The Hague received the highest classification of the Cycle City Label last Tuesday. This label is awarded to cities that are committed to making cycling more attractive and safer. The award was accepted by Alderman Hilbert Bredemeijer (Sports), Alderman Arjen Kapteijns (Mobility), and cycling legend Michael Boogerd during the Cycling Festival surrounding the Tour of Holland.
“It’s great to see that The Hague is receiving recognition for its efforts to promote cycling,”says Alderman Kapteijns. It’s important for the livability of The Hague that we increasingly use bicycles. Cycling is not only a fast and healthy way to get around the city, but it’s also a sustainable and affordable mode of transport.
Alderman Bredemeijer: “The Hague is a true cycling city. This was confirmed again this week during the Tour of Holland, and also last year during the Tour de France Femmes. A huge number of children and young people were motivated to jump on their bikes themselves. On those days, The Hague lived and breathed cycling. I’m proud that the ASO has awarded this with the Cycle City Label. Perhaps the new Michael Boogerd is already cycling the streets of The Hague.”
The Hague: a real cycling city
The Hague has received the Cycle City Label thanks to investments in bicycle-friendly policies. The city now boasts an increasing number of cycle paths. As an additional safety measure, the speed limit has been lowered to 30 km/h in many places. This has led to a significant increase in bicycle use in The Hague.
There’s also a bicycle plan for residents of The Hague below the poverty line, where they can request free bicycles. The “Learn to Cycle Safely” cycling lesson is also taught at schools to familiarize students with traffic. Through initiatives like The Hague Cycles! and cycling events like the Tour de France Femmes in In 2024 and the Tour de Holland in 2025, The Hague will be further promoted as a cycling city. During these cycling tours, residents of all ages were encouraged to get on their bikes with fun activities.
About Cycle City Label
The Cycle City label was introduced in 2021 by ASO, the organization behind the Tour de France. The label recognizes municipalities that are committed to making cycling more attractive and safer. This includes a sign with the Cycle City Label, which will be placed somewhere in the city. A suitable location is still being investigated.
The assessment looked at the quality of cycling infrastructure, road safety, bicycle parking facilities, educational programs for learning to cycle, maintenance and repair facilities, and activities that promote bicycle awareness and use.
Text & Image: Gemeente Den Haag, translated by The Hague Online