10 Best Countries for Bicycle Touring: Pedal Your Way to Adventure

If you’re the kind of traveller who prefers two wheels over four, the wind in your hair, and a steady stream of breathtaking landscapes unfolding before you, then bicycle touring is your perfect escape. Whether you’re chasing epic mountain passes, meandering through idyllic countryside, or soaking in coastal views, there’s a world of cycling-friendly destinations waiting for you.

So, grab your helmet, pump up those tyres, and let’s explore the best countries for bicycle touring. And yes, expect some gentle encouragement (and perhaps a little envy-inducing inspiration) along the way!

Why Bicycle Touring?

Before diving into the best countries for bicycle touring, it’s worth considering why this style of travel has such an enduring appeal. Bicycle touring offers a unique way to experience a country, blending adventure with an intimate connection to the landscape. Unlike travelling by car, train, or plane, cycling allows you to immerse yourself fully in your surroundings. You move at just the right speed—not so fast that you miss the details, but not so slow that you feel you’re getting nowhere.

There’s also a deep sense of freedom that comes with bicycle touring. With no strict schedules, no airport security queues, and no worrying about missing a bus, you can go wherever your legs take you. The world is quite literally your cycling route. And, of course, there’s the environmental aspect. While others are burning through fossil fuels, you’re gliding through the scenery with nothing but the power of your own two legs. It’s travel at its most sustainable, and there’s a real sense of satisfaction in knowing that your journey leaves nothing behind but the faintest of tyre tracks.

The Best Countries for Bicycle Touring

Check out the best countries for bicycle touring:

1. The Netherlands—A Cyclist’s Paradise

If you were to design a country specifically for bicycle touring, it would probably look a lot like the Netherlands. This is a place where cycling isn’t just a mode of transport—it’s a way of life. With thousands of kilometres of dedicated cycle paths, beautifully maintained routes, and a near-total lack of hills, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely cycling holiday.

One of the best routes is the LF7 Oeverland Route, which takes you through stunning landscapes, charming Dutch villages, and alongside canals that seem to stretch endlessly. If you prefer a coastal ride, the North Sea Cycle Route offers spectacular views and a refreshing sea breeze. And let’s not forget the joy of cycling through Amsterdam, where bicycles outnumber people, and cycling through the city’s picturesque streets feels like stepping into a postcard.

2. Denmark—The Land of Hygge and Cycling Bliss

Denmark consistently ranks among the most bicycle-friendly countries in the world, and for good reason. The cycling infrastructure is immaculate, the scenery is spectacular, and the distances between charming towns are just right for a relaxed ride. There’s also a certain cosiness to cycling in Denmark, a feeling best described by the Danish concept of hygge—the idea of enjoying life’s simple pleasures.

Copenhagen is a great place to start, as it boasts more bicycles than cars and has cycling lanes so wide you could probably hold a picnic on them. Beyond the capital, the Danish countryside offers incredible routes such as the Baltic Sea Cycle Route, which winds through rolling farmland, charming fishing villages, and stretches of unspoiled coastline. The island of Bornholm is also a favourite among cycling enthusiasts, with its scenic coastal paths and fairy-tale landscapes.

3. France—Croissants, Cheese, and Endless Cycling Routes

France is a dream destination for bicycle touring, offering a perfect blend of stunning scenery, charming villages, and, of course, excellent food to refuel after a long day’s ride. From the towering peaks of the Alps to the rolling vineyards of Burgundy, there’s something for every type of cyclist.

One of the most popular routes is the Loire Valley cycle path, which takes you past grand châteaux, picturesque countryside, and through villages that look like they belong in a historical novel. If you’re after a more challenging ride, the famous routes of the Tour de France—such as the Col du Tourmalet in the Pyrenees—will push you to your limits while rewarding you with some of the most breathtaking views imaginable. And let’s be honest, after a day in the saddle, there’s nothing quite like stopping at a roadside café for a buttery croissant.

4. Italy—Cycling Through History and Beauty

Italy is a land of contrasts, from the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the majestic Dolomites. Wherever you choose to cycle, you’re in for a treat. The Italian countryside is breathtaking, and the history that surrounds you at every turn adds an extra layer of magic to your journey.

