Many people explore the city of Rotterdam by bicycle. Renting a bike is easy and relatively inexpensive. From a traditional Dutch bike to a mountain bike for exploring the countryside, you're spoilt for choice. Where can you rent a bike in the centre of Rotterdam? How does it work?
Making sure the rental bikes are properly locked. Photo © Holland-Cycling.com
Renting a bicycle - how does it work?
You can rent a bicycle for however long you want: a couple of hours, a day, or even several weeks. Renting a bike for a longer period is usually relatively cheaper. To rent a bike you will need to show a valid identification document. You will also be asked to pay a deposit, which you will get back when you safely return the bike. The rental fee usually includes an insurance in case the bike gets stolen or damaged.
Bike theft
Rental companies will provide at least one, but often two good locks. Make sure you use them at all times. Here are some top tips from the police for preventing bike theft. |
Unfortunately, bicycle theft is a common occurrence in Holland. Every year, hundreds of thousands of bicycles are stolen - especially in the big cities. Whether you’re just popping into a shop or enjoying refreshments on a terrace, leaving your bicycle unlocked is never an option. Anybody might grab your bike and cycle off and rest assured: somebody will.Some rental companies only have traditional Dutch bicycles (pedal brakes and no gears). Others offer a wider variety of bikes, ranging from mountain bikes, tandems, cargo bikes and E-bikes to children's bicycles in all sizes. They may also provide facilities for children (child's seats, helmets) or transporting your luggage (bicycle bags, bike trailer). A bicycle pump and basic repair kit to mend a puncture are not provided as standard. You can buy the latter for a few euros at a bicycle shop or even at some supermarkets.
Reserving a bicycle in advance is always a good idea, especially in the busy holiday season, or if you want to rent bikes for the whole family. To help you find the right rental bike, here is an overview of bike rental companies in the centre of Rotterdam and the type of bikes they can provide.
Overview of bike rental companies in Rotterdam
Bike rental company |
Type of bike |
Holiday bike |
Children's bike & accessories |
| Centrum Bikes Rotterdam (in Dutch) |
|
||
| Rent-a-road-bike.com - Rotterdam |
|
yes * on request bike can be dropped off at different location |
yes |
| SeeRotterdam (in Dutch) |
|
* on request bike can be dropped off at different location |
yes |
| Zwaan Bikes Rotterdam (in Dutch) |
|
yes |
For more on bike rental in Holland and the OV-bicycle scheme, go to our Bicycle rental page.
