12 of the best cycling destinations in Europe 2026

Overview: best cycling destinations in Europe 2026

Hover over the map pins to see the place names and keep scrolling to find out more about each featured destination and why it’s made our list!

Best cycling destinations in Europe in spring

1. Algarve, Portugal

Great for pre-season training in a sunny and quiet environment

A stunning coastal gravel trail in the Western Algarve (photo credit: Musette.Bike)

Our view

The Algarve offers some of the best cycling holidays in Europe thanks to its terrain, warm climate, and quiet roads.

While it might not (yet) be the most popular road cycling location in Europe, its reputation is slowly growing, not least thanks to some WorldTour and ProTeams using the region for their training camps.

The Algarve borders Spain in the east and lies on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean to the west, so the climate is temperate all year round, although summer can be extremely hot! That’s why spring is probably a better bet, as temperatures are more manageable throughout the day, yet you don’t have to fight for hotels or space on the roads with high season beach-goers.

In terms of cycling, there are decent-sized mountains inland, with the most famous climb being the Foia climb in the Serra de Monchique. It is often used in the professional stage race, Volta ao Algarve, which is held on an annual basis, usually in mid-February, and attracts some of the best professional cyclists in the world. The organisers also put on a sportive on the same weekend as the professional race, and we’ve covered this and two other key events, (including a mountain biking race) in our article here.

Elsewhere, there are more rolling hills to contend with, and for those who prefer flatter routes, we suggest staying near the coast. The Algarve also has a fantastic network of scenic gravel cycling routes that make it an ideal option for gravel riders! There are also plenty of bike hire options if you don’t fancy taking your own.

If you’re looking for the best cycling locations Europe has to offer, the Algarve certainly won’t disappoint.

More information

• Cycling Algarve, our complete destination guide to cycling in the Algarve, including the best places to stay, when to go, and what kind of riding to expect.
• Gravel cycling in the Algarve, for a guide to getting off-road on some of the region’s most rewarding rides.
• 4 must-do cycling events in the Algarve, highlighting the region’s key races and sportives, from professional stage races to mass-participation events.
• How to plan a cycling holiday in Alentejo, for practical tips on extending your trip into Portugal’s quieter neighbouring region, known for its rolling roads and low traffic.
• Portugal’s N2 cycle route, an overview of Portugal’s iconic north-to-south route, ideal for riders seeking a long-distance, place-to-place adventure.
• Cycling Portugal: Porto to Lisbon, for inspiration on a coastal journey linking two of Portugal’s most famous cities via Atlantic-facing roads.

Also consider

Cycling tours in Puglia, for another warm-weather European destination offering quiet roads, scenic countryside and excellent food at the end of the ride.

2. Flanders, Belgium

Great for riding iconic pro routes and immersing yourself in the heartland of Belgian cycling culture

A cobbled stretch in Flanders (photo credit: David Stockman via VISITFLANDERS)

Our view

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding in the tyre tracks of cycling’s greats, there’s never been a better time to head to Flanders. Recent route updates and new signposting mean it’s now easier than ever to experience the roads, cobbles and climbs that shaped some of the sport’s most famous names.

Belgium’s obsession with cycling is well known, and at its core sits Flanders. This compact region is steeped in heritage, having produced legends from Eddy Merckx and Sven Nys to modern-day superstar Remco Evenepoel. Today, a series of dedicated, themed cycling routes allows riders to follow their training grounds and race roads, offering a uniquely authentic experience.

Expect quiet country lanes, rolling Hageland hills, punchy bergs and just enough cobbles to remind you where you are. The riding is rarely about long climbs; instead, it’s a relentless rhythm of short, sharp efforts that feels challenging, rewarding and unmistakably Flemish.

What really sets cycling in Flanders apart is how seamlessly it mixes riding with culture. Routes pass vineyards, abbeys, castles and classic cycling cafés, while towns like Oudenaarde and Geraardsbergen add depth with their history, food and deep-rooted connection to the Spring Classics. Post-ride, it’s perfectly normal to end the day with a local beer named after a famous climb, surrounded by race photos and bikes leaning against café walls.

Despite its legendary status, Flanders cycling holidays are easy to plan. The region is small enough to tackle multiple routes in a long weekend, the roads are well signposted, and there are shorter versions available for less experienced riders or families.

