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Cycling in Rotterdam, Netherlands
Netherlands

Rotterdam

Rotterdam's modern cycling infrastructure and innovative urban planning create a unique cycling experience in the Netherlands' second-largest city.

Stolen Bikes in Rotterdam

Bike theft is an ongoing challenge in Rotterdam — current risk: Medium-High (3,200 thefts/year). Learn how to protect your ride with our Security Tips and understand coverage options in the Insurance Guide. If your bike was taken, you can report a stolen bike in Rotterdam to alert the community.

At a glance

Daily riders

35%

Dedicated paths

290km of dedicated paths

Bike sharing stations

180

Theft risk

Medium-High (3,200 thefts/year)

Stolen bikes are commonly targeted near transit hubs and popular areas. Use two quality locks and register your frame number.

Quick map

Open Rotterdam on the map

View map

Theft insights

Medium-High (3,200 thefts/year)

Why it’s special

Modern, separated cycling infrastructure

Signature bridges and direct commuter routes

Innovative urban planning for bikes

Strong intermodal connections

Safety tips

Use two ART‑rated locks and capture frame + rear wheel

Prefer supervised/indoor parking for long stays

Use lights at night; stay visible in harbor areas

Ride like a local

Rules that matter

  • Keep right; pass left; obey bike‑specific signals
  • Always indicate turns with your arm
  • Lights required at night (white/yellow front, red rear)
  • No phone in hand while riding; ride sober
  • At unmarked junctions, traffic from the right has priority; trams always have priority

Typical fines (EUR)

Phone in hand160
Alcohol (cycling under influence)200
Red light120
No lights at night70
No turn signal45
Overtake at crosswalk180

Unwritten etiquette

  • Be calm and predictable; keep the flow
  • Use your bell as a polite heads‑up
  • Look over your shoulder before any maneuver
  • Make eye contact at crossings

Security & parking

Parking like a pro

  • Use official racks; prefer indoor/guarded garages for overnights
  • Choose busy, well‑lit streets; avoid weak anchors

Theft & lock strategy

  • Use two certified locks (ART/Sold Secure); keep locks off the ground
  • Capture frame + rear wheel; remove e‑bike battery/display
  • Register your frame number; consider GPS tracking for high‑value bikes

Rent a bike

Nearby tourist-friendly rental shops appear here.

OV‑fiets is resident‑oriented (OV‑chipkaart + subscription). Visitors can use private rental shops close to stations and in the center.

Live here or visiting? List your bike to help the community

Join thousands protecting each other from theft. Add your bike now and get instant alerts if it goes missing.

List your bike in Rotterdam

Frequently asked questions

Can tourists rent OV‑fiets in Utrecht?

OV‑fiets requires a personal OV‑chipkaart with subscription (usually Dutch residents). Tourists should use private rentals near Centraal (e.g., Black Bikes, Willemstraatbike, ListNRide).

Where should I park overnight?

Use guarded, staffed bike garages (fietsenstalling) like Stationsplein. On street, pick busy, well‑lit areas and use two certified locks via a solid anchor.

What are common cycling fines?

Typical examples: phone in hand (€160), alcohol while cycling (€200), red light (€120), no lights at night (€70). Amounts can change; obey posted rules and signals.

How do I report a stolen bike?

First confirm it wasn’t towed (Fietsdepot). Then file a police report with frame number and photos; register on Stop Heling/RDW; monitor marketplaces and share tracker info with police.

Best day trips by bike from Utrecht?

Try Castle Explorer (≈53 km), Utrechtse Heuvelrug (forest/hills), or the Roman Limes route (≈59.4 km). Follow the numbered knooppunten signs for easy navigation.