Cycling through Europe is a great way to get around and a completely different way to experience places. When you’re on a bike, you’re moving at a pace where you actually notice things that you probably otherwise wouldn't. Bike tours are a fantastic option for anyone looking to explore more deeply and avoid the tourist crowds while still covering real distance. Europe is one of the easiest and most rewarding places to do it. Let’s have a look at some of the best bike tours in Europe and what makes them worth the ride.
France 🇫🇷
Many people look at France as one of the top destinations for their cycling holidays in Europe, and we understand why. There are so many great landscapes, the food culture is unmatched and, of course, the cycling culture is built into everyday life there.
One of the best routes is along the Loire à Vélo. This is a well-marked cycling path that runs for over 800km along the Loire River, surrounded by classic French countryside.
You’ll be cycling by vineyards, châteaux, and sleepy riverside towns where the bakery opens at exactly 7AM. And closes just as suddenly for lunch.
The route is mostly flat and family-friendly, but still pleasant for more experienced riders.
Though if you’re looking for a more challenging route, Dordogne or the Pyrenees might be more suitable for you, with more hills and less tourists. The views are great, and you’ll never be too far from a good cheese shop or a cold beer.
Italy 🇮🇹
Cycling in Italy is hard to beat if you’re after a reward at the end of the day.
The scenery is fantastic, the towns have so much history, and the food really is as good as everyone says. 🍝
Tuscany gets a lot of attention (unsurprisingly so). You’ll work for the views as there are plenty of climbs, but the downhills are fun and the stops are very pleasant. Lunch here often turns into a two-hour affair. It’s the kind of place where the bike gets you places the tour buses can’t.
Another underrated region for cycling tours is Puglia, in Italy’s south. It’s flatter, warmer, and far less crowded. You’ll pass through olive groves and lovely coastal roads.
The roads are usually quiet, and the locals are welcoming. It’s less polished than Tuscany, but that’s part of why so many people like it.
Netherlands 🇳🇱 and Belgium 🇧🇪
Easily the best place for low-effort, high-reward cycling. Both of these countries take cycling very seriously. The infrastructure is great, the drivers there are very used to cyclists and the terrain is flat enough.
There are routes that go from Amsterdam to Bruges and might make for a good introduction to bike tours in Europe. In Belgium, cities like Ghent have a great beer culture – so cycling between breweries is a fun way to do it.
Austria 🇦🇹
The Danube Cycle Path, especially the section between Passau (in Germany) and Vienna, is one of Europe’s most popular bike routes. It’s mostly flat, car-free in many sections, and it runs alongside one of Europe’s most historic rivers.
This route is very straightforward to plan. There’s very well-developed infrastructure: a lot of hotels are bike-friendly, many cafés cater to cyclists and there are even some luggage transport services that’ll carry your bags to the next stop, which can make your ride even easier.
There’s no need for maps if you don’t want them - just follow the river. It’s ideal for beginners, families, or really just anyone who doesn’t really want to bother with logistics.
Spain 🇪🇸 and Portugal 🇵🇹
If you’re after sunshine and a bit more grit in your bike tour, southern Europe has some great options.
The Camino de Santiago is a very famous walking pilgrimage, but also a rewarding bike route. If you opt to do one of the many routes of the Camino – the “primitive” Spanish route, the Portuguese central/coastal routes… –, you’ll share the trail with hikers (which can slow things down a bit), but the views and the cultural experience of it all make it worthwhile.
It’s not a polished ride as there are many gravel paths, uphills, and the occasional detour, but it’s full of character, and there’s a strong sense of community along the road.
Portugal has quietly become a favorite for cycling vacations in Europe. The Alentejo region is more of a countryside, “time in standstill” kind of area, and if you’d rather be near the sea, the Algarve coast has amazing beaches and cliffs.
Just a quick warning: it can get hot, especially in summer, so early starts and long lunch breaks are recommended.
How to plan your bike tour of Europe 🔎
Planning a bike tour across Europe sounds more intimidating than it is. The first step is figuring out how far you want to ride each day and what kind of experience you’re after.
Are you cycling for the travel side of it, for the fitness, or just for the feeling of doing something different? Once you’ve got that sorted, you can find a route (or a guided tour) that fits.
In most regions, you’ll have the option to either rent bikes locally or bring your own.
Rentals will usually be quite high quality, especially in places with established cycling tourism.
If you’re riding for more than a week, though, a proper bike fit can make a big difference in how your knees feel by day five.
You’ll need to pack light (just not too light!). Bring padded shorts, a repair kit, a light waterproof layer, and enough snacks to get through the occasional long stretch without food stops.
Many places in Europe close in the afternoons, especially in rural areas, so don’t assume you’ll always be able to buy a sandwich when you get hungry.
And remember: trains are your friend. Europe’s rail network is extensive and reliable, and in many countries, you can bring your bike on board with minimal hassle. It makes detours, shortcuts, or even early exits completely doable.
.jpg)
