Europe is one of the most rewarding places in the world for cycling tours. With its extensive network of dedicated bike paths, quiet country roads, and bike-friendly infrastructure, the continent offers routes for every level of rider. 

What makes cycling in Europe truly special is the diversity of landscapes packed into relatively short distances. One day can bring vineyards and river valleys; the next, rolling hills, alpine views, or coastal scenery.

Beyond the natural beauty, Europe delivers a rich cultural backdrop to every ride. Cyclists can explore medieval towns, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and bustling markets, and all while stopping for fresh local meals, regional wines, and historical landmarks. Well-organized trail systems and services like luggage transport, route signage, and e-bike rentals make both self-guided and guided cycling holidays in Europe easy to plan and enjoyable to complete.

Let's take a closer look at some of the top cycling routes to explore this summer while traveling to Europe.

Danube Cycle Path (Germany & Austria)

Distance: Approx. 320 km
Route: Passau to Vienna along the Danube River

The Danube Cycle Path is one of the most iconic and accessible bicycle tours in Europe. Running from the German town of Passau to the Austrian capital of Vienna, this route follows the gentle curves of the Danube River. The path is mostly flat, well-paved, and clearly marked, making it suitable for cyclists of all experience levels.

Along the way, riders pass a rich tapestry of landscapes: lush riverbanks, terraced vineyards, and charming villages with centuries-old architecture. Highlights include the baroque Melk Abbey perched above the river, the scenic wine-producing region of Wachau Valley, and the grand finish in Vienna, with its imperial landmarks, museums, and lively café culture.

This route offers many opportunities to pause and explore. Local wineries, open-air markets, and riverside inns provide a taste of regional life. With excellent signage, luggage transfer services, and easy access to accommodations, the Danube Cycle Path is one of the most enjoyable and well-supported cycling trips in Europe.

Provence Lavender Route (France)

Distance: 30-60 km per day (loop options)
Route: Through the Luberon and Verdon regions

The Provence Lavender Route offers a colorful and fragrant ride through southern France. Best enjoyed in late June through mid-July, this route winds through fields of blooming lavender, olive groves, and sun-drenched vineyards. It passes through hilltop villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Sault, each offering local charm, artisan markets, and scenic viewpoints.

The roads here are quiet and winding, ideal for relaxed daily rides with plenty of time to stop and explore. Cyclists can visit local distilleries, sample Provençal cuisine, and tour Roman ruins and historic abbeys along the way. The landscape is varied but manageable, making it a pleasant ride for most levels.

With comfortable accommodations in restored farmhouses or small village hotels, and the option to enjoy regional food and wine each evening, the Provence Lavender Route is a cycling holiday that blends nature, culture, and the slow pace of rural life.

Tuscany Cycling Trail (Italy)

Distance: Approx. 200 km
Route: Florence to Siena via the Chianti region

Cycling through Tuscany offers a timeless journey across rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. Starting in Florence, this route winds south through the heart of the Chianti region before reaching Siena. The terrain includes moderate climbs and descents, rewarding riders with sweeping views and photo-worthy landscapes at every turn.

Along the way, cyclists pass stone-built villages, family-run wineries, and historic landmarks. Highlights include the town of Greve in Chianti, known for its wine cellars and markets, and Castellina with its medieval tunnels and panoramic hilltops. The final stretch into Siena brings riders into a city famous for its architecture, piazzas, and traditions.

This route offers rich experiences both on and off the bike. Riders can enjoy tastings at wine estates, explore Renaissance sites, and relax in countryside accommodations. With its mix of nature, culture, and regional cuisine, the Tuscany Cycling Trail is one of the most scenic and satisfying routes in Europe.

Camino de Santiago by Bike (Spain)

Distance: Approx. 300 km
Route: León to Santiago de Compostela

The Camino de Santiago is one of the most historic and culturally significant routes in Europe. While traditionally a pilgrimage walked on foot, many choose to complete the journey by bike, following the same ancient paths across northern Spain. The section from León to Santiago offers a rewarding and varied ride.

