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Home » Budget Travel » The Best Cycle Routes in Europe – Top Rides in 2024

The Best Cycle Routes in Europe – Top Rides in 2024

An open-ended Bikepacking adventure through Europe is every cyclist’s pipe dream. The continent invented cycling in 1817 and has been perfecting the design ever since. The result is a collection of some of the most fantastic cycling routes on earth.

No other area can offer up such international options. You can pedal through eight to ten countries in a few weeks, enjoying the subtle geographical shifts as you ride from Western into Eastern Europe. Even staying within one nation, the natural landscape and an incredible biking infrastructure work together to make remote alpine mountaintops accessible on a bike.

International cyclists and local villages have etched out hundreds of iconic cycling routes that can take riders both peacefully and at a frenetic pace through the peaks of the Alps and Pyrenees, and the valleys of the Loire and Szalajka. Summer is right around the corner, and the best time to plan your bikepacking adventure in Europe was several months ago, but the second best time is now.

This guide will introduce you to some of Europe’s best rides. Just being mentioned as one of the top ten rides in this continent full of epic trails is a heavy accomplishment on its own. There are at least fifty trails that have a royal pedigree and a legitimate argument for the crown.

No matter which path you take, bikepacking is a great way to experience Europe. Townships big and small are used to seeing riders muscling through main street with several bags strapped across their frames and are often quick to lend a helping hand. At the same time, there is still plenty of wild country left on the continent. You could ride for hundreds of kilometers between houses.

Whether you’d like a slow leisurely ride that ends in a spa-adjacent hotel room or rugged rides that avoid paved roads entirely, you can find the right ride for you through Europe. Today, we’ll introduce you to those routes.

These Are The Best Cycling Routes in Europe

Some of the cycling routes on our list casually meander from pub to pub, while others will take you thousands of miles across the continent. The first step in any bikepacking trip is nailing down your start and end points. Having those facts down makes it easier to get lost along the way. 

No matter which ride you choose, the roads will be busiest in July/August, so make sure and book hotels, hostels, or campgrounds well in advance. The shoulder season is a great time to ride while enjoying more solitude and cheaper hotel prices.  You can finish some southern rides year-round, but most riders map out a time period between March and October to avoid sleeping outside in the snow. 

Each ride on our list consists of multiple legs, usually in the form of ‘stages.’ you can find itineraries that cover the entirety of each route, or search through the stages and find a few highlight sections of the trail for a great day trip. 

Danube Cycle Path

• Where it starts: Donaueschingen, Germany
• Where it Ends: Tulcea, Romania
• Distance: 2850 KM
• # of days: 40-50
• Difficulty: Spicy

The ride follows the Danube river through eight countries and thousands of kilometers of changing landscapes. The most famous iterations of the pathway end in Hungary, but if you want to keep biking, you can follow the river all the way to its dumping grounds. Start your trip straight from the source of the Danube, in Donaueschingen, and don’t stop until you hit the Black Sea. This famous route has great stops and excellent infrastructure. All you’ve got to do is follow the river. 

To spend more quality time off the bike, several shorter legs of the ride shave off thousands of KMs while taking you through the route’s highlights. The most popular leg is the trip from Passau, Germany to Vienna, Austria. Ending your trip in the City of Dreams or in neighboring Budapest, great places to celebrate the completion of a long week’s ride. 

What You Need To Know: 

Sections of this trail are the most popular cycling route in all of Europe, depending on when you visit . You can expect paved roads and plenty of stops for a cold drink. If you want to get ahead of the crowds, the path from Budapest to the Black Sea is the least traveled section of the ride.

The most popular leg, Passau to Vienna, lopes slightly downhill and can be finished in three to five days, much more approachable than trying to follow the entire river. 

European Divide Trail 

• Where it starts: Grense Jakobselv, Norway
• Where it Ends: Cape St. Vincent, Portugal 
• Distance: 7600 km
• # of days: 180
• Difficulty: Extreme

This ambitious adventure covers the continent without taking the highway. The trail is comprised almost solely of backcountry gravel roads and singletrack trails, providing a unique way to see Europe. While the trail stays on dirt roads, it also promises a relatively non-technical crossing of the continent, built with the Great Divide MTB trail in the USA in mind. 

This trail starts with wild camping and sunny days in Finland and Sweden before ending with the grueling, deserty trails of Portugal. The dry bumps of Portugal slow down riders to a pace of 2 km an hour, torture after months on the bike. To this day, only 12 people have finished the entire trial, so there’s still time to get your name down in the history books for this epic ride.

What You Need To Know

This ride is extreme and uncharted. Most of the credit goes to one man: Andy Cox. He calls himself a guy who loves to ride, and he put together the longest predominately off-road bikepacking route in the world. 

You’ll have to cross more fences than intersections to get through this epic backcountry route. While the route itself does not cover super technical terrain, the sheer enormity of the task makes the ride difficult. You’ll need a gravel or mountain bike and bikepacking bags capable of traveling over 200 km between services.

Flemish Beers Route

• Where it starts: Genk, Belgium
• Where it Ends: Genk, Belgium
• Distance: 375 Km
• # of days: 8
• Difficulty: Mild 

This route is best done on a buzz. Enjoy eight days of responsibly drinking and riding through Belgium’s national parks and detours that elevate your ride at the tree line. A typical Belgium itinerary covers around 60 km per day. You could rip through this thing much faster if you really wanted, but once the riding ends, the drinking drops too. 

Each night of the tour ends in a new small town with centuries of brewing history.  You’ll have to schedule an extra few days in Antwerp to get the full taste of the beer scene. Some riders could spend a week in the Kulminator alone. Ring the bell and tell Dirk you’ve come to taste beer. 

Legally you are not allowed to drink and ride your bike with more than .5 milligrams of alcohol per millimeter of blood. The shortened daily itinerary gives you plenty of time to sober up after a lunch break that lasted a few more beers than anticipated. 

The Loire by Bike

• Where it starts: Nevers, France
• Where it Ends: Saint-Nazaire, France
• Distance: 630 Km
• # of days: 7

More than a single start and ending point, The Loire Bike path is a complicated web of shorter and longer rides. There are all sorts of branches off the main hunk of this trail, perfect for day rides through the castles and valleys of the Loire River. 

Start your ride with Confit in Frances’s quiet midsection and end with fine dining on the West Coast. Or, use Tours as a home base and take advantage of several SNCF rail lines with bike-friendly cars to reach this route’s best points in a few afternoons. The trail is also a small part of the EuroVelo 6 that can take you across the entire width of the European continent. 

What You Need To Know:

This paved route zips along some of the best biking infrastructure in Europe. You can find many bike rental options in Tours, whose Place Plumereau makes for a fantastic home base. The bike-friendly city is in the middle of the route and within a day’s ride of the area’s most famous castles. 

The North Sea Cycle Route

• Where it starts: Shetland Archipelago, Scotland
• Where it Ends: Bergen, Norway
• Distance: 7250 km
• # of days: 100
• Difficulty: Medium 

Also known as the EuroVelo 12, this is the most amphibious cycle route in Europe. You’ll need more than a few ferries to cover the entire route, which follows the sea from Scotland to Norway, passing through six different countries along the way.  

You don’t have to start in the Shetland islands to taste the north. Most cyclists don’t have a few hundred free days to tackle the whole ride, especially once the sun stops rising. It’s best done in stages. At the right time of the year, you can enjoy 18 hours of smooth riding as you pedal past some of the wildest countries in Europe. 

While the difficulty of each section of this paved route is not the most technically advanced riding out there, planning on covering the entire distance in one trip severely elevates the challenge. 

A great way to split up the cycle route is by country. The UK, Germany, and Sweden all have nearly 1,000 kilometers of cycling, more than enough for a two-week bikepacking trip. Along that immense distance, this route requires a lot of ferry crossings and goes through several tunnels where bicycles are forbidden. Keep track of updated changes. 

Santiago de Compostela – Via De La Plata

• Where it starts: Sevilla, Spain
• Where it Ends: Santiago, Spain
• Distance: 970 KM
• # of days: 21
• Difficulty: Medium

Most prefer to walk the Santiago de Compostela Pilgrimage, but some of us were born to ride. In the large network of routes that make up The Santiago de Compostela, The Via De La Plata is the road less traveled as you’ll frequently go 20 km between refills. Most walkers opt instead for the better infrastructure of the Camino Frances. 

Its relative solitude makes it the best cycle path of the Santiago network. It’s a bit far on foot, but each city is within a cruisy day’s ride from the other.  Via De La Plata covers four different Spanish regions, winding through generations of wealth hauled along the silver route since the Roman Times. You’ll feel the wealth in the countryside and get a glimpse of what all Spain has to offer .

Only about 3% of all pilgrims undertaking the Santiago De Compostela choose the silver path, but there is no way to avoid the crowds forever. The route links up with the other, more populous trails in Astorga. 

Still, there are plenty of options to rest along the way, and you’ll never be too far from a Menu Del Dia. The Via takes advantage of the same Albergues as any Camino Walk. The other thing this route shares with the other Camino walks is steaming hot August temperatures. July And August are good months to skip this ride if you can’t handle peak temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius. 

Hope 1000 

• Where it starts: Romanshorn, Switzerland
• Where it Ends: Montreux, Switzerland
• Distance: 1000 KM
• # of days: 11
• Difficulty: Carolina Reaper 

Lake Constance and Lake Geneva are only 375 kilometers apart, but this bike path elects for the scenic route, climbing over 30 mountains between lakes. Endurance maniacs have pushed through and finished the challenging set of climbs in just over three and a half days, but there’s no need to rush through this epic scenery.

A two-week itinerary still allows plenty of daily climbing, and the meandering pathway takes you through plenty of villages that provide a necessary night’s rest . 11 days might seem like a long time to cover only 1,000 Kilometers, but spread across that distance is 31,000 meters of total ascents. Getting to the top is the least of your worries, with some of the more technical descents require precarious balance on singletrack trails at high speeds.  

While you can hit this route any day of the year, it also marks the course for Switerland’s first Bikepacking Event. Registration for The Hope 1,000 typically fills up in minutes, so you should start planning now for 2024. With no crewmembers, no road closures, no mechanics, and no signposts, it’s a true bikepacking spectacular. 

Don’t worry if you’ve already missed the registration window. The entire course is single-track beauty through the backcountry, so riding alone helps you navigate tricky sections without riders breathing down your neck. 

Muenchen-Venezia 

• Where it starts: Munich, Germany 
• Where it Ends: Venice, Italy
• Distance: 560 Km
• # of days: 9
• Difficulty: Mild

This trail provides one of the most accessible pathways through the alps, splitting time between paved cycleways and backcountry roads of Bavaria. The main spine of the route connects you to several other of the region’s most popular cycling paths, including the path of the Dolomites. You’ll have your fair share of alternative stops if you want to stretch your trip out a bit further. 

The original passage brings enough adventure for most biking trips across beautiful Alpine countryside with charming village stops along the way – make sure to budget an extra afternoon in the spa town of Bad Tölz. By the time you get to Venice, you’ll have seen three previous Olympic Villages and a smattering of quiet countryside. 

The most treacherous parts of this route involve getting in and out of Munich and Venice, you can always cut your trip a few kilometers short to spend more time in the countryside. Many prominent itineraries stretch out your vacation to two weeks, helping you leisurely push yourself through the Alps.

This pace, plus the fact that this entire route brings you through wide country roads, makes the Muenchen-Venezia an excellent choice for anyone who wants a bikepacking trip without coming face to face with your own mortality. 

Romantic Road

• Where it starts: Würzburg, Germany
• Where it Ends:  Füssen, Germany
• Distance: 440 km 
• # of days: 10 

If you couldn’t tell from the name, this cruisy route is all about indulgence. You could probably finish things in less than 10 days, as long as the sheep don’t cause a traffic jam, but there’s no need to rush through some of Germany’s most beautiful cycling paths. Most of the route covers gravel pathways adjacent to farmland that provide great spots to set up the tent. 

The other half of the trail runs through medieval villages and quaint vineyards that tempt you to stop early for a drink. The path even passes through Donauwörth, a charming cycling-oriented town that connects riders to the Danube Cycle Route. 

While this route is beginner friendly, there are still a few tricky sections. You’ll have to navigate a few cobblestones and rough roads that may require a spare tire. Still, the entire road is incredibly well-signposted, and you’ll never be too far from a charming town to spend a night or two rejuvenating. 

If you head from north to south, you’ll slowly leave the alps and watch as the landscape changes to river valleys and woodlands. 

Liege-Bastogne-Liege

• Where it starts: Liege, Belgium
• Where it Ends: Liege, Belgium
• Distance: 258 km
• # of days: 1
• Difficulty: Expert

This route is one of professional cycling’s most famous classics, sometimes considered the most difficult single-day ride in the world. Depending on the year, the route could require 12 ascents, none more demanding than the Côte De La Redoute. Once you cross the Remouchamps Gorge, you face a steep 10% average grade, with sections tipping up over 20%.

In addition to challenging climbs, the centennial route is known for its cobblestone sections, shaking your handlebars and testing your reaction times. This stretch of road is known as ‘the old lady’ for its place in biking history. Carving out a space to challenge yourself on this one-day ride is a cycling pilgrimage. 

While this is technically a day’s cycle, it’s a whole lot of kilometers to pack into one route. The easiest way to enjoy this iconic ride without overdoing it would be to start in Liege and stay a night in Bastogne, fueling up with a few baked Saint-Marcelin’s in the meantime. 

The main action of this route takes place in late April. Adventurous amateurs can have a go at the course one day before the professionals take the streets for the Classic. Weather is always a factor in the Liege Bastone Liege, as the race takes place early in the year for the professional cycling calendar. Rain, sleet, and snow frequently make uninvited appearances. 

What Gear Do I Need To Cycle In Europe?

It’s a tricky proposition to pack everything you need on your bike and hit the road, sometimes with a few days between towns. You’ll need all-weather gear, more food than you’d think, and odor-resilient socks. 

The good news is you’re not the first person to head to these hills. You don’t have to pack everything you need to survive for weeks. Some of these trails will have a hot shower and cup of tea waiting for you at every stop, you won’t even need to bring your own towel.  Most European cycling routes have committed infrastructure and pass through towns that are ready to help out. 

The gnarlier the route, the tighter the community that surrounds it. Previous riders and passionate neighbors help you meet the mammoth task with immense online communities and detailed first-hand accounts. Once you’ve got a route on your radar, explore online communities centered around your particular path to find some trip-saving trail secrets. 

There is no source better than an unadulterated message board. The biking community loves to share. If you can get in touch, people who have finished your planned route will be happy to offer up the tips and tricks that got them through the ride. 

And not just any bike, either. Bikepacking requires bikes with a particular set of skills, all of which the rough terrain of the old world will put to the test at some point in your journey. A kilo or two in frame size doesn’t make a world of difference in an afternoon ride, but you’ll feel every gram on a longer ride. 

A great bikepacking bike strikes the middle ground: A heavy, aluminum frame will hold back each pedal stroke, and going too light increases the risks of a breakdown. Not every lightweight road bike can handle you + 35 litres of necessary camping equipment. 

While some bikes can heavy loads and tough terrain better than others, still choose a bike you know how to fix. It’s not a question of if but when your bike will require some first aid. Bikes are highly specialized equipment. Map out your route and then pair it up with the right ride. In a dream world, you could piece together a dream bike that’s the sum of these four parts: 

Wheels: Wider tires add extra comfort and smooth out long bumpy rides, but they add on weight and increased surface tension. Don’t go too extreme in either direction. 

Frames: Titanium is the best in the business but overkill for most rides. Light aluminum or Chromoly steel will get you through most rides. 

Gearing: Keep it simple with a 1x setup and find a rear derailleur that can make things two or three speeds easier than you’re used to. 

Suspension: This is the most case-by-case part of your bicycle. The less backcountry you’re riding, the less suspension you need.

Osprey Backpack

Nothing will take you further than the Osprey Talon 22. The Airscape back suspension is the key to this bag’s success. The back panel leaves space for a bladder pack and curves the weight of your pack across your shoulders, hips, and chest. Every strap has myriad adjustment options to spread your load precisely. 

