Cycling in the Netherlands
Cycling is one of the quickest, easiest, and most affordable ways to get around the Netherlands. The country has many cycling paths, flat landscapes, and bike-friendly cities, making cycling part of everyday life for many residents. If you are new to cycling in the Netherlands, it is useful to know where to buy a bike, how to park it safely, and what to do if your bike is removed by the municipality.
On this page, you can find information about:
Buying a bike
Many people in the Netherlands buy a second-hand bike. Used bikes are often more affordable, and new bikes may be more attractive to thieves. You can ask local bike shops whether they sell tweedehands fietsen, or second-hand bikes.
Before buying a second-hand bike, check:
- whether the brakes, lock, and lights work properly,
- whether the frame is the right size,
- whether the bike has visible damage,
- whether the seller seems reliable.
To avoid buying a stolen bike, you can check the Dutch stolen bicycle register before purchasing. Another option is to rent a bike through a subscription service, such as Swapfiets. This can be useful if you want maintenance included or are not ready to buy a bike yet. Some employers offer schemes for discounted bicycles or e-bikes, so it may be worth checking at your workplace.
It is also a good idea to note your frame number down. In case the bike is stolen, you need to create a police report, and they will request your frame number.
Choosing the right bike size
Choose a bike that feels safe and comfortable. Before buying, test the bike and check whether you can stop easily. You should be able to touch the ground with your feet when stopping, without needing to get fully off the saddle.
The saddle can usually be adjusted. As a general guide, the saddle should be around hip height when you stand next to the bike. If a smaller frame or children’s bike is the safest option for you, that is completely fine. If you have mobility needs, you can also look into e-bikes, adult tricycles, or recumbent bikes (ligfiets). If you’re buying a (secondhand) bike at a shop, the store attendant should be able to help you find the right bike size.
Locks, lights, and helmets
Bike theft is common in the Netherlands, so it is important to use a strong lock. Many people use both a frame lock and a separate chain lock. If you have access to a private bike shed or indoor storage, use it when possible.
You should also make sure your bike has working front and rear lights. Small battery-powered lights are easy to buy at bike shops and many general stores. Cycling in the dark without working lights is illegal in the Netherlands, and punishable by a fine.
Helmets are only legally required for speed-pedelecs, and not for regular bicycles, but you can wear one if it makes you feel safer. Helmets are increasingly common for children and for people using faster bikes, such as e-bikes.
Bike parking and AFAC bicycle depots
Most city centres, train stations, shopping areas, and public buildings have bike racks, designated bicycle parking areas, or monitored bicycle parking facilities. In some places, bicycle parking areas are marked with signs or special pavement tiles.
You cannot leave your bike parked indefinitely. Around train stations, shopping streets, and bicycle parking facilities, there may be a maximum parking period. In Groningen, for example, some bicycle parking areas have a maximum parking period of 12 days. Always check local signs before leaving your bike.
If your bike is parked incorrectly, abandoned, stolen and recovered, or left for too long, the municipality may remove it. In larger cities, removed bikes are often taken to an AFAC (Algemene Fiets Afhandel Centrale; General Bicycle Processing Centre) bicycle depot.
If your bike has been removed, check your municipality’s website to find out:
- where your bike has been taken,
- how long it will be stored,
- whether you need to pay a fee,
- what you need to bring when collecting it.
If a stolen bike is found and taken to AFAC, the rightful owner may be able to collect it. If your bike was removed because it was parked incorrectly or left too long, you may need to pay a collection fee. If you are sure that your bike has been stolen, you need to report it to the police as soon as possible.
Groningen
Unclaimed bikes in AFAC Depots in Groningen are resold by the municipality through Refidé Bikes, located at Blauwborgje 12 and Zernikeplein 17. Prices start at €80, and payment is by card only. The bikes are checked to make sure their locks and lights work, and that they are not stolen.
In Groningen, the AFAC bicycle depot will move to Ulgersmaweg 51 from 29 June 2026. The previous location on Travertijnstraat will be closed on 24, 25, and 26 June 2026 because of the move.
Leeuwarden and Emmen
In Leeuwarden and Emmen, removed or unclaimed bikes may also be collected, processed, and resold through local bicycle depots or partner organisations. The exact location, opening hours, fees, storage period, and resale process can change, so always check the municipality’s website before visiting.
Useful official sources:
- Gemeente Groningen: bike parking and removed bikes
- Gemeente Leeuwarden: lost and removed bicycles
- Ben Kwijt: removed bikes in Emmen
Cycling lessons and events
If you would like to learn how to cycle, build confidence, or better understand Dutch cycling rules, you can look for cycling lessons or cycling activities in your area.
In Groningen, IWCN regularly organises FietsFriend Festival events. These events are a friendly way for internationals to practise cycling, learn practical safety tips, and feel more confident on the bike. They are also a nice opportunity to meet other internationals who are getting used to cycling in the Netherlands. FietsFriend also offers one-on-one lessons. Check the IWCN Events Calendar for upcoming FietsFriend Festival events and other cycling-related activities.
If you are not located in Groningen, you can also contact the Fietsersbond to ask about cycling lessons or coaching in your area.
FAQ about cycling in the Netherlands
Where can I buy a bike in the Netherlands?
You can buy a bike from a local bike shop, second-hand shop, or online platforms. Alternatively, you can also use a bike subscription service. If you buy a second-hand bike, be sure to check that it is in good condition and not stolen.
Where can I learn to cycle and the traffic rules in the Netherlands?
You can look for cycling lessons through local organisations, Fietsersbond, or through our very own FietsFriend, where you can request one-on-one lessons, or join the Festival in Groningen.
Do I need lights on my bike?
Yes. You need working front and rear lights when cycling in the dark or in poor visibility. You can use fixed lights or small removable battery-powered lights. Keep in mind that cycling in the dark without lights is punishable by a fine of hundreds of euros.
Do I need to wear a helmet when cycling in the Netherlands?
A helmet is not legally required for regular bicycles in the Netherlands, only for speed-pedelecs. However, you can wear one if it makes you feel safer. Helmets are increasingly common for children and people using faster bikes, such as e-bikes.
What happens if I park my bike in the wrong place?
If your bike is parked incorrectly, abandoned, or left for too long, the municipality may remove it. In larger cities, removed bikes are often taken to a local AFAC bicycle depot. If your bike is stolen, report it to the police as soon as possible.