World's Top Cycling Holiday Destinations for 2024
12 September 2024
Die beste Ressource für die Planung unvergesslicher Reiseerlebnisse. Finden Sie alles, was Sie über die besten Reiseziele wissen müssen und bereichern Sie Ihr Leben durch Reisen.
Jetzt Urlaube entdecken
The time for cycling has come – refuse to give up your space on and off the road! Whether you’re in it for the health benefits, the global drive to go green, or just enjoying getting some sunny miles in, the inspiration for a cycling holiday has arrived.
It’s pretty safe to say that when the first commercial bicycle was sold to a consumer in 1868, that leisure wasn’t in mind. Over the past 150 years, the average weight of a bicycle has dropped from 80 kilograms to an average of less than 15—making cycling the most efficient form of human-powered transport.
More recently, cycling has become one of the most popular and immersive ways of exploring the globe with a plethora of vacations and recreational getaways specifically designed with the cyclist in mind.
There is something very alluring about going on a cycling vacation, there are no barriers between you and the world, just the open road and the sights, smells, and sounds of all the beauty that surrounds you.
Many breathtaking places are waiting to be explored, which makes it difficult to pick just one. Thankfully, we put in the leg work (no pun intended) and found some of the best destinations for your cycling holiday in 2024.
Check them out, add them to your bucket list, and make sure to tick them one by one!
Croatia
If you didn’t know it yet, Croatia is a true paradise for cyclists. With its stunning coastline, ancient cities, and breathtaking landscapes, this country offers a delightful experience that will leave you spellbound.
Imagine the thrill of cycling through Croatia's stunning landscapes, with the warm sun on your face and the refreshing coastal breeze in your hair. Cycling holidays in this idyllic country offer a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural exploration that will leave you with memories to treasure forever.
With a plethora of cycling excursions available, you can choose the perfect route that suits your preferences and skills. Whether you opt for a leisurely ride through the Istrian Peninsula, where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine and savor the renowned Istrian wines.
Alternatively, you can choose a more challenging route through the rugged beauty of the Dalmatian Coast. One thing’s for sure, no matter your cycling level, Croatia offers endless opportunities for an unforgettable adventure.
Recommended time to visit: April to October
Recommended routes: Unesco 704 Route
Terrain: Mostly rolling hills, and mountainous
Our Recommended Cycling Experiences in Croatia:
- 8-Day Self-Guided Cycling Tour Around the Istrian Peninsula
- 5-Day Croatia Islands Hiking and Guided Mountain E-Bike Tour
- 8-Day Self-Guided Road Cycling Tour in Zadar along the Croatian Coast
Italy
Italy, a captivating country known for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and delectable cuisine, offers a remarkable experience for travelers. From the picturesque coastal towns of the Amalfi Coast to the majestic ruins of Rome, there is something for everyone to explore.
One of the most exciting ways to discover & explore everything that Italy has to offer is through cycling holidays. The country's diverse terrain, ranging from rolling hills to towering mountains, provides a paradise for cyclists of all levels. Whether you're a novice rider or an experienced cyclist, this stunning country has a wide array of routes to suit your preferences.
Italy's Tuscan countryside is a must-visit for cycling enthusiasts. Picture yourself leisurely pedaling through rolling hills with vineyards and olive groves. Along the way, you can stop by charming medieval towns, indulge in delectable local cuisine, and even savor a glass of Chianti as you relish the wonderful surroundings.
If you seek a more challenging ride, the majestic Dolomite Mountains offer exhilarating routes that will test your skills and reward you with awe-inspiring views.
Recommended time to visit: Mid-April to early June, and mid-September to October
Recommended routes: Maremma route
Terrain: Mostly rugged and mountainous
Our Recommended Cycling Experiences in Italy:
- 4-Day Weekend Getaway: Immerse Yourself in Cycling Holiday in Italy
- 4-Day Self-Guided E-bike Tour in Tuscany
- 9-Day Self-Guided Cycling Tour from Sassi of Matera to Salento in Italy
Spain
Mallorca is home to postcard-worthy beach resorts, sumptuous Mediterranean cuisine, and perfectly distributed land primed for cycling. This is a popular destination for cyclists as it consists of many scenic terrains that are perfect for novice riders and also features more challenging routes such as the Sa Calobra, Coll e Solle, and Puig Major.
