The best of cycling tourism: top 21 cycle routes to explore [2025]
Cycling tourism offers a vast network of excellent routes, each showcasing unique landscapes and experiences. Many countries and regions feature paths specifically designed for cycling tourists, with safe separation from motor traffic. Some of the most appealing cycle routes follow tranquil riverside embankments or traverse picturesque, disused railway lines. Every year, we uncover new cycling routes, curating this guide to highlight the very best for your next adventure.
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How is our ranking created? Each cycle route is rated in seven categories, with scores ranging from 1 to 5 points. Here are the categories: the amount of cycling infrastructure on the route, sightseeing value, scenic appeal, accessibility by train (the start, end and intermediate points), food and accommodation facilities, availability of informational materials, and finally our subjective evaluation. The maximum score a route can achieve is 35 points.
The best bicycle routes in Europe we’ve ridden:
- Alpe-Adria Bicycle Route (Ciclovia Alpe-Adria) - Austria, Italy
- Lakes Route (Seen-Route) - Switzerland
- Drava Cycle Route (Drauradweg) - Carinthia, Austria
- Rhine Cycle Route (Rhein-Route, EuroVelo 15) - Switzerland
- Aare Cycle Route (Aare-Route) - Switzerland
- Baltic Sea Coast Cycle Route (Ostseeküsten-Radweg, EuroVelo 10/13) - Germany
- Velo Baltica (EuroVelo 10/13) - West Pomerania, Poland
- Loire by Bike (La Loire à Vélo, EuroVelo 6) - Loire Valley, France
- Main Cycle Route (Mainradweg, EuroVelo 4) - Franconia, Germany
- North-South Route (Nord-Süd-Route, EuroVelo 5) - Switzerland
- Havel Cycle Route (Havel-Radweg) - Brandenburg, Germany
- Szczecin Lagoon Cycle Route (Wokół Zalewu Szczecińskiego) - West Pomerania, Poland
- Tauber-Altmühl Cycle Route (Tauber-Altmühl Radweg) - Franconia, Germany
- Velo Dunajec - Małopolska, Poland
- Enns Cycle Route (Ennsradweg) - Austria
- Cycling Trentino - Italy
- Hessen Railway Cycle Route (BahnRadweg Hessen) - Hesse, Germany
- EuroVelo 10/13 - Pomorskie, Poland
- Lower Lusatia Mining Route (Niederlausitzer Bergbautour) - Brandenburg, Germany
- Oder-Spree-Tour - Brandenburg, Germany
- Cycling Vorarlberg - Austria
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All photos by Simon Thread, Cycling Thread.
Alpe-Adria Bicycle Route (Ciclovia Alpe-Adria) - Austria, Italy
Ciclovia Alpe-Adria is one of the most popular cycling routes in Euope. Besides the Alpine landscapes admired from the river valleys of Salzburger Land and Carinthia, a significant highlight is the approximately 60-kilometer bike route section utilizing disused railway infrastructure on the edge of the Julian Alps. The bike route here passes through several tunnels, a few railway bridges, and some old train stations converted into roadside bars and restaurants for cyclists. The Italian segment is very interesting from a sightseeing perspective, with the cities telling stories of Italy's history - modern, medieval, and even dating back 1600 years. (35 points)
More: Alpe-Adria Bicycle Route in Austria and Italy
Lakes Route (Seen-Route) - Switzerland
The Lakes Route is one of Switzerland's nine main cycling paths. Known as "Switzerland from a Postcard," this 500-kilometer route takes you through stunning lakes, including about ten in total, and offers views of some of the country's most picturesque spots. Highlights include the charming town of Werdenberg, the iconic Lucerne nestled beneath the Pilatus mountain, the uniquely situated Iseltwald on Lake Brienzersee, the renowned Gruyère region, and the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards along Lake Geneva. In our version of the Lakes Route, we also included Zurich and Lausanne, which marked the beginning and end of an unforgettable cycling adventure through Switzerland. (35)
More: Lakes Route in Switzerland
Drava Cycle Route (Drauradweg) - Carinthia, Austria
The Drava Cycle Route (Drauradweg in German) is about 500 kilometers of cycling adventure on prepared - partly asphalt, partly gravel - bike paths, separated from car traffic. It is one of only four bike routes in Europe with the highest quality rating from the German ADFC. The Drava Route starts in the town of Toblach with panoramas of the Dolomites in the background. From South Tyrol, the route runs through East Tyrol and Carinthia, and then reaches Slovenia and Croatia. The largest place on the route is Villach, a city that is a hub of major, popular bicycle routes crossing Austria. (34)
More: Drava Cycle Route in Austria
Rhine Cycle Route (Rhein-Route, EuroVelo 15) - Switzerland