For those who enjoy a more relaxed ride, Tuscany offers gentle rolling hills, vineyard-dotted landscapes, and medieval towns that invite you to slow down and take in the scenery. If you’re up for a challenge, the Stelvio Pass in the Italian Alps is one of the most famous (and gruelling) climbs in the cycling world, but the views from the top are worth every drop of sweat. And of course, no bicycle tour of Italy would be complete without indulging in some well-earned pasta and gelato at the end of the day.

5. Japan—A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Culture

Japan might not be the first country that comes to mind for bicycle touring, but it absolutely deserves a place on this list. The country offers some of the most stunning and well-maintained cycling routes in the world, often passing through landscapes that feel almost otherworldly.

One of the best routes is the Shimanami Kaido, a spectacular cycling path that takes you across a series of islands in the Seto Inland Sea. The route is a cyclist’s dream, featuring breathtaking ocean views, beautiful bridges, and charming villages where you can stop for fresh seafood. For those looking for a more mountainous adventure, Hokkaido’s scenic countryside provides incredible cycling opportunities, especially during the summer when the landscape bursts into a sea of colourful flowers.

6. New Zealand—A Paradise for Adventure Cyclists

For cyclists who love rugged landscapes, towering mountains, and endless adventure, New Zealand is a must-visit destination. The country offers an incredible variety of routes, from coastal rides to high-altitude mountain passes, all surrounded by some of the most jaw-dropping scenery on the planet.

One of the best routes is the Otago Central Rail Trail, which follows an old railway line through the heart of New Zealand’s South Island. The ride takes you past dramatic gorges, historic gold-mining towns, and vast open landscapes that seem to stretch on forever. For those seeking a bigger challenge, the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail is a multi-day ride that takes you from the stunning Southern Alps all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

7. Germany—Where Precision Meets Pedals

Germany is an underrated cycling destination with an excellent network of cycle paths, stunning landscapes, and bike-friendly cities.

Some must-try routes:

• The Romantic Road: A fairy-tale ride past castles and medieval villages.
• The Elbe Cycle Route: One of Europe’s most popular cycling routes.
• Berlin to Copenhagen Cycle Route: A cross-border journey through forests, lakes, and charming towns.

8. Austria—Alpine Views and Lakeside Serenity

Austria is a cycling haven with spectacular alpine scenery, smooth roads, and charming villages. The country offers routes for all skill levels.

Top rides:

• The Danube Cycle Path: A relaxed ride following the Danube River.
• The Grossglockner High Alpine Road: A serious climb with insane views.
• The Salzkammergut Cycle Path: A scenic lakeside tour through Austria’s most beautiful region.

Cycling in Austria feels like being inside a postcard.

9. Canada—Vast Wilderness and Epic Scenery

Canada is massive, meaning bicycle touring options are endless. Whether you love mountains, forests, lakes, or coastlines, there’s a route for you.

Top recommendations:

• The Icefields Parkway: A jaw-dropping ride through the Canadian Rockies.
• The Confederation Trail (Prince Edward Island): A scenic ride through rolling countryside and charming coastal villages.
• The Kettle Valley Rail Trail: A historic rail-trail winding through British Columbia’s vineyards and mountains.

Just watch out for bears…

10. Vietnam—A Southeast Asian Cycling Gem

Vietnam is perfect for those who want adventure, culture, and incredible landscapes. It’s also one of the most affordable places for bicycle touring.

Top routes:

• Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City: A long but rewarding ride through Vietnam’s countryside.
• The Hai Van Pass: One of the most stunning coastal roads in the world.
• The Mekong Delta: A relaxed ride through rice paddies and floating markets.

Vietnamese street food is also a cyclist’s dream—pho, banh mi, and fresh coconut water on the go!

Final Thoughts

Bicycle touring is one of the most rewarding ways to travel, offering a unique mix of adventure, freedom, and the sheer joy of exploring the world at your own pace. Whether you prefer the flat cycle paths of the Netherlands, the coastal beauty of Japan, or the rugged wilderness of New Zealand, there’s a cycling paradise waiting for you.

So, if you’ve ever dreamt of pedalling through rolling vineyards, coasting along the edge of a shimmering sea, or conquering a mountain pass with nothing but the sound of your tyres on the road, now is the time to start planning. The best countries for bicycle touring are out there, waiting for you to discover them. Just remember to pack a decent saddle—because as any seasoned cyclist will tell you, your backside will thank you later.