Another huge draw to this paradise island is its plethora of world-class sports hotels, bike hire facilities, tour operators, and comprehensive training camps that are geared toward cycling, it is almost as though Mallorca was built for cycling! Whatever your level of riding is, you are sure to be well taken care of here.
The Tramuntana Mountains provide a range of routes that offer exhilarating rides through mountainous villages, while the coastal routes are better suited to those seeking a more gentle ride along the length of the island.
Although drinking and biking are mostly frowned upon, the region's inner Winelands make for some of the most scenic routes on the island and thankfully consist of mostly flat lands. So a glass of Chardonnay, anyone?
Recommended time to visit: February to April
Recommended routes: Bahia de Pollensa Cycling Route
Distance: 25km
Terrain: Mostly flat
Our Recommended Cycling Experiences in Spain:
- 8-Day Yoga, Hiking, and E-Biking Holiday in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
- 7-Day Beyond Girona Cycling Tour in Spain
- 8-Day Self-Guided Cycling Tour in Spain: Journey to the Center of Rioja
Cambodia
Discover Cambodia’s charm on a cycling holiday that will leave you exhilarated and inspired. This country has a wide range of cycling tours that allow you to explore the hidden gems in the Kingdom of Wonder.
Cambodia is definitely a country with plenty of memorable experiences, from exploring the impressive Angkor temple complexes to the lesser-known beaches and the mighty Mekong rivers that make for a sight that you won’t forget.
Picture yourself pedaling through the magnificent temples of Angkor, immersing yourself in the rich history and awe-inspiring beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Feel the thrill as you navigate the charming villages and lush countryside, encountering friendly locals and savoring Khmer national dish, Amok Trey.
One route that you simply can’t miss out on is to cycle from the renowned Angkor Wat to Sihanoukville, where you'll witness the breathtaking beauty of Cambodia's countryside and stunning coastal regions.
This epic cycling vacation will take you off the beaten path, allowing you to uncover the true essence of this enchanting country.
Recommended time to visit: Between November and May
Recommended routes: Siem Reap Route
Terrain: Mostly flat, but there are some hilly and mountainous regions
Our Recommended Cycling Experiences in Cambodia:
- 7-Day Cambodia Bike Tour
- 5-Day Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Cambodia Guided Cycling Tour
- 7-Day Coastal Cycling Adventure in Cambodia
France
No list would be complete without mentioning this destination. Think “cycle tour” and France is bound to be the first destination that springs to mind. Thanks to the Tour de France cycle challenge, it is hardly surprising that the home of fresh croissants, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre, is also a capital cycling destination!
Whether you’re in it for the long-distance pedal or just wish to add a couple of leisurely miles to your clock while taking in the sights, there are plenty of routes that cater to all ages and levels of fitness. Thankfully, you don’t have to be Lance Armstrong to enjoy this region on a bike and a cycling holiday in France doesn’t have to be an exercise in pure attrition.
How do a slow ride through billowing lavender fields and pit stops for wine tasting and sightseeing sound? If this is more your kind of vacation then a gentle peddle through Provence is just up your alley.
The Romans knew a good thing when they conquered it and it’s not hard to see why Provence is the dream destination of many. The city’s smooth roads and abandoned railways are perfect for two-wheeled adventures and the region is so diverse that a mere 20-mile ride will take you to an area that is completely different from the one you just rode away from. The added bonus of working off all that wine and food on a bike, definitely makes it one of the best places to experience a cycling tour.
