Here are 12 amazing cities to explore by bicycle in 2025

Bicycling is one of the best ways to explore a new city. Not only is it an eco-friendly and affordable mode of transportation, but 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.

Girona, Spain

Girona has earned its reputation as a cycling haven, attracting professionals and enthusiasts from around the globe. Located in the heart of Catalonia, this charming city is surrounded by breathtaking countryside, rolling hills, and challenging climbs. Its extensive cycling infrastructure includes over 100 kilometers of dedicated bike lanes, making it one of the most bike-friendly cities in Spain. Girona’s pro-cyclist community fosters a cycling culture filled with camaraderie, bike-friendly cafes, and cycling-specific accommodations.

The Girona Greenways (Via Verda) is a must-ride trail, offering 57 kilometers of flat, scenic riding along a former railway line. This route takes you through quaint villages, forests, and fields, showcasing the region’s natural beauty. For a more challenging ride, tackle the Els Àngels climb, an 11-kilometer ascent with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Rocacorba climb, another favorite among pros, provides a steeper challenge with gradients averaging 7%.

In the city itself, explore the historic Old Town, where narrow cobblestone streets lead to landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona and the ancient Arab Baths. After your ride, unwind at La Fabrica or Espresso Mafia, two popular cyclist-friendly cafes run by retired pro cyclist Christian Meier. Girona also hosts the annual Sea Otter Europe Festival, an event celebrating cycling with races, expos, and group rides.

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.

Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow 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.

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.

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.

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.

Tainan, Taiwan

Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, blends a rich historical backdrop with a growing reputation for cycling. The city has developed over 300 kilometers of bike paths, many of which weave through its historical sites and natural attractions. Tainan’s T-Bike sharing program offers convenient rentals for visitors at major tourist hotspots.

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.

Cycling events, such as the annual Tainan Cycling Carnival, showcase the city’s enthusiasm for two-wheeled transport, while themed bike tours highlight Tainan’s culinary and cultural heritage. With its seamless blend of history, nature, and cycling infrastructure, Tainan offers a unique experience for riders.

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.

Odense supports its cycling culture with a robust bike-sharing program and events like the Odense Cycle Festival, which features family-friendly rides, workshops, and races. The city’s commitment to sustainability and its rich cultural history make it a delightful destination for cyclists.

Bern, Switzerland

Bern combines stunning alpine scenery with a well-developed cycling infrastructure, featuring 200 kilometers of bike paths and numerous car-free zones. The city’s BernRollt bike-sharing program provides free rentals, encouraging visitors to explore on two wheels.

One of the most popular routes is the Aare River Path, which offers flat, scenic riding alongside the turquoise river. Cyclists can explore Bern’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, visiting landmarks like the Zytglogge Clock Tower and the Bear Park, or venture further afield to the Gurten Mountain, where a challenging climb rewards riders with panoramic views of the Alps.

Bern’s cycling culture is celebrated through events like the SlowUp Festival, which closes roads to cars for a day of biking and outdoor activities. With its blend of natural beauty and historic charm, Bern offers an unforgettable experience for cyclists of all levels.

Girona, Spain

Girona is a charming and picturesque city located in the heart of Catalonia, Spain. With its rolling hills, stunning countryside, and winding streets, Girona is a great place to explore on two wheels. The city has an extensive network of bike lanes and paths, as well as a bike-sharing program, making it easy for visitors to get around without a car. Some of the highlights of cycling in Girona include the Girona Greenways, which follows an old railway line through the city and the surrounding countryside, and the winding streets of the city’s historic center.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Plovdiv is a historic and cultural city located in the heart of Bulgaria. The city’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and cycling is a great way to explore its winding streets and picturesque alleys. The city has an extensive network of bike paths and trails, as well as a bike-sharing program, making it easy for visitors to get around without a car. Some of the top cycling routes in Plovdiv include the Maritsa River path, which follows the river from the city center to the surrounding countryside, and the climb up the Nebet Tepe hill, which offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Tartu, Estonia

