Here are 12 Amazing Cities to Explore by Bicycle in 2025

Some cities are just better to explore by bicycle. They have a history and a culture, but they also have the infrastructure that makes it safe and easy. Not only is exploring by bicycle more eco-friendly and affordable, it also allows you to see the sights at a leisurely pace and get some exercise in the process. While well-known cycling cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam are always worth a visit, there are also plenty of lesser-known cities around the world that are perfect for exploring on two wheels.

Here are 12 of our favorite cities to explore by bicycle in 2025.

Odense, Denmark

Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, is often referred to as Denmark’s cycling city. It boasts an impressive 560+ kilometers of cycle paths, ensuring safe and efficient travel for residents and visitors alike. The city’s Cycling Plan 2030 aims to make Odense the best cycling city in Denmark, with further investments in infrastructure and green corridors.

The Odense River Path is a must-ride route, following the meandering river through parks and forests. Cyclists can visit landmarks like the Hans Christian Andersen Museum and the charming old town. For a longer adventure, try the Fjord Route, which takes riders along the scenic Odense Fjord to quaint fishing villages.

The city’s commitment to sustainability and its rich cultural history make it a delightful destination for cyclists.

Odense bicycle pathway and light rail. (Photo: Visit Odense)

Paris, France

Paris is undergoing a cycling renaissance, transforming itself into a world-class destination for urban cyclists. The city now features over 1,000 kilometers of bike lanes, with plans to expand under its ambitious €250 million Plan Vélo. Paris also has Europe’s largest bike-sharing program, Vélib’ Métropole, with more than 20,000 bicycles, including e-bikes, available across 1,400 stations.

Cycling along the Seine River is now a quintessential Parisian experience, offering views of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame Cathedral, thanks to initiatives to remove active car lanes. For a greener escape, head to the Bois de Vincennes, a sprawling park with dedicated bike paths winding through forests, lakes, and gardens. Another favorite is the La Coulée Verte René-Dumont, an elevated trail that stretches 4.7 kilometers, offering a unique perspective of Paris.

Beyond infrastructure, Paris boasts a thriving cycling culture, showcased by events like La Journée Sans Voiture, when cars are banned from the city center. Cyclists can also enjoy themed tours, such as the Hidden Paris Tour, which highlights lesser-known neighborhoods and historical sites. With its focus on sustainable transport, Paris aims to become a 100% cyclable city by 2026, ensuring its place among the world’s top cycling destinations.

Looking to get out of the city? Try the Seine à Vélo cycle route, a 420-km jaunt from Paris along the Seine River to Le Havre or Deauville on the coast.

Montreal, Canada

Montreal has long been a pioneer in North American urban cycling, boasting more than 1,000 kilometers of bike paths, including the innovative Réseau Express Vélo (REV). This ambitious project is creating wide, protected bike highways to connect key neighborhoods. The city also features one of the continent’s most successful bike-sharing programs, BIXI Montreal.

For a scenic ride, explore the Lachine Canal Path, a 14.5-kilometer route offering waterfront views, historical sites, and peaceful green spaces. Cyclists seeking a challenge can ride up to Mount Royal Park, where winding paths lead to breathtaking panoramas of the city. Another popular route is the Claire-Morissette Bikeway, a central corridor connecting the city’s east and west.

Montreal’s cycling culture thrives year-round, with winter biking supported by the Vélo sous Zéro initiative, which encourages safe, cold-weather riding. The city also hosts the annual Go Vélo Montreal Festival, including the Tour de l’Île, a car-free event that draws tens of thousands of riders. With its emphasis on innovation and inclusivity, Montreal continues to set the standard for cycling in North America.

In addition, Montreal is easily one of the most European cities in North America and a wonderful place to visit especially over the summer when there are so many festivals and the streets are overrun with people.

Go Bike Montreal bicycle festival

Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow, Scotland is emerging as one of the UK’s most progressive cities for cycling, thanks to substantial investment in infrastructure and a growing commitment to sustainable transport. The city boasts some 300 kilometers of cycle paths and on-road cycle lanes, with more under development. Key projects include the South City Way, a dedicated cycling corridor through the city center, and the Avenue Project, which integrates bike-friendly streets into the urban landscape.

