Six Of The Best Cycling Holidays Europe
Six Of The Best Cycling Holidays Europe
Best Cycling Holidays Europe
Best Cycling Holidays Europe
- Top Cycling Holidays in Europe: Discover a curated list of the best cycling trips across Europe, from coast-to-coast journeys to river routes and mountain adventures.
- Venice to Pisa – The Italian Coast to Coast: Experience a Renaissance-themed cycling adventure through Italy, passing charming villages, spectacular landscapes, and iconic sights like Pisa’s leaning tower.
- London to Paris – The Classic Ride: Cycle from the English countryside, across the Channel, to Paris, enjoying scenic routes, charming villages, and the thrilling city finish at landmarks like the Eiffel Tower.
- Norway Atlantic Coast in the Arctic Circle: Cycle in the midnight sun along Norway’s spectacular Atlantic coastline enjoying quiet roads, beautiful fjords and epic views of islands and inlets.
- Vienna to Budapest Along the Danube: Explore Europe’s second-longest river on a relaxed, mostly flat ride through ten countries and four capitals, enjoying historic sites and scenic river views.
- Cycle the Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania: Take on Romania’s legendary mountain pass with hairpin bends, stunning landscapes, castles, and dams, for a truly unspoiled and thrilling cycling experience.
A pick of six of the best cycling holidays Europe to help you choose your next… or first, experience cycling some of the most exciting, famous and spectacular destinations of Europe.
Discover some of the most exciting and picturesque cycling holidays across Europe with our carefully curated list of the best options.
From the timeless charm of Italy’s coast-to-coast adventure, cycling from Venice to Pisa, to the iconic London to Paris route that takes you through charming villages and bustling cityscapes, each trip offers a unique blend of culture, scenery, and unforgettable experiences.
The Italian journey immerses you in Renaissance landscapes, small villages, and delicious local cuisine, culminating in a spectacular view of Pisa’s famous leaning tower. Meanwhile, the London to Paris ride combines scenic countryside with the thrill of crossing the English Channel, ending with a memorable city tour through Paris’s historic streets and landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. Other notable trips include exploring Europe’s mighty Danube River from Vienna to Budapest, passing through multiple countries and capitals, offering a rich cultural tapestry along gentle river routes.
Whether you’re seeking coastal adventures, historic city rides, or scenic river journeys, these holidays promise an inspiring way to explore Europe on two wheels while enjoying its diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures.
Venice To Pisa – The Classic Italian Coast To Coast
Possibly the one cycling trip you need to make in Italy is the classic Italian Coast to Coast bike ride from Venice to Pisa. Right from the moment you touch the ground and feel the warmth of the Venetian sea air, immediately while on your water taxi from the airport to your Venice hotel you realise you are on a renaissance adventure like no other. This four day grand tour of ancient Italy will have you pinching yourself as you cycle from one great city to another on quiet roads through spectacular landscape, small unspoilt villages and beautiful piazza’s, tasting local cuisine and delicacies and of course sampling the local tipple – and we haven’t mentioned the coffee yet! Italy ticks all the boxes for a cycling holiday, as you ride from the Adriatic to the Tyrrhenian cycling over the Apennines taking in all the sights and and hospitality along the way, you will by the time you reach Pisa and are taking dinner in the rooftop hotel restaurant overlooking the city towards the leaning bell tower of Pisa have completed a cycling experience of a lifetime with indelible memories for life. Dolce Vita ~ Bella Italia!
