Belgium & the Netherlands Biking: Ghent & Gouda

• In order to enter Belgium and the Netherlands, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in late 2026, passport holders from visa-exempt countries like the U.S. and Canada will need to register for an ETIAS travel authorization to enter certain European countries. Even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these 30 countries without a visa, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you’ll only need to complete the form once.
• All EF Adventures travelers will be responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center. 
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.

• Round-trip flights booked through EF arrive in Brussels and depart from Amsterdam.
• Transfers to and from the airport at the beginning and end of the tour are included for travelers who purchased their flights through EF Adventures. If you book your own flights, airport transfers may be available for a fee upon request.
• When you arrive in Brussels, an EF Adventures representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with an EF Adventures sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.

Physical activity level

This tour is rated as Moderate, which means you’re ready to tackle some hills and elevate your heart rate, but not at the expense of enjoying the surroundings. This level balances active cycling with moments of leisure. The rides on this tour are almost entirely flat, with plenty of breaks to catch your breath and soak in the scenery.

This tour is great for:

• Recreational bike riders
• Those who enjoy a good workout on two wheels

What to expect:

• Daily mileage: 10-42 miles
• Daily elevation gain: Up to 450 ft
• Typical terrain: Predominantly flat with gentle rolling hills

Tour pacing

This is a steady-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• Two 3-night stays
• Most days are full of included activities (more if you add excursions), however most evenings are free
• Most transportation by mini-vans and taxis

Climate considerations

• Belgium and the Netherlands have a temperate maritime climate with mild summers. Summer temperatures (June to September) typically range from 60°F to 75°F.
• Rain is common year-round, so pack a waterproof jacket and rain pants for cycling.
• Spring (March to May) can be cooler with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 60°F, but this is peak season for tulip blooms at Keukenhof Gardens.
• Layered clothing is essential to adapt to changing weather conditions throughout the day.
• Wind can be a factor, especially when cycling through open polder landscapes or along the coast, so windproof layers are recommended.

Physical activity & tour pace questions

• EF Adventures and the Tour Directors who accompany your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Directors is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• If you have physical activity concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or give us call at 617-619-1679. We’re here to help!

• This tour includes various modes of transportation, including mini-vans, taxis, and boat cruises.

Equipment for all bike rides will be included. 

For bikes, you’ll have your choice between the included Performance road bike and E-Touring bike, or you can upgrade to an E-Road bike for an additional cost:

• Performance road bike: for those who crave speed and efficiency on paved roads, the Synapse Carbon offers race-level performance with all-day comfort. This lightweight, versatile bike is perfect for tackling long distances throughout your biking tour—from flat stretches to challenging climbs.
• E-Touring bike: For a more relaxed and comfortable riding experience, opt for the Tesoro Neo X2 StepThru. This electric touring bike features a step-through frame, wide tires, and a powerful motor, making it perfect if you prioritize comfort and stability as you explore new destinations.
• E-Road bike: if you want a little extra assistance on hills or longer rides, the Synapse Neo is your ideal companion. This electric road bike combines the speed and efficiency of a road bike with the added boost of pedal assistance, ensuring you can fully enjoy your adventure without overexerting yourself. Note: there is an extra cost for the e-road bike.

We also include: 

• Helmets: Helmets are provided and are required for all bike rides.
• GPS Devices: GPS devices are provided to help guide you through the routes and track your progress.
• 2 reusable water bottles.
• Bike bags: These bags can attach to your bike and allow you to store some of your personal belongings during rides.
• Support van: A support van will accompany the group on all bike rides. The van carries water, snacks, and basic bike maintenance equipment.

• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one personal item each due to storage limitations on mini-vans and taxis.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you’re responsible for any baggage fees incurred.
• Contact your airline(s) for the baggage size and weight restrictions on your flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must be able to manage their luggage throughout tour; porters aren’t guaranteed at hotels or airports.

Remember to bring clothes you’ll feel comfortable cycling in for several hours a day. Quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials are best. Here are some suggestions for what to pack:

On the bike

• Cycling shorts and/or bibs (we recommend 2-3 in total)
• Cycling jerseys/sports shirts (we recommend 2-3 in total)
• Long-sleeve cycling jersey or thermal base layer
• Cycling jacket or windproof vest for wind protection
• Bike shoes (with clips if applicable)
• Fingerless cycling gloves
• Warm cycling gloves for cold/wet conditions
• Buff or neck warmer for wind protection
• Sports sunglasses
• ID, credit card, phone
• Snacks - bars or gels
• Bike water bottles (provided)

In your day bag (a small day pack to leave in the van while riding)