Recommended time to visit: March to October
Recommended routes: Le Plateau de Sault, Mont Ventoux
Terrain: Relatively flat roads with mild inclines
Our Recommended Cycling Experiences in France:
- 5-Day Self-Guided Cycling Holiday near Paris from Fontainebleau to Versailles
- 8-Day Self-Guided Bike Tour on The Velodyssee From Bordeaux to Biarritz Along the Atlantic Ocean
- 6-Day The Essentials of Perigord Noir Self-Guided Cycling Holiday in Dordogne
India
Good food, historic culture, and photo-worthy landscapes. What more do you need for a perfect holiday? The royal state of India is quickly becoming one of the most popular cycling destinations in the world, thanks to its atypical terrain.
A cycling holiday here is characterized by culture. Where else in the world can you enjoy a casual ride past the homes of royalty, abandoned villages, rolling deserts, and verdant farmlands? The alluring flatland is a draw for many who just wish to explore the world at ease, but there are also more challenging routes for those up for the task.
If you want to travel like a local, then cycling through the cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Pushkar is your best bet and will totally immerse you in the region’s distinct culture, famous temples, and iconic landmarks. For those that want to get closer to nature, the area’s national parks and sanctuaries, will not only give you a refreshing change of scenery but will also allow you to see indigenous wildlife.
Recommended time to visit: October to March
Recommended routes: Lake City Loop
Terrain: Not suitable for novice riders, as the roads can be quite busy with cows, tuk-tuks, and donkeys
Our Recommended Cycling Experiences in India:
The UK
Seeking an exhilarating adventure for your next trip? Get ready for an absolute journey on two wheels as you dive into the thrilling world of Cycling Holidays in the UK. Put your helmet on and tighten those laces, because this is going to be a ride to remember.
When it comes to cycling trips, the UK has it all. Whether you're an expert mountain biker or a leisurely e-bike rider, there's an excursion for everyone. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Sussex on a self-guided e-bike cycling holiday, effortlessly exploring the breathtaking scenery while enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Alternatively, you can choose an all-female guided mountain bike adventure retreat in the mesmerizing North York Moors, where you can push your limits, conquer thrilling trails, and bond with fellow passionate cyclists.
Whether you prefer scenic coastal paths in Cornwall, the charming villages of the Cotswolds, or the challenging mountain passes of the Lake District, the UK has a wide array of options to suit your cycling preferences!
Recommended time to visit: May to October
Recommended route: Sussex countryside
Terrain: Mostly rugged and low mountainous
Our Recommended Cycling Experiences in the United Kingdom:
-
3-Day Reigate Castle to The Plough Loop Cycling Holiday in Surrey, England
- 7-Day Full Circle of the Lake District Cycle Tour
South Africa
This is, perhaps, the most bucket list worthy. Okay, I might hold a bias here, but Cape Town is consistently voted as one of the best holiday destinations on the planet (not just because of the wine) and there is no better way to explore the pint-sized city than by bike (or e-bike).
But, it's not just the beautiful scenery that makes Cape Town a great holiday destination. Many Capetonians have ditched their cars and picked cycling as their preferred mode of transport, transforming the city into an urban cyclists' haven.
Cape Town naturally advocates healthy lifestyle choices and is host to some of the most famous cycling events globally.
The Cape Town Cycle Tour—the most participated in cycle race in the world—attracts over thirty thousand cyclists annually from around the world for an impressive 109km route around the Cape Peninsula and the Cape Epic, a world-famous mountain biking race, sends riders on an eight consecutive day, 700km course through from the flat plains of the Cape wine lands to the high peaks of the Cederberg Mountains.
Perhaps the best part about this city is that you don’t have to be a pro athlete to make the most of it and there are plenty of routes that are perfect for cyclists who just want to take in the views. The terrain here is incredibly diverse and well-suited to all levels of fitness, and within just a few kilometers, you can go from the urban jungle to turquoise beaches, rugged mountains, lush forests, and grape-clad Winelands.
Recommended time to visit: March to November
Recommended routes: Camps Bay to Hout Bay
Terrain: Mostly flat
Ready to embark on your very first cycling adventure? Browse through, find, and book the perfect trip from our vast selection of cycling holidays!