Bike touring around the world: 7 incredible cycling routes to explore

Traveling by bicycle has ceased to be just a sporting alternative and has begun to integrate into the repertoire of experiences linked to landscape tourism, to conscious displacement, and to a more attentive relationship with the territory. The cycling routes structured around the world reveal paths where the journey matters as much as the destination, combining infrastructure, safety, and cultural value.

By crossing natural regions, rural areas, and historical centers, these cycling routes allow for a slower and more sensitive reading of space, respecting local rhythms and encouraging more sustainable forms of travel. Below is a selection of routes that stand out for their diversity of scenery, quality of layout, and potential to connect body, landscape, and displacement.

Estrada Real, Brazil

The Estrada Real is one of the most emblematic cycling routes in the country, crossing Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo. Originally created during the colonial period, it follows ancient paths of gold exploration, passing through historic cities, mountains, and environmental preservation areas.

Cycling this route is to traverse centuries of history. The sections vary in difficulty and terrain type, alternating between dirt roads, cobblestones, and asphalt. There are four options of routes with distances ranging from 160 km to 710 km, allowing for different formats of travel and direct contact with Brazilian history.

Carretera Austral, Chile

In the far south of Chile, the Carretera Austral has become a reference among long-distance cycling routes. With over 1,200 km, it crosses fjords, glaciers, forests, and lakes with intense waters, in a setting marked by the constant presence of nature.

Despite the isolation of some sections, the infrastructure geared towards cycling tourism has been growing, with small accommodations and support points along the way. The experience is marked by silence, sudden climate changes, and the feeling of crossing.

Ruta de los Siete Lagos, Argentina

Connecting San Martín de los Andes to Villa La Angostura, the Ruta de los Siete Lagos is one of the best-known cycling routes in Argentina. The route follows glacial-fed lakes, forests, and mountains of the Andes.

With well-preserved sections and open landscapes, the route allows for frequent stops for contemplation and swimming in the lakes during summer. It is an experience that combines moderate physical challenge and a strong connection to natural projects.

Avenue Verte, England and France

The Avenue Verte connects London to Paris through a network of bike paths and secondary roads, crossing the interior of England and northern France. It is one of the most accessible cycling routes in Europe, with 470 km of clear signage and good integration with trains and ferries.

Along the route, the cyclist passes through villages, farmland, and small historic towns. The crossing of the English Channel symbolically marks the change in landscape and culture, reinforcing the international character of the route.

EuroVelo 6, Germany and Austria

Also known as the "Danube Cycle Path," the EuroVelo 6 follows one of the most important rivers in Europe, connecting cities such as Passau, Linz, and Vienna. Considered one of the most structured cycling routes on the continent, it offers flat and well-signposted paths.

In addition to the ease of the 2,850 km route, the highlight is the cultural diversity along the river, with castles, vineyards, and preserved historic centers. The route allows for daily cycling alongside visits to museums, cafes, and local markets.

Starry Night Cycle Path, Netherlands

Inspired by the work The Starry Night by Van Gogh, the Starry Night Cycle Path is a bikeway illuminated by stones that glow in the dark, creating a magical visual effect. Located in the Eindhoven region, it integrates art, technology, and urban mobility.

Shorter than other cycling routes on this list, with "only" 600 meters, this experience stands out for its concept and nighttime atmosphere. Cycling through it is to experience the city from another perspective, where the path becomes part of the artwork.

Pacific Coast, United States and Canada

The Pacific Coast is an iconic cycling route in North America, following the Pacific coastline from California to Canada. With about 3,200 km, the route offers constant views of the ocean, cliffs, forests, and small coastal towns.

With long and demanding sections, this route is known for its variety of scenery and the sense of magnitude. It is a trip that requires planning, but rewards with landscapes that change daily.