Europe Bike Tours

Bike tours in Europe offer you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore its vibrant cities and serene countryside in an exciting yet economical way. Europeans believe in fitness and are extremely fond of cycling. Due to this, most European cities have a perfectly well-paved path, just for cycling.

You can either take a guided bike tour or rent a bike on your own and set out for exploration. The advantage of a guided bike tour is that you will be given a pre-planned route that will save you time and effort. On the other hand, the perk of an individual bike tour is that you will have the flexibility to explore the places at your own pace.

A Europe trip on a bike will not just keep your health in check but it is also an environmentally-friendly way of travelling. You will get to interact with the locals, meet fellow bikers and make friends in a foreign land. Another advantage of a bike tour is that you will get to discover the routes and trails that a lot of tourists miss. You can take breaks in between to admire the scenic views and take pictures. It is a truly memorable experience that will surpass the luxury and comfort of air-conditioned cars and buses.

Here are some of the best countries to visit on Bike tours in Europe:

1. Switzerland: Switzerland is a fantastic place for biking, with 92 trails per 1,000 square kilometres. One famous trail is from Geneva to Lake Constance, covering around 526 km (326 miles). Lake Constance is a big lake in central Europe, touching Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, and you can witness breathtaking views here. One of the best bike trips in Europe, this activity is a great way to explore Switzerland's natural beauty.

2. Germany: Germany is a top spot for bike tours, boasting 24 trails per 1,000 square kilometres. One scenic route is the Elbe Cycle Path, stretching 894 km (555 miles) from Cuxhaven to the Czech Republic. You will pass through seven German states and visit cities like Hamburg, Magdeburg, and Dresden en route. It is one of the most adventurous ways to explore Germany's countryside and historic landmarks on two wheels.

3. Belgium: Belgium is one of the most spectacular destinations for bike touring among all the European nations. Explore the picturesque countryside along the Ravel Route, starting from Liège to Bastogne. Covering 170 km (106 miles), it offers scenic views of forests, rivers, and historic sites like the Grand Palace and Gravensteen. You can discover Belgium's beauty and rich history while cycling through its serene landscapes.

4. United Kingdom: The United Kingdom ranks high for housing the best routes for bike trips in Europe, with 30 trails per 1,000 square kilometres. One scenic route is the Great North Trail, stretching 1,287.48 km (800 miles) from the Peak District to John o’Groats in Scotland. Along the way, you will see stunning sights like Loch Lomond, Yorkshire Dales, Loch Ness, and Trossachs National Park.

5. Denmark: Denmark ranks fourth as the best biking destination, offering 21 trails per 1,000 square kilometres. The Furesø Rundt trail is ideal if you love lakeside views. It encircles Lake Furesø, featuring diverse landscapes from forests to flower-filled fields. If you want to take a break before continuing on your biking adventure, this place is also perfect for camping. The scenic beauty and calm surroundings make it a delightful outdoor experience for nature lovers and cyclists.

6. The Netherlands: This country ranks fifth for on-bike touring, offering 18 trails per 1,000 square kilometres. The Pijnacker–Rotterdam route, covering about 40 km (25 miles), is worth exploring. You will cross two bridges over the river Maas, enjoying scenic water views and surrounding landscapes. It is a memorable cycling experience where you can witness the natural beauty of the Dutch countryside.

7. Greece: Experience the beauty of the Greek countryside along the Athens-Sounion Coastal Route. As you ride along, you will be greeted by stunning views of the Aegean Sea and historic landmarks like the Temple of Poseidon. Covering around 70 km (43 miles), this is one of the top bike tours in Europe that promises you a scenic journey through Greece's coastal landscapes and ancient history.

8. Norway: Norway stands as one of the best countries for bike ride tours in Europe, boasting numerous biking trails. Enthusiasts can explore the Rallarvegen route, stretching from Haugastøl to Flåm for a breathtaking journey. Covering 82 km (51 miles), it offers stunning mountain vistas, views of cascading waterfalls, and scenic fjords. You can experience Norway's natural beauty on this unforgettable cycling adventure.

9. Italy: Italy holds sixth place with 12 biking trails per 1,000 square kilometres. You can enjoy a unique blend of sea and mountain beauty here when you explore the 'Riviera dei Fiori' trail in Liguria. Embark on this stunning on-bike Europe trip, covering almost 25 km (15 miles), and visit charming cities like Cipressa and Sanremo on the way.

10. France: France ranks seventh as the best place for on-bike Europe trips with 11 biking trails per 1,000 square kilometers. Experience breathtaking scenery on the Véloroute du Lin & Littoral Cycle Route, stretching 75 km (47 miles) from Hautot-sur-Mer to Fécamp. During spring and summer, you can admire fields filled with blue flax flowers along the way, enhancing your experience two-fold.

11. Spain: Spain ranks eighth with 10 biking trails per 1,000 square kilometres. A top route is the Vía Verde de Ojos Negros from Teruel to Valencia. For riding on mountain trails, try the Transpirenaica route from Cabo de Higuer to Cabo de Creus. Whether you prefer coastal paths or steep terrains, Spain offers diverse landscapes for cyclists to explore and enjoy.

12. Austria: Austria takes the ninth place with 9 biking trails per 1,000 square kilometres. The Vorarlberg Trail and Bodensee Lake Loop, stretching from Bludenz to Bregenz, offer scenic lake views. You can also indulge in diverse activities like hiking, fishing, and shopping here. This trail is perfect if you enjoy leisurely rides amidst picturesque landscapes and outdoor adventures.

13. Hungary: Hungary ranks tenth with 3 biking trails per 1,000 square kilometres. The Siofok Loop from Szabadifürdő offers a scenic tour around Lake Balaton. Covering 162 km (101 miles), it also includes a charming ferry trip, showcasing the beauty of Hungary's largest lake. Go for some amazing bike ride tours in Europe, and enjoy a comfortable ride with picturesque views and opportunities to explore the surrounding attractions.

14. Portugal: Enjoy some memorable bike tours in Europe while touring Portugal, one of the top countries in the world for bike adventures. With well-marked biking trails, you will come across remarkable routes such as the Ecovia do Litoral, stretching along the stunning Algarve coastline. Covering around 214 km (133 miles), it offers breathtaking views of cliffs, beaches, and charming seaside villages that reflect Portuguese culture and essence.

15. Finland: Finland is yet another beautiful country where you can enjoy a relaxed biking tour surrounded by stunning natural wonders. Explore the stunning Finnish countryside along the Archipelago Trail, stretching through the picturesque Turku Archipelago. Covering approximately 250 km (155 miles), it offers serene island landscapes, coastal views, and cultural attractions like Arktikum and Turku Castle. Also, you can immerse yourself in Finland's natural vistas and island life on this scenic cycling route.