Cyclists travel through open plains, forested hills, and traditional Galician villages. The route includes Romanesque churches, stone bridges, and markers that guide the way toward Santiago’s iconic cathedral. The mix of natural beauty and centuries-old architecture makes each day of riding rich with meaning and discovery.

Food and accommodation options are abundant along the trail. Riders can enjoy hearty regional meals and stay in historic inns or modern guesthouses tailored to pilgrims. Completing the Camino by bike offers both a physical challenge and a memorable connection to one of Europe’s great traditions.

Alpe-Adria Trail (Austria to Italy)

Distance: Approx. 410 km
Route: Salzburg to Grado via the Alps

The Alpe-Adria Trail connects the historic Austrian city of Salzburg with the Italian seaside town of Grado. It leads riders through alpine valleys, across mountain tunnels, and into the warm, rolling terrain of northern Italy. This cross-border route features well-marked cycling paths and converted rail trails, making it suitable for touring bikes and e-bikes.

The journey begins in the shadow of Salzburg’s baroque skyline, passes spa towns like Bad Gastein, and continues through the dramatic Tauern Tunnel into the sunny landscapes of Carinthia. From there, cyclists descend into Italy, where they ride past vineyards, orchards, and Roman ruins before reaching the Adriatic coast.

Riders can enjoy a range of cultural experiences along the way, from Austrian alpine traditions to Italian cafés and seaside promenades. The Alpe-Adria Trail is a ride through contrasts, offering mountain vistas and Mediterranean charm all in one unforgettable trip.

Loire Valley Trail (France)

Distance: Approx. 250 km
Route: Orléans to Saumur

The Loire Valley Trail offers a journey through one of France’s most historic and scenic regions. Following the Loire River, this route passes through a landscape of vineyards, forests, and grand châteaux. It is a mostly flat and well-signed route, ideal for relaxed cycling and daily sightseeing.

Cyclists can explore famous castles such as Chambord, Amboise, and Chenonceau, each with its own unique architecture and history. The route also offers access to local wineries, traditional markets, and riverside towns like Blois and Tours. The riding is gentle, making it perfect for multi-day trips with frequent cultural stops.

Accommodation options range from cozy inns to château hotels, and the local cuisine—rich in cheeses, pastries, and Loire Valley wines—adds to the experience. The Loire Valley Trail blends heritage, nature, and comfort in one of the most scenic cycling routes in Europe.

Lake Constance Cycle Path (Germany, Austria, Switzerland)

Distance: Approx. 270 km
Route: Circular loop around Lake Constance

The Lake Constance Cycle Path is a circular trail that winds around the shores of one of Europe’s most beautiful lakes, shared by Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. This well-marked and mostly flat route offers a diverse mix of lakeside scenery, mountain views, and cultural highlights.

The path leads through towns such as Konstanz, Meersburg, Bregenz, and Lindau, each offering its own attractions—from medieval old towns and lakeside promenades to art museums and summer festivals. Riders can enjoy boat crossings, swim breaks, and café stops along the way.

The trail is well-suited for leisurely riding and families, with easy terrain and short daily stages. Comfortable accommodations, efficient transport options, and well-developed cycling infrastructure make it a relaxing and visually stunning journey through three countries.

Even More Routes to Explore

The trails listed above are among the most scenic and well-loved in Europe, but they represent just a fraction of what beautiful European countries has to offer. Beyond these popular routes lie hidden gems like Romania’s Transylvanian hills, Slovenia’s emerald Soča Valley, the Baltic coastlines of Estonia and Latvia, and the dramatic fjords of Norway.

Europe’s cycling network continues to grow, making it easier than ever to plan new adventures. Whether you prefer quiet backroads, mountain terrain, or coastal breezes, there's a route to match your style. With each journey offering unique scenery, flavors, and encounters, the best cycling trips in Europe are often the ones waiting to be discovered.