Large hip pockets fit their fair share of cliff bars, and the large water bottle pockets would each fit a Nalgene. There’s even a beaver tail front pocket and clips for oversized equipment. Once everything is packed and strapped up, this bag stays locked into place, even during mad, bumpy descents. 

All this extra comfort does add an extra gram or two compared to some bags. It might feel counter-intuitive, but in this case, adding on a bit of extra weight will help things feel lighter in the long run. Don’t let the specs fool you, this pack is made to excel on the most intense day of the trip. 

Other Bike Bags

Once your itinerary starts to work in overnight stops, the storage will have to spill from your backpack onto your bike. Bike bags should be waterproof and capable of bouncing through dirt and mud without a scratch. The bags you hook onto your bicycle have different strengths than one you’d keep on your person. 

That means these bags don’t worry about breathable back paneling or mesh straps to protect your shoulders. They still have to spread the load to make sure you can still stay balanced on two wheels, and bike bags should also be ready for a beating. 

They’ll have to get through the same rough roads and wet weather as you will. Rain soaking your skin might not stop a ride, but a soaking wet bike bag will send any rider scrambling for cover. Complete weather resistance is the number one requirement of any bike bag. Beyond that, the bags split into different niches, largely based on what part of the bike they connect to. 

Seat Bag: The most essential bag in bike-packing sits right under your seat to minimally affect your bike’s aerodynamics. Seat Bags handle oversized equipment like coats and sleeping bags or up to 15 liters of storage. They can also be great storage spaces for your bike tools, which you’ll hopefully never have to use.

Seat bags like the REI Junction make storage as simple as a few clips and velcro. 

Frame Pack: The pack connects to the three tubes of your bike frame to offer triangular storage. These bags don’t play well with rear suspension but are great choices for storing the heaviest items of your trip on hardtail bikes. 

Handlebar Bag: These bags typically come with a whole lot of length, great for tent storage and other long and relatively thin items. Just make sure your bag won’t bump into your front tire. You can also opt for a smaller Stem Cell to hook across the central point of your handlebars, giving you easy, sweat-free access to snacks and cell phones. 

Waist Pack: If you’ve got solid bike bags or don’t have too much technical terrain to cover, you might get away with just bringing a waist pack with you. Alone or combined with a larger backpack, waist packs should store everything that needs to stay close. Packs like the Black Hole® Waist Pack 5L  

A waist pack is just barely too small to replace a backpack fully, but you can also travel with a combination of a backpack and a waist bag, so you don’t have to lug all your gear when you only need your wallet. 

Many bikepackers reject waist packs, citing the burden of an extra bag in addition to their backpack. Those of us who have seen the light can’t leave the house without a waist pack strapped above our rear ends.  

Some of the best riding takes place far away from the nearest Hilton. Bikepacking trips require different sorts of tents than what you might have lying around in the closet. These tents shed weight and surface area at every corner to fit on more handlebars. They also need to be easy enough to set up after dark. It’s not a question of if, but when, a traffic jam or a wrong turn will dictate a bit of fumbling around in the woods to get camp pitched. When the moment comes, a great bike tent will deploy in far fewer steps. 

You should also consider whether or not you need shelter for your bicycle, or rather, the seat bags on your bicycle. Most frames will be fine after a few nights of rain, but your gear might not be so lucky. Modern seat bags are ultra water-resistant, but nobody is perfect. Long nights of rain will expose any minute cracks in the armor, so unless you’re carrying a tarp along with you to cover up the bike, the seat bags are probably coming into bed with you. 

These factors, and many more key design features, are why we can’t get enough of Big Agnes’ Copper Spur . They crammed their legendary ultralight tent into a smaller packed size to create a special edition perfect for bikepacking. 

Leatherman Multi-Tool

The separation between a good multi-tool and a great one could be the difference between fixing roadside hiccups and dragging your bike a few miles. Hopefully, that day will never come, but bikepacking trips must prepare for the worst. 

Nothing better prepares you for a few nasty surprises than an entire toolbox that fits in your pocket. The Free P4 is a slim option that fits right into your seat bag or clipped to a belt. They call it free because each of the 21 different tools is held together with a magnetic closure that allows one-handed deployment. 

Between spare tubes, a patch kit, a pump, tire levers, and a Leatherman Multi-Tool, you’ll have everything you need to fix routine bumps and bruises or at least patch together your bike to get to the next repair shop. 

The best part is not all 21 of those tools are only useful on a bike. From hanging underwear up to dry all the way to changing bike tubes, a genuine leatherman has no equal.

Final Thoughts On The Best Cycle Routes in Europe

These trails run a gambit of paved pathways that you can stroll down in an afternoon, to grueling, months-long rides through the backcountry. Amongst the immense diversity in difficulty in these rides, overall length is much less of a factor than you might expect. 

Longer routes don’t necessarily mean more difficult. I’d rank riding 1,000 km on a smooth, paved road easier than 100 kms along muddy singletrack, especially if I’ve got all my gear strapped on. 

Distance should definitely be a consideration when choosing your trail, but also consider the riding terrain, length between towns, amount of climbing, and typical weather for your ride – and always assume you’ll get rained on.

Treat your first few cycling routes like warm-ups. Don’t take off on a month-long scramble before you know how your legs will respond to a weekend spent riding all day and sleeping on the cold earth. Those adventures get you comfortable on the bike, teach you what you need, and teach you what you don’t need.  

And finally, take your time. We’re talking about cycling through Europe. That’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many foreigners. What’s the point of speeding past the countryside so fast that the whole trip feels like a blur? 

Unless you’re in competition for the yellow jersey, there is no need to schedule a spartan bikepacking trip. Budget extra time to stop and smell the flowers. 

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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6 long-distance bike itineraries in Europe that promise epic adventure

Apr 11, 2023 • 4 min read

You’ll bike up and around the Alps and through three countries on the Tour du Mont Blanc © coberschneider / Getty Images

Some people like to relax on their summer vacations. Some like to stay active. And yet others seek out invigorating, adrenaline-pumping, even grueling holidays that test their endurance and deliver the ultimate in thrills.

If you’re in the last group, read on.

Adapted from Lonely Planet’s The Bikepackers’ Guide to the World , the itineraries below will test your mettle as they take you up, down and across Europe . The payoff? Sublime views, superb training and the endless pleasure of taking the road less traveled. (In this case, way less traveled.)

So gear up – and get ready for some continental-scale adventures.

1. Trans Dinarica Trail

Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Hercegovina 758 miles (1220km); challenging

The multi-use Trans Dinarica Trail was designed by local enterprises to encourage visitors to explore the Western Balkans by bicycle, and currently covers Slovenia , Croatia and Bosnia & Hercegovina . It’s a sister trail to the Via Dinarica hiking route , which extends into Albania , Kosovo and North Macedonia . The Trans Dinarica starts in Slovenia’s Soča Valley , famous for its water sports, then rolls through the foothills of the Julian Alps beside the Italian border before dipping into Croatia for a foray into the forests of Risnjak National Park . Next, it shadows the Adriatic before a transfer takes riders across the border and into Bosnia & Hercegovina, where it visits Mostar and Sarajevo .

2. Ronde van Nederland

The Netherlands 860 miles (1384km); easy

Holland’s long-distance cycling routes, known as LF routes , are an easy way of exploring this cycle-friendly nation. Most use traffic-free bike paths that are wide and well made. Some of the classic trips include the LF Kustroute along the North Sea and Wadden Sea coastlines; the popular LF Zuiderzeeroute around an inland sea and through national parks and historic towns; and the LF Vechtdalroute linking quiet Dutch villages. But put some of the LF routes together and you get this fantastic 860-mile (1384km) circuit of the Netherlands . Dunes, dykes, canals, sculptures, megaliths, polders, towns and villages feature. Completing the Ronde van Nederland earns riders a special certificate.

3. Iron Curtain Trail

Germany Distance varies; moderate

EuroVelo’s EV13 route , the Iron Curtain Trail follows that great geopolitical fissure from the Barents Sea to the Black Sea, through Norway , the Baltic nations , Poland , Germany , the Czech Republic , the Balkans, Romania , Bulgaria and beyond to Turkey . It’s not yet complete but will cover more than 6214 miles (10,000km) when finished. However, the German section is mostly signposted and ready to ride. The history of the Iron Curtain means that there are some fascinating sites to visit along these quiet roads and bike paths. But if you want to get further off the beaten track, consider the Iron Curtain Gravel Trail , a 426-mile-long (685km) trail crafted by Markus Stitz that runs from the Harz mountains to the Czech border (maps available via komoot.com ).

4. Tour du Mont Blanc

France, Switzerland & Italy 105 miles (169km); challenging

File this trip under “do now, while you can.” Climate change is causing the glaciers of the High Alps to melt, which means that the stability of these mountains is changing and, increasingly, that trails such as this loop around western Europe’s highest peak are diverted or closed due to rockfalls and other dangers. But while it’s possible, the Tour du Mont Blanc is a fantastic challenge for mountain bikers, who need only carry enough kit for three or four nights spent in refuges. Most start at Chamonix and will enter three separate countries on their ride. They’ll also cross rivers, climb several passes above 6500ft (1981m) and eat their own weight in pastries.

5. Torino-Nice Rally

Italy & France 435 miles (700km); challenging

Beginning life as an annual bikepacking rally – a noncompetitive group ride – designed by James Olsen, this gorgeous route explores some of the lesser-known Alpine regions between Turin in Italy and Nice in France , and can be ridden at any time between late June and early September when the higher parts are free from snow. Riders take a mixture of rough gravel tracks and trails, with some road diversions available if needed. Bikes are usually hardtail mountain bikes, but gravel bikes with chunky tires will also be fine. And accommodation can be in some of the mountain refugios on the route or under canvas, depending on preference. There’s a lot of ascent, obviously, so most need eight or more days if stopping to savor the views and the local food.

6. Great North Trail

UK 825 miles (1328km); challenging

Snaking north from England ’s Peak District National Park to the tip of Scotland , the Great North Trail touches on some of the UK ’s greatest cities and its wildest open spaces. This is a mountain-bike route for experienced cyclists if attempted as a single trip, but it’s easy to break it up into sections. The first leg borrows the Pennine Bridleway , which hugs the ridge of hills between Manchester and Leeds before entering the patchwork of stone walls and green fields in Yorkshire Dales National Park . The route then crosses the open moors of Northumberland National Park , and heads into the Scottish Borders at the mountain-biking hub of Peebles before visiting Edinburgh and Glasgow and taking on the real mountains of Scotland on its way to John O’Groats.

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16 of the best European cycling routes

Finding the best cycling routes in Europe can be tricky. There are so many to choose from that it can be quite overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of what are, in our opinion, the best long distance cycling routes Europe has to offer.

We hope it will help you narrow down where you might want to travel next on your bike if you want to cycle across Europe. All the routes we’ve selected are:

• in Europe, excluding the UK
• long-distance, which means they will take multiple days to ride
• possible on a road or gravel bike (you may prefer a gravel bike for comfort/flexibility and the option to fit panniers)

So read on and decide where your bike will take you next.

Read these article for info on preparing for long rides and training for long rides.

This article includes details of products and/or services that we have used ourselves or which we would consider using. Some are paid features or include affiliate links where if you click on a link and make a booking or buy something, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please read our disclosure policy for further information.

All metrics in this article are approximate.

In the interests of complete transparency, we haven’t (yet!) cycled all of the routes/events in this article. If you have ridden any of these, let us know in the comments below!

France cycling routes

London to paris cycle route.

• Distance: London, England and Paris, France
• Start/finish: 470 kilometres
• Surface: Road and greenways

The London to Paris bike ride is an iconic ride – one of the true epic bike rides of Europe. There are many different ways to ride this route, but one of the best-known is the Avenue Verte. Beginning in London, it takes in the sights as you head south towards the coast, where a ferry shuttles you across the Channel. From there, you ride through quiet towns into the bustling capital of France, Paris.

Although you can use a road bike on this route, we’d recommend fitting some wide tyres to deal with the greenways, as you may encounter some gravel.  You can also do this route in reverse, for the Paris to London bike ride. While not the longest, it’s still one of the best cycle touring routes Europe can offer.

Published 12 March 2018.

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Published 3 April 2017.

Veloscenic cycle route

• Distance: 450 kilometres
• Start/finish: Paris, France and Mont St-Michel, France

The Veloscenic cycle route is one of the best cycling routes in France, with its easy riding and long stretches of greenways.

It’s perfect for those looking to see the sights often missed on other French cycling routes, including the Eiffel Tower and the Bay of the Mont St-Michel.

The route is ideal for laid-back family cycling holidays in Europe.  It’s well signposted and has plenty of accommodation along the route called Accueil Vélo. In English, this means ‘cyclists welcome’. If you’re keen on finding good cycling routes in France for all abilities, then the Veloscenic route is certainly one to read up on. If you want the best flat cycle routes in Europe, this is one to consider – it’s not completely flat, but it’s very gentle.

Published 26 February 2018.

Route des Grandes Alpes

• Distance: 710 kilometers
• Start/finish: Geneva, Switzerland to Nice, France
• Surface: Road

The Route des Grandes Alpes is a really tough route and certainly earns its position on our list of the best cycle routes in Europe.

Beginning in Geneva, before heading south to Nice, riders take in the panoramic views of some of the most famous cycling routes (and climbs) in the world.

Over 18 mountain passes and a leg-straining 17,000 metres of climbing, this is not a route for the faint-hearted.

There are tour companies who specialise in taking the hassle out of these trips so you can focus on riding the best long distance bicycle routes and soaking in the glorious alpine views.

It’s a brilliant chance to tick off some of those bucket list cols you might not otherwise get the chance to ride, and really put your climbing legs to the test. But don’t forget to bring some extra gearing! You can’t tackle the best bicycle routes in Europe without being properly prepared, after all.

Read out in-depth  guide to the Route des Grandes Alpes for more information.

Published 24 April 2017.

Trans Pyrenees

• Distance: 1,100 kilometres
• Start/finish: Llançà, Spain and San Sebastian, Spain

The Trans Pyrenees is one of the most well-known and best cycling routes Europe has to offer. If you want epic bike rides in Europe, look no further!

Most people create a route from the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean coast and ride it as a supported or self-supported ride. The statistics above are based on the route described in our article on the Trans Pyrenees ( here ).

Lost Dot, the same company that runs the Transcontinental race, also runs an event in the region. Riders are given checkpoints and parcours to ride rather than a set route. This gives riders the freedom to test their navigation and route plotting skills on top of the already massive challenge in front of them.

These great long distance cycling routes in Europe are fantastic challenges for hardcore cyclists who want to experience bikepacking and being self-sufficient on the bike across some of the prettiest (and most challenging) landscapes on the continent.

Find out more about the Trans Pyrenees  here .

If you want something to remind you of your Trans Pyrenees, check out  these maps .

• Upload a GPX file or connect to Strava
• Use the map builder to create the print – you can alter the size, colour and text
• Check a preview before it’s printed and sent to you.

More info here . Prices start at £35.

Belgium and Netherlands cycling routes

Flanders cycle loop, belgium.

• Distance: 952 kilometres
• Start/finish: Nieuwpoort, Belgium (circular)

Belgium is steeped in cycling history and provides some of the best cycling Europe has to offer. The country is home to professional heroes such as Eddy Merckx and Lotte Kopecky, and also some of the toughest cobbled climbs and harshest terrain there is.

The Flanders cycle loop takes in a long loop of Belgium, exploring each corner of Flanders. It’s 952 kilometres long and has 5,155 metres of climbing on offer. The key thing about this route is enjoying your surroundings.

Belgium offers some of the best bike rides in Europe, and this route demonstrates why – taking in some of the picturesque towns and cities and undulating routes around the Flanders region. The country is also great for flatter Europe bike routes, but this route shows there are still plenty of climbing challenges available, too.

Our article on planning a cycling holiday in Belgium and our guide to cycling Flanders should be useful.