More information

• 3 of the best Flanders cycling routes, for a deeper look at the standout routes that let you follow in the tyre tracks of Eddy Merckx, Sven Nys and Remco Evenepoel.
• Cycling Flanders, our in-depth destination guide covering where to ride, what to expect, and how to plan a cycling trip to this iconic Belgian region.
• Belgium cycling holidays, for a broader overview of the best places to cycle across Belgium, including the more under-the-radar destinations.

Also consider

Cycling in the Netherlands, for flatter terrain, exceptional cycling infrastructure and another country where bikes are deeply woven into everyday life.

3. Croatia

Great for combining coastal riding, island adventures and challenging climbs with rich history and Mediterranean scenery

Islands and historic towns dot the Croatian coastline (photo credit: Valamar Riviera d.d)

Our view

Croatia is one of Europe’s most diverse and visually striking cycling destinations, offering a mix of coastal roads, island hopping, rugged mountains and cultural highlights. If you like your riding to come with sea views, sunshine and plenty to explore off the bike, a cycling holiday in Croatia is hard to beat.

Along the Adriatic coast, quiet roads trace turquoise waters and island-dotted horizons, making for unforgettably scenic rides. Inland, the landscape becomes greener and more rugged, with climbs that attract cyclists looking for a challenge. Iconic ascents such as Sveti Jure in the Biokovo mountains or the climbs of Mount Učka deliver serious elevation alongside jaw-dropping views of the sea below.

One of Croatia’s standout strengths is variety. Road cyclists, gravel riders, mountain bikers and leisure cyclists will all find something to suit their style.

Islands such as Krk, Rab and Hvar are perfect for relaxed loops and multi-day exploration, while regions like Rabac and Makarska appeal to fitter riders seeking technical trails or long mountain climbs. For touring cyclists, long-distance routes like EuroVelo 8 and the Parenzana Trail offer culturally rich, place-to-place journeys.

Add in improving cycling infrastructure, bike-friendly hotels, a growing calendar of international cycling events and genuinely warm local hospitality, and Croatia stands out as a destination that rewards both adventurous riders and those looking for a more relaxed, sunshine-filled cycling escape.

More information

• Cycling in Croatia, our complete overview of cycling in Croatia, including where to ride, what to expect and how to plan your trip.
• 5 of the best bike tours in Croatia, showcasing some of the most rewarding guided and self-guided tours across the country’s islands, coast and interior.
• 10 practical tips for Croatia cycling holidays, essential insights to help you make the most of your ride, from kit and training to timing and logistics.
• Croatia bike and boat tours, for inspiration on combining cycling with island-hopping aboard a boat; a unique way to explore the Adriatic.

Also consider

Turkey cycling tours, for another Mediterranean destination with legendary coastal roads, dramatic landscapes and long-distance cycling experiences.

4. Lake District, UK

Great for iconic UK cycling with dramatic scenery, legendary climbs and routes for every ability.

View over Langdale Valley (photo credit: E-Bike Safaris)

Our view

The Lake District is one of the UK’s most rewarding cycling destinations, combining jaw-dropping scenery, rich cultural heritage and some of the most memorable riding you’ll find anywhere in Britain.

From peaceful country lanes and gentle lakeside paths to brutally steep passes like Hardknott, Wrynose and Honister, cycling in the Lake District offers genuine variety. Whether you’re planning a relaxed leisure ride, a self-guided touring holiday, or a bucket-list road cycling challenge, there’s something here for everyone.

The landscape is the star of the show. Quiet valleys, deep lakes, rugged fells and picture-perfect villages unfold at cycling pace, making it easy to see why the region has inspired writers and artists for centuries. In 2026, the Lake District will mark 160 years since the birth of Beatrix Potter, adding an extra cultural reason to visit this much-loved corner of England.

Despite its wild feel, the Lake District is well set up for cyclists. You’re rarely far from a welcoming café, pub or place to stay, and the region’s popularity means there’s a strong network of cycling-friendly accommodation, bike hire options and support services. It also works well for both fixed-base trips and point-to-point journeys, including classic routes that link the southern and northern Lakes.

Challenging, scenic and endlessly atmospheric, the Lake District remains a must-ride destination for cyclists who want to experience some of the best UK cycling – it’s particularly beautiful in late spring before the summer crowds descend!

More information

• Cycling Lake District, an in-depth overview of cycling in the Lakes, covering the best routes, terrain types and practical tips for planning your trip.
• Self-guided cycling tours in the Lake District, a closer look at multi-day itineraries, accommodation options and how to plan a flexible, self-guided cycling holiday in the region.
• Guide to the UK’s Coast to Coast cycling route, everything you need to know about riding the iconic C2C route, including route options, logistics and what to expect along the way.

