Biking is a great way to explore new places and see the world differently. If you're looking for some fantastic bike routes to experience in Southern Europe, look no further. This blog post will share four of our favorite bike routes in Southern Europe that will leave you breathless. So what are you waiting for? Grab your bike and hit the road.
In this article
1-Barcelona to Valencia (Spain)
This coastal route takes you through some of Spain's most beautiful Mediterranean cities. Start in Barcelona and make your way to Valencia, taking in the stunning scenery. The route is about 400 kilometers (250 miles), equivalent to 4-5 cycling days. Barcelona to Valencia is relatively easy as it is mostly downhill or flat.
You can take your time and enjoy the views. Make sure to pack plenty of sunblock and snacks, and often stop to rest and enjoy the scenery. Some online biking guides can help you plan your route and ensure you don't miss any highlights.
2-Rome to Florence (Italy)
This classic Italian bike route takes you through two of the country's most iconic cities. Start in Rome and make your way to Florence, taking in the stunning picturesque features and historical landmarks.
The route is about 280 kilometers (175 miles) and can be completed in 3-4 days. While this route is a bit more challenging than the Barcelona to Valencia route, it is still doable for most people. You will need to be in good physical condition to complete the trip in 2-3 days, but if you take your time and enjoy the scenery, four days should be plenty of time.
Pack snacks and water, and often stop to enjoy the views. Several bike touring companies offer guided tours of this route, or you can choose to do it on your own. Either way, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience. After the biking experience, Europe still has a lot to offer.
You may consider visiting Vatican City. This place has a rich history, and you will be able to explore impressive buildings, paintings, and sculptures. However, planning a guided tour is good, so you will not get lost. Your Vatican city tours need proper planning, which includes securing your tickets early. Look for reliable online sites for getting tickets to various destinations. This helps you evade the long queues.
3-Lisbon to Porto (Portugal)
This picturesque route takes you through Portugal's stunning coastal towns and cities. The route is about 408 kilometers.
The Lisbon to Porto route is one of Europe's most popular bike routes. It is a relatively easy trip as it is mostly downhill or flat. You can take your time and enjoy the views, or if you're feeling ambitious, try to complete the route in less than four days. Make sure to pack all the necessary supplies and take breaks, making the tour enjoyable.
You can carry a camera to take beautiful pictures of this route. Some people use video-recording devices on their bikes to capture the whole biking trail. If you plan to bike in Europe, it is vital to consider the weather conditions.
Southern Europe is known for its hot and sunny summers, so pack plenty of sunscreen and water. In the winter, some parts of Southern Europe can be pretty cold, so pack warm clothes and be prepared for wet weather. Some mountain biking trails in Southern Europe can be challenging, so if you are not an experienced mountain biker, it is best to stick to the more accessible routes.
4-Athens to Thessaloniki (Greece)
This Greek bike route takes you through two of the country's most popular cities.
Start in Athens and make your way to Thessaloniki, taking in the stunning scenery and historical landmarks. The route is about 530km. Remember that this is a long ride as you set out for the trip.
You will need to be adequately fueled and hydrated for the journey. Also, consider the heat as Greece can get hot during summer. Consider servicing your bike and carrying all the necessary essential repair tools in case you need them along the way. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
The route from Athens to Thessaloniki is popular, so you will likely not be alone on the road. This can be a good thing as it makes the trip more enjoyable. You can also join a group tour if you want, which can be a great way to see the sights and meet new people. Southern Europe is a great place to go bike touring.
There are many beautiful routes to choose from, and the weather is perfect for biking most of the year. Whether you want to go on a long trip or explore a new city, Southern Europe has something to offer everyone.
