Day trips - where to start

A good starting point to rent a bike and take off is the railway station in Weesp, only 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam Central (4 trains per hour till after midnight).
Direct trains from Schiphol Airport take you to Weesp in about 1/2 hour (also 4 trains per hour both ways).
From Amsterdam Central Station take the domestic trains in direction of Hilversum/Amersfoort or Almere/Lelystad. Do NOT take the "intercity", this type does NOT stop in Weesp. All others normally do, but to be sure : always check the stops marked on the display on the platform before you board.
See timetables at site of Dutch Railways.

The bike rental in Weesp is under the station, exit side centre of town. They ask for an ID, and a caution of 50 Euro in CASH (!) per bike.
You'll see hundreds of bikes lined up, but that's for sale, and the place is also a guarded bike park. The number of rental bikes is limited, so it's wise to call them for a reservation : www.fietspoint.com.
The rentals are sturdy 3-speed traditional Dutch bikes. Perfectly fit for touring around at your ease.

For a guided day trip in this region, the station of Weesp is only a practical preference. If you want, we can start at another place if you prefer to rent your bike there. Even picking you up at your hotel or at the station in Amsterdam is possible. Or cycling out of Amsterdam, see page How to get here - cycling.

Practical points if we decide to cycle together

Important : you are the judge of your cycling skills. But I'm the one cycling with you on your day trip, and if I think it is unwise for you to go cycling, you will hear it ! And although it never happened so far, a refusal to take you along is possible.
Good to know : at all times a cycling trip is completely at your own risk. Well, walking in town or driving a car is probably more hazardous than cycling in the countryside... But still, especially if you're not really used to cycle, watch out for the unexpected and be careful.
The bikes you can rent at the station in Weesp are perfect for the job, but not made for racing ! Anyway, this cycling is not about racing or devouring miles. You pedal at your own pace and stop whenever you want.
Bike helmets are not supplied at the bike rental. Although it is always saver to wear a helmet of course, it is not the custom in Holland. Except for racers and small children.

For more practical points on day trips, and rates, see page guided day trips.