• Lightweight, packable rain jacket
• Lightweight jacket or sweatshirt
• Arm and leg warmers
• Walking shoes/sneakers/sandals
• Change of clothes (non-cycling)
• Sunscreen
• Water & snacks
• Medications for the day

Off the bike

• Athletic shoes for walking around
• Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun protection
• A few casual outfits for evenings and any downtime at the hotels
• A swimsuit, as there are opportunities to swim at hotel pools
• Dressier attire for Welcome/Farewell Dinners and in case you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance
• Sleepwear and toiletries
• Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other bugs
• A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the tour (and cut down on single use plastic waste)
• A universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter
• Any personal medications, including motion sickness remedies for boat rides
• Your medical insurance card, in case of emergencies (pack this in your carry-on)

• EF Adventures handpicks every hotel you’ll stay at, striking a balance between comfort, location, sustainability, and local charm.
• Specific properties will vary based on your departure date, but are typically three-to-five-star hotels; always include private bathrooms; and usually have in-room safes for valuables. Additionally, your hotels will have Wi-Fi, but access may be limited to common areas. There may also not be elevators.
• Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee that your accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with your hotels once they’ve been confirmed, about 30 days prior to departure.
• Some hotels on this tour are situated on narrow streets; as such, our mini-vans can’t drop you off right out front. In these instances, you’ll have to walk your luggage to the property, no more than a few blocks.
• Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• Belgium and the Netherlands operate on the European standard 230 volts and use Type C (two round pins) or Type E/F (two round pins with grounding) plugs.

• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Directors may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).

• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at cdc.gov.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify EF Adventures at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Take proper care with sun exposure, as the sun can be especially strong in some of the regions on this tour.
• There are inherent risks associated with adventure activities such as biking, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions. Discuss your planned activities with your doctor or healthcare provider for the best advice on participation.

• This tour includes two lunches and three dinners. They may be set menus, à la carte, buffets, or family-style meals, depending on the location. Dinners also may include beer, wine, juice, soft drinks, as well as water, coffee, and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• In Belgium, seafood is of a very high quality, and mussels steamed in white wine are a favorite. Patisseries offer decadent pastries and cakes, and you won’t want to miss indulging in favorites like fries, handmade chocolate, locally brewed Abbey-style beer, and, of course, Belgian waffles. Please note that Belgian beers vary widely in style and flavor and are often much higher in alcohol content than other European beers.
• In the Netherlands, simply prepared meat and fish dishes, substantial soups and hearty stews are local staples. Snack food traditionally features fish—you might try maatje, raw green herring served with onions—but pancakes, french fries, doughnuts, and waffles are just as plentiful.

• Tips for meals, drivers, porterage (if applicable), and sightseeing guides are included in the price of your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Directors a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping $30-$40 USD per person per day (to be given to the lead Tour Director, who will divide it up).
• On an 8-day tour, we recommend tipping a total of $240–$320.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.

• You will use the euro on tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you don’t already have at least one card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your Tour Directors.

• To help you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend downloading the EF Adventures mobile app. It’s free and provides information about important deadlines and entry requirements, as well as your detailed itinerary, packing tips, and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the app’s chat feature.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the mini-vans or taxis.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.

• Your tour will be led by two expert European Tour Directors who are also experienced cycling guides. They have intimate knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and geography, as well as the specific routes you’ll be riding. Your Tour Directors will provide both on-the-bike and off-the-bike support, including:
  • Leading and supporting the group during daily rides
  • Providing detailed route briefings and overviews of local history and culture
  • Coordinating logistics and arranging meals
  • Offering basic bike maintenance and riding tips
  • Ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all travelers
• As experienced cyclists themselves, your Tour Directors will ride with the group and are trained in first aid and bike safety procedures.

• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Adventures is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.

• Belgium and the Netherlands are 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 6pm on tour.

• When you travel with EF Adventures, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
• Travel, when done responsibly, can have an enormous socioeconomic impact on communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at small businesses. Ask your Tour Directors to point out restaurants they recommend.
• Prepare for your trip: Be aware of monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market; learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette; and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
• EF Adventures encourages travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single-use plastics. You can cut back on generating plastic waste by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
• When visiting national parks, reserves, or other protected areas, please do not remove anything from the natural environment or leave any litter. Carry out what you carried in.
• When you come across wild animals on tour, take the philosophies of World Animal Protection to heart: Don’t touch or feed them, and maintain a respectful distance. The animals you encounter on your trip should be able to exhibit natural forms of behavior.
• Furthermore, avoid buying exploitative animal products, like crafts made from animal parts or products tested on animals.
• If you feel we aren’t meeting any of these commitments, please let us know.