Zuider Zee route, Netherlands

• Distance: 440 kilometres
• Start/finish: Enkhuizen, Netherlands (circular)
• Surface: Road and cycle paths

One of the most popular Europe cycling routes is the Zuiderzee (otherwise known as the Ijsselmeer Tour) in the Netherlands. It traverses around the Ijsselmeer lake, which was created after the closing of the south sea (Zuiderzee) by a dam. The dam is part of the route and is 37 kilometres long!

The Netherlands is well known for its bike-friendly culture. The Zuiderzee route combines their official cycle routes, LF21, LF22 and LF23 to create one of the best long-distance cycle routes Europe has to offer. It is quite flat and is great for beginners if you don’t want to ride the full route.

Spain and Portugal cycling routes

Camino de santiago cycle route, spain.

• Distance: 930 kilometres (based on the most popular route, known as the ‘French Way’)
• Start/finish: Orreaga-Roncesvalles, Spain and Santiago de Compostela
• Surface: Road and gravel

Cycling the Camino de Santiago, or the Way of Saint James as it’s also known, is a less traditional way of approaching this pilgrimage. Typically, hikers adorn the trails, but we think cycling is a much more time-efficient and enjoyable way to do it.

There are five main Camino de Santiago cycling routes to choose from, all varying in starting place and thus length. But, whichever one you choose, you’ll be riding one of the most historic cycle routes Europe has to offer.

To get your Compostela, or your accreditation to certify you have completed the Camino de Santiago by bike, you need to ride at least 200km of this long distance cycle route.

Given that the terrain is split between gravel and road, the best bike for the Camino de Santiago is either a wide tyre gravel/touring bike or a lightweight mountain bike. With proper preparation and choosing the right time of year, this is easily one of the best cycle trips in Europe.

Read our in-depth guide to cycling the Camino de Santiago.

Published 8 March 2019.

N2 road, Portugal

• Distance: 739 kilometres
• Start/finish: Chaves, Portugal and Faro, Portugal

The N2 road in Portugal isn’t just one of the most well known known Portugal cycling routes, it’s also becoming one of the best European cycle routes full stop.

Beginning in Chaves in the North, riders travel 739-kilometres south over undulating terrain and through stunning scenery to reach Faro.

While many people immediately look further east when planning their Europe bicycle routes, don’t overlook Portugal, which is home to some of the best bike trails in Europe overall.

If you’d like to know more about these bike tour routes, read our new article about the N2 road here and discover one of the best European cycling routes. Our guide on cycling the Algarve might also be useful.

Italy and Slovenia cycling routes

Via francigena cycle route, italy.

• Distance: 1,030 kilometres
• Start/finish: Great Saint Bernardo Pass, Switzerland and Roma, Italy
• Surface: Road and unpaved

The Via Francigena bike route is steeped in history and is one of the best known long distance cycling routes in Italy.

It begins on the Swiss-Italian border and travels south towards Rome, taking in both asphalt and off-road terrain. Following the route is relatively simple, with the places to cycle carefully mapped throughout Italy with blue and white signs.

There are a few ways to tackle this route, including one of the EuroVelo routes. It’s recognised under the EuroVelo route 5 banner and begins in Canterbury, England, before heading across Europe to Rome. It is based on a historic 3,000-kilometre journey taken by Sigeric the Serious to meet the Pope in 990AD and has resulted in one of the best long distance cycle routes Europe offers.

Tour of Slovenia’s Julian Alps

• Distance: 324 kilometres
• Start/finish: Neblo, Slovenia and Bohinjska Bistrica

The Julian Alps are some of Slovenia’s best-kept secrets. On this loop, you’ll ride 324 kilometres of challenging terrain and beautiful scenery.

The Tour of the Julian Alps is one of many Slovenia cycling routes that provide jaw-dropping views. It may not be the longest distance, but the rewarding landscapes make it one of the best bike routes Europe has tucked away – a true hidden gem.

For GPX files and more in-depth detail, read our guide to cycling in Slovenia here .

Multi-country European cycling routes

EuroVelo cycling routes are an indispensable resource for finding biking routes in Europe; they have worked over many years to create a dense network of routes for cycling across Europe.

One of the great things about the EuroVelo cycling routes is that they are well signposted and easily followed to help ensure you have a successful trip cycling through Europe.

Atlantic-Black Sea cycle route

• Distance: 4,450 kilometres
• Start/finish: Nantes, France and Constanța, Romania

The Atlantic-Black Sea cycle route, EuroVelo 6, is among the most scenic cycling routes Europe has.

It travels from western France all the way across Europe to the city of Constanța in Romania . It takes in beautiful countryside like the Loire Valley in France and historic cities like Vienna and Budapest, making it one of the most popular EuroVelo routes there is.

It’s not for the faint-hearted as it’s 4,450 kilometres in length, but the reward is knowing you’ve cycled one of the best cycle routes Europe has to offer – and a contender for best EuroVelo route too.

Rhine cycle route

• Distance: 1,500 kilometres
• Start/finish: Andermatt, Switzerland and Rotterdam, Netherlands

The Rhine cycle route is part of EuroVelo route 15.

Beginning in Andermatt, Switzerland, riders get to see the Rhine from ‘source to sea’ firsthand.

From Lake Toma in Switzerland, the route takes you north, along the Rhine River, through France, past Lake Constance in Germany and all the way to the Rhine Delta at the North Sea in the Netherlands.

While it’s not quite as popular a bike route as some of the others listed here, cycling the Rhine is special as you get to travel with the water. It’s suitable for road bikes and covers a distance of 1,500 kilometres. All the while, riders take in plenty of culture and picturesque surroundings.  As with other EuroVelo road biking routes, it’s well signposted and easy to follow.

Published 10 May 2018.

Danube cycle path

• Distance: 1,200 kilometres
• Start/finish: Donaueschingen, Germany and Budapest, Hungary
• Surface: Road and cycle path

The Danube cycle path is a very popular route, with scenic riverside views and leisurely towpath riding.

Beginning in Donaueschingen, riders follow the Danube river, passing through Germany and Austria before eventually reaching the capital of Hungary, Budapest.

If you’re into your adventure cycling routes, it’s good to know that this cycle path is well-maintained and allows riders to create their own itineraries by visiting towns and places just off the route. Places where riders can stop and rent pergolas, for example, are just part of the charm.

The river continues all the way to Romania, where it becomes part of the Black Sea, but the paths past the Budapest point are not as well developed for cycling. Up to that point though, it’s one of the best bike rides Europe offers alongside one of its longest rivers.

There’s more information on the Romanian section of the Danube in this guide to cycling Romania.

Published 27 January 2015.

224 pages (Volume 1).

Published 4 February 2016.

288 pages (Volume 2).

Moselle cycle route

• Distance: 512 kilometres
• Start/finish: Bussang, France and Koblenz, Germany
• Surface: Off-road but mainly well-paved cycle tracks

One of many bicycle routes in Europe that follows a river is the Moselle cycle route. It’s 512 kilometres in length and begins in the Vosges mountains in France before heading north through Germany.

The route is entirely on cycle paths which are, for the most part, well-paved. This means a hybrid or road bike with wide tyres will be more than sufficient for this trip.

The infrastructure improves significantly once you reach Metz, the industrial capital of northeastern France. There is plenty to see and do along this route, and it’s quite easy going so you won’t be too tired to head out sightseeing after your ride.

Published 15 August 2014.

Baltic Sea Cycle/Iron Curtain Trail

• Distance: 9,214 kilometres (Baltic Sea Route) and 10,000 kilometres (Iron Curtain Trail)
• Start/finish: Turku, Finland and Kirkenes, Norway (Baltic Sea Route)/Rezovo, Bulgaria (Iron Curtain Trail)
• Surface: Cycle path and road

The Baltic Sea Cycle and Iron Curtain Trails are part of the renowned EuroVelo cycling routes, which incorporate some of the best long distance bike rides across Europe. The EuroVelo routes connect Europe by bike through a network of long distance routes and are perfect for testing the legs over multiple days.

The Baltic Sea Cycle route is referenced as EuroVelo 10, and the Iron Curtain Trail is known as EuroVelo 13. The southern section of the Baltic Sea Cycle follows the same waypoints as the Iron Curtain Trail. They both travel through Estonia, Latvia and more, following the coast of the Baltic Sea, until the routes reach Germany. From there, the Iron Curtain Trail heads south, and the Baltic Sea Cycle heads north to continue following the Baltic Sea shoreline.

Partially drawn up to remember the history of the Iron Curtain during the Cold War, the European Union has supported the growth and development of these bike tour routes not only to raise awareness but to support less popular regions with tourists.

Both the Baltic Sea Cycle and the Iron Curtain Trail can be ridden either as single long distance cycle rides or as smaller chunks to cater to more abilities and time frames. They’re ideal for those who enjoy a variety of landscapes and cultural exploration on their bicycles.

Published 6 October 2016.

Which long distance cycling routes in Europe have you tackled?

We’d love to hear your experiences and opinions on where to find the best cycling in Europe – share them in the comments below!

Likewise, let us know which are the best bike routes in Europe that you think we’ve missed from our list. We love to hear your thoughts!

Looking for more inspiration? Head to our multi-day route hub page . Alternatively, for our pick of the best cycling routes in the World, read this , and for our  pick of the best cycling routes in the UK, read this . Or head to our destinations page where you’ll find guides to cycling destinations around the world.

Want to check travel advice before you go? If you live in the UK, the best place to start is the government’s travel website .

Want a personalised map to commemorate your long distance ride?

These cycling map prints are just the ticket.

• You upload a GPX file or connect to Strava and find your ride (you can add multiple day rides to one map).
• You use the map builder to create the print as you want it (you can alter the size, colour and text).
• You submit all the details and are then sent a preview to check before it’s printed and sent to you.

More info  here . Prices start at £35.

Books that will help continue your research

For more inspiration on the world’s greatest cycling rides, check out some of our favourite books that cover cycling Europe routes (you can find even more in this article !):

Published 1 September 2016.

Published 27 August 2020.

Published 9 August 2019.

Published 1 April 2021.

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Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels – and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they’re there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.

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6 Responses to “16 of the best European cycling routes”

good morning , i present myself an avid cyclist georges boueiz from Beirut Lebanon . we are a group of 7 avid cyclists ,that likes to have a private tour for 7 or 8 days with 6 days on the saddle . the profile that we are looking for is to climb every day between 1200 to 2000 meters of ascent with a soft day in the middle of those 6 days . we already had private tours in France , Italy , Slovenia , Croatia, Greece , Corsica , etc… .we are looking this year to ride in Spain in particular in the Spain mountains ! we consider to land in Madrid around the 20th of May 2023 .we will go more into details later on . i will appreciate your feedback in this regard thank you georges

Hi Georges, thanks for this, I have just sent you an email. Best wishes, Clare

Hello! My husband and I live in Alaska and would like to do a cycling trip in Europe. We have spent a few weeks in Switzerland years ago and loved it. We are also interested in Italy – Dolomites and Tuscany rolling hills/wine country. We are currently experiencing research and decision fatigue and not sure if we should have a base hotel/bnb and shuttle to the different areas or pay the large amount for an organized tour. We aren’t sure which tour companies are reputable. We would probably prefer a self guided, with some support, type of trip. That would give us flexibility. We were looking into this October but then realized that some tours are already sold out. We do not do well in heat so Sept. would probably not work for us. Thank you so much for any direction you can give us! K

Hi there, have just dropped you an email! (Do check your spam folder if it hasn’t arrived in your inbox already…)

Just wanted to recommend the N2 route in Portugal, which 11 of us self supported riders completed 7 days ago. Chapeau for featuring the N2 here 👏

Thanks Adrian! So glad to hear you had a great time!

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10 of Europe’s Greatest Cycling Routes

Interlinked paths and trails span countries across the continent, offering sweeping views along the way for riders of all skill levels..

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Cycling tours—both self-guided and with groups—are becoming an increasingly popular way to explore the best of Europe’s backroads. The Ciclovia Alpe Adria Radweg (pictured above) is so well-signed that maps are practically unecessary.

Photo by Jen Sotolongo

Europe is fast becoming a standout destination for cycling holidays. Across the continent, beloved and (mainly) car-free routes accommodate all levels and ages of cyclists, whether you’re a beginner setting off on your first quick trip or you’ve pedaled thousands of miles across the world. From gastronomic cycle tours featuring delicious food and wine stops to historically immersive rides through medieval towns, the following routes offer a little something for everyone looking to see the best of Europe from two wheels.

Ciclovia Alpe Adria Radweg

• Where: Austria and Italy
• Skill Level: Intermediate
• Great for: Mountain views, small town stops, Italian cuisine

Not to be confused with the hiking route of the same name, this 259-mile (416-km) bike path starts in Salzburg, Austria, winds through the Alps, and ends on the Mediterranean coast in Grado, Italy. The Austrian section was designed to show off the beauty of the Alps without impossible mountain climbs, while the Italian portion winds along rivers and lively towns offering copious wine and pasta.

The Danube Cycle Path follows the Danube River, which creates a natural border between Austria and Germany.

Photo by David Maska/Shutterstock

Danube Cycle Path

• Where: Germany and Austria
• Skill Level: Beginner
• Great for: Family travel, medieval landmarks, calm countryside

The Danube Cycle Path is one of the most well-known and well-traveled bike routes in Europe. It follows the Danube River from its source in Germany all the way to the Black Sea, but the most popular stretch of the trail is the 190-mile (306-km) portion between the scenic German village of Passau and Vienna, Austria. Almost entirely car-free and fairly flat, this path—which crisscrosses the border between Germany and Austria throughout much of the ride—is perfect for cyclists of any age and ability.

In Belgium’s Flemish region, you can bike between breweries, passing medieval castles along the way.

Photo by Marcel Derweduwen/Shutterstock

Flanders Beer Routes

• Where: Belgium
• Great for: Beer, beer, and more beer!

Belgium has the beer lovers covered with a variety of brewery routes in the Flanders region. Choose your own adventure by piecing together several dedicated beer routes in the Flemish Brabant province. These loops, which range from 20 to 30 miles (32 to 48 km), will lead you to traditional Belgian breweries and abbeys producing some of the world’s best beer.

Located close to the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro’s Piva Canyon Road is part of the European route E762.

Photo by Marisha_SL/Shutterstock

Piva Canyon Road

• Where: Montenegro
• Great for: Quiet roads, river gorges

Just after you cross into Montenegro from Vučevo, Bosnia, a steep climb up the otherwise undemanding E762 road sends you nose-diving into a deep gorge carved by the teal waters of the Piva River. The Piva Canyon Road route continues along the river and passes through more than 60 tunnels, winding through a canyon before reaching Plužine, a little resort town where cyclists can take a dip in Lake Piva. [Editor’s note: Although tunnels normally pose a danger for cyclists, most tunnels along this 17-mile (26-km) stretch are short and cars are rare, drastically reducing the threat of an accident.]

The Iron Curtain Trail (also known as EuroVelo 13) crosses Bulgaria’s borders with Serbia and Macedonia, leaving Bulgaria for short sections in Greece and Turkey.

Photo by Stanislav Nikolov/Shutterstock

Iron Curtain Trail

• Where: Bulgaria
• Skill Level: Advanced
• Great for: Remote roads, pristine nature, inexpensive luxuries

Mountains, inexpensive spa towns, and delicious food and wine are all part of the journey along the Bulgarian section of the Iron Curtain Trail . The route begins on the low-traffic roads of the Thracian Valley, which is home to several wineries including Orbelus Organic . Then the path heads east into the mountains that form the border with Greece , passing through affordable spa towns like Gotse Delchev and Devin. From there, climb into the untouched nature of the Rhodope Mountains, where abundant sheltered picnic areas provide fresh spring water and free camping options.

The Outer Hebrides, also known as the Western Isles, is an island chain off the coast of mainland Scotland.

Photo by Natasa Kirin/Shutterstock

Hebridean Way

• Where: Scotland (United Kingdom)
• Skill Level: Easy to intermediate
• Great for: Abundant wildlife, scenic coasts and landscapes

The 185-mile (297-km) Hebridean Way Cycling Route —also known as National Cycle Network Route (NCR) 780—crosses 10 islands in the Outer Hebrides that are connected by ferries and causeways. The remote and peaceful roads meander alongside rugged Atlantic coastline and soar over hills that offer awe-inspiring vistas and plenty of opportunities for wildlife encounters in the Western Isles (think: sheep, miniature horses, and puffins).