Switzerland offers an amazing cycling experience along the fascinating Rhine Cycle Route, which is part of the EuroVelo 15 European route and typically takes around seven days to complete. This journey along the Rhine takes cyclists through four distinct landscapes: beginning in the majestic Alps, transitioning into a wide river valley, then following the shores of Lake Constance, and finally winding through another, more untouched river valley. Along the way, you'll pass through charming towns like Chur, Arbon, Schaffhausen, Stein am Rhein and Basel. This route provides a perfect mix of cycling excitement and breathtaking views of Switzerland's natural beauty. (34)
More: Rhine Cycle Route in Switzerland
Aare Cycle Route (Aare-Route) - Switzerland
The Aare Cycle Route offers a comprehensive experience of Switzerland's diverse landscapes, from alpine vistas to serene lakeshores and charming medieval towns, making it a favored choice for cycling enthusiasts seeking to explore the rich natural and cultural heritage of Switzerland. Cyclists begin near the Grimsel Pass, descending through alpine landscapes to Meiringen, where the river carves the impressive Aare Gorge. The route continues along Lake Brienz and Lake Thun. Passing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Bern, the trail meanders through the Swiss Mittelland, characterized by its tranquil rural scenery. The journey concludes in Koblenz, where the Aare meets the Rhine. (33)
More: Aare Cycle Route in Switzerland (coming soon) 👇
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Baltic Sea Coast Cycle Route (Ostseeküsten-Radweg, EuroVelo 10/13) - Germany
The Ostseeküsten-Radweg, the part of the EuroVelo 10 Baltic Sea Cycle Route in Northern Germany, is a proven option for a multi-day, summer expedition. Lübeck can be the starting point and Świnoujście in Poland the endpoint. Many sections running along the coastal line, along beautiful sandy Baltic beaches, give the trip a distinct seaside character. Cities of the former Hanseatic League, including Lübeck (with the European Hanseatic Museum worth seeing), Wismar, Rostock and Stralsund, ensure intriguing historical attractions. I particularly recommend cycling to the Baltic Sea in spring and winter, outside the summer peak season. (33)
More: EuroVelo 10 in Germany (coming soon) 👇
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Velo Baltica (EuroVelo 10/13) - West Pomerania, Poland
The entire length of Poland's EuroVelo 10 from Świnoujście to Elbląg is about 540 kilometers, with the segment running through West Pomerania measuring about 240 kilometers. The Velo Baltica route sees the most cyclists during summer - according to several counters installed along the route, thousands of people ride on West Pomerania's EuroVelo 10 each day. But Velo Baltica can also be a perfect inspiration for a long weekend in spring or autumn, or even for two ordinary, two-day weekends throughout the year. Here, excellent train connections make it convenient to divide the route into two two-day stages: from Świnoujście to Kołobrzeg and from Kołobrzeg to Ustka. (33)
More: EuroVelo 10 in West Pomerania, Poland
Loire by Bike (La Loire à Vélo, EuroVelo 6) - Loire Valley, France
The Loire Valley Bike Route in France is another of the most famous and popular bike routes in Europe that we had the opportunity to ride. The route connecting Orleans, Blois, Amboise, Tours, and Angers leads along safe bike paths, both asphalt and gravel, as well as public roads. Its popularity among cyclists from all over Europe is due to the historical and scenic attractiveness of the route, which leads through well-preserved castles and palaces as well as other historic buildings of various origins, architectural styles, and current uses. Cyclists enjoy numerous amenities, including a well-developed accommodation base friendly to cyclists. (33)
More: Loire by Bike in France
Main Cycle Route (Mainradweg, EuroVelo 4) - Franconia, Germany
Mainradweg, the bike route along the Main River, is the second most popular cycling route in Germany. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of cycling activity with both historical and culinary experiences. Two UNESCO-listed sites - Bamberg and Würzburg, along with the beautiful Bayreuth and dozens of charming towns, satisfy even the most discerning cycling enthusiasts. The entire route, stretching about 600 kilometers, could be a pretext for a 10-day stay in Franconia, mostly spent on riverside bike paths. Stays along the Main are also enhanced by vineyards or breweries, depending on the part of Franconia visited - the "wine" or "beer" regions. (33)
More: Main Cycle Route in Franconia
North-South Route (Nord-Süd-Route, EuroVelo 5) - Switzerland
