Motorcycling in Holland

Motorcycling in Holland
Ride your motorbike on to one of our ferries direct from Newcastle to Amsterdam and head into Holland to experience the joy of the open road.
Holland has beautiful roads for motorcyclists. Popular routes take in broad sandy beaches along the North Sea and between cities such as the ever-popular Amsterdam and the futuristic port of Rotterdam.
Whether you want to traverse winding roads alongside picturesque dikes built centuries ago as a defence against flooding rivers, or experience the Dutch countryside by following one of the Royal Dutch Touring Club’s recommended routes, you’ll be spoilt for choice in this small but lively country.
Speed limits
Unless signs specify otherwise, the maximum speeds are:
- 50 km/h in towns and cities
- 80 km/h on country roads
- 100 km/h on the so-called "autowegen", the equivalent of a-roads – these are marked by a square blue sign with a car on it
- 120 km/h on motorways - marked by a blue sign with a road running vertically through it
Lane splitting
Riding between lanes of traffic travelling in the same direction, or overtaking stopped lines of traffic is not forbidden in Holland.
However, here are some tips for lane splitting when travelling on motorways:
- always ride between the leftmost lane and the lane next to that lane
- the difference in speed between you and the traffic you are overtaking should not be too great
- be aware of your mirrors, and let faster motorcyclists pass you
Keep right & right of way
On motorways, there is no "keep your lane" system. You must return to the rightmost lane after you have passed someone.
In Holland, traffic coming from the right has the right of way, unless otherwise stated.
Bicycles
Holland has the highest concentration of cyclists in Europe. In towns and cities, cyclists can swarm around you and riding your motorcycle through such crowds can be intimidating.
Be aware of those around you and pay special attention to cyclists coming from the right – they always have right of way. Many unsuspecting motorcyclists have been caught out by this, especially at night with many Dutch cyclists shunning lights.
Our routes

Dover-Calais Ferry Crossings
Hop aboard our most popular ferry crossing, Dover to Calais, and arrive in Calais in just 100 minutes. There are many ways to spend time onboard, from dining to duty free shopping.
From
£89
per car + up to 4 people, one way*

Dover-Dunkirk Ferry Crossings
With a journey time of just 2 hours, our Dover to Dunkirk ferry crossing gives you access to Belgium, France, the Netherlands and more. Enjoy dining and duty free shopping on board.
From
£89
per car + up to 4 people, one way*

Newhaven-Dieppe Ferry Crossings
Arrive in Dieppe in 5 hours with our Newhaven to Dieppe ferry crossing. Enjoy our facilities while you sail, including restaurants and an onboard shop.
From
£100
per car + 4 people, one way*

Newcastle - Amsterdam ferries
Your trip to Europe starts with DFDS! Book now to secure your place on board for summer adventures, and travel relaxed with your own car + unlimited luggage.
15%
off 2026 sailings
Travel guide

Motorcycling events in Europe
With thousands of miles of incredible roads through some of the most striking landscapes in the world, the motorcyclists can enjoy many events in Europe.

Motorcycling in Belgium
With a quality road network and the scenery to attract thousands of tourists every year, it’s clear to see why Belgium is a growing destination for motorcyclists.

Motorcycling in France
Legend has it that France is the true birthplace of the motorcycle! This varied country has everything a motorcycling holidaymaker could ever want.

Motorcycling in Germany
From the Autobahn to the Alps, Germany is a country ripe for the motorcycling enthusiast.
Prices are subject to availability. Telephone booking fees apply. Terms and conditions apply.