The Parenzana cycling route passes through picturesque fishing villages, hilltop towns, and fertile, vineyard-dotted valleys along the Istrian Peninsula.

Courtesy of the Istrian Region Department of Tourism

• Where: Italy , Slovenia, and Croatia
• Great for: Local wine and olive oil, beach towns, Istrian cuisine

The 75-mile long (123-km) Parenzana Railway used to connect Trieste, Italy, with Poreč, Croatia. It later became known as the “ Path of Health and Friendship ” and now unites all three countries of the Istrian peninsula. The hilly route cuts through olive and peach groves, vineyards, and colorful Adriatic villages, with plenty of opportunities for gourmet food stops along the way.

The Alsace Wine Road stretches from Strasbourg to Colmar in eastern France.

Photo by CroMary/Shutterstock

Alsace Wine Road

• Where: France
• Great for: Wineries, charming villages, quiet roads

Cyclists won’t need to feel too bad about indulging in all the wine and food available in the Alsace wine region thanks to this 105-mile (170-km) route, which runs along the eastern slopes of the Vosges Mountains. The Alsace Wine Road is one of the most beautiful cycle routes in France; the route follows former rail lines and parts of the Roman road and often leads to intimate wine tasting experiences in villages.

Bringing the kids or beginners? Stick to the first 16 miles of Rallarvegen, where the road is in good condition.

Photo by mynordic/Shutterstock

Rallarvegen

• Where: Norway
• Skill Level: Beginner to advanced
• Great for: Dirt roads, glaciers, mountains, valleys, fjords

Originally built to transport materials for the construction of the Bergen-Oslo Railway, this is one of the most popular scenic cycling routes in Norway. Hop on the train from Bergen or Oslo with your bike, or rent one in town, and set off on the dirt path between the towns of Haugastøl and Flåm. Combining history with in-your-face nature, the 51-mile (82-km) route can be completed in one day, or you can take it slow and extend the journey over several days, staying in towns along the way.

Cyclists following the Vasco-Navarro Railway route will pass through small villages between Vitoria-Gasteiz and Estella-Lizarra in Basque Country.

Photo by Basotxerri/Shutterstock

Vasco-Navarro Railway

• Where: Basque Country, Spain
• Great for: Nature, historic landmarks, small villages

Formerly a train route, the converted 51-mile (82-km) Vasco-Navarro Railway (also known as the Vasco-Navarro Greenway) is now one of the longest bike routes in Spain. The flat path guides cyclists from the Basque capital of Vitoria-Gasteiz to the historic city of Estella, passing through mountains, rivers and gorges, and attractive towns and villages. In Estella (or Lizarra in Basque), the path connects with the Camino de Santiago , a UNESCO-recognized network of historic pilgrimage routes that can also be explored on bicycle.

This article originally appeared online in November 2017; it was updated on March 29, 2019, to include current information.

>>Next: 5 New Bike Routes Through America’s Offbeat Locales

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The 10 Best Bike Routes in Europe

At Backroads, we’ve been biking around Europe for over three decades. Here are what we think are the best cycling destinations on the continent.

1. Provence

Location: France

Great for: Wine-lovers, Climbing Enthusiasts

The southern French region of Provence is a perfect combination of landscape and rides for all levels. Ride through the enchanting foothills of Mont Ventoux, the Giant of Provence. Pedal among the striking hilltop villages of Gordes, Lacoste and Bonnieux. Climb through the dramatic scenery of Gorges de la Nesque canyon. If you’re up for the challenge, tackle world-famous Mont Ventoux, one of the most intrepid climbs in Tour de France. A 13 mile, 5,000 foot monster! Join us in Provence and test your cycling mettle up Mont Ventoux on our Provence France Bike Tour.

2. Danube Bike Path

Location: Germany and Austria

Great for: The Traffic Averse, Climbing Enthusiasts, Beer-Lovers

Following the Danube River, the Danube Bike Path meanders 1,800 miles from Germany to the Black Sea. Cycle from Prague to Passau, Vienna to Bratislava and on to Budapest. Ride past lush Bavarian Forest and enchanting Austrian countryside. Join us in Europe on our Danube River Cruise Bike Tour.

Location: Italy

Great for: Foodies, Wine-lovers, Climbing-Enthusiasts

Cycle through olive orchards and vineyards in the heart of Chianti and you’ll see why this is one of Europe's most beautiful bike rides. Enjoy the view on the scenic cypress-lined roads. Admire the Tuscan countryside, home to the world-famous Chianti Classico wine region. Join us in Chianti on our Tuscany's Chianti Bike Tour.

4. Mallorca

Location: Mallorca, Spain

Great for: Sun-Lovers and Climbing-Enthusiasts

Mallorca has an irresistible allure. The dramatic mountaintops against the bright blue Mediterranean Sea. The ancient stone villages cling to the limestone gorges of the Serra de Tramuntana. If you dare, brave the road to Sa Calobra, a thrilling roller coaster of 26 hairpin turns plummeting 3,000 feet to the sea. Join us in Mallorca on our Mallorca Bike Tour.

5. Provence to the French Riviera

Great for: Wine-lovers, Fans of Luxurious Hotels

There is no wonder why Provence and the French Riviera are two of the most iconic regions in France. Centuries-old mansions surround the leafy cobblestone streets of historic Aix-en-Provence. Olive trees and colorful French towns line the route to the Côte d'Azur. The glamour and seduction of the French Riviera await in St-Tropez and Cannes. Join us to cycle from Aix-en-Provence to St-Tropez & Cannes on our Provence to French Riviera Bike Tour.

6. The Dolomites

Location: Italy & Austria

Great for: Mountain-lovers, History Buffs

Travel from Italy to Austria by bike via lush valleys and limestone massifs. Immerse yourself in one of the most picturesque corners of Europe. Explore a network of quiet cycling paths while passing castles, vineyards and orchards. Enjoy a world-class adventure biking through the Dolomites! Join us in Europe's mighty Alps on our Dolomites Bike Tour.

7. Spanish Pyrenees to Costa Brava

Location: Spain

Great for: Sun-lovers, Climbing Enthusiasts

Catalonia is distinct, from the rugged Spanish Pyrenees to Costa Brava’s white-sand beaches. Ride through historic alpine villages and seaside towns. Climb and descend through medieval towns, past sunflower fields and across one of the highest roads in the Pyrenees . Enjoy the Gothic architecture, captivating villages and cobblestone streets.

8. The Dalmatian Coast

Location: Croatia

Great for: Sun-lovers, History Buffs

Marvel at the sensational Adriatic vistas as you ride. Sail between islands. Gaze at pristine beaches and whitewashed villages as you cycle along the coast of Croatia. The Dalmatian Coast enjoys over 200 days of yearly sunshine. It’s a destination reborn, yet it still feels like, as the Croatians say, “The Mediterranean as it once was.” Join us in the coast of Croatia on our Dalmatian Coast Bike Tour.

9. Slovenia’s Julian Alps

Location: Croatia & Slovenia 

Great for: Mountain-lovers, off-the-beaten-path travelers

Ride in the Julian Alps and you’ll discover why this route is a hidden treasure among the most beautiful bike routes in Europe. Discover Slovenia's postcard perfect Radovna Valley and the renowned mountaineering towns of Mojstrana and Kranjska Gora. Explore Ljubljana, named the Green Capital of Europe by the European Commission. Join us in Slovenia and Croatia on our Slovenia & Croatia Bike Tour.

10. Berlin to Prague

Location: Germany & Czech Republic

Great for: History buffs, the Traffic-Averse, Beer-Lovers

Cross from Germany into the Czech Republic and cycle through quaint half-timbered villages and amid forested hills. Travel from opulent Prussian palaces to picturesque vineyards along the Elbe River. See the historical remnants of the infamous barrier that once separated West Berlin and East Germany. Pedal rolling wooded hills and through the verdant countryside of Prague. Join us to cycle between two significant historical cities on our Berlin to Prague Bike Tour .

Runner Up:  Tyrolean Alps

Location: Germany & Austria

Great for: Climbing Enthusiasts, Beer-Lovers

Experience unforgettable biking through the majestic Alps and quaint Bavarian villages. Ride peaceful bike paths past wildflower pastures and crystal-blue lakes. Quaint storybook villages and charming biergartens await. Join us in the Tyrolean Alps on our Germany to Austria Bike Tour.

These rides are world-renowned, yet there are many other lesser-known and equally beautiful bike routes in Europe. Join us on a cycling route you know and love or find a hidden gem on our list of all Europe Bike Tours!

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EuroVelo 6 Guide: Explore Europe’s Rivers by Bicycle

I’ve just completed a 3-month bicycle tour across Europe. I started in London and used EuroVelo 6 for the majority of the way to make my way to Istanbul. I loved my time on the route and want to encourage every cyclist to experience it – it truly is wonderful. Hopefully, this EuroVelo 6 guide will provide a good overview of what to expect.

EuroVelo 6 is one of the most popular cycle routes in Europe. It’s little wonder why – the route boasts medieval castles, colourful villages, famous rivers and capital cities, as well as a flat topography and excellent infrastructure. The route will take you to Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest; it’ll wind you through national parks; and you’ll witness the wonderful scenery along the Loire, Rhine and Danube rivers.

Starting at the Atlantic Coast and ending at The Black Sea, EuroVelo 6 will take you 4,448km across the entire European continent.

EuroVelo 6 at a glance

Length: 4,448km / 2,764 miles

Start and end points: Nantes, France – Constanta, Romania

Countries:  France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania.

GPX File: I imagine some of you are just here for a GPX file. If so, you can get it here.

Why Europe by bike?

It seems that bicycle touring is undergoing a boom at the moment. There are many possible reasons for this, but above all, travelling by bike allows for a kind of freedom and independence that’s hard to find in other types of travel. Many first-time bike tourers, like myself, select Europe as their first adventure. It’s a great continent to cycle across: bike paths are decent, amenities are great and distances between cities and towns are much smaller than in other parts of the world. Oh, and let’s not forget that Europe is incredibly diverse with beautiful scenery and fascinating cultures.

Why choose EuroVelo 6?

Sights and scenery:  The route will take you through some of Europe’s greatest cities and historical sites, as well as treat you to a variety of beautiful riverside views and picturesque towns.

Flat topography:  Most of EuroVelo 6 is very flat, making it ideal for beginners or those looking for a leisurely cycling holiday. The route through Serbia is a little more mountainous than the rest of the route, and Germany also has some hilly sections, but for the most part, you’ll find the cycling easy.

Easy to navigate:  EuroVelo 6 is very easy to navigate, given that you’ll be able to use both signposts and rivers as your guides. Signposting is excellent in Western Europe, in particular. It’s good enough that you probably won’t need to refer to a map, but I recommend downloading the EuroVelo 6 app to use as a GPS just in case.

Excellent infrastructure:  Europe is, for the most part, very well set up for cyclists. Bike paths are well-maintained (usually), accommodation is easy to find and bike shops are plentiful. Motorists are also used to seeing cyclists on the route, so will give you space and respect.

Infrastructure and amenities

France is extremely well set up for cyclists. It has plenty of bike shops, bike-friendly accommodation and excellent roads for cycling. A quick glance at a map will show you just how many small roads (D roads) there are, which usually have little traffic on them. The roads in France are very bike-friendly, and motorists will give you space and respect. A lot of France’s EuroVelo 6 actually follows canal towpaths, where there is zero motorised traffic.

You should be aware that many shops in France, including supermarkets and restaurants, close at midday for 2-3 hours. My father needed a bike repair shop after completely bursting a tyre, and we had to wait 2 hours for one to open. It also means you’ll likely need to purchase lunch and enough water in the morning.

Germany, Austria and Switzerland  are also extremely well set up for cyclists. Switzerland is particularly pricey, though; they use Swiss Franc rather than Euro. Because you’ll be following the Rhine River on the border of Switzerland and Germany, I recommend heading into Germany for better value accommodation and groceries. There is no border control, so it’s a matter of just crossing the river via a bridge.

You’ll notice changes in the cycling conditions quite quickly once you leave Austria behind and head into Eastern Europe. The roads aren’t always as well maintained, so potholes and other problems are common. The signposting is also not as great, so be sure your GPS and maps are up to date.

Accommodation options and frequency of supermarkets also declines as you head East, but they’re still abundant enough that you won’t run into serious problems. You’ll just need to plan ahead a little more; use Google Maps to find campsites in advance, for example, as distances between them can be large.

Hungary  has some uninspiring sections along its route, where you’ll find yourself pedalling along monotonous farmland for kilometres on end. The surface of its bike paths were also some of the worst I found in Europe – dirt roads with a sand-like substance, where your bike would skid if you weren’t careful, were common. Despite this, Hungary does have some very beautiful stretches which make it worthwhile.

I found Croatia’s roads to be excellent for cycling. Most of my time in Croatia consisted of riding along flat, smooth roads with relatively little traffic. The roads usually had beautiful scenery, too. There were a couple of stretches where the road surface wasn’t so pristine, namely near the Duna-Drava Nemzeti Park on the border of Hungary, but it was still perfectly rideable.

Serbia  was a surprise to me. The roads in Eastern Serbia, in particular, were mostly smooth and well-maintained. In Western Serbia, dirt paths were common, but these were scenic and still rideable. The roads coming out of Backa Palanka, Novi Sad and Belgrade were busy and a little hairy to cycle on.

Signposting was good throughout the country – Serbia’s EV6 signs were actually quite fun, with funny notes or anecdotes. Cycling isn’t overly popular in Serbia, so the country isn’t particularly well set up for bike tourists – for example, bike shops aren’t common. Nonetheless, there are plenty of small shops and restaurants to find food and drink throughout the day.

Be advised that from Golubac and through Serbia’s Djderdap National Park, you’ll encounter tunnels carved through the mountain pass. These tunnels are dark and some are quite long, so be sure you’re prepared with a headlamp and good tail lights.

I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect from the road conditions in Bulgaria , having heard that traffic on Bulgarian roads can be crazy. I only followed EuroVelo 6 in Bulgaria for a couple of days, but it graced me with little traffic, beautiful scenery and fairly well-maintained roads.

I didn’t personally follow EuroVelo 6 in Romania,  but a fellow cyclist did. She had this to say: “From Bazias to Drobeta Turnu-Severin there is a spectacular natural landscape with the Danube flowing through the Banat Mountains. From Drobeta Turnu-Severin onwards, the Danube flows along a large plain where the cycling will be relaxed and peaceful.

Accommodation is quite sparse so you will need to really plan ahead. Not all guesthouses can be found online, so booking.com will not always be overly helpful. Almost every village or town will have a small shop for groceries, but the choice will be limited. The route in Romania is mostly along through roads, but they generally have light traffic so aren’t as dangerous as I originally expected. Romanian roads have a variety of traffic, including horse-drawn carts, so I think the average driver is used to all sorts.”

Accommodation along EuroVelo 6

There is a huge variety of accommodation choices along EuroVelo 6, suitable for all budgets and styles. I personally camped most nights, but there are also lots of hotels, guesthouses and pensions along the route for those who prefer a little more luxury. I found it useful to pin accommodation options along the route on Google Maps, so I always knew how far I was from somewhere to sleep.

Unless you are planning a short trip, it’s not practical to plan accommodation in advance. Weather, equipment, your body and other factors can all influence the distance you cover each day. I also found that I’d often find a nice town or attraction and want to spend some time there. It’s best to remain as flexible as possible.

Campsites in Western Europe are abundant, with campsites in almost every town, so you shouldn’t struggle to find one at the end of the day. Two-star campsites will likely be the best for you, as they have washrooms and showers, but without the frills, making them great value for money.

Camping options aren’t as abundant as you head further East, but I still always found a campground to spend the night in Hungary, Croatia and Serbia. Serbia’s camping options were unbelievable value for money, often coming with kitchenettes, complimentary food and drinks from the hosts, and other great facilities. 

