8 bike-friendly cities where you’ll see more on two wheels

The exercise. The affordability. The freedom. Riding a bike offers loads of benefits. Plus, you get to explore more than you would on two feet and go places a car can’t take you. 

With central locations in 24 cities (and counting!) across the globe, fully furnished Blueground apartments also make it easier to get where you want to go. 

Of course, some places are better than others for cyclists, whether you’re commuting to work or cruising for fun. Here are eight of the best cities around the world for bike riders. 

Happy pedaling! 

1. Austin, TX

With its eco-friendly reputation, the Texas capital is big on biking. MetroBike, the city’s affordable bike-share program, features 77 stations with over 800 total bicycles available to borrow for a short trip.  

Where should you ride? For a casual outing, consider trekking around the sprawling University of Texas campus.

Or head to Lance Armstrong Bikeway for more than five miles on mostly shaded concrete and asphalt — a favorite of commuters!  

If you’re a more serious cyclist, check out The Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake. You’ll see everything from skyscrapers to a spring-fed public pool along this 10-mile trail. 

2. Barcelona

What better way to take in the sights and sounds of Barcelona than on two wheels? After all, the city boasts over 300 kilometers of bike paths and dedicated cycle lanes on many of their main roads. 

If you’re a resident, you can take advantage of the BiCing Barcelona bike-share program. It’s easy and budget-friendly.

To experience a great local ride, pedal on the Barceloneta boardwalk, where you’ll soak up the beauty of Spain’s coastline. 

Want to make it social? Join a group bike tour! There are lots of great ones to choose from, including Steel Donkey, Baja Bikes, Fat Tire, and more. 

3. Berlin

Germany’s capital is an underrated city for cyclists. With several bikesharing operators and lots to see and do, biking here is a must.   

Enjoy fantastic views while cycling the 4-kilometer trail along the banks of the Spree River at Treptower Park.

Or there’s the ever-popular Tiergarten, where you’ll find wooded paths and the Berlin Victory Column among its 210 hectares. 

For a one-of-a-kind biking experience, head to Tempelhofer Feld. This former airport turned urban park is home to a whopping 400 hectares of space for leisurely exploration.

Where else can you bike down a runway?!

4. Boston

Biking in Beantown? The city’s Bluebikes program is one of the best modes of public transportation in Boston. Even better, this area continues to improve the quality and quantity of its bike lanes.

Like the city, Boston’s best biking spot, the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway, is rich in history. 

This 10-mile trail somewhat follows the path of Paul Revere’s famous midnight ride to warn townspeople that “the British are coming.”

It’s lined with gorgeous foliage, especially in fall, and features markers where you can learn more during your outing.  

5. Chicago

From city or shoreline, Chicago offers a variety of biking opportunities. Get a feel for the metropolis’ neighborhoods, architecture, and atmosphere on its 200 miles of on-street bike lanes.

Or go for a spin on the Lakefront Trail, a paved, 18-mile path on the shores of Lake Michigan. Along the way, you’ll see some of Chicago’s most beloved beaches, parks, and landmarks. 

Not sure what to do after your ride? We’ve got more can’t-miss ideas for a great time in the Windy City. 

6. Copenhagen

Famed for its next level of bike-friendliness, Copenhagen actually has more cyclists than drivers in the heart of the city. This pedal-happy attitude comes from over 50 years of pro-bike policies in action. 

Copenhagen boasts 400 kilometers of excellent bicycle paths and an easy-to-use bike-loan program, Bycyklen Kobenhavn. Plus, parking is simple and they even offer an area at red lights especially for cyclists. 

One must-see spot to travel across? The Cykelslangen, or “bicycle snake.”

This curving, orange-hued path just for bikers winds between buildings and over water as it connects two bridges.

7. London

The capital of the UK is a surprisingly great place for getting around on two wheels. Not only are there over 12,000 bikes and 800 docking stations, but with Santander Cycles, you can take unlimited trips of up to 30 minutes and pay only £2 each day.  

It’s a great way to tour the town’s parks and green spaces. You’ll experience more in less time as you cycle through Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, and Battersea Park. 

Have your own bike? Enjoy ample room to store it in Blueground’s fully furnished London apartments. 

8. Seattle

Like most of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is obsessed with cycling. Yes, the Emerald City is a little hilly, but don’t worry. There are easy trails for more casual riders. 

Treat yourself to views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and Olympic Sculpture Park on the 3.4-mile Elliott Bay Trail.

Or check out the Burke-Gilman Trail, one of America’s best urban cycling trips. This fairly flat 19-mile rail-to-trail path invites you to explore Seattle and its surrounding areas. 

Looking to travel further afield? Keep in mind that Blueground helps our guests rent a car for less!

Ready to ride?

There’s no better place for cyclists to live and work in between two-wheel excursions than a turnkey Blueground apartment. 

Just bring your adventurous spirit. We’ve got everything else covered!