Also consider

Cycling the Hebridean Way, for a quieter UK cycling adventure combining island-hopping, coastal scenery and a more relaxed, traffic-light touring experience.

Want more spring cycling destination ideas? Read this.

Best cycling destinations in Europe in summer

5. Catalonia, Spain

Great for world-class pro climbs, huge variety of terrain and riding in the slipstream of the professional peloton

Pyrenees ride (photo credit: Ziklo Team via Catalonia – Catalan Tourist Board)

Our view

Catalonia is one of Europe’s most complete cycling destinations, and the spotlight is shining brighter than ever. With Barcelona hosting the Tour de France Grand Départ in 2026, the region’s most famous roads and climbs – including Els Àngels and Rocacorba – are set to be tackled by the world’s best riders, underlining Catalonia’s status as a true cycling heavyweight.

What makes Catalonia special is just how much it packs into a relatively small area. You can roll out from Barcelona on coastal lanes one day, ride vineyard-backed backroads the next, and then head north for long, serious mountain climbs in the Pyrenees. The terrain shifts quickly and keeps things interesting: Mediterranean shoreline, rolling interior plains, forested hills and high passes all sit within reach.

Girona remains the region’s most famous cycling hub, and for good reason. It’s home to countless pros, a thriving café-and-workshop scene and a spider’s web of superb routes that fan out towards the Costa Brava, Garrotxa and Pyrenean foothills. Climbs like Rocacorba and Els Àngels are rightly iconic, while the riding is varied enough to suit both training-focused riders and those looking for scenic days in the saddle.

Yet Girona is only part of the story. Barcelona offers surprisingly good riding on its doorstep, while heading south and west reveals quieter, less-visited regions with empty roads, big skies and a slower pace of life. Add excellent food, strong cycling infrastructure and a culture where cyclists are welcomed everywhere, and Catalonia stands out as a destination that delivers depth, variety and serious riding credentials in equal measure.

More information

• Cycling Catalonia, a complete overview of cycling in Catalonia, covering the region’s key cycling areas, terrain types and what kind of riding to expect.
• Cycling Barcelona region, for a closer look at cycling in and around Barcelona, including coastal routes, vineyard roads and inland mountain climbs.
• Cycling Girona, an in-depth guide to one of Europe’s most famous cycling hubs, including routes, bases and practical tips.
• 12 best cycling climbs in Girona, highlighting the must-ride ascents around Girona, from classic training climbs to longer, tougher efforts.
• Gravel cycling Girona, for insight into Girona’s extensive gravel network and why the area has become one of Europe’s leading gravel destinations.

Also consider

Cycling Andorra, for a compact Pyrenean destination focused on high-altitude riding, long alpine-style climbs and big mountain days just north of Catalonia.

6. Loire Valley, France

Great for traffic-free cycle paths, château-and-vineyard scenery, and a relaxed base for road, leisure and gravel riding

Vineyard cruising (photo credit: Destination Angers/D. Mouraud)

Our view

Cycling the Loire Valley is classic France: wide riverside views, vineyard lanes, and fairytale châteaux that appear around every bend. This region was once the playground of French kings, and today it’s a dream destination for riders who want culture and scenery without big climbs – all stitched together by some of the best cycling infrastructure in the country.

The headline route is the Loire à Vélo, a well-signposted, largely flat path that follows the river past historic towns and showpiece castles. But it’s far from the only option. The Vélo Francette and Loir Valley by Bike add more variety and make it easy to build a multi-day trip that suits your fitness, your timeframe, and your bike of choice. Many riders will simply pick a section and savour it, stopping for long lunches, wine tastings and slow evenings in handsome old towns.

For logistics, it’s hard to beat Angers. Sitting at the junction of three major routes, it’s a practical base with excellent connections, plenty of cycling-friendly accommodation and services, and a thriving local scene. It’s also where the region’s gravel story comes alive: Angers hosts Nature is Bike, a festival built around group rides, talks and a lively village atmosphere – and with a return in 2026 after a pause due to hosting a Tour de Femmes stage in 2025, gravel riders have an extra reason to put the Loire firmly on the calendar.

This isn’t a destination for epic mountain conquests. It’s for riders who love to explore at a human pace – rolling out on quiet paths, soaking up landscapes that earned the Loire its “garden of France” nickname, and finishing the day with great food and local wine.

