15 Places Where Biking Is the Best Way to Get Around

Whether you’re trying to ditch traffic, cut costs, or just feel the wind in your face, some cities are built for bikes. These urban spots make cycling not only easy but actually enjoyable—with dedicated lanes, safe roads, scenic routes, and a culture that embraces two wheels over four. Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or just cruising, these 15 bike-friendly cities let you ride almost anywhere, anytime.

1. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is the gold standard for bike-friendly cities. With over 500 kilometers of bike lanes, it’s not just possible to ride everywhere—it’s expected. Locals use bikes for everything: commuting, shopping, dating, even moving furniture. Cars are secondary, and the entire city is designed to prioritize cyclists. It’s flat, scenic, and unbelievably efficient for anyone on two wheels.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

In Copenhagen, bikes outnumber cars—and the infrastructure proves it. Wide bike lanes, traffic lights just for cyclists, and bike bridges make it one of the smoothest cities to ride in. Even in winter, locals hop on their bikes thanks to efficient snow-clearing. With bike-sharing programs and a strong cycling culture, it’s one of the easiest and safest places to ride year-round.

3. Portland, Oregon, USA

Portland is the most bikeable major city in the U.S., thanks to its forward-thinking urban planning. The city boasts hundreds of miles of bike lanes, car-free bridges, and a strong cycling community. Bike parking is everywhere, and local businesses often cater specifically to cyclists. Whether you’re cruising downtown or coasting through green neighborhoods, Portland makes it easy.

4. Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg might not be as famous as Paris, but it’s far more friendly to bikes. This picturesque city has over 600 kilometers of cycling routes, many of which pass through scenic parks and historic areas. The city center is largely car-free, making it especially safe and pleasant. It’s a top pick for anyone who wants to explore a European city by pedal.

5. Utrecht, Netherlands

Often overshadowed by Amsterdam, Utrecht is another Dutch gem where bikes dominate the streets. It has the world’s largest bike parking facility and an extensive network of bike lanes and bridges. Even during rush hour, cyclists move smoothly thanks to smart traffic systems. It’s clean, efficient, and perfect for those who love exploring smaller cities by bike.

6. Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá may surprise you, but it has one of the world’s largest car-free bike paths. Every Sunday, the city closes over 75 miles of streets for “Ciclovía,” inviting thousands of people to cycle, run, and skate freely. Year-round, dedicated lanes and bike-sharing programs make cycling accessible and safe. It’s a big, busy city that genuinely supports pedal-powered transport.

7. Berlin, Germany

Berlin’s wide streets and flat terrain make it perfect for cycling, and the city is constantly upgrading its bike infrastructure. Dedicated bike paths run throughout, and many traffic laws specifically protect cyclists. Locals use bikes for commuting, errands, and exploring Berlin’s many parks and lakes. It’s a mix of practicality and freedom for cyclists.

8. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo might be crowded, but it’s surprisingly bike-friendly. Many neighborhoods have designated cycling paths, and it’s common to see people commuting or running errands on bikes. While some streets are narrow, drivers are generally respectful and used to sharing the road. Plus, bikes are allowed on many suburban trains, making it easy to ride and roam.

9. Ljubljana, Slovenia

This charming capital is small enough to navigate entirely by bike, and locals do just that. The city center is mostly car-free, and there are dedicated bike lanes throughout the town. Ljubljana’s bike-sharing program is cheap, efficient, and incredibly popular. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for exploring on two wheels.

10. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona has transformed itself into a cycling city in recent years, adding hundreds of kilometers of bike lanes and car-free “superblocks.” The city’s public bike system, Bicing, is easy to use and well-integrated. Whether you’re pedaling along the beach or through historic neighborhoods, the ride is smooth and sunny. It’s one of the best big cities in Europe for casual cycling.

11. Ghent, Belgium

In Ghent, cars are discouraged in the city center, making it ideal for cyclists. Bike lanes are clearly marked, and the local government actively promotes cycling through programs and events. Most streets are flat and scenic, lined with canals, old buildings, and green spaces. For a quiet, car-light city with serious biking pride, Ghent is a hidden gem.

12. Montreal, Canada

Montreal is the bike capital of Canada, thanks to its extensive network of bike lanes and paths. The city’s BIXI bike-share program is well-maintained and covers most neighborhoods. From May to October, cycling is at its best—but even in the colder months, the city keeps main routes clear. With riverside rides and access to parks, it’s a beautiful city to explore on two wheels.

13. Malmö, Sweden

Malmö is Sweden’s most bike-friendly city, with a dense web of cycling infrastructure that connects every part of town. Dedicated bike highways even link Malmö to nearby Copenhagen via a ferry or bridge. Locals bike year-round, and the city offers bike pumps, parking, and signage throughout. It’s modern, eco-conscious, and made for two-wheel travel.

14. Paris, France

Paris has made major strides toward becoming a cycling city, especially in recent years. Hundreds of miles of bike lanes now crisscross the capital, and the city’s Vélib’ bike-sharing system is one of the largest in the world. Many roads have been redesigned to favor cyclists, especially near the Seine and in central districts. It’s a totally new way to experience Paris—one pedal at a time.

15. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi is one of the best cities in Southeast Asia for bike commuting, especially in quieter neighborhoods and near the lakes. While the traffic can be intense downtown, early mornings and bike-dedicated routes offer peaceful options. Locals use bikes for everything from school runs to carrying groceries. With a little awareness and the right route, it’s a rewarding way to experience the city’s unique rhythm.