Family-Friendly Cycling Adventures: Here Are Some Great Routes for Kids and Parents

Cycling can be a fantastic way for families to bond, explore the great outdoors, and stay active together. But finding the right routes that are suitable for young riders—while also offering fun for the whole family—can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are plenty of family-friendly cycling destinations around the world where parents and kids can hop on their bikes together, enjoy scenic views, and pedal along safe, enjoyable routes.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer cycling vacation, these family-friendly cycling adventures offer the perfect mix of easy terrain, beautiful stops, and kid-approved fun. Plus, with a few simple tips for cycling with young ones, you can ensure your trip is smooth, safe, and most importantly, fun for everyone!

1. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen a great bicycling city for families

Perfect for: Families who want to explore a bike-friendly city with plenty of culture and ease

Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, and it’s an ideal destination for families with kids. The city boasts a network of dedicated bike lanes, making it easy and safe for families to cycle around the city’s top attractions. You can rent cargo bikes for extra storage or to carry younger children, and the city’s relaxed pace makes it easy to explore at your own speed.

Begin your adventure with a visit to Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, or pedal over to the National Aquarium to check out marine life. For a more scenic route, cycle along the Harbour Circle, which offers lovely views of the waterfront and several family-friendly stops for picnics or sightseeing.

Family Tip: Use Copenhagen’s bike-sharing services for ease, and be sure to check out the bike paths near Assistens Cemetery, a lovely and quiet spot for a peaceful family picnic.

2. The Danube Cycle Path, Austria and Germany

Danube bike path

Perfect for: Families who want a European adventure with a mix of culture, nature, and fun stops

The Danube Cycle Path (or Donauradweg) runs from Passau in Germany to Vienna in Austria, covering around 300 miles of scenic riverfront cycling. The route is primarily flat, with dedicated bike lanes, making it perfect for families with young children. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming towns, castles, and vineyards, as well as family-friendly attractions like the Prater Park in Vienna, home to the famous Riesenrad Ferris wheel.

Families can also visit Melk Abbey, a stunning Baroque monastery perched above the Danube River, or stop for a boat ride along the river to see the scenery from a different angle. The combination of river views, historical sites, and delightful small towns makes this a memorable family journey.

Family Tip: Plan your stops ahead of time, as many towns along the route offer bike rentals and services. Make sure to take breaks at local cafes to taste Austrian pastries and local treats.

3. The Otago Central Rail Trail, New Zealand

Otago Rail Trail

Perfect for: Families who want to experience history, nature, and remote beauty at a relaxed pace

New Zealand’s Otago Central Rail Trail is a wonderful multi-day cycling route that takes families on an exploration of rural New Zealand, following the path of an old railway line. The route is 150 miles long, but families can tackle sections of it at their own pace. The trail is mostly flat with some gentle inclines, making it ideal for families with younger children or novice cyclists.

Along the way, you’ll pass through historic mining towns like Clyde and Ranfurly, where you can learn about the area’s gold rush history. There are also plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including sheep, horses, and native birds. With regular cafes and accommodations along the way, it’s easy to turn this into a leisurely cycling holiday.

Family Tip: Kids will love the train stations and quirky museums along the route. Bring a bike trailer or tandem attachment for younger children who may tire quickly.

4. The Great Allegheny Passage, USA

The Great Allegheny Passage trail

Perfect for: Families looking for a long yet gentle ride with plenty of scenic breaks

Stretching 150 miles from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Cumberland, Maryland, the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is one of the most family-friendly cycling trails in the United States. The trail is mostly flat, with smooth, well-maintained paths, making it ideal for younger cyclists who are still building stamina. It’s also car-free, which means you won’t have to worry about traffic as you ride through peaceful forests, over bridges, and past historic landmarks.

Along the way, families can take breaks at cozy towns like Ohiopyle, where you can enjoy picnic spots, and Frostburg, where the trail passes through a cute historic district with family-friendly restaurants. There are also plenty of places to rent bikes and gear, so you don’t need to bring everything along. For families with younger kids, consider renting a bike trailer or tag-along bike to make the ride more comfortable.

Family Tip: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are scenic pitstops along the route for little legs to rest. Don’t forget sunscreen and hats to keep everyone cool under the summer sun!

5. EuroVelo 6, France, Germany, Austria, and Slovakia

EuroVelo 6

Perfect for: Families looking for a long-distance adventure across several countries with kid-friendly terrain

The EuroVelo 6 is one of the most famous long-distance cycling routes in Europe, stretching over 2,800 miles from the Atlantic Ocean to the Black Sea. While the entire route may be too much for younger riders, sections of the path, particularly in France, Germany, and Austria, are perfect for families. The path is predominantly flat, following the Rhineand Danube rivers, making it a peaceful and picturesque ride.

Families can ride along the riverbanks, with plenty of family-friendly stops for sightseeing, picnics, and even cycling-friendly accommodation. The towns and cities along the route often offer bike rentals, so you don’t need to bring all your gear.

Family Tip: Plan shorter day rides and explore cities like Strasbourg, Passau, or Vienna along the way, where there are plenty of parks and museums to keep the little ones entertained.

6. Le P’tit Train du Nord (Quebec)

Petit Train Du Nord, Quebec

Perfect for: Parents with teens looking for some training and riding

For a family-friendly adventure that’s perfect for teens and parents to enjoy together, Le P’tit Train du Nord offers an unforgettable ride through Quebec’s stunning Laurentian region. This 234-kilometer rail trail, often considered one of the most scenic in North America, follows the old railway route from Saint-Jérôme to Mont-Laurier. As you pedal along, you’ll pass through charming villages, lush forests, and beautiful lakes, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for family fun.

The trail is designed with families in mind, offering a smooth and mostly flat route with only gentle slopes—perfect for riders of all levels. Teens will love the freedom to explore, while parents can relax knowing there are plenty of services along the way. Converted train stations serve as comfortable rest stops, and there are cozy inns and local restaurants where you can refuel and take in the surroundings.

For those looking to make it a multi-day journey, the trail offers easy access to accommodations that cater specifically to cyclists. And autumn is a particularly magical time to visit, with the vibrant fall colors lighting up the forests, creating one of the most breathtaking views in Quebec. Whether you’re after a leisurely day trip or a memorable family getaway, Le P’tit Train du Nord is a fantastic choice for all ages.

Tips for Cycling with Young Kids:

• Start slow: Choose a shorter, flatter route for your first family cycling trip to ensure everyone has fun and doesn’t get tired too quickly.
• Bring the right gear: For younger kids, consider a bike trailer, tag-along, or even a cargo bike to make the ride easier. Make sure everyone has a comfortable helmet, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing.
• Take breaks: Plan regular stops for snacks, water, and bathroom breaks. Look for scenic spots to rest and explore along the way.
• Make it fun: Incorporate games, scavenger hunts, or mini challenges to keep kids entertained while on the road.

Cycling is a fantastic way to explore new places as a family. With these easy and fun routes, your next family vacation could be full of adventure, fresh air, and unforgettable memories. So grab your bikes, pack the snacks, and get ready for a family cycling trip that everyone will enjoy!