Integrating the bicycle into urban transport networks is a priority for cities as sustainability pressure increases. Part 1 in this series of photo essays explores Amsterdam’s efforts.

Separate bicycle lanes run alongside almost every road in Amsterdam.

To offer protection from the road, certain areas are divided by barriers.

A multi-storey bicycle park offers space for 3,500 bikes next to Amsterdam’s central station…

… but with 9,500 bikes parked in the area every morning, many spill onto the streets.

When bicycle lanes are built using similar materials to nearby paving, symbols are inserted to better inform pedestrians.

Unprotected bicycle lanes on the same level as the road feature signage to ensure cars keep out of the space.

Traffic lights at bike-level are present at every intersection.

Certain paved areas are bicycle-free with barriers ensuring these rules are adhered to.