Cycling holidays in Summer: the best places to cycle

1. Italian Lakes, Italy

Best for combining spectacular riding with the delights of an Italian holiday.

Row of bicycles parked near Lake Iseo (photo credit: Italy Bike Tours)

What makes it special

The Italian Lakes are a good choice for cyclists who want plenty of variety without long transfers. Around Lake Garda, Lake Como and Lake Iseo, you’ll find everything from gentle lakeside riding and traffic-free cycle paths to vineyard lanes and bigger Alpine-style climbs.

That range is what makes this part of northern Italy work so well for a cycling holiday. You can spend one day riding beside the water, stopping in elegant lakeside towns, and the next heading inland for longer climbs and wider mountain views. There’s also the option to mix road riding with gravel, particularly around Lake Iseo and the Franciacorta vineyards.

Each of the main lakes has its own character. Lake Garda offers a broad choice of riding, from flatter southern routes to more mountainous terrain in the north. Lake Como brings cycling history and well-known climbs such as the Madonna del Ghisallo. Lake Iseo is often the quieter option, with less traffic, good value places to stay and a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Italian Lakes are especially appealing in May and June, when temperatures are usually warm rather than oppressive and the towns feel lively without the full intensity of peak summer. July and August can still work, but roads, ferries and accommodation tend to be busier, especially around the better-known parts of Garda and Como.

More information

• Guide to cycling the Italian Lakes, with insider tips on bases, routes and planning.
• Best places to cycle in Italy, our pick of the top destinations across the country.

2. Northumberland, UK

Best for a classic UK coast-to-coast ride.

The Derwent Valley cycle path

What makes it special

If you want a summer cycling trip in the UK with a real sense of achievement, Northumberland is best known as the final part of the Coast to Coast (C2C) route. Riding east to the North Sea, this section combines big landscapes, quieter traffic-free paths and the satisfaction of finishing one of the UK’s most iconic long-distance rides.

After the harder central section through the Pennines, the route begins to change character as you head east. The final stages feel more flowing, with a mix of quiet roads and reclaimed railway paths including the Waskerley Way and Derwent Valley cycle path. From there, riverside cycling along the Tyne takes you through Newcastle and out to Tynemouth.

This part of the ride is about more than just reaching the coast. Northumberland brings open moorland, peaceful valleys and traces of the region’s industrial past, with old railway lines, former mining communities and villages such as Blanchland adding interest along the way. The finish above the sea at Tynemouth Priory and Castle gives the route a memorable ending.

For summer riding, May and June are particularly appealing, with longer daylight hours, generally quieter conditions and a better chance of those crisp, clear riding days that suit this kind of route so well. July and August can still work, but tend to bring more holiday traffic and a busier feel on the final approach to the coast. As ever in northern England, it is worth being prepared for changeable weather.

More information

• Guide to the Coast to Coast cycle route, for planning tips and route details.
• Best bikepacking routes in the UK, our roundup of top options.

3. Kristiansand, Norway

Best for a quieter alternative to classic European destinations.

Boats docked in Lillesand harbour (photo credit: Erik Duncan)

What makes it special

If you want to avoid the crowds and heat of southern Europe, Kristiansand offers a different kind of summer cycling experience. Located in southern Norway, it combines coastal routes, inland lakes and rolling terrain, often with far fewer cyclists around.

One of the main advantages of riding here is the variety within a relatively small area. From Kristiansand, you can head west towards Mandal and Lindesnes, east to Lillesand and Grimstad, or inland towards rivers and lakes such as Oggevatn. The region’s white coastal towns add character to the riding, while inland routes bring quieter roads and a more remote feel.

The terrain is mixed but not extreme. Most routes combine rolling landscapes with steady climbing, rather than long Alpine-style ascents. Typical rides range from around 68 to 118 kilometres, making this a good option for moderately trained cyclists who are comfortable spending longer days in the saddle.

The best time to visit is between May and September. July and August are the warmest months, with temperatures often reaching around 23–24°C and averages near 20°C. Long daylight hours make it easier to plan longer rides, while the mix of coastal scenery, forests and inland lakes keeps things interesting across multiple days.

