5 Cities to Visit by Bike (With Everything Signposted and Safe)

Pedal by cities to visit by bike It’s more than a tour—it’s an experience that combines freedom, sustainability, and connection with the urban environment.

In a world where active mobility is gaining ground, some cities stand out for offering impeccable infrastructure, safety and routes that transform cycling into a lifestyle.

But why choose destinations where cycling is a priority?

In addition to the obvious reduction in carbon emissions, cycling in well-structured locations means less stress, more efficiency and the chance to explore every detail of the city at a human pace.

According to European Cyclists' Federation, metropolises with signposted cycle paths and policies that encourage cycling reduce accidents by up to 40%, proving that investing in bikes is not a fad, but a necessity.

In this guide, we’ve selected five destinations where cycling is taken seriously—with detailed maps, intuitive signage, and a culture that respects cyclists.

From Amsterdam to Curitiba, these cities prove that two wheels can, indeed, change the way we live.

Why Prioritize Cities With Good Cycling Infrastructure?

Cycling in a chaotic metropolis can be a frustrating—if not dangerous—experience. Narrow streets, poor signage, and unprepared drivers make the journey a challenge.

On the other hand, cities that invest in segregated cycle paths, exclusive traffic lights and awareness campaigns transform the bicycle into a viable, safe and even faster option than cars during peak hours.

A practical example? In Copenhagen, where 62% of the population uses bikes daily, the average travel time fell by 14% after the expansion of the cycle path network.

Not to mention the benefits to public health and local commerce—stores near bike lanes have seen an increase of up to 25% in sales, according to the Copenhagenize Design Company.

In addition, cities that embrace cycling tourism often offer integrated services, such as electric bike rentals, apps with themed routes and even hotels with repair shops.

In other words: planning a cycling trip is not just about choosing a beautiful destination, but a place where the experience will be fluid from start to finish.

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1.Cities to visit by bike Amsterdam, Netherlands: The Global Bicycle Capital,

If there is one place where bicycles reign supreme, it is Amsterdam. With over 880,000 bikes for a population of 1.1 million, the city was planned for cyclists.

Your 400+ km of cycle paths They are so well signposted that even first-time tourists can navigate without difficulty.

One of the differences is the absolute prioritization of the cyclist in traffic.

Smart traffic lights adjust to the flow of bicycles, and drivers are strictly polite to respect those on two wheels.

Want an example? In the busy Rokin Street, one of the city's main roads, cyclists have an exclusive lane and priority over cars—a brutal contrast to the reality of many metropolises.

For those visiting, the route is recommended Amstel River, which follows the course of the river and passes by historic mills, breweries and charming villages such as Old Church on the Amstel.

And if you get tired, the system trains with bike carriages allows you to explore nearby regions, such as Haarlem or Utrecht, without giving up pedaling.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark: The Gold Standard of Urban Cycling

Winner of the Copenhagenize Index 2024, Copenhagen is a success story in sustainable mobility.

Here, for example:

49% of all routes are made by bicycle, a number that only grows thanks to efficient public policies, such as the Green Wave, a synchronized traffic light system to keep cyclists moving continuously during peak times.

Cities to visit by bike with such well thought out infrastructure that even bridges were designed exclusively for bikes, like the iconic Cykelslangen (“Bicycle Snake”), an elevated walkway that bypasses congested areas.

Another highlight is the Superbikestier, a network of “super bike paths” that connect the city to distant suburbs, with repair stations and drinking fountains along the way.

For tourists, it is worth exploring the Tivoli Gardens Circuit, which mixes historic architecture with stunning landscapes;

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Or follow the route North Haven, a waterfront neighborhood filled with art installations and cafes with integrated bike racks.

3. Portland, USA: The City That Defied Car Culture

While the US is known for its love of automobiles, Portland stands out as an oasis for cyclists.

With 500+ km of cycle paths and a mild climate (by American standards), the city attracts both residents and tourists looking for safe and well-planned routes.

One of the most celebrated projects is the Springwater Corridor, a 21-mile bike path that runs through parks, rural areas and revitalized industrial areas—a true summary of Oregon's geographic diversity.

Already in the center, the BikeTown, a bike-sharing program, offers affordable options for exploring attractions such as the Powell's City of Books or the International Rose Test Garden.

Tip: Between June and September, the city hosts the Pedalpalooza.

Pedalpalooza, a festival with more than 200 cycling events, from neon-lit night rides to eccentric competitions like bike jousting.

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4. Bogotá, Colombia: Latin America's Cycling Revolution

On Sundays and holidays, Bogotá is closed 120 km of streets for cars at the event Bike lane, freeing up space for more than 2 million cyclists.

It is the largest initiative of its kind in the world and an example of how public policies can transform habits, to become one of the cities to visit by bicycle.

During the week, the city has 550 km of cycle routes, including the Carrera Séptima Cycle Path, which crosses the historic center.

The city hall still offers public bicycles free at strategic stations, such as Simon Bolivar Park, a starting point for exploring museums and iconic squares.

For a unique experience, follow the route Old Ravine, a trail surrounded by nature that leads to Cerro de Monserrate, with panoramic views of the capital.

5. Curitiba, Brazil: The Best of National Cycling Mobility

Although Brazil is still in its infancy in cycle tourism, Curitiba stands out with 200+ km of signposted cycle paths and projects like the Innovation Ring, which connects universities and technology parks.

O Bike Curitiba, free loan system, has stations at tourist spots such as Botanical Garden and the Wire Opera.

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For a relaxed stroll, the Barigui Route borders the park of the same name, where it is common to see capybaras while cycling.

Relevant data: According to the Curitiba Urban Planning and Research Institute (IPPUC), the use of bicycles has increased 35% in the city after the pandemic, proof that the demand for sustainable mobility is real.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best time to visit these cities by bike?

• Europe (Amsterdam/Copenhagen): Spring and summer (April to September).
• Americas (Portland/Bogotá/Curitiba): Avoid harsh winters (June to August in Portland; December to February in Curitiba).

2. Do I need to bring my own bike?
No! All of the cities listed offer affordable rental or public systems.

3. How do I prepare to cycle abroad?
Check local rules (e.g. in Copenhagen, hand signals are mandatory). Bring a sturdy lock and an offline navigation app (e.g. Bikemap).

Conclusion: The Future on Two Wheels

Explore cities to visit by bike goes beyond tourism—it’s about diving into cultures that understand that efficiency and quality of life literally come from pedaling.

Whether it's a futuristic bridge in Copenhagen or the organized chaos of Bogotá, these metropolises prove that, with planning, even megacities can be traversed with the wind in your face and zero emissions.

What will be your next cycling adventure?

Enrique Medeiros Published on June 5, 2025