StarBikes Rental Amsterdam
StarBikes Rental is one of the more charming bike rental companies in Amsterdam. With very reasonable rates, no advertising on the bikes and a homegrown, friendly approach to business this quirky, New York Times mentioned shop is one that will have you coming back again. It's not just bike rental that StarBikes is known for either, their café is popular with tourists and locals alike.
Bikes
The rental bikes available at Starbikes are mostly Amsterdam's traditional Sparta 'granny' bikes. These black, one-speeed city bikes come with pedal operated brakes and a sturdy aluminium frame in a traditionally influenced modern style. In addition to the standard bikes, two tandems and two side-by-side bikes are available for couples or friends who wish to be that bit more attached on the road. None of the bikes bear any advertising, allowing you to blend into the crowd on your cycling trips around the city.
Extras
One of the more unique extras offered by StarBikes Rental is the picnic service. On request, and with some advance notice, the staff will prepare a tapas picnic basket for your trip tailored to your dietary requirements, should you have any. If you don't feel like cycling out to the countryside, the staff will also be happy to provide you with some advice on the best places for a spot of 'urban picnicking' in Amsterdam. All of the usual extras such as pumps, puncture repair kits and t-shirts can be purchased and StarBikes has a key drop-off service should your cycling trip last past closing time. Starbikes also provides a range of bicycles suited to visitors with disabilities who wish to experience Amsterdam's cycling culture.
Rates
A major draw for StarBikes is its low rates. A standard bike rental starts at EUR 5 for 3 hours or EUR 9 for 24 hours, while a working day's rental, from 08:00 to 19:00, costs EUR 7. Side-by-side bikes and tandems will cost you EUR 18 for a full day. Picnic baskets start at EUR 35 including food. Guided cycling tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays from noon or 15:00 and cost EUR 15 including bike rental.
Café
A popular lunch spot with locals during the week, the eclectic, funky café at StarBikes is a good spot to stop for a bite before or after your cycling trip. Sandwiches and snacks are available on the café's English and Dutch language menus and the prices are good - StarBikes' café claims to boast the cheapest espresso in town at just EUR 1. If you're looking for a little entertainment, the café is also known for live music, especially during the warmer Summer months; keep an eye on the website to view details of planned gigs.
Location
Having recently moved, in June 2008, StarBikes Rental can be found just behind Centraal Station. Crossing on the Eastern side of the building, walk past the turnoff to the library and Oosterdoksstraat, turn right on De Ruyterkade and the shop is on the right hand side, facing the water.
| Address | Contacts |
|---|---|
|
StarBikes Rental Amsterdam |
Tel:
+31 20 6203215
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