The Classic London To Paris Bike Ride
Easily Europe’s single most popular cycling tour, the London to Paris bike ride annually see’s 1000’s of cyclists cross the English channel into France before finally entering Paris and the parade ride down the Champs Elysees. With plenty of villages and pretty squares along the way, you will ride peaceful lanes and back roads from one capital to the other in three easy days on two wheels. Covering upto 100km (63mi) each day the cycling is not overly testing but you will enjoy the post ride refreshments at the end of the day nonetheless, and as you slowly approach Paris the sense of excitement and celebration is palpable by the time you catch your first glimpse of the city outline on the horizon. The final afternoon riding into Paris is one of the best afternoons city cycling you’ll experience, from the relative peace of river cyclepath and the suburbs you are quickly and expertly shepherded into the heart of the city and the familiar Haussmann architecture of the Napoleonic era. The highlight for some is the arrival to the Eiffel Tower but for many it’s the ride upto and around the incredible landmark that is le prix de l’arc de triomphe – a magnificent elevated monument that stands proud over the city and is really quite something to cycle around. The ride finish is the Eiffel tower but the climax is probably the section of cycling after that from the Eiffel tower back to l’arc de triomphe and then the turn down from l’arc de triomphe into the Champs Elysees – what a sight! You will ride the full length of the cobble avenue from l’arc de triomphe all the way to the Place de la Concorde before making your short way to your city hotel – magnifique!
Discover Danube – Cycle Vienna To Budapest
Originating in the Black Forest in Germany, Europe’s second longest river, the Danube is one of the grandest rivers in the world, meandering more than 2,000 kilometres between the Schwarzwald area in Germany and the Black Sea. It is also the most international river in the world as it passes through no less than ten different countries along the way and through four capital cities; Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest and Belgrade before emptying into the Black Sea through the Danube Delta in Romania and Ukraine. Untouched by modernity, the Danube still holds a rich heritage of culture and unspoiled landscape for you to explore on your bicycle. Without any hills, this leisurely ride along the spectacular Danube cycle path has been carefully designed with shorter daily distances than most other cycling trips and is ideal for groups of friends, couples and families seeking a cycling holiday experience together in this beautiful part of Europe visiting great cities, tasting great cuisine and enjoying great hospitality along the way.
Cycle Norway Atlantic Coast
Cycling in Norway stands out as one of Europe’s most exceptional cycling holidays, offering a perfect combination of stunning scenery, challenging routes, and peaceful surroundings.
The Atlantic Coast route, in particular, highlights Norway’s rugged beauty with its dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and pristine coastlines that seem almost untouched by time. Riders can explore remote islands, charming fishing villages, and sweeping landscapes that change dramatically with each turn of the road. The well-maintained cycling paths and quiet country roads make it accessible for cyclists of all levels, from seasoned adventurers to casual riders seeking scenic tranquility. The unpredictable weather adds an extra layer of excitement, encouraging adaptability and resilience as you pedal through misty mornings or bright sunny afternoons.
Norway’s natural beauty is complemented by its welcoming local culture and delicious seafood, making every stop a delightful experience. The sense of freedom and connection to nature that comes from cycling through such untouched wilderness is truly invigorating. Whether tackling steep mountain passes or leisurely cruising along coastal routes, cyclists are rewarded with awe-inspiring views at every mile.
This unique blend of adventure, serenity, and spectacular scenery makes Norway a top destination for those looking to combine physical challenge with breathtaking natural wonders—truly one of the best cycling holidays in Europe.
Ride The Transfăgărășan Epic
Firmly scribed into the tablets of fabled mountain passes of the world, completed in the mid-seventies after four years of construction, 6000 tons of dynamite and climbing to over 2000m in altitude, this was never going to be any ordinary road, but then the designers also threw in endless hairpins, breathtaking gradients and cambered curves to rival the best anywhere in the world. Reputedly a folly and strategically pointless, this mythical 90km of asphalt is now Romania’s best known tourist attraction after Count Vlad’s Castle – have we mentioned we go there too! This four day cycle will have your eyes on sensory overload as you try to take in every second of your experience in this totally unspoiled corner of Europe. From the ride out of Bucharest through the Romany villages up into the Carpathian mountains your surroundings change mile after mile of historic castles and not to forget the spectacular Vidraru Dam. The cities visited also through this trip will have your camera snapping too at the architecture and cathedrals of the region and also the local delicacies will have your taste buds snapping too. An overall unique cycling adventure with overwhelming hospitality which if you’re really keen you might even get a little of the language too before you leave!
