Where to go on a cycling holiday in Europe?

🚴 Are you looking for a cycling holiday but don't know where to go yet? You're not alone. Europe offers an impressive network of cycling routes, from flat stretches through the Netherlands to sunny tours through the Alps or along rivers like the Danube and the Moselle. Whether you love tranquility, nature, culture, or sporting challenges: there's a suitable destination for every cyclist. In this blog, you'll find 10 popular cycling holidays in the Netherlands and the rest of Europe.

1. Frisian Eleven Cities Tour | 7-day cycling tour through Friesland

🕊️ Cycle along the historic eleven cities of Friesland, spread across a route of approximately 250 kilometers. You'll ride through open meadowland, past lakes and canals, and discover charming towns like Harlingen, Dokkum, and Sneek. Along the way, you'll encounter typical Frisian culture: skating monuments, bell towers, and terps. This route is flat and perfect for both recreational cyclists and families.

2. Hanseatic Cities Bike Cruise | 8-day trip with ms Poseidon

🚢 This unique combination of cycling and sailing takes you along the historic Hanseatic cities on the IJssel. During the day, you cycle through floodplains, forests, and past castles, while in the evening you dine comfortably and sleep aboard the ship. Cities like Kampen, Deventer, Zutphen, and Doesburg offer rich history and coziness. This holiday is ideal for those seeking relaxation and comfort while cycling.

3. Limburg Meuse Bike Cruise | 8-day trip

🌳 Explore the south of the Netherlands via the Meuse. You cycle past orchards, rolling hills, nature reserves like the Meinweg, and picturesque villages such as Thorn and Stevensweert. By staying aboard a cruise ship, you don't need to worry about luggage or accommodations. This cycling holiday is very suitable for nature lovers and people who enjoy peace and comfort.

4. Zuiderzee Circuit | 8-day cycling holiday

🚲 This route of over 400 kilometers leads you around Lake IJssel, the former Zuiderzee. You cycle through fishing villages like Urk and Volendam, VOC cities such as Hoorn and Enkhuizen, and vast polders. The route is varied, with dikes, wooded areas, and water views. You'll experience the rich history of Dutch water management and maritime trade. Very suitable for those who love culture and nature.

5. Danube Passau–Vienna | 8- or 10-day cycling holiday

🌊 One of the most popular cycling holidays in Europe. The route starts in German Passau and follows the Danube towards Vienna, over a distance of approximately 320 kilometers. You pass monasteries like Melk, wine regions in the Wachau and charming towns like Linz and Krems. The route is largely flat and car-free, making it very suitable for beginners or families. Hotels are cyclist-friendly and luggage transport is often included.

6. Three Countries Meuse Route | 8-day cycling holiday from Maastricht to Sedan

🏰 Start in the Burgundian Maastricht and cycle along the Meuse via Namur and Dinant to Sedan in Northern France. The route takes you through green valleys, past castles and rock formations, and through lively towns with lots of history. This trip is ideal for those who love variety: three countries, multiple languages and a beautiful mix of nature and culture.

7. Cycling holiday Northern Italy | 9-day round trip

🍇 From the Dolomites to Verona and Lake Garda: this route combines mountains, lakes and Italian charm. You cycle partly over former railway lines and well-constructed cycle paths. Along the way you pass vineyards, cypresses and colorful villages. The route has elevation changes, but often with gentle descents. Ideal for those who want to combine sportiness with la dolce vita.

8. South Tyrol to Lake Garda | 7-day cycling tour

🍏 You start in northern Italy, often at Merano or Bolzano, and descend via the Adige valley towards Lake Garda. The route is largely downhill, with apple orchards, wine villages and historic cities like Trento along the way. At the end, Mediterranean life at Lake Garda awaits. Suitable for recreational cyclists who love nature and relaxing moments.

9. Drau cycle route | 8-day cycling holiday in Carinthia

⛰️ This route from Toblach (Italy) to Villach (Austria) follows the river the Drau over approximately 300 kilometers. The journey is mostly gently descending, through mountain landscapes, alpine meadows and along crystal-clear lakes. You cycle through charming villages and pass places like Lienz and Spittal an der Drau. This trip is perfect for those seeking peace, nature and tranquility.

10. Moselle route | 7-day cycling holiday from Trier to Koblenz

🍷 Cycle through one of the most beautiful wine regions in Europe. The route meanders with the Moselle, between vineyards, castles and half-timbered villages like Cochem and Bernkastel-Kues. The route is flat and suitable for everyone. Along the way you can taste Riesling wines and enjoy the romantic atmosphere. Very popular with couples and culture seekers.

Where are you going on your cycling holiday?

🗺️ Whether you want to stay close to home or explore Europe: a cycling holiday offers freedom, relaxation and adventure. What suits you? Are you looking for flat routes, comfort and peace? Then the Netherlands, the Moselle or the Danube are perfect choices. Want something more challenging or more southern? Then think about Italy or Austria. Whatever you choose: the experience of being on the road, the fresh air and the constantly changing landscape make every cycling holiday unforgettable.