Top 5 Bike Friendly Cities in Europe

Trondheim, Norway

5. Trondheim, Norway

Trondhiem is home of the world’s first bicycle lift called the Trampe, which has become a popular tourist attraction for the town. The lift carries a cyclist up the hill with the same type of technology employed with simple ski lifts or rope tows. A rider simply has to put his foot on a footplate while still sitting on the bike and it brings you gently to the top of the hill. It’s really no wonder with the amount of hills in this city that this concept was conceived in this town.

4. Paris, France

Paris, France

We are all familiar with the many things that make Paris famous: The museums, the landmarks, and of course the fact that it has earned a reputation of being one of the most romantic destinations in the world. However, unless you’ve visited you might not realize that it’s also one of the most congested cosmopolitan cities in the world. In an effort to relieve this congestion there are over 20,000 rentable bicycles in 1,500 different spots littered all over the city.

3. Berlin, Germany

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is Europe’s 2nd largest city, so it has implemented many changes for the benefit of those who choose to use bicycles as their main mode of transportation. One of the largest improvements they have made is providing their citizens with over 140 kilometers of quality bike lanes all over the city. Because of this, more then 400,000 people use their bike every day. I’d say that’s a success.

Copenhagen, Denmark

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

The city of Copenhagen is ranked as one of the best in terms of quality of life, as well as being known as the world’s most environmentally friendly city. It should be no surprise to learn that 36% of all citizens commute to work by bicycle. Much of this is because of the city’s very successful community bicycle programs, which spends upwards of $10 to $20 million on bike infrastructure improvements each year. These improvements are not only good for the environment, but easier than driving in most cases. If more cities spent this much money and effort we would be well on our way to a healthier world.

1. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is known as the bike capital of Europe, and for a very good reason. Over 40% of the cities traffic is by bicycle. With a population just short of 800,000 in the city limits, we’re talking about a lot of bicycles. This is possible because of the city’s very friendly bicycle culture as well as widespread facilities which include bike paths, racks and large guarded storage garages. Near Amsterdam Central is a 2,500 biking garage which is the busiest parking garage in the Netherlands.

About Author:

Duke Dudley is a travel writer from Portland, Maine. He recommends 1-800-Fly-Europe for your future flights to London and beyond.

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