Cycling in the Netherlands : Roads and traffic

The main roads are often very busy, which makes them not enjoyable for cycling. All busy roads do have separate cycle lanes. So cycling along these roads is safe, but we don’t recommend it. Much nicer are the special bicycle lanes, far away from motorised traffic.

The easiest way to find them is to follow signposted routes. In the cities traffic is dense. Dutch cyclists are notorious for ignoring all traffic rules, especially concerning waiting for red traffic lights. You’d better not follow their example.

signpost for cyclists

signpost for cyclists, with alternative route in green