Europe is a paradise for cyclists, with cities leading the charge in creating bike-friendly infrastructure and vibrant cycling cultures. Based on a study by French insurtech company Luko, 90 cities worldwide were ranked on factors like weather, safety, infrastructure, and community engagement.
Let’s explore the best cycling cities in Europe, one pedal at a time.
1. Utrecht, Netherlands
Utrecht takes the crown with an unbeatable score of 77.84. With 51% of residents cycling daily, the city combines innovative infrastructure, minimal bike theft, and an unparalleled cycling culture. Utrecht’s cycling legacy dates back to 1885 with the creation of the Netherlands’ first bike path.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Utrecht? Order it online.
2. Münster, Germany
Known as Germany’s cycling capital, Münster boasts a dense network of bike paths connecting all districts. With more people cycling than driving, the city hosts regular events to celebrate and expand its cycling culture.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Münster? Order it online.
3. Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp stands out for its excellent bike-sharing system and compact layout. While only 30% of residents cycle regularly, those who do benefit from continually improving infrastructure and occasional car-free days.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Antwerp? Order it online.
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is synonymous with urban cycling. The city has an extensive network of bike paths, and most residents own a bike. While its low ranking in bike rentals pulled down its score, Copenhagen remains one of the most bike-friendly cities globally.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Copenhagen? Order it online.
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam offers a cycling experience like no other. With dedicated bike paths and a deeply ingrained cycling culture, the Dutch capital’s canals and cobblestone streets are best explored on two wheels.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Amsterdam? Order it online.
6. Malmö, Sweden
Flat, compact, and safe, Malmö is a cyclist’s dream. The city offers separate bike lanes, plenty of rental options, and a supportive cycling community that organizes regular events.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Malmö? Order it online.
7. Bern, Switzerland
Despite its hilly surroundings, Bern’s city center is relatively flat, with excellent bike-sharing systems and safe bike paths. The low bike crime rate makes the Swiss capital a perfect place for urban cyclists.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Bern? Order it online or check out our retail location in Bern.
8. Bremen, Germany
Bremen’s well-connected paths make it ideal for exploring both the city center and surrounding areas. Its Neustadt district is a cyclist-first zone, prioritizing bikes with a speed limit of 30km/h.
Want to buy for a MAY bicycle in Bremen? Order it online or check out our retail location in Bremen.
9. Hannover, Germany
Hannover is known for its greenery and cycling-friendly infrastructure. The city offers expanding bike paths, scenic routes through parks, and long-distance paths throughout Lower Saxony.
Want to buy for a MAY bicycle in Hannover? Order it online.
10. Strasbourg, France
With over 600km of bike paths and a strong cycling culture, Strasbourg leads the way in France. The city also features 6,500 self-service bikes and regular initiatives to encourage more people to cycle.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Strasbourg? Order it online.
11. Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux’s cycling culture is tied to the famous 1,300km Vélodyssée route along the Atlantic coast. The city also offers excellent bike-sharing systems, no-car days, and scenic rides past vineyards.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Bordeaux? Order it online.
12. Hamburg, Germany
Flat and fascinating, Hamburg combines its open layout with a growing network of bike paths. The city’s blend of modernity and tradition makes it an exciting place to explore by bike.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Hamburg? Order it online or check out our retail location in Hamburg.
13. Leipzig, Germany
Leipzig has invested heavily in cycling infrastructure, creating new bike paths and rental options. These efforts make it one of East Germany’s most cycling-friendly cities.
a MAY bicycle in Leipzip? Order it online.
14. Bristol, United Kingdom
Despite its challenging hills, Bristol remains the UK’s most cycling-friendly city. The city’s innovation and forward-thinking approach have created an impressive cycling network.
Unfortunately, we do not ship to the UK.
15. Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg’s historic architecture and castles make it a beautiful city to explore by bike. With paths throughout the city, it’s a cyclist’s delight.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Nuremberg? Order it online.
16. Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck offers 520km of bike paths that showcase the Austrian Alps’ beauty. The city’s commitment to cycling makes it a standout in a country still catching up to its neighbors.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Innsbruck? Order it online.
17. Berlin, Germany
Berlin’s vastness can be intimidating, but its bike-friendly infrastructure makes it accessible. With rental options in every district, Berlin is a must-visit for urban cyclists.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Berlin? Order it online or check out our retail location in Berlin.
18. Cologne, Germany
Cologne’s cycling highlight is its Rhine bike trail, a picturesque route connecting the city with Mainz 190km away. With expanding paths and bike-friendly streets, it’s a top destination.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Cologne? Order it online.
19. Dresden, Germany
Dresden’s parks and the Elbe Cycle Path make it an excellent city for cyclists. The city combines modern infrastructure with scenic routes for all skill levels.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Bremen? Order it online.
20. Frankfurt, Germany
Frankfurt balances its urban modernity with a focus on cycling. The city offers excellent bike paths, particularly along the Main river, creating a perfect urban cycling experience.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Frankfurt? Order it online.
21. Dusseldorf, Germany
Dusseldorf’s stylish streets feature a growing number of cyclists. The city’s RADschlag app offers detailed information for bikers, enhancing the cycling experience.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Dusseldorf? Order it online.
22. Bonn, Germany
Bonn’s flat stretches along the Rhine make it a charming destination for cyclists. While no longer Germany’s capital, the city’s infrastructure ensures its place as a cycling favorite.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Bremen? Order it online.
Bonus Cities
The list is already quite exhaustive! At MAY, we believe that the following rising stars should be included as well:
A) Zurich
Zurich's commitment to enhancing its cycling infrastructure is evident through initiatives like the "Masterplan Velo," aiming to double the modal share of bicycle traffic and improve safety. The city's blend of urban and natural landscapes provides cyclists with diverse and scenic routes.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Zürich? Order it online or check out our retail location in Zürich.
B) Basel
Basel's proximity to cycling-friendly regions near Germany and Alsace makes it a hub for dedicated cycle paths. Cyclists can enjoy well-maintained routes that connect seamlessly with neighboring countries, offering both urban and cross-border cycling experiences.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Basel? Order it online.
C) Geneva
Geneva is a cyclist's paradise, boasting a strong cycling culture and immediate access to nature. The city's commitment to promoting cycling is evident through unique guided bike tours and infrastructure that encourages slow travel, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and commuting cyclists.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Geneva? Order it online.
D) Vienna
Vienna has seen a significant rise in cycling. The city's efforts to improve cycling infrastructure, combined with its rich cultural heritage, make it a delightful place to explore on two wheels.
Want to buy a MAY bicycle in Vienna? Order it online.
Start exploring your city
The top cycling cities share a few key features: dedicated bike paths, robust sharing systems, low crime rates, and a cultural embrace of cycling. The Strava heatmap of cycling routes however beautifully illustrates that it's not just those cities that offer great opportunities for cycling. Any city can become your playground if you try. Start exploring yours and you'll find beautiful places close-by that you never even knew existed.
Our bicycles are designed to navigate urban landscapes with styles and ease. With minimalist aesthetics and high-quality materials, they will become your ideal companion for urban adventures. Ready to ride? Discover our collection of urban bikes and transform your city commute today!
