Cycling along the Danube River is one of Europe’s most popular and accessible cycling destinations, particularly the stretch from Kollmitzberg to Vienna.

The route follows flat, well-maintained cycle paths. Along the way, pass through the beautiful Wachau Valley a UNESCO-listed stretch of the Danube River in Austria, known for its vineyards, historic towns and riverside scenery.

With plenty of places to stop for delicious local cuisine and sightseeing, this is a great choice for an easy and enjoyable cycling holiday.

• Best for: first-time cycling holidays, relaxed pace, scenic riverside riding

• Our top cycling holiday pick for the Blue Danube: the eight-day Cycle Prague to Vienna with Intrepid Travel

The Loire Valley is perfect for a scenic and culturally rich cycling holiday.

Following the Loire à Vélo route, cycle through peaceful countryside, vineyards and charming villages, with opportunities to visit famous châteaux such as Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau.

The terrain is mostly flat, making it suitable for all levels, with plenty of opportunities to stop for wine tastings along the way, with the region renowned for its whites, elegant reds, and crémants production.

• Best for: easy cycling, culture, castles and wine

• Our top cycling holiday pick for the Loire Valley: Cycling in France - Loire Valley with Explore

Cycling along the Dalmatian Coast offers a completely unique experience, allowing you to combine coastal scenery with island-hopping between Croatia's islands.

Routes often include ferry crossings between islands, allowing you to explore places like Hvar and Korcula, as well as historic cities such as Split and Dubrovnik. Look forward to stunning sea views, quiet roads and plenty of opportunities to swim or relax by the coast after a day of cycling.

• Best for: coastal scenery, island hopping and combining cycling with a beach holiday

• Our top cycling holiday pick for the Dalmatian Coast: Cycling Croatia's Dalmatian Coast with Exodus Adventure Travels

Cycling in Provence is a fantastic way to experience the iconic landscapes that inspired masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne.

Ride through rolling countryside and picturesque villages, taking in highlights such as the regions vibrant lavender fields and sunflower fields (mid June - early August) and historic landmarks such as the Pont du Gard (Roman acqueduct) and the striking Palace of the Popes, an imposing medieval gothic monument.

The terrain is generally gentle to moderately hilly, making for a relaxed cycle with plenty of time to enjoy local food and markets along the way.

• Best for: relaxed cycling, food and wine, scenic countryside

• Our top cycling holiday pick for Provence: Cycling Provence with Explore

Cycling through Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania is a great option if you’re looking for something a bit quieter and little more off-the-beaten-track.

The routes are mostly flat and traverse forests, rural landscapes and weave along the coast, including the unique Curonian Spit - one of Lithuania's five national parks, offering a sandy and wooded landscape with rolling dunes and Lahemaa National Park in Estonia - home to diverse wildlife, including moose, boar, bears, beavers, and lynx, along with annual migratory birds.

The Baltics are a good choice for those who want a peaceful cycling holiday with a slower pace and fewer crowds.

• Best for: quiet routes, flat terrain and off-the-beaten-track travel

• Our top cycling holiday pick for the Baltics: Cycle the Baltics with Exodus Adventure Travels

Cycling in Romania offers an adventurous experience and is one of Europe's best kept secrets for a cycling holiday.

Cycling routes often pass through traditional villages and rural landscapes, with the Carpathian Mountains providing a magnificent backdrop. The terrain can be more challenging than other destinations, so is a better option for more experienced cyclists.

Romania is a great option if you’re looking for something different from the more well-known cycling routes in Western Europe.

• Best for: experienced cyclists, cultural immersion and more adventurous routes

• Our top cycling holiday pick for Romania: Cycle Romania by Explore

Tuscany is one of the most iconic cycling destinations in Europe, known for its iconic rolling hills and historic towns.

Routes through areas like Chianti offer a mix of scenic riding through vineyards, olive groves, and cypress-lined avenues, along with plenty of opportunities to stop for wine tastings and traditional Italian food.

The terrain is more challenging than flatter regions like the Danube or Loire, but the scenery makes the effort worthwhile. Hiring e-bikes make cycling in this region more accessible.

• Best for: scenic riding, moderate challenge and sumptuous food and wine

• Our top cycling holiday pick for Tuscany: Cycle Tuscany by Intrepid

For a more relaxed and lesser-known Italian cycling destination, Puglia is a great choice.

The landscape is mostly flat, with quiet roads leading through olive groves, countryside and coastal areas. Incorporate visits to unique towns like Alberobello, famous for its traditional trulli houses, into your cycling itinerary.

Puglia is ideal for travellers looking for an easy-going cycling holiday with warm Mediterranean sunshine and authentic cultural sight-seeing.

• Best for: easy cycling, sunshine and a relaxed Italian experience

• Our top cycling holiday pick for Puglia: Cycle Puglia by Explore

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed riverside ride or a more adventurous journey through hilly, rural landscapes, Europe boasts a wide range of cycling destinations to suit every type of traveller.

With options for both group guided and self-guided tours, including luggage transfers and carefully planned routes, Trailfinders can help you find the perfect cycling holiday for your preferred style, budget and ability.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Active Holidays page.