Exploring Europe through Bike and Boat Tours

Europe is a haven for bike and boat tours, that provide travellers with the flexibility to enjoy both cycling and immersing themselves in the beauty of nature while travelling the waterways between destinations. These tours offer picturesque scenery, historic sites, and charming villages. The continent's extensive network of easily navigable rivers, canals and seas makes it an ideal location for such adventures.

Where to go

The Netherlands and Belgium
One of the most popular routes is the journey between Amsterdam and Bruges. This tour allows travellers to cycle through the serene Dutch countryside, lined with tulip fields and windmills, and explore Belgian towns renowned for their medieval architecture and world-famous chocolates. The waterways of the Scheldt River and various canals provide a tranquil experience by barge.

Germany and Austria
Germany and Central Europe offer several enticing bike and barge tours with leisurely cruising on the peaceful rivers, particularly the Danube, Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Cyclists can pedal through valleys known for their steep vineyards and quaint villages, often with stops at local wineries for tastings.. The scenic routes provide a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, allowing travellers to explore historic castles, charming towns, and picturesque landscapes. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a history buff, these tours offer a unique and memorable way to experience the heart of Europe.

• Reading: Waltzing Along the Danube: A Cycling Adventure

France
France boasts numerous tours, particularly along the Seine and Saône Rivers through Champagne, Burgundy and of course the Paris basin, also the Camargue wetlands in Provence. In Burgundy, travellers can cycle through rolling vineyards, ancient castles, and picturesque villages, while the barge meanders along the River. Provence offers a mix of lavender fields, olive groves, and charming towns such as Avignon and Arles, with the Rhône River providing a stunning backdrop. Other great options include the Garonne in Bordeaux and around the Mediterranean island of Corsica..

Italy
One of the most popular routes is along the Po River and its delta, to enjoy the serene beauty of the Italian countryside, dotted with charming villages and historic sites. The Po River, Italy's longest river, flows through the fertile plains of northern Italy, providing a scenic backdrop for a leisurely cycling and boating adventure. Italy's extensive coastline and numerous islands offer ample opportunities. The coast is renowned for its breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coastal towns. Travellers can sail or cruise along the coast, stopping at iconic destinations such as the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and the Italian Riviera, to cycle through picturesque villages, explore ancient ruins, and enjoy the local cuisine and wine.

Greece
Greece also has much to offer with bike and boat cruises throughout the many islands of the Aegean and Ionian Seas, particularly the Cyclades and Saronic groups.

When to go

The best time to embark on a bike and boat tour in Europe largely depends on the region and your personal preferences. Generally, the most favourable periods are late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these times, the weather is typically warm and pleasant, but not too hot, and the tourist crowds are smaller, making it ideal for cycling and boating.
Spring is particularly beautiful in the Netherlands with blooming tulip fields, while summer offers warm weather and longer days.
In late spring or early autumn the vineyards and fields of Germany and Austria are lush, and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.
Provence is especially stunning in June and July when the lavender fields are in full bloom – but it is hot and there are more tourists around.
Anytime from May to October is a good time for island cruises in Greece. The sea is warm, and the weather is sunny and dry.

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Exploring the many routes through bike and boat tours offers a unique and dynamic way to experience diverse landscapes, cultures, and waterways. And by choosing the right time to go, you can ensure a more enjoyable and memorable bike and boat tour experience in Europe.

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These are the tours we've found so far - if you know of others please let us know. You can use the filters to drill down to your ideal tour.