Alpine TdF Velo Spectacular – Route des Grand Alps
Riding in the tracks of legends, possibly the ultimate French Alps Tour de France cycling holiday you will ever find! Cycling no less than eight of the Tour De France’s most famous climbs all in one epic cycling holiday – this itinerary has it all! Right from the start on the shores of beautiful lake Annecy – the backdrop to the greatest and most spectacular time trials of le Tour, you will cycle onwards through picturesque Isère valley to the dizzying hairpins of Lacets de Montvernier before a night over in one of the Alps big cycling stop over towns, Saint Jean de Maurienne. The following morning things begin to really rev up as you prepare to take on the mythical slopes le Croix de Fer, possibly the most stunning summit in the Alps, before then on to the mountain for ‘le combatif’, Alpe d’Huez – not the biggest of the mountains but the scene of some of the greatest and memorable battles in the history of the tour with a terrific summit town to finish and a cool beer at the top. Day three sees you transition from the high Alps into the rolling hills of Provence but not before ticking off three more summits including the prickly Col de Parquetout before resting in the pretty gateway town of Serres. The final morning sees you riding into the fertile agricultural valleys of Provence before entering the Ventoux range but not before a trip highlight and another secret of France tucked away, the Gorges de la Méouge, a stunning 10km section with arches and cuttings twisting close to the river Méouge to delight you on your way to your first morning coffee break. Once over the first climb of the day, Col de Macuègne, you then catch your first sight of the ‘giant of Provence’ ahead of you and what a sight it is, but don’t get carried away, it’s so big that you’ve still a few hours away from reaching the summit. The sleeping giant is just shy of 2000m above sea level and dominates the region, it can be seen up to 50km away! There are three gateway towns at the foot of Ventoux and for us we ride into the town of Sault to take in refreshments before our assault and make sure you’re ready, this is probably going to be the biggest climb of your life! Take your time, it’s also likely to be the most spectacular climb you ride too and the summit for most will come around two hours later by which you are greeted by the most iconic mountain top finish possible in cycle with far reaching views spreading in all directions across this beautiful region of France. The climb is done but the ride is not over, now check your brakes and prepare for the biggest downhill of your life. The views are spectacular but keep your eyes on the road as the sweeping bends and hairpins of this mythical mountain will have your pulse beating into the red for the next sixty minutes as you drop down into your overnight village of Bedoin and straight into the first cafe bar for your celebratory glass of beer – c’est magnafique!
Tenerife Cycle Experience
Tenerife is no joke, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, off West Africa it is the home of no less than three volcanoes. All dominated by one… Mt. Teide, a giant active volcano that is Spain’s, and indeed any Atlantic islands tallest peak, and possibly most breathtaking climb – literally! …and we haven’t even mentioned the lava fields, towering rock formations and ancient forests yet that all inhabit this incredible little island poking out of the ocean. The moment you land you will instantly understand why this is a popular pre-season destination for the Pro Teams who come and sharpen up the legs before the fixture list hots up. Nearly all year round, the climate is fantastically stable and the riding spectacular with plenty to offer for us mere mortals too as well as the pro’s so making the Gran Canaria islands the regular go-to destination for many teams and amateurs. This three day cycling experience itinerary will take you on tour on the bottom face of this triangular island taking in all the best the island has to offer. The easy daily distances ensure you have time to ride ‘heads-up’ and soak up the sun and the scenery while you weave your way round, over and through hidden valleys, magnificent climbs and pretty unspoiled villages. Highlights include visiting beautiful unspoiled coastal fishing ports, silky smooth roads, mountain villages and of course not forgetting – Mount Teide! Make no mistake, Tenerife really only exists because of this one mountain, many moons ago this gurgling volcano broke through the Atlantic ocean surface to create the place we all love to flock to today, so remember when you’re back at the hotel bar by the pool, to make a toast to this magnificent giant volcano now standing at 3,715m and still growing! On top of all this you will also enjoy great cuisine and fantastic hospitality all the way too making this a truly fantastic short break cycling experience that you should place firmly on your ‘six of the best’ cycling bucket list… enjoy!