The Nord-Süd-Route (North-South Route) is one of the most renowned cycling routes in Switzerland. Marked as Route 3, it is part of Veloland, a national network of nine Swiss tourist cycling routes. The Nord-Süd-Route begins in Basel in northern Switzerland and ends in Chiasso in the south, crossing the main chain of the Alps via the famous Gotthard Pass. This route offers over 360 kilometers of an unforgettable cycling adventure, though several sections are more challenging compared to other routes in Switzerland's "top 9". For a relatively short route - 360 kilometers being suited for a 5-day or at most week-long journey - the Nord-Süd-Route is remarkably diverse in terms of the landscapes it traverses. (33)
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Havel Cycle Route (Havel-Radweg) - Brandenburg, Germany
The Havel Cycle Route is a picturesque journey tracing the Havel River from its source in Ankershagen, Mecklenburg, to its confluence with the Elbe. This well-signposted route guides cyclists through diverse landscapes of Brandenburg. The Havel Cycle Route is predominantly flat, making it suitable for cyclists of varying skill levels. The path comprises both paved and unpaved sections, all maintained to a high standard. Havel Cycle Route offers a comprehensive experience of northeastern Germany's diverse landscapes, from tranquil lakeshores to vibrant urban centers, making it a favored choice for cycling enthusiasts seeking to explore the region's rich natural and cultural heritage. (32)
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Szczecin Lagoon Cycle Route (Wokół Zalewu Szczecińskiego) - West Pomerania, Poland
The complete cycling loop around Szczecin Lagoon and Lake Dąbie covers an official distance of 296 kilometers. Of this, approximately 200 kilometers lie within West Pomerania, one of the three Polish regions actively developing a comprehensive network of tourist cycling routes. The remaining 100 kilometers stretch across the German side, showcasing practical examples of Germany’s approach to cycling tourism. Together, these sections offer an excellent opportunity for a multi-day cycling adventure in West Pomerania and neighboring Mecklenburg. And it’s not just a summer option – with convenient train connections to various points on the Polish side, the route is well-suited for year-round one-day trips or weekend excursions. (32)
More: Szczecin Lagoon Cycle Route in West Pomerania, Poland
Tauber-Altmühl Cycle Route (Tauber-Altmühl Radweg) - Franconia, Germany
The Tauber and Altmühl River Cycling Route offers a unique journey, combining two rivers in a single experience. Starting in Wertheim, where the Tauber meets the Main River, the route follows the Tauber upstream, leading to the picturesque Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This stunning Franconian town, perched at the highest elevation along the trail, is often considered the route’s crown jewel. From Rothenburg, cyclists cross the nearby European Watershed to join the Altmühl River, which flows gently downstream to the route’s end in Kelheim, where the Altmühl meets the Danube. The Tauber-Altmühl Cycle Route promises a diverse and memorable cycling adventure through some of southern Germany’s most charming landscapes. (32)
More: Tauber-Altmühl Cycle Route in Franconia, Germany
Velo Dunajec - Małopolska, Poland
Velo Dunajec in Małopolska (Lesser Poland) also deserves a place among the most beautiful cycling routes in Europe. After all, few European bike routes can boast such diverse landscapes over just over two hundred kilometers. Starting under the Tatra Mountains in Zakopane, descending the scenic variant from Gubałówka, then an impressive ride around Czorsztyn Lake, followed by the unique Pieniny Dunajec Gorge, bike bridges over the Dunajec and Poprad rivers, and finally the beautiful Tarnów and the finish line by the Vistula River - this is bound to impress a cycling guest from Europe, waiting for the day when Polish will no longer be the dominant language among cyclists over the Dunajec. (32)
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Enns Cycle Route (Ennsradweg) - Austria
The Enns Cycle Route (Ennsradweg) is a picturesque cycling path in Austria, stretching approximately 240 kilometers from the Central Alps to the Danube River. The trail begins in the town of Radstadt in the Salzburger Land region, traverses through Styria, and concludes in Enns, Upper Austria's oldest town. Cyclists embarking on this journey will encounter a diverse array of landscapes, including alpine vistas, serene river valleys, and charming villages. Along the way, notable attractions include the historic town of Schladming, the Benedictine Abbey of Admont with its renowned library, and the scenic Gesäuse National Park. (31)
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Cycling Trentino - Italy