For scenic rides, head to the 106-km Forth and Clyde Canal Path, which offers a flat, family-friendly ride through lush countryside to the neighboring town of Falkirk, home to the impressive Kelpies sculptures and the unique Falkirk Wheel.

Glasgow’s cycling culture is celebrated through initiatives like Nextbike Glasgow, a bike-sharing system with over 500 bikes available across 60 stations. In 2023, Glasgow became the first city to host the UCI Cycling World Championships, further cementing its reputation as a global cycling hub.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a paradise to explore by bicycle and an inviting destination for tourists, blending scenic routes with rich cultural and recreational attractions. The city’s extensive bike infrastructure includes over 120 miles of on-street bikeways, dedicated bike lanes, and off-street trails, making it easy to explore its many neighborhoods and natural landmarks. The iconic Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, a 51-mile trail network, connects some of the city’s most stunning sights, including serene lakes, lush parks, and the winding Mississippi River. Cyclists can ride through Minnehaha Regional Park to visit Minnehaha Falls, a breathtaking 53-foot waterfall, or explore the Chain of Lakes, where biking paths loop around sparkling waters and offer plenty of picnic spots.

Minneapolis is also home to a thriving arts and culinary scene, making it a fantastic place to stop and explore along your ride. Take a break at the Walker Art Center’s Sculpture Garden to snap a photo with the famous “Spoonbridge and Cherry,” or bike over to Northeast Minneapolis for a taste of the city’s craft breweries and food trucks. Downtown, the historic Stone Arch Bridge offers stunning views of the city skyline and St. Anthony Falls, perfect for a leisurely ride. With bike-friendly streets, abundant rental options, and a welcoming cycling community, Minneapolis is a must-visit for both avid cyclists and casual riders looking to enjoy a unique way to see the city.

Minneapolis one of the highest bicycle-friendly ratings for a city in America

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, blends history and modernity with its growing network of bike-friendly infrastructure. Set against the backdrop of Bulgaria’s picturesque hills, Plovdiv seamlessly blends ancient history with modern charm. Its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a treasure trove of cobblestone streets, colorful 19th-century houses, and Roman ruins, best explored on two wheels.

The Maritsa River Path is a standout cycling route, offering stunning views of the river and access to Plovdiv’s cultural gems, including the Roman Amphitheatre and the Kapana Creative District, a vibrant area filled with cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. For a more challenging ride, take on Nebet Tepe, one of the city’s famous hills, which rewards cyclists with panoramic views of Plovdiv’s seven hills and the surrounding Rhodope Mountains.

Cycling through Plovdiv also means immersing yourself in its vibrant culture. Stop by one of the charming cafes or traditional mehanas (Bulgarian taverns) to savor local specialties like banitsa or kyufte. Whether you’re weaving through historic streets or cruising along scenic riverside paths, Plovdiv offers an unforgettable experience for history buffs and cycling enthusiasts alike.

With its combination of rich history, scenic routes, and expanding infrastructure, Plovdiv is a must-visit destination for cycling enthusiasts.

Tainan, Taiwan

Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, blends a rich historical backdrop with a growing reputation for cycling. The Anping Canal Path is one of the most popular cycling routes, taking riders through the scenic Anping District, home to landmarks like the Anping Fort and the Anping Tree House, where banyan trees have enveloped a historic warehouse. For nature lovers, the Chigu Salt Field Cycling Route offers a flat, picturesque ride through wetlands and salt pans, with opportunities to spot migratory birds.

Want something more adventurous? Taiwan’s Cycling Route 1 is a legendary 960-kilometer loop that circles the entire island, making it the country’s most iconic cycling trail. Following Taiwan’s picturesque coastline, the route weaves through vibrant cities, charming rural villages, and breathtaking natural scenery. Recognized as one of the world’s top cycling routes, it draws thousands of riders annually from around the globe.