Bulgaria  posed some challenges – I ended up having to stay in hotels due to the lack of campgrounds, and this problem persists in  Romania.

These are some of my favourite campsites I stayed at along the EuroVelo 6:

• Regensburg Canoe Club in Regensburg, Germany
• Camping Passau in Passau, Germany
• Wachau-Camping Rossatz in Dürnstein, Austria
• CityCamping in Györ, Hungary
• Camping Suza Baranje in Suza, Croatia
• Camping Asin in Dobra, Serbia
• Base Camp for Adventurers in Negotin, Serbia

Wild camping

Wild camping is a great way to save money and enjoy nature – I met many bike tourists along EuroVelo 6 who wild camped often. Wild camping shouldn’t be a problem on the Eastern part of the route (Hungary onwards). Most farmers and villagers will happily let you camp on their land if you ask, and it’s also easy enough to find a quiet, secluded spot by the river.

However, wild camping is prohibited in Western Europe. Many cyclists do it anyway and don’t get caught. Despite the fact that it’s technically prohibited, most countries do have a relatively relaxed attitude to wild campers, and may or may not ask you to move on if you’re caught. Just make sure to be discrete: find a secluded spot, wait until dusk to set up camp and be gone by early morning.

You’ll find hotels, guesthouses and pensions along all of EuroVelo 6. Many are aware that they’re on a popular bike route and so have good amenities for cyclists, such as bicycle parking. Hotels in Germany and Austria would often have signs outside to let cyclists know their bikes are welcome: “Radfahrer Wilkommen.” Booking.com has the biggest selection of hotels if you prefer to book a day in advance – which I recommend you do if you’re cycling in the summer months.

Warm Showers

If you’re not familiar, Warm Showers is a free worldwide hospitality exchange for touring cyclists. It’s a fantastic community – cyclists offer to host other cyclists for a night. You’ll be given a place to sleep and a shower, but it’s likely you’ll also be given food and a beer! Warm Showers hosts are most abundant in Western Europe – particularly France – but there are a few in Eastern Europe, too.

As already mentioned, EuroVelo 6 is very well signposted in Western Europe . Signs are displayed at every junction and are often also placed every few kilometres to confirm that you are still on the right path. I also found that if I did look lost, locals would sometimes notice my loaded bike, say “EuroVelo?” and point me in the right direction.

As you reach Eastern Europe, you’ll find that the signposting is not always so good. Particularly in Hungary and Bulgaria , the signs were sometimes ambiguous or non-existent.

I highly recommend downloading the official EuroVelo 6 app onto your phone so that you’re always able to find the trail easily. You can also pick up detailed paper maps from local tourism offices along many parts of the route.

You can also download a GPX track for free here. I loaded this map onto the app Locus Map Pro , which I found to be good for navigation. Other cyclists I met swore by the app Komoot .

If you do manage to get lost, you can simply find the river – EuroVelo 6 is called “The Rivers Route” for a reason. If you follow the river, it’s likely that you’ll eventually find your way back onto the bike path.

I personally found that finding my way out of cities and large towns posed the biggest navigational challenges. I distinctly remember finding the correct route out of Basel took about 2 hours, and many cyclists I met said they had real problems getting out of Vienna.

The EuroVelo signs look a little different in each country, so make sure you know what you’re looking for. Upon arrival in Switzerland, I kept losing the EuroVelo signs, but it turns out they just look a little different from what I was used to seeing in France. The EuroVelo logo isn’t on all the signs, like they were in France, so you just have to follow the bike path symbols.

Climate and best time to go

The peak tourist season for most of Europe is July and August, as this is when children are on their summer break from school. As such, prices tend to go up and bike paths tend to get busier. However, July and August do bring warm weather and you’re less likely to experience rain.

I cycled across Europe from late May to late August, and found that the weather was usually pleasant. The bike paths were not busy, except for along the canals in France and also the section between Passau and Vienna .

Campsites did usually have a fair few bike tourists, though, which I loved – I met some interesting people who enriched my experience. I read online that accommodation options get booked up in the summer and turn cyclists away, but this never happened to me. However, I was in Eastern Europe by the time the school summer holidays started, so the more touristic West may have posed these problems.

To sum, the route is most comfortably rideable from May to September. Cycling in winter, with cold weather and short days, is not ideal.

Budget for bicycle touring across Europe

Your daily touring costs will vary massively depending on your touring style:

€5-10 per day: If you choose to wild camp, cook your own meals and skip paid attractions, you could potentially tour on a mere €5-10 per day.

€15 per day: This budget would get you a basic campground and groceries every day, but not much else.

€30 per day: This budget will get you a campground and groceries every day, and will also allow for some sightseeing and the occasional meal out.

€100 per day: You could easily burn through over €100 a day if you choose to eat out, stay in hotels every night and do a lot of sightseeing.

Most tourers’ daily budget falls somewhere in the €15-30 range.

Personally, I spent roughly €30 per day cycling the EuroVelo 6. This accumulated to just short of €3000 during my 3 months on the route. I stayed at campsites, cooked my own meals, did some sightseeing, and treated myself to the occasional meal out. I also ensured I had enough money kept aside to cover bike repairs if needed.

It’s worth noting that I spent more during the first half of my trip because Western Europe is more expensive than Eastern Europe. In Eastern Europe, you can expect to pay €5-10 less per day than in Western Europe.

If you’re unlucky, you may also run into large one-off costs. For example, you may need to pay for bike repairs or have to replace lost or broken equipment. A cyclist I met had to buy a new tent after a child fell onto it at a campsite and ripped a hole into it…

I would bring more money than you think you need, to ensure you’re covered if things go a little pear-shaped!

What to pack for cycling across Europe

• Panniers – I used these BTWIN panniers
• Bike repair kit (allen keys, inner tubes, oil etc)
• 2x cycling shorts
• 4x cycling tops
• 5x underwear
• 1-2 non-cycling outfits
• 1 jumper/fleece
• Trainers/cycling shoes
• Comfy shoes for evenings
• Soap and shampoo
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hairbrush and hair ties
• Quick-drying, light-weight towel

Camping equipment (unless opting to stay in hotels/guesthouses)

• A sleeping bag
• A sleeping mat – I loved this Forclaz mat as it was lightweight and easy to inflate, deflate and transport.
• Gas cylinder
• Portable stove – I love my MSR PocketRocket
• Matches/lighter

Other/miscellaneous

• Wallet and money
• Plug adapters
• Battery pack(s)
• Mini first aid kit

Which bike should I bring?

I’ll start off by saying that you don’t need a hardcore/performance bike . A reasonably sturdy bike that has the ability to carry your load, is comfortable, and has decent tyres will be fine. You really don’t need to spend lots of money if you don’t want to – EuroVelo 6 isn’t going to test your bike too much. I’d recommend a hybrid or touring bike, or even a road bike fitted with rack mounts and larger tyres would work.

My bike was a fortunate find from a charity shop and was already equipped with everything I needed. It had fitments so I could attach front and rear racks and had recently been fitted with new wheels. I also liked that it was a bit bashed up so it was less likely to be a target for theft! It’s a hybrid from Trek.

Here are some great options for bikes. All of them are ready for touring , with technology to maximise comfort and reduce vibrations over long distances, plus they all come with rack mounts and the ability to carry a load:

• Trek 520 Disc – a renowned touring classic, though expensive
• Fuji Touring – versatile and ideal for long-distance touring
• Cube Touring – also versatile and ideal for long-distance touring
• Giant ToughRoad SLR 2 – great value for price hybrid option
• Cannondale Quick CX 4 – sturdy yet agile hybrid option
• Cannondale Quick Disc 3 – a great hybrid option for women

Travel insurance for cycling across Europe

I actually found it harder than I expected to find a decent policy that covered long-distance bicycle touring. In the end, I settled for my trusty World Nomads , whom I use for all backpacking and long-term trips.

You can read World Nomads’ policy on cycling-related travel here , but here are the basics:

• Cycle touring is covered but the tour must be on one continent only – no cover is available for intercontinental cycle touring. This is fine if you are doing EuroVelo 6 / staying in Europe only!
• You’ll need to tick ‘cycling – independent cycle touring’ when buying your policy.

I have a whole post on choosing cycle touring insurance , including 6 good providers to pick from.

I hope you found this EuroVelo 6 guide useful. As this was my first big bike tour, I researched lots online and couldn’t find the answer to everything I wanted, so hopefully, I’ve managed to cover everything you might want to know.

If you have additional questions, please drop them in the comments below and I will do my best to answer them 🙂

Further suggested EuroVelo 6 reading:

• Bicycle Touring Guide For Beginners
• London To Istanbul By Bike
• Passau to Vienna By Bike
• Vienna to Budapest By Bike
• Cycling Serbia Guide
• How To Take Your Bike On a Plane

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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43 comments.

I’m in London, would love to buy you a real coffee and natter about your EV6, which I’m doing in May 24.

Hi Lauren, quick question: which section of EV6 would you recommend to someone who only has two weeks to spend? Thanks!

Hey William, I would say Passau to Budapest 🙂

Hi Lauren pears , thanks for your valuable reply it will be definitely help us on our ride These days I am in london , I wish I could have ride with you & listen your experience from you Can we join you for ride someday we live on hermitage lane near Heath Thank Vishav Dhiman

I enjoyed 3 weeks dry from Bratislava to Vidin October 2022. Next time I might stay on the Romanian side in the gorges as the south side, Serbia, didn’t get so much sun. The tunnels were ikky because of the weird acoustic making it difficult to judge if the noise of the car that’s just overtaken is masking another car: I juddered and stopped a few times as it was disorientating.

Hi Nik, glad you had a nice time :). You’re right, those tunnels are a little spooky!

Dear Lauren: Thanks for the clear, summary of your trip. Very nice. I am wondering about the Loire Valley for cycling. Can a cyclist ride most of the Chateau area on car free bike paths? Bicycles are the “cars” of the future! Regards, Craig

Hi Craig, thanks for reading! The Loire section of the route is made up of cycle paths and quiet roads. You’ll need to cycle on some roads with cars, but they are not major roads. Drivers here are also very used to sharing roads with cyclists. Hope this helps.

Hi Lauren, very impressive journey! How long did you tend to cycle in one go – did you take regular breaks? I’m not used to riding more than an hour or so at a time. Thanks, Kyle

Thanks Kyle! I probably cycle up to about 3 hours at a time before taking a break, excluding short water stops. No need to do the same though, it’s best enjoyed in a way that works for you 🙂

Hi Lauren! Just want to say thanks for this. I’m a solo gal planning my first ever bike trip in Europe, and your article’s really helping to soothe the anxiety.

Did you ever have any bike problems? What were your fav countries to cycle through?

Hi Asia, thanks for reading, I’m glad my article has helped! When are you planning to cycle in Europe?

I didn’t have any bike problems at all, except for one flat tyre. I think I was lucky! There are lots of bike shops on the western part of EV6 that you can go to if you have issues. The infrastructure for cyclists is not as good as you head east though, so bike shops are not so common after Hungary unfortunately.

My favourite countries were Germany, Austria and Serbia 😊

Hi Lauren My wife and I love your articles!!! We are in the midst of planning our bike trip from Germany to Serbia, via the Danube, and you have provided us with a TON of good information! I have a few questions but I’ll start with this one! 1) How did you return back to the UK at the end of your journey? Bus, train, plane or a combination of all three? We think we have enough time to cycle from Donaueschingen, Germany to Negotin, Serbia, at which point we’d have to get back to Munich for our return flight back home to Canada. Any thoughts?

Thank you Pete, I’m pleased my blog has been helpful to you and your wife 😊 When are you planning to cycle the route?

To answer your question, I flew my bike back to London from Istanbul. I think it would be just about possible to get from Serbia to Germany via a series of trains and buses, but it would be a lengthy and challenging journey. Many train services in Europe (particularly the east) can be difficult about putting bikes on their trains. Will you fly from Belgrade to Munich, and then onto Canada?

Excellent information. Thank you!

Hi Lauren! Solo female traveler here, hoping to wild camp for the majority of it. Did you ever feel unsafe camping at night? Also, unrelated, how many miles a day were you averaging? Thanks in advance!!

Hello, it’s nice to hear from another solo female traveller! I never felt unsafe camping at night, aside from a slightly dodgy seeming campsite in Linz, Austria. I think wild camping would be pretty safe, but you would need to be discreet in Western Europe as it’s prohibited. I met a fair few cyclists on the route who were wild camping each night, and they didn’t seem to be having any issues with it. I would say I averaged about 45 miles per day on average.

Hola, somos ciclistas colombianos y estamos interesados en hacer la ruta eurovelo 6, su recuento esta muy interesante y bastante completo, sería posible conseguir las etapas una por una, mil gracias Francisco

Thank you Francisco, I’m glad my article was useful! I don’t have a map of each stage unfortunately, although you can load this map of the whole route onto a navigation app: https://www.bikemap.net/en/o/2938/#6.55/44.088/23.339 Enjoy the ride!

Hey Lauren,

What a great post, thank you so much for taking the time to write it. It sounds like you had a lovely trip and well done on your accomplishment. I was wondering, what percentage of the EuroVelo 6 was paved as opposed to gravel or dirt paths? You mentioned in Western Serbia dirt paths were common. I just would like to know as I am planning to inline skate the EuroVelo 6 rather than cycle it. I would be SO grateful for any information. Thanks

Thanks for the kind words Daniel. Inline skating the route sounds like quite the feat! I can’t really remember the percentage of paved roads unfortunately, but there were a lot of packed gravel and dirt paths. Hungary and Serbia in particular had a lot of dirt paths and there were some sections in Germany which took me on forest tracks. If I had to give a wild guess, I’d say about 60-70% was paved. Good luck with your skating, it sounds amazing!

Thank you so much, that information was really really helpful just in terms of trip planning, I leave in 2 weeks! I’m so excited and my sister is joining (cycling) with me the first four weeks. Also, do you have a guess how much percentage was on roads with cars and how much was on paths separate to cars? Thanks again 😊

Oh wow, you must be excited with just 2 weeks to go! I’m struggling to remember, but I’d guess somewhere between 30/70 and 40/60, with the lower figure being on roads with cars. I wouldn’t take this as gospel though, as I may be remembering more of the good and bad bits. There were definitely more roads with cars in Eastern Europe, whereas it was bike paths galore in the West. There were only a few roads where I felt that the traffic was uncomfortable for a cyclist (notably in a couple of places in Hungary and coming out of Novi Sad in Serbia). The route out of Novi Sad was perhaps the worst part of the entire route in terms of traffic, and I might even recommend jumping on a bus here if possible – I for sure would have if they’d have accepted my bike on board. The vast majority of the on-road bits are comfortable in terms of traffic though, at least for a cyclist. Hope you have an amazing time! 😊

Thank you for the blog, Lauren!

I’m thinking about setting off in 2022 to do a cross Europe trip (specifically the Eurovelo 6). What are your thoughts on leaving in September to do the full length ie. September-November?

Thanks! Connor

Hi Connor, I have just noticed I never replied to this comment. Sorry about that! I imagine September through November would be okay in terms of weather (may be a bit chilly at times) if you are cycling the route from West to East. However, bear in mind that there will be less daylight hours in October/November so the distance you can cover each day will be less than during the summer. Enjoy!

Love the guide, but I think it’s missing the main part and hope that you will give some advice on this as well. So…What about the budget? What would you say is the minimum safe budget for this trip?

I’m planning for summer 2022 and would like to know this as well… I wouldn’t want to run out of money on the road

Hi Dixon! Budget varies from tourer to tourer. Will you be wild camping, camping at campgrounds, staying in hotels, couch surfing? I personally spent about €30 per day on average, which included campsite fees, groceries, sightseeing and the occasional meal out.

I think €15 per day would be the bottom end of the scale, and would get you a basic campground and groceries, but not much else. If you’re going to be sightseeing and enjoying some cafes etc, expect to pay double that. You’ll also want to ensure you have enough money to cover bike repairs or gear replacement in case it’s needed.

I set aside €1000 per month of cycling and this saw me through just fine.