More information

• Cycling Norway, our central hub for the country.
• Cycling Kristiansand, Norway, a detailed guide to this southern region of the country.
• Cycling Hamar, with information on this lakeside town and the surrounding cycle routes.

4. French Alps, France

Best for ticking off Tour de France climbs.

Climbing up the legendary Alpe D’Huez

What makes it special

Take a short hop across the English channel and you can experience all that French cycling holidays have to offer. Completing epic climbs here is incredibly rewarding, and the summer weather is pleasant but not too hot thanks to the elevation.

Cycling holidays in France are understandably popular – not least because of the world-famous Tour de France. So of course you’ll find some of the best cycling routes in Europe here. If you love the thrill of a tough climb followed by an electrifying descent, then you have to experience a road cycling holiday here at least once.

The best cycling climbs are found throughout the north, south and central French Alps, so you can choose between skirting close to the shores of Lake Geneva, tackling the fabled Alpe d’Huez or sweeping along the roads of the Cote d’Azur and more.

If tackling 2,000 metre peaks sounds like a challenge you’re ready to take on, then France offers some of the finest cycling holidays in Europe. Add to that soaring Alpine peaks, glittering lakes and native wildlife, and you have the recipe for the cycling weekend or longer holiday of a lifetime.

More information

• Guide to cycling the French Alps, an overview of the best Alpine cycling destinations.
• Cycling Alpe d’Huez (and surrounds), an ultimate guide to one of France’s most famous climbs.
• Cycling Col de l’Iseran (and surrounds), with details on this high alpine pass.
• La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes, for Marmotte route info, training tips and more.

5. Dolomites, Italy

Best for legendary climbs, dramatic alpine scenery and mountain goat sightings.

Climbing up Passo Fedaia

What makes it special

If you’re considering Italy, then considering a Dolomites cycling holiday is a no-brainer. Majestic peaks that tower over you no matter how high you climb, an impressive road cycling heritage and arduous ascents are just some of the reasons to visit.

This area of northern Italy forms part of the Italian Alps, and lies to the north of Venice and south of the Austrian border. There are plenty of peaks with formidable gradients to tackle here, all set among an unspoiled, natural landscape dotted here and there with grazing mountain goats. This incredible landscape makes it one of the best places to cycle on earth. Did we mention that it’s a UNESCO world heritage site?!

If you time your visit carefully, you may also get to experience the Dolomites Bike Day, the Sella Ronda Bike Day or the Maratona dles Dolomites. These are annual events held during mid or late June and July respectively – in one of the best cycling countries on the planet. At any time during summer, the best routes include the Sella Ronda, the Maratona loop and the Funes Valley area.

May or June are great months to visit the Dolomites if you can, as you’ll avoid the Italian school holidays held in July and August.

More information

• Guide to the Italian Dolomites region, with insights on where to base and ride.
• Maratona dles Dolomites, for route info and climbs for 2026.
• 4 best cycling routes in the Dolomites, for more ideas.

6. Salzkammergut, Austria

Best for lake-to-lake riding with varied terrain and easy route planning.

Scenic picture-postcard view of the Hallstatt mountain village in the Austrian Alps

What makes it special

Austria’s Salzkammergut region offers a mix of Alpine lakes, mountains and small towns, making it a great choice for a multi-day cycling trip. Known as Austria’s lake district, it’s home to more than 30 lakes, alongside valleys, rolling hills and higher mountain terrain.

June to September are the best months to ride, when longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures make it easier to link multiple lakes and towns in a single trip. July and August offer the warmest weather, while May, June and September tend to be quieter and better suited to those looking to avoid peak-season crowds.

Many cycling tours begin and end in Salzburg, a convenient hub with good transport connections and plenty to see before or after your ride. From there, routes pass through well-known spots such as Mondsee, Gmunden, Bad Ischl and Hallstatt, with the option to add detours to additional lakes or viewpoints.

