Known for its love of bikes, the Netherlands is taking cycling to the next level. Over the past year, the number of people commuting by bike has shot up by a massive 57%, marking a real shift in how Dutch workers get around.
After years of remote work, more Dutch employees are returning to the office—though hybrid models are still common. As a result, commutes are back. But instead of crowding into cars and buses, many are hopping on their bikes.
And they’re not just cycling more often—they’re going farther. The total distance traveled by bike to work has increased by 50%, showing that cycling is becoming a top choice for both short and long commutes.
Traditional bikes are becoming the go-to for commutes under 5 kilometers, outpacing even public transport. With traffic jams and long waits for buses, cycling simply makes more sense.
Public transport is still growing—usage is up 24%—and more people are also driving again (+44%). But bikes are outpacing both trends, especially in busy city centers where convenience wins.
Cycling isn’t just an eco-friendly option—it’s often the fastest and most efficient. And with the Netherlands boasting some of the world’s best bike infrastructure, the choice is easy.
It’s not just short rides that are booming. More people are choosing bikes—even for trips over 5 or 20 kilometers—thanks to e-bikes and road bikes that make longer rides easier and faster.
At the same time, employers are stepping up. More offices now have showers, changing rooms, and secure bike parking, making cycling to work a real alternative to driving or public transport. Companies see this as part of their sustainability goals, and it’s changing how people think about their daily routines.
One hidden reason behind the cycling surge? The pandemic. Many Dutch workers moved farther from cities during lockdowns, thinking they’d work remotely for good.
Now, with offices reopening, those longer commutes need a new solution—enter the bike. While car and train use is also growing, bikes are taking over both short and long-distance routes. It’s a healthy, low-emission option that fits the new post-pandemic reality.
The cycling boom does come with new challenges. With more bikes on the road, and different speed levels—from slower traditional bikes to fast e-bikes—bike paths are getting crowded.
This mix leads to more traffic jams and potential accidents, especially during rush hour. Many bike paths are too narrow or outdated to handle the increase. Some cities are now investing in wider lanes, better signs, and safer routes to avoid clashes between cyclists and other road users.
Amsterdam and other Dutch cities are clear: this isn’t a trend—it’s a transportation revolution. A 57% increase in one year shows that biking is more than a habit; it’s a cultural shift.
With top-notch infrastructure, employer support, and a biking-friendly mindset, the Netherlands is setting an example for the rest of Europe. And as cities across the EU look for ways to cut emissions and improve health, one thing is clear:
The future of commuting is on two wheels.
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