Happy cycling!

Hey there. I’m wondering about your perspective on undergoing this journey amidst COVID and the many different approaches/reactions to it depending on which country you’re in. Curious about your thoughts. I am in school but my soul longs for this kind of adventure. I’m so glad you had such a fruitful journey.

Hi Michael! Unfortunately, I’m not knowledgeable enough on COVID/border circumstances to answer this. But I would personally wait until we are free to travel again (or at least until it’s easier and less volatile) before touring across multiple countries. I’m sadly going to be sticking to the UK this year 🙁 Hopefully you’ll be able to do something like this soon.

Hey! I’m planning on doing this trip, and as a first time bike traveler I was wondering, and have some rookie questions… how did you do with the bike? I mean, did you bring with you on the plane to Europe, or you bought it there at the beginning? and let’s say I want to deviate from the path and visit a country/city next to it, do you know if its easy to take the bike with you on the train? and the last one, is there any border control in between countries on the bike path, or we need to step aside from it to pass thru and then come back on track? Thanks in advance, amazing material and very helpful by the way.

Hey Marcello, I was a first time bike traveller when I did this trip too, so rookie questions are welcome here 😊

I am from London so I cycled from my house to the English coast at Dover and then took my bike on the ferry to France. I did fly my bike home from Europe though at the end, and used Pegasus as they let me put my bike on the plane at a very competitive cost.

The train links across Western Europe are pretty good and it’s possible to bring your bike on many of the trains. I think in France, Germany, Austria etc you’ll be able to visit neighbouring countries with your bike without too much trouble. In places like Serbia or Hungary, this may not be so easy.

There were no border controls on my route in Western Europe; I cycled the whole route without needing my passport (aside from the ferry to France) until I reached Croatia, where I did go through a passport control. I cycled up to Turkey and needed to go through border control at Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey. You’ll just need to join the queue of cars and hand over your passport. I’m not sure where you’re from, but as a UK citizen, they didn’t ask questions and simply stamped me. I was cycling with two people from Thailand, though, and I believe they did have to answer some questions as non-EU citizens, but it was never an issue.

I hope this answers your questions, and I hope you have an amazing time on the route!

Hi Lauren My wife & I are planning to ride the EV6 commencing late May 2020. We’re in our 70’s but very fit – have ridden Saigon/Bangkok, extensively in Croatia and South Island NZ, both involve significant climbs! In OZ we ride both road bikes & full suspension MTB. My question is bike choice ? We’re credit card cycle/tourist meaning we carry no camping or cooking equipment. Would you suggest a hybrid with front suspension that can be locked out – I notice your ride had fixed front forks. Also any suggestion regarding wheel & tyre choice. Fortunately my wife & I ride the same size bike. Finally any advice re hotel/Airbnb? Take care and stay safe Peter.

Sorry for the delay in getting back to you! I’ve just updated this post to include some bike recommendations so hopefully that will help you. There are a lot of hotel / bnb choices along the Western part of the route, but you should book ahead for the Eastern part as there isn’t as much choice. Hope that helps and enjoy your ride!

Hi Lauren….thank you for your reflections on Eurovelo 6. Glad to hear that many cyclists are traveling this route as finding it hard to get a companion from Austria to the Black Sea and there’ll probably be other cyclists to meet along the route. May be my last big trip of many as the years have added up. Happy trails and roads.

Hey Lauren!

Thank you for your swift response and such a considered answer. It was very help and much appreciated. May I ask one final question please? How and where did you charge your electrical devices? Did you use a solar charger power pack?

Thank you again and take care.

Hey Casey! I bought 2 power packs and alternated charging them every night so one could always charge my phone in my tent. Every campsite except one or two had electrical outlets 😊

Thank you for posting such a beautifully written article. I plan on doing the very same trip this spring.

With this in mind, may I ask were you happy to simply d-lock your bike and leave it outside your tent overnight? Likewise, making use of the campsite facilities were comfortable with leaving your bags unattended inside your tent? And lastly, when supermarket shopping did remove your panniers and haul them around with you?

Apologies for so many questions.

Take care, Casey x

Hey Casey, thanks for your kind words! I’m glad to hear you’re looking to do this very trip – you’ll have such a good time.

As for bike security, I did always simply lock my bike with a chain, leave my panniers unattended in my tent and left them on my locked up bike when I went to the supermarket.

Particularly when I left my bike outside shops, I always felt worried that someone would take my panniers, or open them to take my laptop from inside! But luckily, I had nothing stolen during my trip.

Unfortunately, I don’t know how to get around the worries of having things stolen. I think you just have to trust that people are inherently good.

Through Serbia, Bulgaria and Turkey, I was cycling with two others and so one of us could wait outside shops with the 3 bikes and we would chain our bikes together at night, as well as to a secure fence or tree to minimise risks. Perhaps you’ll meet people along the way too?

Happy cycling, Lauren

Dear Lauren, it’s very interesting to read about your trip all over Europe. 30 years ago, I joined a bike tour of young peolpe, who were fighting for a better nature… the tour went from Norway to Hungary. I joined for the second half of it. 30 years ago we already biked along the river Danube fom Passau till Budapest, and I remember leaving Vienna was very difficult. This summer was such a great experience that I still enjoy going on Bike Tours. So since four years my family and I are following the Eurovelo 6 to the Atlantic sea. We started at our hometown close to Basel. At since time my daughter was 5 years old! The first week we biked until Besancon. The second year we started in Besancon and biked for another week. The year after we made a break as we went biking in Germany. Last summer we continued und now in 2020 we will finally reach the Atlantic sea!! We always stay on Campsites. Otherwise we couldn’t afford the tour, but we don’t care. All the best to you. Greetings, Kathrin

My wife, 16 year old son and I are thinking to ride a section of the Eurovelo 6 in France this summer. Last year we did the Danube section from Passau to Vienna. We are moderate riders and were doing around 45 – 60 k per day. We would like your suggestions on the best routes in France for such a trip of say 6 – 8 days. We probably would stay in lodgings. Afterward, we will drop off our son in the Czech Republic in Budweis where he is going to school. Then head back to Chisinau, Moldova. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

Hi Michael! I rode EuroVelo 6 in France from Besancon to the Swiss border so I don’t have much to go on other than that. However, many cyclists I met said the Loire Valley section of the EuroVelo 6 was their favourite so I would advise looking into that 😊

Hi there, wonder if you might give me some advice on the route along the Danube in Serbia from Golubac. You mention there are number of long tunnels. Are these legal to cycle through? I am planning a race and there are strict rules regarding the use of tunnels to avoid penalties. PS Love your spirit of adventure!

Hi Richard! I’m pretty sure they are legal to cycle through as they are on a major bike route and there are signs to say beware of cyclists.

The Danube in Serbia sounds like a beautiful location for a race! Good luck 😊

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Tour It Yourself: Cycling In Europe

Europe is the birthplace of the Tour de France, the rear derailer, the Dutch utility bike, and the trans-continental bike route. Nevertheless, it can be intimidating to plan your own bike tour there. How do you choose a route? Where do you stay? How much planning do you really need to do?

Despite these challenges, planning your own bike tour can reduce costs, allow flexibility for route changes, get you off the beaten path, and make you proud to be self-reliant. And although there isn’t a SAG wagon, you aren’t on a completely unsupported tour: Europe has a well-developed rail network, lots of campgrounds and bike shops, accurate maps, and delicious food in every town. And it is an excellent place to start touring on your own.

In the summer of 2012, starting with only a rough outline of our route, my wife and I went on a two-month honeymoon, riding our bikes through Ireland, France, Italy, Switzerland, and Germany. Here are a few of the things that we learned along the way about trip planning, touring, and maintaining matrimonial bliss.

Where To Go?

A map of Europe can be daunting. There are a lot of roads, and there’s a lot to see. If you don’t know where to start, I have two words for you: river valleys. Rhone, Rhine, Loire, Dordogne, Elbe, Danube: they’re all flat, have bike routes running along their rivers, contain historic cities, and continue for long distances. Another planning tool is to use national or trans-national bike routes. The Eurovelo system currently contains 14 routes that criss-cross the continent. The routes are at various stages of development so it would be best not to rely on them exclusively, and instead, use them as a tool to find classic and well-traveled routes.

When choosing where to go, consider when you’re going. For example, June was a wonderful time to visit northern France: the weather was almost perfect, other than the rain (an accurate postcard said “In Brittany, the weather is beautiful — several times a day”). Attractions like Mount Saint Michel were all but deserted. That changes mid-July through August as most of Europe goes on vacation. Although the Dordogne Valley is beautiful, scenic, and quaint, we did not particularly enjoy being there in July because there were just too many tourists packing the streets and markets of Sarlat and other nearby towns. And July was just too hot for bicycling in Italy.

If you are obliged to travel during July and August, you may want to pick somewhere that is less well-known (and cooler). An example is the southern Rhine in Germany. Although not as well-known as the “Romantic Rhine” further north, it had few tourists in August, miles of bike path through gorgeous forests, and lesser-known but very livable cities such as Karlsruhe that are great for café-sitting and people-watching.

Planes, Trains, Automobiles, and Boats

If you already have a bicycle, why pay to rent another one? Some airlines will allow bicycles to fly for free as long as they are under the maximum-allowed weight. To avoid paying any additional fees, we each packed our bike box to the British Airways limit of 51 pounds by stuffing a pannier, a garbage bag of clothes, and other soft items inside, and then we each used our other pannier as a carry-on.

Another advantage of flying with your bike is starting the tour at the airport. We reassembled our bikes in a quiet corner of the Dublin airport and then rode off to our first B&B. Like James Bond taking off his wetsuit to reveal a tuxedo underneath, it was a satisfying transition from plane passengers to bike tourists. At the end of our trip in Copenhagen, we paid a bike shop to pack up our bikes and deliver our boxed bikes to the airport terminal, which gave us more time to tour the city. We had mailed some of our bike packing materials — pipe insulation and dummy axles — ahead of us to a friend in Copenhagen, which turned out to be a good idea. They were lightweight and cheap to ship, and the Copenhagen bike store did not have them on hand.

When to Ride: Southern Tier

To add an island or two to your trip itinerary, taking a ferry is the ticket. Ferry networks link Ireland and the UK with France and Spain, and criss-cross the Mediterranean. Many tourists from the UK head to the Continent for the summer, so beware — ferries across the English Channel become fully booked months in advance. They can also be a significant expense. We paid about $200 each to get from Cork, Ireland, to Roscoff, France. Shorter ferries such as the one from Puttgarden, Germany, to Rødby, Denmark, are much cheaper and usually do not require advance reservations.

We relied on Europe’s railways to visit a wider range of places than we could have by bicycle alone. Purchasing tickets ahead of time can reduce the price, but having to be at a particular train station on a particular day may add unnecessary stress to your trip. In France, Italy, Germany, and Switzerland, we never had a problem showing up at a train station and buying a ticket for the same day. Also, buying tickets from an agent at the station ensured we were always on a train that allowed bicycles and that we had a ticket for our bikes if necessary.

Most trains have a car designated for bicycles. Each country’s system is slightly different but the pattern is always the same: spot the designated bike car as the train arrives, make a dash for it, and get the bikes on board and stowed, possibly removing the panniers in the process. Having a bit of rope or a piece of nylon webbing with a buckle to help stabilize the bikes, and locking them together, gave us peace of mind if we couldn’t sit near them.

To be your own guide means finding your own way, and this usually means having a good map. It also means learning about the scale numbers on map covers. We found the magic number to be 1:250,000. At the beginning of our trip in Ireland, we used a 1:350,000 map but found it to be not detailed enough. This made it unclear which roads were on the map — and marital discord ensued, kind of like on TV commercials. Fortunately for us, the Irish are very outgoing and treated an opened map like a flaming neon sign reading “Help us. We urgently need directions!” making it less of an issue than it might have been elsewhere.  

We started out our trip assuming we would make decisions and navigate jointly as we went along. After a couple of days, we realized this arrangement wasn’t ideal: there is only one map; it takes effort to keep the route in mind; and each fork in the road shouldn’t be a navigation discussion.

In France Michelin’s 1:250,000 regional maps have just enough detail that there is never a question about which turn to take. The coding of roads is also very consistent. White roads are always fully paved and have low traffic. Yellow roads have annoying but not overwhelming amounts of traffic. One chevron means a fairly challenging hill. Two chevrons means a brutal hill. Three chevrons means “Welcome to the Alps.” A green border on one side means “scenic,” which Michelin doles out only to the most worthy road segments. Route planning in France is a matter of maximizing Michelin’s white and green roads and minimizing the number of chevrons and yellow roads.

A Swiss bike tour can be flatter than one might expect because many routes run along valleys. The Swiss national bike-route system is so organized and efficient that we didn’t even need a map, and instead followed signs the entire way. At every juncture where we started to doubt and thought, “Gosh, I sure hope we are still on the route,” suddenly another sign would appear pointing the way. Swiss tour operator SwissTrails has excellent English-language fact sheets on its website describing many of the national bike routes. These also include elevation profiles and lodging options in each town.

Germany also has an extensive network of bike paths. It would be possible to tour much of Germany without ever sharing pavement with cars, however, there are so many bike paths that navigating them can be somewhat complex. A signpost at a major German bike-path crossing might have a dozen signs, with some sporting logos for various regional, national, and Eurovelo routes that share that segment of bike path, and others with names of towns in all directions. Maps from the German National Bike Club, the ADFC , available online and in most German bookstores, put the trails in perspective showing bike paths, bike shops, campgrounds, and restaurants.

Two other helpful pieces of navigation equipment are a compass and a digital camera. A compass on your handlebars can help confirm you are heading a particular direction without having to stop. A digital camera can capture maps that you encounter, such as the tourist maps posted in many European towns or maps online. A picture of the latter is often quicker and cheaper than a printout, allowing you to carry along copies of sections of Google Maps or other online mapping tools.

Trip Leadership

We started out our trip assuming we would make decisions and navigate jointly as we went along. After a couple of days, we realized this arrangement wasn’t ideal: there is only one map; it takes effort to keep the route in mind; and each fork in the road shouldn’t be a navigation discussion. In addition, there were some tasks neither of us enjoyed, like calling around for a place to stay or buying train tickets, and it was tiresome to decide who was going to do those tasks each time.

My wife is a whitewater rafting guide, and we borrowed the term “TL” (for “trip leader”) from the rafting world. We traded off for two days at a time in that role. The TL planned the route for the day, gave a briefing to the other person on expected distance and any hills en route, and planned where we would stay, making calls for a hotel reservation if necessary. This worked very well for us. Being TL provided each of us with a sense of control and the opportunity to learn about the geography of the region, while the days off allowed us to enjoy the scenery and be in “vacation mode.” For other couples or groups, it may make sense to allocate leadership differently, but in a trip without a paid tour guide, it can be helpful to discuss the process for navigation and decision making ahead of time.

Camping Out

Europeans love to camp. This is nowhere more evident than in France, where town governments seem to regard a municipal campground as an infrastructure item only slightly less important than a school or church. Germany, Switzerland, and Italy also have a decent number of campgrounds, albeit more concentrated near tourist areas. For the DIY bike tourist, this means cheap places to sleep and take hot showers which don’t require reservations.

Most campgrounds are designed primarily for camping vehicles, so there is almost always room for a tent and a couple of bicycles. In peak season in highly-touristed areas, you should nevertheless be prepared to be packed in a sardine-like manner next to your neighbors. In the offseason or in less-touristed areas, it is often possible to stay in a mostly empty campground. And although many campgrounds are little more than a plain field at the edge of town, some are spectacular. In Primel-Trégastel, Brittany, we stayed in a mostly empty campground that was about 20 feet from a spectacular shoreline. In Germany, we stayed in a spacious field next to the North Sea.

Finding maps and printed references for campground locations can be a challenge. The France association Camping Qualité mailed us a free map of all of their associated campgrounds, which showed us how many campgrounds were located in various regions. In Germany, we used the ADFC cycling map to find campground locations. It was a bit more challenging in Italy , where campsites are mostly located in touristed areas and are often very large complexes.

In Switzerland the SwissTrails fact sheets provide campsite information, and “ Sleep in the Straw ,” or  Schlaf im Stroh  is an association of farmers with haylofts where tourists can sleep for about the same price as camping.

Cool Camping  lists particularly scenic campsites in France and the UK on its website and in its guidebooks. Camping on parkland or farmland is also an option. We tried it once in Ireland and I have also done it on several other occasions in France, staying in parks where camping is technically not permitted but the restriction is not enforced.

Another option is to ask a farmer for use of their land, however, the downside to these options is the lack of a hot shower at the end of the day when you are sweaty and covered in sunscreen.

To Cook Or Not To Cook?

Camping often goes with camp cooking, but that doesn’t have to be the case in Europe. The French require a baguette or chocolate croissant to start the day, the Germans need their brötchen, and most campsites cater to these needs. Campgrounds often will take orders for baked goods in the evening for delivery the next morning and every town and many campgrounds have a café for a hot drink.

When we planned our trip, we debated bringing a camp stove but never regretted having left it at home. But we didn’t eat in restaurants and cafés for every meal. Europe has a delicious array of cheeses, meats, fresh-baked breads, and fresh produce that can be purchased in grocery stores or at local outdoor markets. For lunch most of the time, we made sandwiches out of a baguette, tomato, soft cheese, and hard salami, and topped them with sauces like pesto or olive tapenade.

While trip-planning, ensure you have enough free space to carry extra food with you. We found that nothing killed the honeymoon spirit as quickly as an underfed spouse. Even for those going fast and light, a day will come when lunchtime arrives and the nearest café, grocery, or market is an hour or two away.

Mechanical Issues

If you can patch a flat, repair a chain, replace a brake or derailer cable, adjust your brakes, and perhaps also true a wheel, you can fix most of the problems that come up on the road. Although there are many things that can go wrong with a bicycle, the remainder are either uncommon or wouldn’t prevent you from riding to the next bicycle shop. If you are mechanically disinclined, an upcoming DIY tour might be the time to sign up for a class to learn essential repairs. Having your bike checked out by a shop ahead of time can also reduce the odds of something going wrong while on tour.

One special mechanical note about Germany is that, while bike paths are everywhere, the material and quality of the paths is variable. Gravel and pavement are marked identically on the ADFC maps, and curbs and tree-root bumps are common and can cause pinch-flats. The Germans adapt to this with fatter tires (35mm or more), which might be wise for a lengthy tour there. Ensuring that you have a pump that reaches high pressure (7 bar/100 PSI) also helps to prevent pinch-flats. If you inflate your tires at bike shops, use a standing hand pump to reach full pressure rather than a hose from an air compressor which often only reach about 5 bar.

Information Technology

If you are only gone for a week or two, and deliberately want to get away from it all, then it may make sense to leave all electronics at home. Your friends can hear about the trip when you return. If you need to phone home a couple of times, internet cafés are ubiquitous and with services like Skype or Google Voice, you can call most numbers for a few cents a minute. Many hotels and campgrounds provide wireless internet so carrying a smartphone can be helpful for the same reason, even if the cell service is turned off.

Another alternative is to get a prepaid phone in Europe. For €30 or so, this is perhaps the simplest and most reliable way to be able to call numbers within Europe, but without a separate calling card, it will be expensive to call elsewhere. Ebook readers are also a great way to bring along guidebooks, reading material, and other documents without adding much weight. Devices using e-ink instead of an LCD display can last a week or longer without a recharge. Even my wife, an entrenched Luddite, was won over by her ebook reader during our trip.

Adventure Awaits

Being our own tour planners was more effort but it was also well worth it. Researching the trip ahead of time added to the anticipation and helped us learn more about the places we considered going. On the road, we knew we had the essentials with us and that the rest would be available along the way. Each day, we’d wake up, pick a spot on the map, and pedal towards it. In the end, it was an adventure that we were proud to have arranged ourselves.

Additional Information:

If you studied a European language in high school for a few years and can barely get out a “Guten Tag” or “Comment-allez vous,” then you might view planning a bike trip around Europe as an opportunity to practice. But even if you don’t speak a lick of anything other than English, you can still get by pretty easily. In countries such as Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Belgium, a large part of the population can easily speak conversational English. France is a bit more challenging, although many workers in the hospitality professions and younger people will still speak at least passable English. We found Italy to be the most difficult, with fewer people who speak any languages other than Italian. Almost everywhere, though, hotel staff and other tourism workers were very likely to speak English. Where all else fails, pointing and other hand gestures can go a surprisingly long way.

Bike theft is as much of a problem in Europe as anywhere else, and there is a balancing act between security and reducing weight. When calling ahead to hotels, ask if they have indoor storage for bicycles — almost all do. We brought a mid-weight cable lock, which worked well, although we also never strayed far from our bikes. Another factor is what bike you bring, which I didn’t fully consider ahead of time. Whereas my wife brought a serviceable midrange bike, I brought a beloved custom-made bicycle. While I (possibly) had a better ride during the day, I worried more at night. In campgrounds, other European bike tourists seemed more lax about locking their bicycles up, either using a lightweight lock or a built-in wheel lock. We locked our bikes to a tree if our campsite had one. In a few urban campsites where we felt more paranoid, we tied bells to the bikes and also tied them to our tent with fishing line so that we would be alerted if anyone tried to move them.

What to pack in your panniers is very much a matter of taste but there are a couple of things that can help prevent regrets on the road (or trips to the post office to ship things home). The first is to test-pack: get everything you are going to bring inside your panniers or frame bags and make sure you still have room for food and other on-the-road purchases. The second is to weigh each item and make a spreadsheet as you unpack from the test-pack.

This second point might sound a little obsessive-compulsive, but it helped us sort through the items we were going to carry around for months — it’s much easier to hit “sort” (by item weight) on the spreadsheet than to physically sort items on the living room floor, and you may be surprised at what items weigh the most.

Ten Reasons Why You Should Ride the TransAmerica Trail

For example, maps are surprisingly heavy if you are bringing more than a few and they can often be purchased en route. On the other hand, extra pairs of socks may be worth 30 grams each to ensure your feet are always clean and dry. Although we thought we might end up with a total of six or eight panniers, we ended up with just four — two each — for a total of about 40 pounds. At no point on the trip did we feel like we had left something important at home. Another advantage of the spreadsheet packing list was to ensure that we had everything on the final pack.

In particular, we were happy to have resisted the temptation to bring excessive camping gear. A tent and a sleeping bag were really all we needed. As a couple, the camping item that made us happiest was a double sleeping bag. On the other hand, we almost never used the camp chairs we brought along: if we needed to sit, there was usually a café nearby.

Related Reading

Road test: tumbleweed stargazer, cycling the world: a new film about a big journey, east coast greenway alliance partnership for short routes.

8 of the best European destinations for a cycling vacation

Love getting out in the fresh air to cycle ? Then plan a vacation around it. Of course, not all cycling vacations need to be super intense, eight-hour daily rides with your rucksack in tow (though they can be!). You can simply rent bikes in your destination to get around a new city, do a bike tour or take family cycling excursions together while on a vacation.

Here are some of the best cycling destinations in Europe , whether you're an avid cyclist or simply love the occasional bike ride, as well as a list of tips if you plan to cycle during your vacation.

Related: 9 of the most stunning cycling routes in the UK

Best for city biking

For the leisure biker that wants to explore a new city, consider these spots.

Barcelona, Spain

Save the circular uphill route to Montjuïc or hills heading up to the famed Park Güell (consider e-bikes for these upward routes), Barcelona 's central districts are fairly flat and full of bike lanes. The Mediterranean climate is also apt for biking year-round, just make sure to bring sun protection as it can get very hot.

While the city offers a number of half- and full-day bike tours, it's easy and affordable to rent a bike and take in the sights on your own. Start off in Plaza Catalunya, then explore sites like the magnificent Sagrada Familia , the two famous Gaudi-designed houses Casa Mila and Casa Batlló, the Gothic Quarter and end up along the Barceloneta Beach and seafront.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Obviously, we had to include one of the most famous cycling cities in the world on our list: Amsterdam . With more than 300 miles of bike lanes in the city alone, getting from A to B on two wheels is the best way to get around the city. Just beware: Locals often bike to work, and well, to everywhere, so make sure to respect the bike rules of the road and not get in anyone's way, as they ride fast and with purpose.

Start off with an easy ride through the verdant Vondelpark to get accustomed to your bike, then head out to the Rijksmuseum. Next, bike along the canals, exploring the hip Nine Streets area and to Jordaan, where you can break to see the Anne Frank House. You can also enjoy a ride over to the Botanical Gardens and the NEMO Science Museum. It's easy to get out of the city and bike out into the countryside -- do so with Mike's Bike Tours, which combines biking experiences with cheese tastings and clog factory tours.

Best for beachfront biking

If you're hoping to get some beach time in between bike rides, head to these coastal spots.

Gran Canaria, Spain

With easy bike lanes along the Maspalomas and Meloneras beaches of southern Gran Canaria , this is the perfect destination for beginning or family bikers that want to enjoy a seascape without worrying about traffic or too many other bikers. In fact, you may be able to find a bike rental shop that offers rates below $12 per day if you rent your bikes for longer than a day or two, using them to go to and from the beach each day.

Coastal cyclists will enjoy stopping at the Maspalomas dunes, the Maspalomas lighthouse and the Maspalomas Botanical gardens. If you'd prefer something more strenuous than a leisurely ride, there are plenty of mountain bike paths and rentals available around the island. We suggest the Bici Bike Vintage company for rentals or tours.

Brittany Islands, France

France is home to some of the best cycling routes in the world — does the Tour de France ring a bell? That being said, some of them are pretty intense for the average cyclist. For a leisurely dose of beachside biking, the Brittany Islands are a safe bet: A lack of vehicles and a charming local bicycle culture make it the perfect spot to get around on two wheels. You can bring your own bike on the ferry , or rent one upon arrival.

It's best to plan your trip between the months of April and October for the best cycling weather. For the most idyllic coastal routes, we love Île de Batz, which has a variety of paths and trails to satisfy either more advanced cyclists or beginners. Île de Bréhat is another French island perfect for a ride through quiet fishing villages, past golden sand beaches and along pine-flanked trails.

Best for mountain biking

Serious bikers that don't mind major uphill climbs should opt for mountain biking vacations.

The Alps, Switzerland and France

Best for intermediate or advanced cyclists, avid riders have neverending options when it comes to the Alps in various countries. Ski resort by winter and biking-and-hiking destination by summer, the Crans-Montana in Switzerland is ideal for adrenaline junkies that don't suffer from vertigo. Take the lift up, ride over the peaks and then bike back down to the green valley and charming village below.

Another alternative in Switzerland is the Cuolm Sura, a circular route taking you through the Rhine Gorge that starts and finishes in the village of Ilanz. For those preferring to get their Alps fix in France, consider the Chamonix area. Beginners or those wanting a low level of difficulty can bike in the Chamonix Valley. More advanced riders can take the 2,300-foot climb through the Parc de Merlet.

The Dolomites, Italy

For a quiet biking vacation in the Italian Dolomites with great weather, consider the shoulder season, like May, September or October. The most famous route to cover is the Sella Ronda loop, but expect almost 6,500 feet of climbing here. If you'd prefer to do this loop with thousands of other bikers, the roads shut down for cars each June for Bike Day, and many locals and visitors travel here to do this particular ride.

Since most routes in the Dolomites are quite hilly, this is not the destination for beginners. The Fedaia route is considered to be the most difficult, with some seriously steep grades, but you'll get some breathtaking scenery in return for your hard work.

Best alternative scenic routes

If you want something a little different, consider a visit to one of these destinations.

Alentejo, Portugal

For anyone who prefers wine before, during or after their bike rides (though we suggest after), the tranquil region of Alentejo in Portugal is the destination for you. The region has rolling hills, but ones generally not too difficult for the average rider. This is a great place to bike through various areas, starting in Evora or Estremoz, destinations known for their delicious Portuguese cuisine, especially the local sausages, as well as their wineries.

Biking around Alqueva is beautiful during the day, and plan to return at night (not on bike!) to enjoy the stunning starlight paradise of the Alqueva Night Sky Reserve, one of Europe's top Starlight Tourism destinations. If you want to add a little coastal riding into your itinerary, head south to the Algarve coast.

Related: 11 hotels best for a beach vacation in Portugal

Danube River, various countries

Known as one of the most picturesque cycling routes in Europe, you definitely don't have to do all 750 miles of the Danube River route to have an enjoyable vacation. In fact, since the route is riverside, you can easily combine a day of cycling with a vacation in a country like Austria, Germany , Hungary or Slovakia. True beginners will want to go downstream (read: downhill), which is nice and easy.

Those wanting to see it all may want to consider a bike-and-barge tour, where you'll cycle by day and sleep on a river barge at night. Or, those doing quick city weekend escapes in spots like Bratislava, Vienna or Budapest can simply enjoy a quick bike ride or guided tour within these cities or along the river on the outskirts.

Vacation cycling tips to keep you healthy and safe

• Make sure to always have the proper safety gear. If you're renting, check with shops ahead of time to make sure they can outfit both you and your family with whatever you need.
• Read up on local biking laws. Yes, you can get fined on a bike in many countries! Make sure to find out if it's illegal to ride on the sidewalk, if helmets are required or any other relevant rules that could affect you.
• If you're bringing your own gear, make sure to check fees ahead of time with your airline or train.
• Try to find routes with bike lanes whenever possible, especially in busy cities.
• Consider the season/climate in your selected destination before booking or biking. It may be extremely hot or snowy during certain times of year, which are not great options for extensive biking trips.

• Check with your travel insurance. Make sure that your insurance will cover any incidents incurred while biking. If not, consider purchasing an additional plan.
• Think about the logistics. If you're planning a more serious cycling trip, consider where you'll stay, if you'll also be driving, how long you realistically need to get from A to B and any other important details.

(Featured image courtesy of Drazen_/Getty Images)

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To Find Europe’s Best Bike Routes, a Cycling Writer Asked the Crowd

The longtime sports journalist Claude Droussent discusses his new guidebook to cycling in Europe, which uses data from the fitness app Strava, and the growing role bicycles play in worldwide travel.

By Alex Crevar

When it came time to put together “ Cycling Atlas Europe ,” a new guidebook detailing 350 single-day rides across the continent, the sportswriter and cycling expert Claude Droussent, 65, knew where to turn: Strava , a fitness app that lets cyclists (and runners and hikers) record their routes with GPS and then share them with each other, and that calls itself “the largest sports community in the world.”

Having Strava users validate the routes and vouch for their safety and appeal was key to the book, whose subtitle is “The 350 Most Beautiful Cycling Trips in Europe,” Mr. Droussent said: “The Strava community was important because I didn’t know all 350 routes by myself.”

The ambitious aim of the “Atlas,” published by Rizzoli this spring: to sate both serious cyclists searching for epic conquests and the multitudes looking for saddle-top journeys of discovery in this soaring adventure travel segment.

According to a European Parliament study, 2.3 billion cycle tourism trips are taken in Europe each year. A common theme among the typically affluent travelers looking to cycle: the need for resources and information.

Mr. Droussent’s own cycling journey began in the 1960s, when as a child growing up north of Paris, he watched in awe as the titans of the day — riders like Belgium’s five-time Tour de France champion Eddy Merckx — competed in the famously cobblestone-riddled Paris-Roubaix race that passed his home. During his journalism career he covered more than 30 Tours de France. In 1981, Mr. Droussent, then a cub reporter for Le Parisien, was the first journalist to interview an American named Greg LeMond after his first professional victory in Europe (Mr. LeMond went on to win the Tour de France three times).

In 2022, the two men co-wrote the guide “Cycling Atlas North America,” which also utilizes Strava routes.

Mr. Droussent said the idea for the European “Atlas” came to him four years ago. “For years I’ve met people who want to cycle — some fast and some slow — and have the route on their GPS, but they also want to discover something, a landscape, a castle, a wine,” he said. “They want to discover.”

