3 Hours Itinerary Between Amsterdam & Utrecht: the Heart of Holland in a Sidecar

Discover the captivating heart of Holland on a unique 3-hour sidecar journey between Amsterdam and Utrecht. This itinerary allows you to explore picturesque waterways, visit medieval castles, and admire majestic royal palaces. With a knowledgeable driver-guide providing insights, you can customize your adventure to include charming villages and local cuisine. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable ride through the scenic Dutch landscape, enjoying the region’s rich history and culture.

Contents show

Key Points

Explore picturesque rivers, lakes, and tranquil waterways between Amsterdam and Utrecht, with views of traditional Dutch windmills and historic building reflections.
Discover medieval castles, including the 13th-century Muiderslot, 14th-century Slot Loevestein, and the opulent De Haar Castle, learning about their historical significance.
Visit majestic royal palaces and estates along the route, such as Huis ten Bosch, Noordeinde Palace, and Drakensteyn Castle, showcasing Dutch Baroque architecture and grandeur.
Customize your itinerary to include must-see destinations, with the flexibility to explore quaint villages and indulge in local cuisine.
Experience the adventure of traversing the heart of Holland in a sidecar, with options for accommodating up to two passengers and a backup minivan available.

Exploring Rivers and Lakes

One of the highlights of the sidecar tour is the opportunity to explore the picturesque rivers and lakes that dot the countryside between Amsterdam and Utrecht.

The serene waterways provide a tranquil backdrop as you glide through the idyllic landscape. You’ll see traditional Dutch windmills standing tall along the banks, and have the chance to stop and admire the reflections of historic buildings in the calm waters.

With your knowledgeable driver-guide, you’ll gain insights into the importance of these waterways to the region’s history and culture.

Looking for more options in Utrecht? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Discovering Medieval Castles

As the sidecar continues its journey between Amsterdam and Utrecht, the landscape comes alive with the fascinating history of the region’s medieval castles.

The driver-guide points out three highlights:

Muiderslot Castle: A 13th-century fortress with impressive towers, moats, and drawbridges. Once the home of the famous Dutch poet and politician Pieter Corneliszoon Hooft.
Slot Loevestein: A 14th-century castle strategically located at the confluence of the Meuse and Waal rivers. Known for its role in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule.
De Haar Castle: The largest castle in the Netherlands, boasting opulent interiors and magnificent gardens. Meticulously restored in the 19th century to its former grandeur.

Visiting Royal Palaces

Along the route between Amsterdam and Utrecht, the sidecar tour offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich royal heritage. Majestic palaces and estates dot the landscape, each with its own fascinating history. The tour’s customizable nature allows guests to tailor their experience, spending more time exploring sites that pique their interest.

Royal Palace	Location	Highlights
Huis ten Bosch	The Hague	17th-century Dutch Baroque architecture
Noordeinde Palace	The Hague	Workplace of the Dutch monarch
De Haar Castle	Utrecht	Largest castle in the Netherlands
Drakensteyn Castle	Lage Vuursche	Former residence of Princess Beatrix

Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, the sidecar tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into Holland’s regal past.

Customizing Your Itinerary

With the sidecar tour’s customizable nature, travelers can craft their own unique experience between Amsterdam and Utrecht.

To personalize the itinerary, riders can:

Select their must-see destinations, whether it’s medieval castles, royal palaces, or picturesque waterways. The driver-guide is flexible in accommodating special requests.
Adjust the pace to their liking, taking breaks for photos, exploring quaint villages, or indulging in local cuisine along the way. The tour’s duration can be tailored to individual preferences.
Decide whether to follow a preset route or explore off-the-beaten-path locations, allowing for a more adventurous and personalized journey through the heart of Holland.

Sidecar Experience and Logistics

The sidecar accommodates up to two passengers – one in the sidecar itself and the other seated behind the driver.

The experience includes fuel, helmets, and coffee/tea, though food and drinks are excluded.

Pickup is available from central locations or preferred meeting points, though an extra fee of 20 euros applies for custom locations.

While not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.

In case of rain, a minivan option is available for two additional persons.

There's plenty more to explore in Utrecht

Participant Requirements and Accessibility

Though the sidecar experience is suitable for most travelers, there are a few participant requirements and accessibility considerations to keep in mind.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.

However, there’s a minivan option available for 2 additional persons in case of rain. Plus, at least one adult responsible for non-adult participants (minimum age 12) is required.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can receive confirmation upon booking the sidecar experience, and they’ve the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled event without any penalties.

The price for the group of up to 2 participants is $267.33. Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later, ensuring they secure their desired date and time while maintaining flexibility.

This sidecar adventure is a popular choice, with a Badge of Excellence and a 4.8 overall rating based on 17 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

Booking early is recommended to ensure availability.

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Helmet?

No, you can’t bring your own helmet. The tour includes helmets for all participants. Using the provided helmets ensures your safety and compliance with local regulations.

Is There a Discount for Groups Larger Than 2?

No, there is no discount for groups larger than 2. The tour price is $267.33 per group of up to 2 people. Additional people beyond the initial 2 will need to book separately or opt for the minivan option.

Can the Driver-Guide Provide Recommendations for Dining?

The driver-guide can provide dining recommendations along the tour route. They’re familiar with the local area and can suggest nearby restaurants, cafes, or other dining options to enhance the overall sightseeing experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers can request a longer duration when booking or discuss options with the driver-guide during the tour. Extended tours provide more time to explore the region at a leisurely pace.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Sidecar?

Yes, you can request a specific type of sidecar. The tour allows for customization, so you can discuss your preferences with the driver-guide and they’ll accommodate your request if possible within the tour parameters.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating sidecar journey through the heart of Holland, experiencing picturesque waterways, medieval castles, and royal palaces. Customize your adventure to suit your interests, from charming villages to local cuisine. This unique 3-hour itinerary offers an unforgettable exploration of the scenic Dutch landscape with the expertise of a knowledgeable driver-guide.