Trentino, located in northern Italy, boasts an extensive network of cycling routes that form a scenic loop of approximately 400 kilometers around the region. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, from the Adige Valley to the alpine valleys of Val di Fiemme and Val di Sole, and even reach the northern tip of Lake Garda. With a well-developed tourist infrastructure, including numerous bike-friendly accommodations, Trentino is an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Dolomites. Cyclists have the opportunity to explore charming towns like Trento and Rovereto, savor local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the region’s rich culture. (31)
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Hessen Railway Cycle Route (BahnRadweg Hessen) - Hesse, Germany
The Hessen Railway Cycle Route is a premier cycling route in Germany. This route ingeniously repurposes old railway lines, offering cyclists a unique journey through the region's rich history and diverse landscapes. Commencing in Hanau, the birthplace of the Brothers Grimm, the trail meanders through picturesque towns such as Lauterbach and Schlitz, each renowned for their charming half-timbered architecture. Cyclists traverse the expansive Vogelsberg and Rhön mountain ranges, areas celebrated for their geological significance. A highlight of the route is the Vulkanradweg, a segment that passes through Central Europe's largest extinct volcanic region. (30)
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EuroVelo 10/13 - Pomorskie, Poland
EuroVelo 10 traverses the Pomeranian Voivodeship in northern Poland, offering cyclists a diverse and scenic journey along the Baltic coastline. Spanning approximately 300 kilometers, this segment begins at the border with the West Pomeranian Voivodeship and passes through notable locations such as Ustka, Łeba, Puck, Gdańsk, and concludes in Elbląg. While some sections of the trail feature well-maintained asphalt paths, particularly those repurposed from former railway lines, other parts may present more challenging terrain, such as sandy or uneven surfaces, especially within natural reserves like the Słowiński National Park. It's advisable for cyclists to be prepared for these varying conditions. (30)
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Lower Lusatia Mining Route (Niederlausitzer Bergbautour) - Brandenburg, Germany
The Niederlausitzer Bergbautour, or Lower Lusatia Mining Route, is a cycling route through the southern part of Brandenburg. This trail offers a unique journey through more than 150 years of lignite (brown coal) mining history, showcasing a blend of industrial heritage, picturesque towns, active and former open-cast mines, and newly created landscapes. Cyclists can explore various attractions along the way, including the F60 overburden conveyor bridge in Lichterfeld, often referred to as the "lying Eiffel Tower" due to its impressive size. This former industrial giant now serves as a visitor mine and can be toured to gain insights into the region's mining past. (30)
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Oder-Spree-Tour - Brandenburg, Germany
The Oder-Spree-Tour loop begins in Frankfurt (Oder) and winds through the Oder-Spree Lakeland, encompassing forests, lakes, rivers, and canals between the Oder and Spree rivers. Cyclists traverse the Oder-Spree Canal and the older Frederick William Canal, experiencing well-maintained paths and dedicated cycling infrastructure. Accommodations, including Bett+Bike-certified establishments, are available along the route, ensuring a cyclist-friendly experience. This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Brandenburg's natural beauty, historical towns, and cultural landmarks, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive cycling adventure in Germany. (30)
More: Oder-Spree-Tour in Brandenburg, Germany
Cycling Vorarlberg - Austria
Vorarlberg, Austria's westernmost region, offers a network of well-marked cycling trails that showcase its stunning alpine landscapes and charming villages. One of the highlights is starting your journey at Silvretta Lake, nestled high in the Silvretta Alps, with its turquoise waters providing a breathtaking backdrop for the beginning of an adventure. From there, cyclists can join the Montafon Cycle Path, a route that winds through the picturesque Montafon Valley, surrounded by towering peaks and idyllic pastures. Vorarlberg’s cycling infrastructure ensures well-maintained paths, clear signage, and cyclist-friendly amenities, making it suitable for both casual riders and more experienced adventurers. The combination of high-altitude lakes, serene valleys, and cultural heritage makes Vorarlberg a captivating destination for cycling enthusiasts. (30)
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