More information

• Tips for cycling the Loire Valley, for practical ideas on planning a Loire Valley trip.
• 5 best cycling routes in France, for inspiration if you’re looking for other brilliant, low-stress French routes with great scenery.
• 9 best long distance cycling routes in France, a round-up of France’s top multi-day routes if the Loire à Vélo has whetted your appetite.

Also consider

Guide to bike tours on the Danube cycling path, for another iconic, largely flat river route that’s ideal for relaxed touring, great scenery and easy logistics from day to day.

7. Sweden

Great for cooler summer temperatures, escaping crowds, and riding long, quiet roads under near-continuous daylight

Winding forest road on the Midnight Sun Randonnée (photo credit: Daniel Breece via Västerbotten Sweden)

Our view

Sweden is a refreshing antidote to Europe’s increasingly hot and crowded summer cycling destinations. Head north and you’ll find vast landscapes, empty roads and a sense of space that’s becoming rare elsewhere – all paired with mild temperatures and extraordinary daylight that lets you ride late into the night.

Northern Sweden, in particular, offers something truly unique. Above the Arctic Circle, summer brings the midnight sun, meaning 24-hour daylight in June and July. It’s a surreal and liberating experience for cyclists: long, uninterrupted days in the saddle, flexible riding schedules, and the freedom to stop, explore or press on whenever you feel like it.

The riding itself is perfectly suited to those who value solitude and scenery over cafés and crowds. Roads are generally well surfaced, lightly trafficked and wind through boreal forests, river valleys, lakes and open mountain landscapes. Gradients are mostly steady rather than brutal, making this a destination where endurance and rhythm matter more than punchy climbing.

Add in considerate drivers, strong English proficiency, the freedom of allemansrätten (the right to roam), and clean air and water, and Sweden stands out as a cycling destination that feels calm, spacious and restorative. For riders looking to escape the heat, avoid busy roads and experience something genuinely different, Sweden is hard to beat.

More information

• The Midnight Sun Randonnée, your detailed guide to an iconic ultra-distance ride taking place in Sweden and Norway in June.
• Cycling Sweden, a comprehensive destination guide covering the best regions to ride when cycling across Sweden.

Also consider

• Cycling Hamar, for another Scandinavian cycling base with scenic lake routes, relaxed roads and cultural sights in Norway’s Hedmark region.
• Cycling Kristiansand, Agder, a southern Norway destination with varied terrain, coastal riding and excellent road and gravel options.

8. Romania

Great for an emerging cycling destination for road, gravel and leisure cyclists

Rasnov Fortress in Brasov, Transylvania, Romania

Our view

Romania may not currently be on your cycling wish list, but we think it should be!

A relatively new (2023) airport in the medieval city of Brasov now means this destination is easier to get to than ever before. Located in the Southern Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is part of the historic Transylvania region.

First, for road cyclists looking for their next big challenge, the mighty Carpathian Mountains are home to two giant climbs, the Transfagarasan and Transalpina. These scenic climbs are conveniently located near each other and connect two historic Romanian regions, Transylvania and Valachia.

If you prefer to get off the road, Romania is also ripe for a gravel bike adventure. This country still feels incredibly wild, with much of the countryside remaining unfenced and with an estimated 50% of the roads currently unpaved. This makes it one of the best cycling destinations in Europe for gravel riders.

Culturally, Romania has so much more to offer than simply being the homeland of Dracula. Yes, you’ll certainly find many impressive historic castles and picturesque medieval towns. But did you know that Romania also has impressive wine regions that can be experienced from the saddle?

These vineyards sit at the same altitude as those found in Bordeaux in France and Tuscany, Italy. They can be easily reached from the capital, Bucharest. The Danube River also flows through Romania. This is closely followed by the popular EuroVelo 6 which is a great option for touring cyclists looking for a unique place-to-place adventure.

More information

• Cycling Romania, an overview of what to expect when cycling in Romania, including landscapes, road conditions and the types of routes and trips on offer.
• Bike tours in Romania, a guide to cycling holidays in Romania, with insights into why the country is such a compelling destination for adventurous riders.

Also consider

Cycling Westfjords, for another remote and dramatic cycling destination offering big scenery, quiet roads and a strong sense of adventure for cyclists who enjoy getting off the beaten track.

9. Slovenia

Great for discovering a new cycling destination with plenty of quiet roads and eco credentials

Blue skies and idyllic scenery in the Pivka Valley, Slovenia

Our view

Slovenia is a fantastic destination, one of the best places for cycling holidays in Europe, and it’s also recognised as one of the continent’s most sustainable countries (source). It’s somewhere cycling is encouraged as both a mode of transport and for tourism.

