Canals and Cafés | Amsterdam - Paris
Overview
Canals and Cafés
Amsterdam to Paris Cycling Journey
This 12-day cycling journey connects two of Europe’s most iconic cities, Amsterdam and Paris, by way of quiet paths, historic towns, and landscapes that unfold one country at a time.
You begin along Amsterdam’s canals, riding south through the Netherlands to places like Gouda and the windmills of Kinderdijk. The terrain is gentle, the rhythm easy to settle into. Crossing into Belgium, the experience deepens—Antwerp and Ghent offer history, culture, and evenings that invite you to slow down. From there, the route carries you into France, where the countryside opens up as you make your way toward Paris.
The logistics are handled: accommodations, luggage transfers, route design—so you can stay present to both the cycling and the experience unfolding around you. You arrive in Paris having crossed three countries under your own power.
Itinerary
Day 1: Amsterdam
Welcome lunch, orientation, bike fitting, dinner and overnight in Amsterdam
Day 2: Amsterdam to Gouda
Ride through classic Dutch landscapes and canals to the historic cheese town (70 km)
Day 3: Gouda to Dordrecht / Papendrecht
Cycle past windmills, including Kinderdijk, and along river paths (60 km)
Day 4: Dordrecht to Antwerp
Cross into Belgium and continue toward the vibrant port city (75 km)
Day 5: Antwerp to Ghent
Flat, scenic riding between two of Belgium’s most historic cities (60 km)
Day 6: Day Off in Ghent
A well-timed pause. Ghent is one of those cities that rewards slowing down. Medieval architecture, winding canals, and a vibrant food scene create the kind of place where a day can unfold without a plan. Take the time to explore, rest, or simply sit and take it in. We come back together in the evening—over a long dinner, where the journey continues in a different way
Day 7: Ghent to Oudenaarde / Tournai
Cycle through Flemish countryside toward the French border (70 km)
Day 8: Tournai to Cambrai
Enter France, riding through quiet rural landscapes (65 km)
Day 9: Cambrai to Saint-Quentin
A shorter day with relaxed riding through northern France (40 km)
Day 10: Saint-Quentin to Compiègne
Rolling terrain and forested sections (70 km)
Day 11: Compiègne to Chantilly
Cycle through woodland and small villages (60 km)
Day 12: Chantilly to Paris
Final ride into Paris, finishing near the city centre (45 km).
Farewell dinner.
Day 13: Departure from Paris
Departure or extend your stay in Paris
Guides for this trip are still being considered.
PHOTOS
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