Here are the top 10 cycling destinations for 2024

There’s nothing quite like exploring Antwerp by bike. Ranked third on the latest Global Bicycle Cities Index, Antwerp offers a perfect blend of historic landmarks, modern architecture, world-class museums, and exceptional shopping and dining opportunities. Its relatively flat terrain and bike-friendly infrastructure make it an ideal city for cyclists, surrounded by greenery just a stone’s throw from the historic old town. For those with limited time, a scenic bike ride along the river to the Eilandje district, north of the old town, is highly recommended. Here, you can visit highlights such as the MAS Museum, the Port House of Antwerp, the Red Star Line Museum, and the Park Bridge. While Antwerp welcomes visitors year-round, the best biking weather is typically experienced from April to October. So hop on a bike and discover the wonders of Antwerp from a unique and exhilarating perspective.

Best time to go: The best time to visit Antwerp for cycling is from April to October when the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor activities.

Otago Central Rail Trail, New Zealand

Nestled in the heart of the Netherlands, Utrecht stands as a beacon for cyclists, earning its well-deserved reputation as the quintessential bicycle town. Pedaling through its cobblestone streets, cyclists are greeted by a harmonious blend of medieval charm and modern innovation. With a network of dedicated bike lanes crisscrossing the city, navigating Utrecht is a breeze on two wheels. Cyclists can explore historic landmarks such as the iconic Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, or leisurely pedal along the picturesque canals that wind through the cityscape. For those seeking a taste of local culture, Utrecht’s vibrant cycling community offers a plethora of bike-friendly cafes, where cyclists can refuel with delicious Dutch treats like stroopwafels and bitterballen. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, Utrecht’s cycling infrastructure and enchanting ambiance make it a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for pedaling.

Best time to go: Utrecht is beautiful year-round, but the spring and summer months offer mild weather and longer days for outdoor activities.

Photo courtesy of Le Tour Utrecht

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.

Best time to go: The best time to visit is May-June and Sept.-Oct. when the weather is pleasant, nature is in full bloom, but the crowds aren’t overwhelming.

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

Seville stands out as an ideal destination for cyclists in 2024. The city has embraced cycling with an extensive network of bike lanes, enabling convenient exploration of its historic landmarks, gardens, and the scenic Guadalquivir River. Seville’s rapid transformation into a bike-friendly city began in 2006, despite initial doubts about Spain’s cycling culture and weather challenges. Within a year, around 50 miles of cycle lanes were established, with the number growing to about 80 miles. The introduction of the Sevici bike rental program further facilitated cycling uptake. By 2012, cycling trips surged from less than 0.5% to approximately 7%, attracting global attention. For cyclists planning a 2024 vacation, Seville offers a perfect fusion of history, culture, and cyclist-friendly infrastructure, promising an unforgettable experience in the heart of Andalusia.

Best time to visit: The best time to explore Seville by bike is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor activities.