Riding a bicycle is a great way to explore a city, allowing you to cover more ground than walking while still being able to soak in the local sights and sounds. Here are some of the best cities in the world to see while riding a bicycle:
Amsterdam, Netherlands
With its extensive network of bike paths and flat terrain, Amsterdam is often considered the world’s most bike-friendly city. You can ride along the picturesque canals and explore the historic architecture of the city.
Riding a bike through Amsterdam is a great way to experience the city like a local! The Netherlands is known for its extensive bike infrastructure, and Amsterdam is no exception. Here are some tips to make the most of your bike ride:
Rent a bike: There are many places to rent bikes in Amsterdam, including at the train station, bike rental shops, and even from some hotels. Make sure to ask for a map or download a navigation app to help you find your way.
Be prepared for the weather: The weather in Amsterdam can be unpredictable, so be sure to bring appropriate clothing, including rain gear. Also, keep in mind that it can get windy, so be prepared to pedal against a strong headwind.
Know the rules of the road: In the Netherlands, cyclists have their own lanes and traffic lights. Make sure to stay on the right side of the road, follow traffic signals, and use hand signals to indicate your turns.
Be aware of pedestrians: There are many pedestrians in Amsterdam, especially in the city center. Be sure to yield to pedestrians, and use your bell to warn them when you’re approaching.
Explore the city: Amsterdam has many beautiful parks and canals, as well as interesting neighborhoods to explore. Be sure to take your time, enjoy the scenery, and stop for a coffee or a stroopwafel (a traditional Dutch cookie) along the way.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Another city known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, Copenhagen is home to numerous bike lanes, bike parking facilities, and even traffic lights that are timed for cyclists. You can ride along the city’s waterfront and enjoy the vibrant street life.
Here are some of the best bike trails in Copenhagen:
The Lakes: This is a 12km-long loop around the five lakes in the center of Copenhagen. It’s a scenic and popular route that takes you through some of the city’s most beautiful parks and neighborhoods.
The Harbour Circle: This is a 13km-long bike trail that takes you around the harbor, passing by some of Copenhagen’s most famous landmarks, such as the Little Mermaid statue and the Opera House.
The Green Path: This is a 5km-long bike trail that runs through the heart of the city, taking you past some of Copenhagen’s best green spaces, such as the King’s Garden and the Botanical Garden.
The West Coast Route: This is a 17km-long bike trail that takes you from central Copenhagen out to the city’s western coast, passing through some of the city’s hippest neighborhoods and ending at the beautiful beaches of Amager Strand.
The Deer Park Route: This is a 25km-long bike trail that takes you through the beautiful and expansive Dyrehaven, or Deer Park, just north of Copenhagen. You’ll ride through forests and fields, and you might even spot some of the park’s resident deer.
Tokyo, Japan
Despite being a bustling metropolis, Tokyo has numerous dedicated bike lanes and routes, allowing you to explore the city’s many neighborhoods and parks at a leisurely pace.
Here are some popular bike trails in Tokyo:
- Arakawa Cycling Road: This is a 60-kilometer-long cycling road that runs along the Arakawa River. It offers great views of the river and the city skyline.
- Tamagawa Cycling Road: A friend who is a South Carolina Owners Rep and just got back from Tokyo said this was the best bike trail. This is another popular cycling road that runs along the Tamagawa River. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful ride.
- Tama River Cycling Road: This is a scenic 50-kilometer-long cycling road that runs along the Tama River. It’s a popular spot for cycling and walking, and offers great views of the surrounding nature.
- Imperial Palace Loop: This is a 5-kilometer loop around the Imperial Palace that is closed to traffic on Sundays and holidays. It’s a great place for a leisurely ride and offers beautiful views of the palace and the surrounding gardens.
- Odaiba Seaside Park: This is a popular park located on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. It offers a great place for a leisurely bike ride, with scenic views of the bay and the city skyline.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin has over 1,200 km of bike lanes and is home to many parks and green spaces, making it an ideal city to explore by bicycle. You can visit historical landmarks like the Berlin Wall and Brandenburg Gate or ride along the Spree River.
Here are some of the most popular bike trails in Berlin:
- Berlin Wall Trail: This 100-mile trail follows the route of the former Berlin Wall, taking in some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and monuments.
- Mauerweg Trail: This 100-mile trail is similar to the Berlin Wall Trail but takes in some additional areas outside the city. It is a great way to explore the history of the city and its surroundings.
- Tiergarten Trail: This 3.5-mile trail takes you through the beautiful Tiergarten park in the heart of Berlin. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peaceful cycling.
- Tempelhofer Feld Trail: This 4-mile trail takes you through the former Tempelhof Airport, which has been turned into a vast park. It’s a unique and fascinating place to explore on your bike.
- Spreeufer Trail: This 6-mile trail follows the banks of the River Spree, taking in some of Berlin’s most beautiful architecture and green spaces.
- Prenzlauer Berg Trail: This 5-mile trail takes you through the trendy Prenzlauer Berg district, where you can explore some of the city’s best cafes, restaurants, and shops.
- Grunewald Trail: This 9-mile trail takes you through the beautiful Grunewald forest, which is located on the outskirts of the city. It’s a great way to escape the city and enjoy some peaceful cycling in nature.
Montreal, Canada
Montreal is one of North America’s most bike-friendly cities, with a network of bike lanes and paths that cover over 700 km. You can explore the city’s historic architecture, visit its numerous parks and gardens, and ride along the scenic Lachine Canal.
Other notable cities for bike riding include Portland, Oregon in the US, Barcelona in Spain, and Copenhagen in Denmark. Ultimately, the best city for biking will depend on your personal preferences and travel interests.