basket—perfect for holding your camera and small souvenirs.

Over the next hour and a half, you’ll follow a carefully curated route that balances sightseeing, photo stops, and scenic cruising. The first stop in Jordaan offers a chance to snap some photos of the canals and historic facades. The Anne Frank House stop is a poignant moment to reflect and capture memorable shots.

The tour then takes you past the Westerkerk—famous for its tower—and along scenic streets toward Leidse Square, a bustling hub of cafes and nightlife. A highlight is the stop at Vondelpark, where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the greenery. The Rijksmuseum provides a chance for stunning photos of its iconic architecture, while the Grachtengordel offers classic canal views.

As the tour winds down, you’ll visit De Negen Straatjes (the Nine Streets), a charming shopping district full of boutiques and cafes, perfect for those wanting a quick browse or a coffee break. The final stop at Dam Square wraps up the experience with a photo opportunity amidst the historic monuments, before returning back to the starting point.

The entire route is designed to be manageable and enjoyable, with a mix of scenic views, cultural landmarks, and lively neighborhoods. You can expect to be on the bikes about an hour, with some extra time at stops.

The Value of the Experience

At just $27, this tour packs a lot of visual and cultural punch for a relatively short ride. The inclusion of a friendly English-speaking guide ensures you get context and stories as you go, transforming what could be a simple bike ride into an engaging storytelling session.

The small group size keeps the experience intimate and flexible. Reviewers appreciated the guides, like Victor and Thomas, for their humor and knowledge. One user mentioned how they loved the way the guide answered all questions and shared anecdotes that made the city’s sights come alive.

The sturdy, well-maintained bikes—with three gears and handbrakes—are suitable for most riders, even those not used to cycling in cities. Plus, the photo stops allow you to capture the vibrant scenery, making it an activity you’ll want to share.

Snacks and refreshments are not included, but complimentary water refills and a stroopwafel (a sweet Dutch treat) add a thoughtful touch to the experience. The tour’s timing—just 1.5 hours—makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day, whether you’re on a city break or just want a quick yet memorable adventure.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer praised the guides’ knowledge and humor, calling Victor “a great host who took time to answer all questions,” which suggests you’ll learn a lot about Amsterdam’s sights and stories. Another shared how riding the pink flower bike was a visual delight, and the guide Thomas made the experience even more enjoyable, especially for kids or those hesitant about cycling.

Multiple reviews highlight how easy and fun the route is, mentioning that you don’t need to be a pro cyclist to enjoy it. This accessibility makes it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a relaxed but engaging way to see the city.

The photo opportunities are clearly a standout, with reviewers raving about how the bikes are “beautiful” and perfect for capturing colorful memories amid Amsterdam’s historic scenery.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a lively, visual introduction to Amsterdam without the commitment of a full-day tour. It’s perfect if you love colorful sights, engaging guides, and scenic cycling. Families with older children (over 12, depending on height) will likely enjoy the activity, especially with the option to swap bikes for lighter models.

Those interested in photography will appreciate the numerous photo stops, especially around the canals and historic landmarks. It’s also a good fit for first-time visitors who want to cover many highlights in a manageable amount of time, all while enjoying a uniquely Dutch way to explore.

However, if you’re sensitive to bike riding or prefer more extensive sightseeing, you might consider combining this tour with other activities for a fuller experience of Amsterdam.

The Sum Up

The Amsterdam Flower Bike Guided Tour offers a cheerful, accessible way to see the city’s most famous sights and hidden gems. With vibrant bikes, knowledgeable guides, and scenic routes, it turns sightseeing into a playful adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a quick, colorful, and memorable introduction to what makes Amsterdam special.

The experience balances affordability with quality, making it a smart choice for first-timers and those short on time. The small group size and friendly guides create an intimate atmosphere, perfect for capturing photos and asking questions. It’s a lighthearted way to enjoy the city’s canal scenery, historic sites, and lively neighborhoods—all while riding a bike that’s as charming as Amsterdam itself.

For anyone looking for a vibrant, fun, and authentic way to explore, this tour delivers a unique perspective on the city’s beauty and spirit. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it’s a joyous ride through one of Europe’s most picturesque destinations.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 12 and over might find the bikes a good fit, though kids under 12 are generally not allowed. The bikes are suitable for most, but always check height requirements, as some reviewers noted that younger or shorter children may have to switch bikes.

How long does the tour last?
The guided ride takes approximately 1.5 hours, which makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 101, near Central Station, and ends at the same location, making it very convenient for travelers.

What’s included in the price?
You get a comfortable 3-speed Flower Bike, an English-speaking guide, water refills, and a stroopwafel—a sweet Dutch treat.

Are the bikes easy to ride?
Yes, the bikes are designed for city riding, featuring three gears and handbrakes. Multiple reviewers mentioned how accessible and fun they found the bikes.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable, especially in peak seasons. You can reserve and pay later with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera for photos, wear comfortable clothes, and don’t forget your enthusiasm for a colorful ride around Amsterdam.

In summary, this tour offers a playful, scenic, and culturally enriching way to see Amsterdam’s highlights. It’s especially ideal for those who want a taste of local art, vibrant scenery, and historic charm—all from the seat of a cheerful flower bike.

You can check if your dates are available here: