The IJssel Tour is central eastern Holland with castles, ancient towns, national parks, lakes and canals; older Netherlands at its best. We combine the higher sand grounds, forests and heather fields along river landscapes. Along the IJssel River we find a row of Hanseatic cities, each of them 100-200 years older than the cities in Holland. Follow the coast of the former Southern Sea and now the IJsselmeer, freshwater lake.
IJssel River
Tour 4:
July 17-30, 2027
The Iris
The Essentials
The IJssel River Tour offers a refined balance of spectacular nature and centuries of Dutch heritage. Here is what makes this specific itinerary truly essential for your next adventure.
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Boat: The Iris (max 24) for Tour #4 and the Josefien (max 20) for Tour #7
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Scenic River Routes: Cycle the winding floodplains of the IJssel and the mansion-lined River Vecht.
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14-Day Itinerary: A comprehensive two-week journey designed for deep exploration and relaxation.
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Activity Level: Moderate daily cycling (30-50km) on flate, well paved Dutch cycle pathes, suitable for regular riders and leisure enthusiasts.
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Floating Home: Unpack once and travel aboard the elegant barge, featuring professional service.
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Countryside Rides: Immerse yourself in the dense forests and heather fields of De Hoge Veluwe National Park.
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Cultural Stops: Explore ancient Hanseatic trading hubs and world-class museums like the Kröller-Müller.
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Historic Landmarks: Discover medieval gems including the John Frost Bridge and the Muiderslot Castle.
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The Itinerary
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM on The Iris docked in the Oosterdok. Suitcase drop-off only is available earlier, allowing time for our crew to prepare the barge. Your first night includes a charming Bed & Breakfast stay in Amsterdam. Dinner is at your leisure to explore the city's vibrant scene.
Arrival and Bed & Breakfast Night in Amsterdam
Day 1 - FrIday (Included as optional)
Day 2 - saturday
Voyage Begins
Breakfast aboard the barge, enjoy lunch on your own or bring a sandwich on board before the tour departs. Please ensure you are on board by 12pm. The barge sets sail promptly by 1:00 PM at the latest. We will enjoy a scenic initial cruise followed by a short ride to calibrate your bike arriving in Volendam. Tonight the first group dinner will be served on board.
DayS 3- 12
Tour Highlights:
The IJssel Tour showcases eastern Holland at its finest, featuring a rich landscape of castles, historic towns, and national parks.
The journey begins with a ride along the River Vecht, lined with elegant mansions, followed by a visit to Utrecht. This former bishop’s seat boasts a deep history visible in its unique sunken canals and city castles.
We also explore Oosterbeek, home to one of the oldest churches in the country, before cycling through the delta region toward Arnhem. Here, we reflect on World War II history at the Oosterbeek War Cemetery and the iconic John Frost Bridge on the Rhine.
Our route continues through the forests and heather fields of De Hoge Veluwe National Park. Inside, the Kröller-Müller Museum houses a world-renowned Van Gogh collection and one of Europe’s largest sculpture gardens.
As we follow the River IJssel, we visit the Hanseatic gems of Zutphen, Deventer, and Hattem—trading hubs since the 14th century. A highlight is our stop at Palace Het Loo to tour its grand French gardens and stables, which served as a royal residence until 1962.
Experience the serene charm of Giethoorn, known as the 'Venice of the North' for its labyrinth of waterways.
Finally, we pass the fortified town of Naarden and the medieval Muiderslot Castle, dating back to 1285, as we make our way back to Amsterdam.
Arrival back in Amsterdam
Day 13- WedNESDay
Cycle back into Amsterdam and farewell dinner
Final Morning & Departure
Day 14 - friday
After a light breakfast, we arrange a van trransport to Schipol Airport. Guests must depart by 9:00 AM. If you are not going to Schipol Airport right away, travel is at your expense.
What is Included
- The Iris includes daily cabin cleaning.
- A safe available on The Iris in each room.
- Twin/double cabin on a premium barge with private facilities
- Full board meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, and 3-course dinners
- Professional tour guide leading all daily cycling excursions
- High-quality rental bike with waterproof pannier and equipment
- Ferry crossings, harbor fees, and local tourist taxes
- Historical city tours and entrance fees to museums and landmarks
- Gratuity for crew and guides
- Van transport back to Schipol Airport by 9am (earlier if needed) on the last day of the tour.
Notable Exclusions
- Arrival and departure travel to Amsterdam
- Mandatory personal travel and cancellation insurance
- Optional E-bike upgrade ($350 / tour, limited availability)
- Bar consumption and personal drinks on board
- One dinner on your own per week on The Iris