Some cities are best explored on foot. Others beg for a seat on two wheels. Europe has both in spades — and when it comes to immersing yourself in a destination’s rhythm, a bike ride offers the perfect balance between sightseeing and freedom. Whether you're cruising a coastal path in Spain or cycling beneath the shadow of Norway’s mountains, bike excursions in Europe turn travel into an experience that’s active, scenic and surprisingly serene.
Here are some of the best cycling cities in Europe, each offering a fresh perspective on iconic cities and lesser-known gems — all within easy reach of major ports.
1. Valencia, Spain
Best for: Flat, sunny city rides through modern and medieval sights
Valencia is one of Spain’s most bike-friendly cities, with long stretches of green parkways and wide bike lanes that make exploring effortless. One of the most scenic rides starts near the port and winds through the lush Turia Gardens — a former riverbed turned city park — and continues past historic towers, Gothic bridges and tree-lined boulevards.
The route captures the city’s contrasts: golden-hued cathedrals, shaded plazas and the jaw-dropping futuristic forms of the City of Arts and Sciences. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for more, Valencia's laid-back cycling culture makes it easy to fall in love with the city’s layered personality.
2. Rotterdam, Netherlands
Best for: Urban design, architecture and foodie detours
In Rotterdam, cycling is more than transportation — it’s a lifestyle. The city’s sleek design and flat layout make it perfect for exploring by bike. Pedal past glimmering high-rises, creative public art and bold architecture that reflects the city's post-war reinvention.
What makes cycling in Rotterdam stand out is the connection between movement and taste. You can break up your ride with stops at local markets or tucked-away cafés serving Dutch classics. It's a city that feeds both your curiosity and your appetite.
3. La Coruña, Spain
Best for: Coastal scenery and Roman landmarks
If you're looking for biking trails in Europe with sea views, La Coruña’s coastal promenade is one of the most spectacular. The loop around the peninsula offers breezy rides alongside the Atlantic Ocean, with stops at golden beaches, historic castles and open-air museums.
La Coruña’s signature landmark, the Tower of Hercules, dates back to Roman times and still functions as a lighthouse today. Pedaling through this city blends the thrill of seaside cycling with the richness of Spain’s layered history.
4. Skjolden, Norway
Best for: Mountain valleys and fjord-side serenity
Tucked between steep mountains and sparkling fjords, Skjolden is a paradise for nature lovers who want to see the landscape at their own pace. While many visitors come for the hiking trails, biking through the lush Mørkid Valley offers a more intimate connection with the Norwegian countryside.
The ride is peaceful and scenic — think rolling meadows, grazing sheep and the occasional waterfall tumbling down granite cliffs. For travelers craving a slow, sensory-rich escape, Skjolden offers one of the most unforgettable bike rides in Northern Europe.
5. Copenhagen, Denmark
Best for: Creative neighborhoods and canal-side cruising
Few cities embrace cycling like Copenhagen. More than half of the population commutes by bike and the city’s infrastructure makes it feel not just convenient, but delightful. The cycling paths are smooth and safe and the sights come fast — from royal palaces and modern bridges to bohemian neighborhoods alive with murals and music.
Whether you're drifting along the harbor or crossing into trendy districts like Vesterbro or Nørrebro, biking in Copenhagen feels like you’re living in a postcard. It’s one of the most energizing and efficient ways to explore a city that truly moves on two wheels.
6. Lisbon, Portugal
Best for: Hilltop views, riverfront paths and electric ease
Lisbon’s cobblestone streets and hills might seem daunting at first glance, but electric bikes turn this city into a dream to explore. The journey might start with a panoramic view over red-tiled rooftops, then wind down narrow alleys to riverside bike paths lined with outdoor cafés and tiled buildings.
Along the way, you’ll pass key sights like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, each one offering a look into Lisbon’s storied maritime past. With every turn, you’ll feel the mix of grit and elegance that makes Portugal’s capital so compelling.
7. Provence, France
Best for: Lavender fields, village markets and wine country scenery
Rolling hills, medieval towns and fields of lavender — Provence offers one of the most scenic backdrops for a bike ride in Europe. The trails wind through the countryside, connecting you to local markets, family-run vineyards and sun-drenched village squares where time feels slower.
You don’t have to be an athlete to enjoy this ride. The terrain is gentle and the reward is pure atmosphere. Provence by bike is less about speed and more about soaking in the landscape, one charming vista at a time.
Why Take a Bike Excursion in Europe?
There’s something uniquely satisfying about exploring a city or countryside from the saddle of a bicycle. You move fast enough to cover ground but slow enough to truly see, feel and experience the destination. Bike excursions blend sightseeing with activity and give you access to corners of Europe that you might miss from a car or tour bus.
Whether you're drawn to nature, architecture or food, there’s a bike tour that brings that theme to life — all without losing the joy of discovery.
Here are some top-rated bike excursions in Europe to look out for:
- Mørkid Valley Bike and Hike – Skjolden, Norway
- Pedal through lush valleys and fjordside scenery, then hike forested trails with insights into local traditions.
- Valencia Biking Tour – Spain
- Cycle through historic and modern neighborhoods, from Gothic towers to futuristic architecture.
- Bike and Bites – Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Explore Rotterdam’s vibrant streets and sample local treats along the way.
- Explore La Coruña by Bike – Spain
- Ride along the Atlantic coastline past castles, museums and ancient Roman landmarks.
What are the Best Bike Tours in Europe?
The best bike tours in Europe take you off the typical tourist trail and into the heart of each destination. Whether you’re gliding along Denmark’s canals, climbing hills in Portugal or riding past Roman ruins in Spain, biking lets you see, hear and feel more of what makes each place unique. Europe offers more than just scenic views — with bike-friendly paths, guided routes and beautiful terrain, it invites you to experience each place more deeply.