With its seamless blend of history, nature, and cycling infrastructure, Tainan offers a unique experience for riders and it great to explore by bicycle.

national bike trail in Taiwan

Bremen, Germany

Bremen, Germany, is a cyclist’s paradise, featuring flat terrain and an extensive network of over 670 kilometers of bike lanes that traverse the city and connect to neighboring towns. This infrastructure makes it convenient to explore Bremen’s historic sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Town Hall and Roland Statue, as well as the picturesque Schnoor quarter, known for its narrow lanes and charming medieval houses. The city’s commitment to cycling is evident in its well-maintained paths and cyclist-friendly traffic regulations making it easy to explore by bicycle.

A highlight for cycling enthusiasts is the “Fahrradmodellquartier” in the Alte Neustadt district, which, in July 2020, became Germany’s first officially designated bicycle zone. This 2.5-kilometer area encompasses 12 streets where bicycles have priority, a speed limit of 30 km/h is enforced, and side-by-side cycling is permitted. The initiative includes smooth asphalt lanes replacing cobblestones, ample bike parking, and improved crossings, enhancing safety and comfort for cyclists. This model neighborhood exemplifies Bremen’s innovative approach to urban mobility and serves as a blueprint for other cities aiming to promote sustainable transportation.

Tartu, Estonia

Known as Estonia’s cultural capital, Tartu has embraced cycling as a key mode of transport and leisure. The city features many bike paths, connecting its lively city center with picturesque countryside trails making it ideal to explore by bicycle.

Cyclists can enjoy the Emajõgi River Path, which meanders along the riverbank, offering peaceful views of the water and access to landmarks like the Tartu Cathedral and the university campus. Another popular route is the Lake Võrtsjärv Trail, which takes riders through idyllic forests and wetlands. For a unique experience, climb Toome Hill, a historic area dotted with sculptures and monuments, offering panoramic views of the city below.

Cycling in Tartu, Estonia (photo: @visittartu)

Utrecht, Netherlands

Utrecht, Netherlands, is renowned for its exceptional cycling culture, with 56% of residents choosing bicycles as their primary mode of transportation to the city center, and fantastic to explore by bicycle. The city boasts an extensive network of 420 kilometers of dedicated bicycle paths, ensuring safe and efficient travel across various neighborhoods. Utrecht’s commitment to cycling is further exemplified by the world’s largest bicycle parking facility, located near the central railway station, accommodating up to 12,500 bikes.

The city’s flat terrain and well-maintained infrastructure make it ideal for cyclists of all levels. Utrecht’s dedication to promoting cycling contributes to a healthier, more sustainable urban environment, enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents.

Cycling at Koppelpoort Amersfoort, Utrecht (photo: Lotte Stierhout)

Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá is a vibrant city that’s perfect to explore by bicycle. The city is home to one of the world’s largest bike-sharing programs, as well as an extensive network of bike paths and bike-friendly streets. Cycling in Bogotá is a great way to explore the city’s vibrant street art, colorful markets, and lively neighborhoods. Some of the highlights of cycling in Bogotá include the iconic Monserrate Hill, and the beautiful Simón Bolívar Park.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia, is a cyclist’s dream, offering a compact and picturesque setting that is perfect for exploring on two wheels. The city boasts an extensive network of bike lanes and traffic-calmed streets, making cycling both safe and enjoyable for riders of all levels. With numerous bike rental options, including the affordable BicikeLJ bike-sharing system, it’s easy to hop on a bike and start exploring this vibrant city. Cycling in Ljubljana allows you to cover more ground while enjoying the city’s rich history, green spaces, and laid-back atmosphere at your own pace.

Highlights for cyclists include a ride along the scenic Ljubljanica River, where you can take in the city’s iconic Triple Bridge and colorful riverside cafes. Nature lovers will enjoy pedaling through Tivoli Park, a sprawling urban oasis with manicured gardens, wooded trails, and art exhibitions. For a bit of a challenge, ride up to Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city. The effort is rewarded with breathtaking views of the rooftops below and the surrounding countryside. Ljubljana’s commitment to sustainability and its bike-friendly infrastructure make it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers and cycling enthusiasts alike.