Did George Orwell really say that two wheels are better than four, or was it some talkative pig in an oddly vivid dream? Anyway, what matters is that Europe is going all out to make cities more bike-friendly for those fearless bikers (and maybe some hipsters too). So, which European cities are rocking the cycling scene, and do the cool ones happen to be up north?
Well, this French insurance company called Luko (apparently the top home insurtech in Europe, whatever that means) did some serious number-crunching to spill the beans. They dug into 90 cities worldwide, picked for their enthusiasm for new stuff.
They looked at everything: weather, crime, safety, roads, events, bike-sharing – you name it. Then, they whipped up some kind of funny formula (that we’ll just pretend to get) to come up with scores. Luko insists it’s not a definitive list of the best cycling spots, but who cares? Let’s dive in – here are the top cycling cities in Europe, according to Luko’s sleuthing.
1 Utrecht, Netherlands
And the award for the ultimate cycling city in Europe goes to none other than Utrecht! This Dutch gem, though petite, is a perfect blend of rich history and a vibrant, youthful population. If that sounds like the ideal recipe for a cycling haven, you’re spot on. According to the study, a whopping 51% of Utrechters hop on their bikes daily, and the city excels in every category. There’s virtually no bike-related crime, coupled with extensive cycling infrastructure and a thriving biking culture.
Utrecht doesn’t just sit at the top of the list; it completely outshines the competition. With an impressive overall score of 77.84, it leaves second place trailing by more than 10 points. As the birthplace of the first cycle path in the Netherlands in 1885, Utrecht is the stuff of cycling fantasies, as long as bicycles manage to catch enough REM sleep, that is.
2 Münster, Germany
No cycle path in Münster harbors lurking monsters – a quip we’re obligated to crack by contract. This German cycling hub wholeheartedly embraces the two-wheel revolution, boasting more daily cyclists than car drivers. And who can blame them? Münster lays out a top-notch network of bike paths and stellar infrastructure, seamlessly connecting all the city’s neighborhoods. Shops and bike rentals are practically around every corner.
Sure, Münster may be the largest German city without a U-Bahn, but who needs such flashy modernity when you’ve got the enchantment of two wheels, a frame, handlebars, a seat, and probably a quirky bell of some sort? Adding to its charm, Münster hosts a plethora of cycling events, contributing to the community’s growth with each passing year.
3 Antwerp, Belgium
Luko’s comprehensive list takes into account various factors, and Antwerp’s impressive ranking suggests that excellence in specific areas can offset shortcomings elsewhere. Alternatively, it might just underscore the study’s limitations, but let’s not play the judge here. Despite fewer than 30% of Antwerp’s residents being regular cyclists, those who do partake enjoy a commendable bike-sharing system and well-defined bike paths. The city’s smaller size is undoubtedly an advantage, and ongoing efforts are enhancing its infrastructure. While more bike paths could be a welcome addition, occasional car-free days might serve as a compensatory measure.
4 Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen must be feeling a bit miffed. If the Danish capital isn’t snagging the title of the world’s top cycling city, then who dares to lay claim to that crown? Well, Utrecht, as we’ve established, but rest assured, Copenhagen is not one to give up its title without a fight. Examining the data, it’s not entirely evident why Copenhagen isn’t higher on the list. Granted, it falls short in sharing and rentals, but that’s likely because practically everyone in the city already owns a bike. Could it be a victim of its own success? Perhaps. Copenhagen is undeniably fantastic for cycling, with a majority of its residents zipping around on two wheels. In plain terms, if your list of the best cycling cities doesn’t include Copenhagen, it might as well be considered worthless.
5 Amsterdam, Netherlands
Consider this: everything said about Copenhagen applies equally to Amsterdam. The Dutch capital offers one of the most delightful cycling experiences on the planet. Picture Amsterdam in your mind – do you not envision stylish individuals cruising along canals and charming architecture? If that’s not your mental image of Amsterdam, well, to each their own. Amsterdam boasts a comprehensive network of bike paths, abundant rental options, and a deeply ingrained cycling culture.
6 Malmö, Sweden
Cycling in Malmö is a safe, enjoyable, and convenient experience. The city’s compact and flat terrain, akin to the proverbial pancake, leaves no room for excuses. Dedicated bike lanes, separated from motorized traffic, crisscross the city, and numerous rental options are conveniently scattered throughout. Malmö’s cycling culture is on a continual upswing, marked by occasional events and the presence of many repair shops citywide. What more needs to be said? Whether you’re a Malmö resident or a first-time visitor, hop on the saddle and discover the city at its most marvelous.