Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast, an eco-warrior, or just looking to find new ways to explore and experience new places, traveling on a bike can be a fun and rewarding option.
To mark World Bicycle Day on June 3, online travel agent Agoda shares six beautiful cities that different types of travelers should check out on two wheels.
FOR CITY EXPLORERS
Beijing, China
For an affordable and convenient way to get around, hop on a bicycle from one of the bike-sharing operators in Beijing. Simply scan a bike with your mobile phone to unlock and lock it when you reach your destination. First-timers to Beijing can follow a 16-kilometer bike route to cover some of Beijing’s highlights like the Forbidden City, The Egg, and the Bird’s Nest stadium.
Where to stay: Check-in at The Imperial Mansion, Beijing Marriott Executive Apartments and start your tour from Tiananmen Square just 940 meters away.
Paris, France
For a different view of the City of Love, pedal through the Parc Rives de Seine, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, extending along the sides of the Seine River. The area was specially converted from an expressway into a promenade for cyclists and pedestrians. For a pitstop, consider one of the restaurants or take part in the many events happening throughout the day.
Where to stay: If you’re staying at Hotel de la Porte Doree, you can rent a bike from there and ride off to the Seine within 10 minutes.
FOR CULTURE AND HISTORY BUFFS
Hoi An, Vietnam
If rustic old towns, beautiful rice field landscapes, and picturesque farms excite you, book a cycling tour to truly experience Hoi An in four hours. Get to know the city’s past and present, immerse in local culture with opportunities to interact with families, and try your hand at their crafts.
Where to stay: If you want to continue exploring Hoi An on bicycle, stay near the Old Town at Allegro Hoi An, where they provide free use of their bicycles.
Florence, Italy
Like to bike but hate to pedal for hours? Try exploring Florence on an electric bike tour without getting out of breath. Check out the famous terrace of Piazzale Michelangelo and experience the Renaissance magnificence at the Duomo, while stopping along the way to get a taste of delectable Tuscan wine and food.
Where to stay: A stay at the stylish Hotel Spadai located in the heart of Florence will get you well-rested for your Florence excursions.
FOR ADVENTURERS
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne is home to a thriving outdoor and cycling culture. Live as the locals do and explore the Victoria state on bike. For a short trip, consider the Yarra River trails where the region is known for its vast wineries. If you have a couple more days, take a trip out to Warrnambool to cycle down the famous Great Ocean Road. Don’t forget to look out for the Twelve Apostles and some of the most spectacular views in Australia.
Where to stay: For longer cycling trips, plan your rest stops and choose from over 10,000 properties in Victoria to stay the night.
California, USA
The Golden State has some of the most beautiful mountains, beaches, and deserts—perfect for seasoned cyclists looking for an adventure. Pick an area like Santa Barbara and take the Gibraltar Road route for a good climb to get breathtaking ocean views and vistas. Head back downtown to Handlebar Coffee Roasters for a cycling-themed coffee break.
Where to stay: Pick from over 200 properties in the Santa Barbara region to recuperate from all that pedaling.
