Cycling and river cruising. At first glance, there’s not much in common – each involves a completely different mode of transport after all. However, if you’re a cyclist eager to explore some of Europe’s most fascinating cities, a river cruise could in fact be the perfect way to do it.
Roaming free as a cyclist
Why? Well, though you’ll of course have problems getting your own personal two-wheeler through customs when you fly out to your river cruise, you’ll still have plenty of opportunity to cycle. Many of the world’s most popular river cruise lines offer river cruisers the use of a fleet of bicycles which are stored on-board and completely free to use.
Ama Waterways carry more than two-dozen bicycles on all ships which operate on its European itineraries. You can join in a guided tour or strike out on your own and helmets are included too. APT Touring, Scenic Tours and Tauck all offer cruisers the use of bicycles in a similar manner, while Avalon Waterways offer bespoke cycle excursions designed to showcase landmark regions by making use of established and well-loved cycle routes. Uniworld River Cruise Collection operate something call the Go Active Program, which involves the line identifying the best opportunities for exploration in each destination as well as offering complimentary bicycles to explore them with.
Best places to tour as a cyclist
To give you a little inspiration, here’s a look at some of the best places to tour by bicycle while on your river cruise.
The Dutch countryside
The Netherlands is one of the most cycle-friendly nations on Earth, which makes it the perfect destination for a river cruise cycle exploration. The nation’s flatness is often commented upon and certainly it’s a feature which works in the favour of cyclists wanting to enjoy a less strenuous tour but a very scenic one. A tour of the Dutch countryside will take you through rustic villages and pastures and past peaceful meadows and of course, there’s the chance to see one or two of the famous windmills.
Try it on: Dutch/Belgian waterways and Rhine itineraries.
The Wachau Valley
Austria’s stunning Wachau Valley was formed by the Danube itself and is located between the picturesque towns of Melk and Krems – both popular ports on many Danube river cruise itineraries. It’s an UNESCO World Heritage Site and an exploration through it – though sometimes hilly – is your gateway to some of Austria’s most beautiful scenery, picturesque villages and one of its most established wine regions, too.
Try it on: Danube itineraries and central Europe itineraries.
The Moselle River
A tributary of the Rhine, The Moselle flows through France Belgium and Germany and offers river cruisers some truly beautiful scenery. The Moselle is of course famous for its wine and indeed, grapes are harvested in all the countries it passes through. Cyclists can explore the region, passing past soaring mountains and sweeping vineyards and many tours involve a visit to Cochem, which is a joy to experience thanks to its half-timbered houses and castle views.
Try it on: Moselle, Rhine and European itineraries.
Vienna city tour
Of course, it’s not all about the natural scenery and these days, bicycles are a popular way to get around in the city, as anyone who’s hopped on one of London’s ‘Boris bikes’ will testify. Vienna is one of Europe’s most historic, architecturally-rich and popular cities and exploring it by bicycle is a great and easy way to see some of what’s on offer. When it comes to exploring a city, just as you would take a guided tour on-foot, you can do so on a bike too and it’s always advisable, as your guide will know how to make the most of your visit so you can take in the most celebrated sights.
Try it on: Danube and European itineraries.