Slovenia is a country full of hidden gems, and with the rise of the strength of Slovenian riders in the professional peloton like Tadej Pogačar and Primož Roglič, it’s somewhere that more and more cyclists are considering for their European cycling tours and holidays.

Slovenia does have a lot to offer, particularly in the summer. Ride along dedicated cycle paths and discover gorgeous places like the Vipava Valley, which is home to blue and green lagoons and traditional castles and architecture. Alternatively, challenge yourself in the Julian Alps.

More information

• Cycling Slovenia, an overview of Slovenia as a cycling destination, covering terrain, route styles and what makes this compact country so appealing for bike trips.
• Cycling Ljubljana, a closer look at cycling in and around Slovenia’s capital and how Ljubljana works as a base for cycling holidays.
• Trans Dinarica Slovenia, for a gravel trip exploring quiet forest trails and lesser-visited towns.

Also consider

• Cycling Austria, for another Alpine-friendly cycling destination with excellent infrastructure, varied terrain and a wide choice of well-established cycling routes.
• Guide to gravel cycling in Austria, if you’re drawn to Slovenia’s mix of road and off-road riding and want to explore a neighbouring country with a strong gravel cycling scene.

Want more summer cycling holiday inspiration? Read this.

Best cycling destinations in Europe in autumn

10. Sardinia, Italy

Great for quiet Mediterranean riding, shoulder-season sunshine and combining coastal scenery with authentic island culture

Quiet mountain roads in the heart of Sardinia – Gennargentu and Supramonte (photo credit: Lighttrapper Photography via Saddle Skedaddle)

Our view

Sardinia is one of the Mediterranean’s most rewarding yet underrated cycling destinations, particularly outside the peak summer months. While many visitors come for the beaches alone, cyclists quickly discover an island criss-crossed by quiet secondary roads, vast gravel networks and a rugged interior that feels a world away from the coast.

Autumn and spring are great times to ride here. Temperatures are warm but manageable, tourist numbers drop away, and the island’s landscapes really come into their own – from wildflower-filled plains in spring to golden hills and vineyards in autumn.

The riding itself is wonderfully varied: gently rolling coastal roads, punchy inland climbs, long gravel tracks and remote mountain routes in the Gennargentu range. You won’t find famous Alpine passes, but you will find scenic, demanding routes that reward effort with solitude and big views.

Culturally, Sardinia adds another compelling layer. In 2025, the island gained a new UNESCO World Heritage Site with the inscription of the Domus de Janas (Fairy Houses) – prehistoric rock-cut tombs that highlight Sardinia’s unique Neolithic heritage. Plus it’s been chosen as a top 25 destination in Lonel Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 guide, so will no doubt be a popular place to visit.

Sardinia is one of the world’s recognised “blue zones”, with a cuisine rooted in simple, local ingredients, long lunches and slow living – perfect after a day in the saddle. All of this makes Sardinia an excellent choice for cyclists looking to extend their season, escape crowds and experience the Mediterranean at a deeper, more authentic pace.

More information

• Cycling Sardinia, our in-depth destination guide covering where to ride on the island and what to expect from a cycling trip to Sardinia.
• 15 of the world’s best islands for cycling, a broader look at island cycling worldwide, including why islands like Sardinia are such compelling places to explore by bike.

Also consider

Cycling Corsica, for another Mediterranean island destination with dramatic mountains, quiet roads and coastal riding.

11. Greece

Great for island-hopping adventures, cultural cycling experiences and shoulder-season riding in the Mediterranean.

Methana town on the Peloponnese peninsula (photo credit: Islandhopping)

Our view

Greece is a standout cycling destination if you’re looking for something a little different from a traditional centre-based road trip. Rather than ticking off famous climbs, cycling here is about experience: riding through olive groves and mountain villages, exploring ancient ruins, swimming straight from the bike and finishing the day in a harbour town with great food and sunset views.

Bike and boat tours are one of the best ways to explore Greece by bike. With more than 6,000 islands, logistics can be tricky when travelling independently, but an island-hopping itinerary allows you to cycle a new island almost every day while your accommodation moves with you. This makes it possible to see a wide variety of landscapes in a single trip, from the green Ionian Islands to the drier, more rugged Aegean.

The timing also works well for autumn cycling. Temperatures are warm but manageable, the sea is still ideal for swimming and the busiest summer crowds have eased. It’s a great option if you’re looking to extend your cycling season into September or October.