I reached Mr. Droussent by phone in Montpelier, France, where, rather than slowing down, he recently started a new job as a cycle tour guide with Discover France .

This conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

What was the idea behind “Cycling Atlas Europe?”

Cycling interest was first and tourism second. So sports, OK, but when you have an incredible landscape or point of view, you stop there. When you are riding with friends, after three hours you can stop for a beer or an ice cream or even taste a glass of wine if you are in vineyards. So it’s my way to cycle.

You covered Greg LeMond when he was a cyclist, but you also wrote your previous book, “Cycling Atlas North America,” with him. How did that happen?

The publisher, Rizzoli, asked me to do the book “Cycling Atlas North America.” I said I know some places but I need to have an American expert. Greg was enthusiastic. So, when I called back the publisher, I said, “I found someone who knows North America. Maybe you don’t know him, but he was a cyclist a long time ago.” When I said it was Greg LeMond, they just said “Wow.” So, Greg and I wrote the “Atlas North America” together 40 years after our first meeting.

How has cycling changed, especially with travel, during your four decades covering the sport?

Everything changed in cycling — in the way people look at bikes, look at cyclists, and we are just at the beginning of a new era of travel, of bikepacking. It’s very new in France. We saw it just a little bit before Covid. But with Covid, and after, there are a lot of people who want to spend some days on vacation on their bike alone, with friends, with kids, for sport, and for tourism — along the Loire à Vélo , for example, to see the castles and to taste the best wine on the road. There are so many different kinds of rides. But right now, it’s cycling time.

How do you feel about e-bikes?

E-bikes are a fantastic development. I’m a great supporter of e-bikes because I see them bringing people to ride who never cycled. I think it helps people who are not in good health or too old to cycle. It’s a great development here in France.

How have communities and technologies like Strava changed the way people explore the world on a bicycle?

In the first years of Strava, it was considered a way to compare yourself with others. But people have discovered that you can find the best route with Strava tools. It’s incredible because Strava is a technology, but it’s also a social media now. And, when you ask a question of three different people on Strava, two of them will answer — you are sure of that — and often all three.

How will this book help cyclists find their next epic rides?

You just have to turn the pages of the book. I try to mix mountains with coasts, plains and a lot of low mountains. I was very surprised about all the mountain ranges I did not know of before in Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, Portugal, Slovenia — there are many landscapes to challenge yourself if you want.

So, is this book about cycling or travel?

Both. But you know, it’s a problem for publishers and people in the bookshops. A lot of bookshop owners tell me they don’t know where to put my book — in sports or travel.

Why does cycling resonate so much with today’s travelers?

I think there is a relationship with Covid. There are people who discovered they can have vacations two hours from their home rather than flying for six hours. There is also a connection with nature. Maybe it’s a new way of life in the 2020s.

Of the routes you discovered but haven’t ridden, which are you most excited to cycle?

One of the smallest countries in Europe, Montenegro, has a route that climbs above Kotor with, I think, 35 switchbacks. It’s an incredible place and an incredible view when you are at the top. A friend of mine told me about it 10 years ago. “Oh, you told me about L’Alpe d’Huez,” my friend said, “but if you want to see switchbacks, you have to go to Kotor.” So, I want to go there.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Cycling Around the Globe

The cycling world can be intimidating. but with the right mind-set and gear you can make the most of human-powered transportation..

Are you new to urban biking? These tips  will help you make sure you are ready to get on the saddle .

Whether you’re mountain biking down a forested path or hitting the local rail trail, you’ll need the right gear . Wirecutter has plenty of recommendations , from which bike to buy  to the best bike locks .

Do you get nervous at the thought of cycling in the city? Here are some ways to get comfortable with traffic .

Learn how to store your bike properly and give it the maintenance it needs  in the colder weather.

  Not ready for mountain biking just yet? Try gravel biking instead . Here are five places in the United States  to explore on two wheels.

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Bike and Barge Tours & Trips in Europe

Cruise along the flowing waters of the Blue Danube, wander through emerald-green vineyards in France or cycle through the quaint countryside of England . With so many bike and barge tours throughout Europe, you're sure to find trips that suit your style and satisfy your sense of adventure.

41 Bike and Barge tour packages in Europe with 31 reviews

• Bike and Barge

Germany & Austria | Danube River Biketour | Bike & Boat

Paris to Bruges (Brugge), Bike & Barge in France and Belgium

Great experience. Caring crew who looked after me when I caught a head cold.

• Hiking & Trekking

Southern Greece: Hike, Bike & Kayak

Portugal | Douro River BikeTour | Bike & Boat

Bruges (Brugge) to Paris, Bike & Barge in Belgium and France

The food was fantastic. Our Captain did a wonderful job. The first mate was ready to help in every way. The guide was good but since he had not led this route previously had to hunt for the best route for us. This sometimes meant poor dirt paths. The barge was not as nice as some I have been on.

Bike and Barge: Amsterdam to Bruges Plus! Belgium's Breweries

The boat and crew were fantastic. Accommodations on board were very nice. Bike routes kept the cyclist off the main roads and scenery was very nice. Food was excellent, and mileage was sufficient and cyclist could ride more miles at the end of each day if desired. I would recommend this tour for those folks who like flat easy riding and not having to pack and repack each day.

Croatia Bike & Sail - Deluxe

• Mountain Hikes
• Road Cycling

Active Alps (7 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Bike & barge tour Provence and Camargue: from Aigues-Mortes to Avignon

My first bike and barge trip, it was a wonderful experience! Well planned. The crew was great, clearly working together well. Nice to see. Irene's dinners were as good as any following restaurant meals in Avignon and Paris. Yum! Sorry I didn't take pictures of her delicious dishes before eating them. Two criticisms - as another woman observed, there should have been two tour guides, with one riding sweep. That responsibility shouldn't be left to us. Also, the A/C in my cabin was way too cold. Overall, it was tremendous! Looking forward to the next one; hope so anyway! Thanks..

Amsterdam to Bruges Bike & Barge - Comfort

I took the Bike and Barge trip from Amsterdam to Bruges. There was so much good about this trip - our guide, Simon, was excellent on all fronts. However, there were 24 cyclists and Simon had no assistant. That is totally unacceptable. It was only by luck that we had some very experienced cyclists on this tour who assisted Simon when needed: and there were numerous occasions.

Bike and Barge: Amsterdam to Bruges

It was as advertised, an energetic but relatively simple trip to some great locations. We’d go again in a heartbeat!

• In-depth Cultural

Italy Bike & barge tour: cycle from Mantua to Venice

Please decline the review

The Netherlands: Rhine River by bike & boat

• Wine tasting

Deutschland | Frankreich | Schweiz | Rhein Rad | Rad & Schiff

What people love about bike and barge tours in europe, travel styles.

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Best Bike Tours in Europe 2023

In 2023, our bike tours took cyclists on a journey through some of Europe’s most iconic and picturesque destinations. From the rolling vineyards of Tuscany to the historic canals of Amsterdam and Bruges, each tour was a unique exploration of the continent’s rich heritage. Join us as we reminisce about the unforgettable experiences of 2023 and look forward to more adventures on the charming roads of Europe.

The Tuscany bike tour is a true cyclist’s dream, offering an immersive experience in the heart of Italy. Guests get to pedal through the iconic Tuscan landscape, characterized by rolling hills, endless vineyards, and lined with cypress trees. This tour is not just about the ride; it’s a cultural deep-dive. From sampling Chianti Classico in Radda to engaging in a private pizza-making class, every aspect of this tour is designed to connect you with the Italian way of life.

In 2023, the Provence bike tour was a favorite, known for its idyllic blend of scenic rides and cultural immersion. Riders were enchanted by the picturesque landscapes, from the iconic Mont Ventoux to the lush vineyards and sleepy villages. The tour’s charm lay in its ability to offer both challenging climbs and leisurely explorations through historic market towns. The essence of the Provençal lifestyle, with its slow-paced enjoyment of exquisite cuisine and local wines, resonated deeply with travelers.

The Portugal bike tour in 2023 stood out for its serene journey through the Alentejo Wine Region. This tour was a hit for its blend of leisurely rides and rich cultural experiences, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and private cooking classes. The region’s slow pace of life and the luxury of staying at a world-class hotel offered a relaxing and immersive experience.

The Croatia & The Dalmatian Coast bike tour in 2023 captivated travelers with its blend of historic charm and natural beauty. This tour became a favorite for its journey through luxurious destinations like Dubrovnik and Hvar. The clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea provided a breathtaking backdrop, and the tour’s popularity was bolstered by exclusive experiences like private chartered boat rides and wine-paired dinners.

Amsterdam to Bruges

The Amsterdam to Bruges bike tour in 2023 was a hit for its enchanting journey through two of Europe’s most bike-friendly cities and their picturesque surroundings. This tour offered a unique experience of cycling through the iconic landscapes of the Netherlands and Belgium, marked by tulip fields, windmills, and serene canals. The flat terrain and extensive network of bike paths made it an accessible and enjoyable ride for travelers of all levels.

Europe’s charm lies in its diversity – the ability to shift from the lavender fields of Provence to the crystal-clear waters of the Croatian coast. As we bid farewell to 2023 and look towards future journeys, we carry with us the spirit of European adventure – a celebration of heritage, natural beauty, and the timeless joy of exploration on two wheels.

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What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discover:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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DOMINATE THE DUNES

2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA

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watch the bike in action

• READY THE ROADBOOK
• FULLGAS AHEAD!
• CARVE THE LANDSCAPE
• PRECISION INSTRUMENT
• KEEP ON THE THROTTLE

01. READY THE ROADBOOK

Adjustability

At this level, pin-point accuracy in your setup is essential to gaining an edge on the competition. Good thing then, that the 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA has that covered, with fully adjustable WP Pro Components suspension which can be fine-tuned to the likes and weights of riders and all kinds of varying terrains, as well as adjustable handlebars.

Digital Roadbook

Already compulsory at many races for the Car, SSV, and Truck categories, the 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA has provisions to allow for the fitment of a digital roadbook. Not only has this new addition undergone many racing kilometers of hard testing, but it is also more accurate, more user-friendly, and brings more functionality to the racing stage. Prefer the old ways? The conventional paper roadbook system still comes in the buy-pack.

All White Plastics

READY TO RACE bikes need racing stickers. While a simple sticker graphic kit for the all-white bodywork comes in the by-pack of the 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA, the plastics are left untouched for you to design your kit, with your team, sponsor, and individual needs.

02. FULLGAS AHEAD!

LED Headlight

A new LED headlight system is incorporated into the front mask of the 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA, with an overall light output increase of 33%. Not only does this light the way to the bivouac on those longer stages, but also plays a vital role in the early morning starts and misty weather conditions.

Engine Management System

The EMS and 44 mm throttle body are supplied by Keihin, and have proven to be the best combination for the KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA and feature rally-specific ECU mappings to the airbox, engine, and exhaust combination.

The powerplant responsible for 10 Dakar victories is based on the hugely successful KTM SOHC 450 cc 4-stroke engine. Engineered with long, hard, and fast rally stages in mind, it features more efficient performance throughout the rev range. For 2025, it is fitted with a newly designed SOHC cylinder head, with a reinforced clutch and gearbox, and the latest electronic fuel injection. The result is unrivaled power, speed, and outstanding reliability.

Cylinder Head

A reworked SOHC cylinder head features newly shaped ports for further improved performance. The single overhead camshaft activates four ultra-lightweight titanium valves via extremely rigid, DLC coasted rocker arms for maximam reliability.

The 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA debuts a new radiator concept. Featuring two independent radiators instead of one, it dramatically improves cooling efficiency. There is also the added benefit of having a backup radiator should one get damaged.

Akrapovič Exhaust

Fitted with a rally-specific titanium Akrapovič exhaust system as standard, the 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA is ready to roar - with tuning to match. It has a special hydro-formed section on the bottom for maximum ground clearance and boasts ultra-lightweight construction and unmatched performance.

03. CARVE THE LANDSCAPE

Triple Clamps

An all-new 23 mm offset CNC machined triple clamps with a rally-specific design ensures optimal stiffness and precise handling when charging through the desert. This, together with an in-house developed PHDS system and the proven SCOTT's steering damper, provides the confidence to keep it pinned in the faster, flowing rally stages.

Sharper, sleeker, and ready to take on the roughest rally stages, the 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA has undergone a complete refresh. Redesigned fairings, a new tank layout, and a rally-specific seat provide improved ergonomics and seat comfort over longer distances. This means enhanced rider ergonomics, allowing for perfect control when standing by providing ample grip surfaces and freedom of movement.

Navigation Tower

An all-new navigation tower made of extra-light carbon fiber is well-protected behind the fairing with a new, narrower dashboard. This brings significantly improved aerodynamics, reduced turbulence, and less stress for the rider when blasting across the landscape at maximum speed. Warning lights are now also fully integrated and illuminate when the front or rear tank reserve is activated.

The 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA boasts a total fuel volume of 35 liters. It has two separate 9-liter fuel tanks upfront and a self-supporting 16-liter fuel tank at the rear. These are controlled by two separate fuel pumps, which can be independently accessed and activated to supply fuel from either the front or the rear fuel tank. This works as a backup system and an additional means to monitor fuel levels.

04. PRECISION INSTRUMENT

An all-new hydro-formed, laser-cut, and hand-welded frame forms the backbone of the 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA. Constructed with precisely calculated parameters of longitudinal and torsional flex, the frame provides exceptional rider feedback, energy absorption, and straight-line stability - all of which are crucial for rally racing. To achieve this, the rotating mass, forged steering head connection, and most of the frame tubes have been completely re-positioned., along with the tube wall thickness, for maximum reliability and specific rigidity in high-stress areas. The frame is finished with a long-lasting and eye-catching powder coating, while the rear self-supporting 16-liter fuel tank doubles as the subframe.

A new hollow, die-cast aluminum swingarm is designed for optimal stiffness and reliability at the lowest possible weight. The topology has also been optimized for optimal rigidity. This works together with a proven linkage system and fully adjustable shock absorber, which gives the rider confidence to go flat out. This also means maximum traction when accelerating and bottoming-out resistance for better stability and safety.

The 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA is fitted with the latest WP PRO COMPONENTS at both ends. In front, a 48 mm WP XACT PRO 7548 closed cartridge fork featuring sophisticated Cone Valve technology shines with outstanding damping performance. A fully adjustable WP XACT PRO 7750 shock takes care of the business in the rear. The suspension components provide full adjustability, improved damping, and higher bottoming reserves for ultimate stability.

05. KEEP ON THE THROTTLE

E-starter and Battery

A reliable electric starter and lightweight Li-Ion 4.5 Ah battery handle start procedures on the 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA. Weighing substantially less than a conventional lead battery, the Li-Ion battery delivers reliable power to the electronics, as well as enuring the convenience of easy starting particularly at low temperatures.

Tool Kit Space

The 2025 KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA features a fully integrated and well-thought-out tool storage solution, with an engine cover integrated space for essential tools. This means racers can rest assured that they have what they need out in the dunes should the worst-case scenario occur while freeing up space in your bumbag.

Black high-strength alloy rims from EXCEL are coupled to cast aluminum hubs using lightweight spokes and steel nipples for maximum stability and durability. This combination has proven to be the best solution for intense rally racing across all terrain types.

Brembo components guarantee total performance and reliability in braking. 300 mm front and 240 mm rear discs deliver superior stopping power, rider feel, and overall control, instilling maximum confidence in any condition.

Technical Details

• Transmission 6-speed
• Cooling Liquid cooled
• Starter Electric starter
• Stroke 63.4 mm
• Clutch Wet multi-disc clutch, hydraulically actuated
• Compression ratio 12.6
• Displacement 449.3 cm³
• EMS Kokusan
• Design 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine
• Lubrication Forced oil lubrication with 2 oil pumps
• Tank capacity (approx.) 35 l
• Front brake disc diameter 300 mm
• Rear brake disc diameter 240 mm
• Chain 5/8 x 1/4"
• Rear subframe design Self-supporting plastic tank
• Suspension travel (front) 304 mm
• Suspension travel (rear) 280 mm
• Wheels Spoked wheels with aluminium rims