Discovering a city by bike means a change of pace and a whole new way of looking at things. In Europe, more and more cities are turning to two-wheeled transport. Some, such as Amsterdam and Copenhagen, are true benchmarks in the field.
Travelling by bike is practical, economical and great fun. In fact, it’s become our preferred means of transport for exploring European capitals, especially since we’ve been traveling with our daughter. We avoid traffic jams, take our time, stop whenever we like. And above all, you’re completely immersed in the local atmosphere. Here’s our selection of 5 cities to discover by bike in Europe, with ideas for outings, practical advice, and our favorites on two wheels.
1. Amsterdam, the cycling capital of the world
It’s impossible to talk about cities to discover by bike without starting with Amsterdam. Here, cycling isn’t just a means of transport, it’s an institution. There are more bicycles than inhabitants, and nearly 400 kilometers of bike paths crisscross the city. Everything has been designed with cyclists in mind, from dedicated traffic lights to giant bike parks.
Pedal along the canals, through neighborhoods such as Jordaan, Vondelpark and Oost. The Dutch countryside is just a few pedal strokes away. The Amsterdam – Ouderkerk aan de Amstel – Amsterdam loop is ideal for families.
Rent a bike in Amsterdam: our tips
We recommend Yellow Bike or Rent a Bike, with prices around €10 to €15 a day. Cargo bikes are available for families.
➡️ For more details, see our complete guide to Passion Amsterdam.
2. Copenhagen, the other cyclist’s paradise
The Danish capital is perhaps the most bike-friendly city in the world. With over 390 kilometers of bike paths, bridges like the Cykelslangen and a deeply rooted cycling culture, Copenhagen is a model of bike-friendly urban planning. It’s a city we loved discovering on our Scandinavian road trip.
Our favorite walks
We love Nørrebro and Superkilen Park, Frederiksberg for its peace and quiet, or Nyhavn early in the morning. For a longer outing, head for Amager Strandpark.
Rent a bike in Copenhagen
Use Donkey Republic via app, or go through Copenhagen Bicycles. Expect to pay €15-20 a day. Cargo bikes are also very common here.
➡️ Find all our tips for exploring Copenhagen on our dedicated website.
3. Strasbourg, France’s most bike-friendly city
After 10 months of motorhoming in Southern and Western Europe, we took advantage of the return trip to make a few stops in Eastern France. What a great idea! Strasbourg is a city perfectly suited to a bike tour. The city center, the quays, the river banks, the European quarter and even Kehl in Germany are all easily accessible by bike.
Our favourite itineraries
The loop through the quays of theIll, the Rhone-Rhine canal and the Parc de l’Orangerie. Special mention to the Rhine crossing by bike!
We were there with our own bikes
We brought our own bikes, which was perfect for riding as a family, without worrying about rentals or schedules. Strasbourg is very well equipped to welcome cyclists with their own bikes.
4. Vienne à vélo : entre élégance impériale et douceur de vivre
Vienne surprend par sa douceur de vivre et son côté très vert, parfait pour se découvrir à vélo. C’est une ville élégante, mais sans prétention, où l’on pédale tranquillement entre histoire impériale et modernité bien pensée.
Nos balades à vélo à Vienne
On aime longer le Danube, flâner dans le Prater ou traverser les grands boulevards bordés d’arbres autour du Ring. Le centre historique se parcourt facilement, et les quartiers plus résidentiels comme Neubau ou Josefstadt offrent une belle ambiance locale.
Une capitale vélo-friendly en pleine évolution
Vienne a misé sur les aménagements cyclables ces dernières années. Même si tout n’est pas encore parfait, la ville avance vite. On sent une vraie volonté de rendre la mobilité douce plus accessible, notamment avec les grands axes cyclables et les nombreuses stations de location de vélos.
5. Ljubljana, Slovenia’s little green pearl
Ljubljana is a peaceful, largely pedestrian capital, ideal for gentle exploration. The historic center, Tivoli Park and the Pot spominov green trail are must-sees.
Cycling in Ljubljana
We drive between colorful buildings, markets and along the Ljubljanica River. The atmosphere is relaxed and perfect for families.
Self-service bikes and logistics
The city offers self-service bike rental on the website BicikeLJ.
Practical tips for cycling in Europe’s cities
- If possible, travel with your bike, especially by train or car.
- Bring a good anti-theft device and find out about local traffic regulations.
- Use apps like Komoot or Bikemap to plot your routes.
- Check the bike storage services offered by your accommodation.
Conclusion
Exploring Europe by bike means adopting a gentle pace, discovering unexpected corners, and creating unique memories. And if you like this kind of escapade, stay tuned: we’ve just sold our camper van, and we’re preparing other ideas for pedaling even further!
