Traveling is about experiences, about feeling immersed in a different reality. And perhaps that’s exactly why cycling destinations are gaining a bigger place in the hearts of tourists – cities with more robust bike systems are magical in the eyes of the unused.
In addition to being much more economical and healthier, bicycles are super environmentally friendly and have risen on the list of transportation of the future. That is, if you have never thought of traveling to places where you can explore the corners of the city by cycling, you can start thinking – much more than a tourist attraction and an Eco-friendly way to get around, cycling is a lifestyle that you must know!
Bicycle tourism: what it is, where it lives and what it eats
Before we talk about actual cycling destinations, we thought it would be nice for you to understand a little more about cycling, a concept that has grown a lot in recent years.
The idea of cycling tourism, in a nutshell, is basically traveling by bicycle. And by traveling pedaling we mean from a small piece of land to know a waterfall to more elaborate plans, crossing countries, for example.
You don’t have to be the most seasoned cyclist in the world to ride a pedaling trip (as long as you understand your limits and difficulties, of course!). Plus, you can travel alone, call friends to come with you, or even join a group of bike riders to meet new people. That is, the cool thing about cycling is that it is the way we like: for everyone and for all tastes!
However, before getting on the bike, it is worth remembering that there are certain cautions and recommendations for those who want to practice cycling, so be sure to do some research (or, as we say here, get around) before planning your trip, ok? 😉
But take it easy: not only travel rides the cyclist! You can also enjoy your love on wheels by cycling within cities – that is, choosing destinations for cycling on your next vacation. Want to know where to go? So take off the helmet and let’s go to our list!
What if we told you that there is an experienced team traveling the globe looking for the best bike-friendly cities? Chic right? The Copenhagen zine Index creates a ranking with the top 20 places in the world for those who love cycling!
Want to know the top 5 of 2019 and start planning your travels for next year? So come on!
# 1 Copenhagen – Denmark
Want to know the best city in the world for cycling? Then you can pack up for one of the most charming Nordic capitals of all: Copenhagen.
There is no way to visit the Danish city and have no desire to cycle: with over 400km of cycle paths, life in the city is driven by bicycles, the most widely used transport by those who live there. With unique lanes, traffic rules and peak times, Copenhagen is one of the most impressive cycling destinations of all.
If you pass by, be sure to rent a bike (or maybe take your own!) To explore the colorful little streets – it’s part of the city’s culture and will make your trip a lot more special, we guarantee it!
# 2 Amsterdam – Netherlands
Do you know those movie scenes? It’s practically impossible to imagine the skinny Amsterdam houses, canals and bridges of all colors tied up waiting for their owners – indeed, the scenery would be a little less charming without them, we have to say.
It is now estimated that the ratio is one bicycle per inhabitant in the Dutch capital. As it is considered an important means of transportation, there are exclusive roads, traffic lights, and parking for those who live life on two wheels.
The Dutch bike rental system is also super quiet, and you can have a great time discovering the city by bike. If you are looking for destinations for cycling, make sure to put Amsterdam on your list!
# 3 Utrecht – Netherlands
The Netherlands has one more city that stands out among the best destinations for cycling: Utrecht. With just over one million inhabitants, the city has risen in the ranking year after year and has fought for the top three positions since 2013.
Utrecht has received heavy government incentives and, in addition to bicycles already being prioritized as a means of transportation in the city, the current goal is to reach 2030 with a structure that allows this daily use to double. How about taking the trip to the Netherlands to go cycling in two different cities?
# 4 Antwerp – Belgium
Famous for diamond production, the world’s fashion capital and Belgium’s second most populated city, Antwerp has also become famous for its bike-friendly feature.
If you want to enjoy the visit in a special way, our tip is to enjoy the bike paths and cycle through the streets. The city can make a super interesting mix between older buildings and very modern architecture, and you can visit and see various points of the city quickly by renting a bicycle.
# 5 Strasbourg – France
Located on the border between France and Germany, Strasbourg has more charm than other cities!
With around 16% of the local population already joining the two-wheeler for their daily routine, the city is already considered the best in the country in the cycling industry and one of the best cycling destinations in the world. From here you can delight in the architecture that sometimes seems to stop in time, a pleasant climate and good old French cuisine.