Tartu is a small and charming city located in the heart of Estonia. The city is home to a vibrant student community and has a rich history and culture with a vibrant live music scene. The bicycle is a great way to explore the city’s winding streets and picturesque neighborhoods. The city has an extensive network of bike paths and trails, as well as a bike-sharing program, making it easy for visitors to get around without a car. Some of the top cycling routes in Tartu include the Emajõgi River path, which follows the river from the city center to the surrounding countryside, and the climb up the Toome hill, which offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Cycling in Tartu, Estonia (photo: @visittartu)

Tainan, Taiwan

Tainan is a historic and cultural city located in the south of Taiwan. The city has a rich history and culture, with plenty of temples, museums, and art galleries to explore. Cycling is a great way to get around Tainan, as the city has an extensive network of bike lanes and paths, as well as a bike-sharing program. Some of the highlights of cycling in Tainan include the Anping Tree House, a historic warehouse that’s now home to a forest of banyan trees, and the Tainan Canal, a scenic waterway that’s perfect for a leisurely bike ride.

Odense, Denmark

Odense is a charming and picturesque city located on the island of Funen in Denmark. The city is best known as the birthplace of the famous fairy tale author, Hans Christian Andersen. Cycling is a great way to explore the city’s winding streets and picturesque neighborhoods. The city has an extensive network of bike paths and trails, as well as a bike-sharing program, making it easy for visitors to get around without a car. Some of the top cycling routes in Odense include the Odense River path, which follows the river from the city center to the surrounding countryside, and the Hans Christian Andersen Trail, a cycling route that takes visitors through the city and to some of the most important places in the author’s life.

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

Bern, Switzerland

Bern is a charming Swiss city surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Bernese Alps and the Aare River. Bern is also home to an extensive network of bike paths and bike-friendly streets, making it easy to get around on two wheels. Some of the highlights of cycling in Bern include the historic Old Town, the picturesque Rosengarten, and the panoramic views from the Gurten Mountain.

Utrecht, Netherlands

Utrecht is a lesser-known city in the Netherlands that is great to explore by bicycle. The city has an extensive network of bike paths and is home to the largest bike parking garage in the world. Utrecht is also a great starting point for cycling trips to other Dutch cities, such as Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Some of the highlights of cycling in Utrecht include the beautiful medieval city center, the scenic Vecht River, and the iconic Dom Tower.

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

Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv is a vibrant city that’s perfect to explore by bicycle. The city is home to a growing network of bike paths and bike-friendly streets, making it easy to get around on two wheels. Tel Aviv is also a great starting point for cycling trips along the Mediterranean coast. Some of the highlights of cycling in Tel Aviv include the beautiful beaches, the Bauhaus architecture of the White City, and the vibrant nightlife.

Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is a small and charming city located on the central coast of Vietnam. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and charming architecture. Cycling is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings, and the city has an extensive network of bike paths and trails, as well as a bike-sharing program. Some of the top cycling routes in Hoi An include the Hoi An Loop, a scenic route that takes visitors through the city and its surroundings, and the Tra Que Vegetable Village route, which takes visitors through the countryside and to a local vegetable farm.

Hoi An, Vietnam

Seville, Spain

Seville is a beautiful city in southern Spain that is flat and compact, making it easy to get around on two wheels. Seville is also home to a growing network of bike paths and bike-friendly streets, as well as a popular bike-sharing program. Some of the highlights of cycling in Seville include the stunning Plaza de España, the colorful Santa Cruz neighborhood, and the beautiful Maria Luisa Park.

Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá is a vibrant city that’s perfect for cycling. 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.

Cycling in Ljubljana (photo: Mankica Kranjec/ Nea Culpa)

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is a charming and picturesque city that’s located in the heart of Slovenia perfect to explore by bicycle. Cycling is a great way to cover more ground and take in the sights at a leisurely pace. The city has an extensive network of bike lanes and paths, and there are plenty of bike rental options available. Some of the highlights of cycling in Ljubljana include the Ljubljanica River, the Tivoli Park, and the castle hill, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.