The riding itself is consistently scenic. Expect stretches along lake shores, rolling countryside between lakes and occasional climbs that open up views across the region. Shorter, flatter sections make this accessible for less experienced riders, while stronger cyclists can add distance or elevation by linking more lakes or heading further into the mountains.

More information

• Ultimate guide to cycling in Austria, featuring the best routes to ride.
• Guide to gravel cycling in Austria, for off-road inspiration.
• Cycling tour of the Salzkammergut region, John Vincent’s ride east of Salzburg.

7. Julian Alps, Slovenia

Best for early-summer Alpine riding before peak season.

The Mangat Saddle Pass

What makes it special

The Julian Alps offer a quieter alternative to the better-known Alpine regions, combining dramatic mountain scenery with a more relaxed, less crowded feel. It’s an appealing option for riders who want high-mountain cycling without the busier roads of France, Italy or Austria.

June is one of the best times to ride here. By early summer, snow has usually cleared from key passes such as the Vršič Pass and Mangart Saddle, opening up some of the region’s most memorable climbs. At the same time, you’re ahead of peak holiday season, so roads remain relatively quiet and accommodation is easier to secure.

The riding is varied and rewarding. Expect long, steady climbs, fast descents and the chance to link valleys, passes and lakes in a single ride. There are also gentler options, including cycle paths and lakeside routes around Lake Bled and the Soča Valley, which work well for recovery days or mixed-ability trips.

Conditions are typically well suited to cycling. Temperatures remain comfortable for climbing, even on higher roads above 1,500 metres, while long daylight hours give flexibility for longer rides. Early summer also brings added interest, with wildflower meadows and bright rivers shaping the landscape.

More information

• Guide to cycling in Slovenia, covering the basics.
• Ultimate guide to cycling the Julian Alps, Slovenia, for routes and accommodation tips.
• Cycling the Vipava Valley, our in-depth guide to the region.
• Multi-day bike tour of the Slovenian Alps and Triglav National Park, for more inspiration.

8. Ionian Islands, Greece

Best for combining cycling with swimming, sailing and island-hopping.

Harbour view on Meganisi

What makes it special

The Ionian Islands offer a different take on a summer cycling holiday, where time on the bike is balanced with time in the water. This is a destination built around coastal routes and a relaxed rhythm that revolves around beaches, harbours and tavernas.

August works surprisingly well here. The weather is warm and settled, the sea is ideal for swimming and long daylight hours give plenty of flexibility. While temperatures can be high, cycling is often more comfortable than expected thanks to sea breezes, manageable ride lengths and regular opportunities to cool off with a swim.

One of the main draws is the variety of the experience. Rather than long, continuous days in the saddle, you combine cycling with boat transfers, exploring multiple islands over the course of a trip. This makes it a good option for both families and groups looking for a more flexible, mixed-activity holiday.

Routes typically follow quiet coastal roads, linking small ports, beaches and viewpoints. The emphasis is less on big climbs and more on enjoying the setting, with plenty of stops along the way. If you’re looking for a summer cycling trip that mixes riding with time by the sea, the Ionian Islands are a strong option.

More information

• Cycling Greece, our main hub with links to all our Greece articles.
• Cycling the Greek islands, with more on our August bike tour experience.
• 12 practical tips for cycling holidays in Greece, including things to consider when planning your trip.
• Greece island hopping (for cyclists), a guide to choosing the right tour option.

Where’s your favourite place to cycle in summer?

There is so much more to summer bike rides in Europe than cycling holidays in Mallorca – though of course they are also one of the top options around!

• Don’t forget to check out some of our other posts while you’re here, such as our pick of the best French Alps cycle tours, the top Italian cycling destinations and the finest routes in the UK and Ireland.
• Looking for a fun event to keep the kids busy during the summer holidays? How about following the Tour de France in 2026?

If you liked this guide or would like to share one of your own summer cycling secrets with us, please do let us know via the comments section below.

Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels - and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they're there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.

Want to connect with Clare? Find her over on LinkedIn.