Culturally, Greece feels especially exciting right now. With Christopher Nolan’s Odyssey film due for release in 2026 – reportedly filmed in locations including the Peloponnese and the Gulf of Corinth – interest in Greece’s myth-rich landscapes is only set to grow. Cycling offers a fittingly immersive way to experience these places, moving slowly through regions shaped by thousands of years of history.

If you enjoy sociable travel, varied daily riding and a mix of challenge and relaxation, Greece offers a memorable and distinctive cycling holiday that’s hard to replicate elsewhere in Europe.

More information

• Cycling Greece, an overview of cycling in Greece, including what to expect from bike trips on the mainland and islands.
• Greece island hopping (for cyclists), a detailed look at island-hopping cycling tours.
• 12 practical tips for cycling holidays in Greece, essential insights to help you prepare for cycling in Greece.

Also consider

Cycling Cyprus, for another Mediterranean island destination with warm weather, varied terrain and a strong mix of cultural sightseeing and scenic cycling routes.

12. Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy

Great for under-the-radar Italian cycling, Giro d’Italia climbs, and riders who want to combine Alpine scenery, Adriatic coastlines and classic cycle touring routes.

A vineyard landscape in the rural Collio region

Our view

Friuli Venezia Giulia is one of Italy’s best-kept cycling secrets – a region that quietly delivers world-class riding while flying well below the radar for most UK and North American cyclists. That may be about to change, with the Giro d’Italia returning to the region on stage 20 and shining a spotlight on its brutal climbs and dramatic mountain scenery.

Set in Italy’s far northeast, Friuli Venezia Giulia sits between Austria, Slovenia and the Adriatic Sea. This geography gives it a remarkable variety. One day you can be tackling serious Alpine climbs such as Monte Zoncolan, a Giro legend and one of the toughest ascents in Europe; the next, you could be rolling gently towards the coast on traffic-free cycle paths.

What really sets the region apart is how well it caters for different styles of cycling. Strong climbers will love the quiet mountain roads and big elevation days, while touring and leisure cyclists are superbly served by long-distance routes like the Alpe Adria Cycle Path, which runs from the Alps down to the Adriatic, and the Parenzana Trail, a converted railway line linking Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. These routes make Friuli Venezia Giulia particularly appealing for multi-day, point-to-point trips.

Despite its quality riding, the region remains refreshingly uncrowded. You’ll find excellent food and distinctive local wines that enable you to sample Italy’s recently UNESCO-recognised gastronomy (source). There’s also a fascinating mix of Italian, Austro-Hungarian and Slavic culture, but without the mass tourism of more famous Italian cycling areas. If you love Italy’s cycling heritage but prefer quieter roads and a more authentic feel, Friuli Venezia Giulia is a destination well worth discovering now – before everyone else does.

More information

• Cycling Friuli Venezia Giulia, a complete guide to cycling in this varied northeast Italian region.
• 8 of the best places to cycle in Italy, inspiration for other standout Italian cycling destinations.
• Cycling Northern Italy, an overview of top rides, routes and regions in the north of the country.

Also consider

Cycling The Italian Lakes, for classic, scenic lake-loop rides and mountain passes that complement a visit to Friuli Venezia Giulia.

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What next?!

What did you think of our selection of the best countries for cycling?

Which of these best cycle holidays in Europe have you tried, and what would be in your top 3?

Comment below and let us know!

If you want guides to the scores of other places that narrowly missed our top 12, check out our cycling holiday destinations page, here!

Other related articles that might be useful:

• 8 best cycling holiday destinations in the world, our pick of the most exciting places on the planet to plan a cycling holiday right now.
• 17 of the world’s best long-distance cycling routes, iconic multi-day rides for cyclists who love big journeys and unforgettable scenery.
• 15 of the best European cycling routes, from classic coastlines to Alpine crossings, these are Europe’s standout rides.
• 16 of the best long-distance cycling routes in the UK and Ireland, brilliant home-grown adventures perfect for touring, bikepacking or a first long ride.
• 10 of the best coastal cycling routes in the world, sea views, salty air and fantastic roads for riders who love cycling by the water.
• 6 of the world’s safest countries for cycling (2026), great riding with low stress and plenty of peace of mind.
• 9 of the world’s most bike friendly cities, urban cycling at its best, with great infrastructure, culture and easy riding.

Want to check travel advice before you go? If you live in the UK, a good place to start is the government’s travel website.

Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels - and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they're there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.

Want to connect with Clare? Find her over on LinkedIn.