Six Best Cycling Holidays Europe
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Best Cycling Routes in Europe FAQs
What are some of the top cycling holidays in Europe?
Discover a variety of scenic and culturally rich cycling trips across Europe, including coast-to-coast adventures in Italy, iconic city-to-city rides like London to Paris, and relaxing river journeys along the Danube. Each route offers unique landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Why should I choose a cycling holiday in Europe?
Cycling holidays in Europe provide a perfect blend of stunning scenery, historic sites, and vibrant cultures. They allow you to explore diverse landscapes at your own pace while enjoying local cuisine, charming villages, and iconic landmarks—making your trip both active and enriching.
What is the Venice to Pisa cycling route like?
The Venice to Pisa route takes you through Italy’s beautiful countryside, small villages, and historic cities. Over four days, you’ll cycle from the Adriatic Sea to the Tyrrhenian coast, passing landmarks like Florence and Pisa’s leaning tower, all while tasting delicious local food and experiencing authentic Italian hospitality.
How challenging are the London to Paris cycling tours?
The London to Paris ride covers approximately 300 miles over three days, with daily distances up to 100 km (63 miles). It’s suitable for cyclists with moderate experience, offering scenic countryside routes and manageable terrain. The focus is on enjoyment and sightseeing rather than extreme endurance.
Can I customize my European cycling holiday?
Many European cycling tours offer options for customization based on your fitness level, interests, and preferred destinations. Whether you want a leisurely river cruise or an adventurous mountain pass like Romania’s Transfăgărășan Highway, there are tailored options to suit every cyclist’s dream trip.
What are some of the best cycling holidays Europe has to offer?
Some of the best cycling holidays in Europe include scenic routes like Venice to Pisa, London to Paris, Vienna to Budapest along the Danube, the Transfăgărășan Highway in Romania, and the French Alps Tour de France route, among others.
What makes the Venice to Pisa cycling trip special?
The Venice to Pisa trip offers a Renaissance adventure through Italy, riding along quiet roads through spectacular landscapes, small villages, tasting local cuisine, and enjoying spectacular views like Pisa’s famous leaning tower.
What can I expect from the London to Paris bike ride?
The London to Paris bike ride is very popular, taking you from the English countryside across the Channel into France, riding peaceful lanes, then into Paris with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Champs Elysees, culminating in a festive finish.
What is unique about cycling the Danube from Vienna to Budapest?
Cycling the Danube from Vienna to Budapest allows you to explore Europe’s second-longest river, passing through ten countries and four capitals, and enjoying scenic river routes, historic locations, and rich culture in a relaxed, mostly flat ride.
Why should I consider cycling the Transfăgărășan Highway in Romania?
Cycling the Transfăgărășan Highway is a spectacular experience through unspoiled mountains with hairpin bends, breathtaking gradients, and scenic sights like castles and dams, offering an adventure in one of Europe’s most iconic mountain passes.
What can I expect to see while cycling the Norway Atlantic Coast?
Cycling the Norway Atlantic Coast promises stunning scenery at every turn. You’ll pass along the iconic Atlantic Road, famous for its dramatic bridges that seem to float over the ocean, offering spectacular views of the rugged coastline and turbulent waters. Along the route, you’ll also explore charming fishing villages, lush green landscapes, and dramatic cliffs that rise sharply from the sea. The area is rich in wildlife and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy peaceful moments amidst nature’s raw beauty.
Is the Norway Atlantic Coast route suitable for all cyclists?
The route along Norway’s Atlantic Coast is designed for cyclists with a good level of fitness and some experience riding on varied terrain. While most of the ride is on well-maintained roads, there are sections with hilly terrain and potentially unpredictable weather conditions, especially near the coast. It’s advisable to be prepared with appropriate gear, including waterproof clothing and sturdy bikes suited for diverse surfaces. With proper preparation, most riders will find this journey both manageable and incredibly rewarding.
