The 11 Best Bike Touring Destinations In The World (According To Long-Distance Travellers)

I recently shared an infographic highlighting the best bike touring destinations according to more than 50 long-distance bicycle travellers. Many of those surveyed are exceptionally well-travelled, having crossed entire continents and explored dozens of countries by bike. Altogether, they recommended 159 destinations worldwide (you can view the infographic HERE).

When I aggregated the survey results, I found that respondents had highlighted 66 different countries and regions. Remarkably, almost 25% of them singled out the same top destination – can you guess which one?

To unpack these trends, I’ve compiled a countdown of the top 11 countries, along with the key factors that make each one a favourite among touring cyclists. I hope that this guide helps you choose your next riding destination!

The Best Bicycle Touring Destinations In The World

India (11th)

India is a country with an unmistakable character. You can begin by diving into the vibrant colours, rich aromas and infectious energy that its cities are famous for. Many bike travellers are drawn to the rugged roads of its spectacular mountain regions, where quiet routes, hill tribes, clifftop monasteries and Buddhist and Hindu cultures await.

And for those seeking a true test, there’s even the chance to ride at 5,359 metres on the world’s highest “motorable” road.

Where in India*?
North East (Nagaland), North West (Shimla, Ladakh, Leh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Zanskar)

*Equal with Australia, Turkey, Norway, China, and France.

France (10th)

France is a treasure trove for cyclists. From epic mountain routes and postcard-perfect landscapes to quaint villages, incredible food and first-rate cycling infrastructure, bike touring in France is pure enjoyment.

For racing fans, catching a few stages of the Tour de France is the ultimate bonus—there’s simply no other event with that level of excitement.

Where in France*?
Alps, Luberon Valley, Cannes, Lyon.

*Equal with Australia, Turkey, Norway, China, and India.

China (9th)

China’s central and western regions can be quite polarising, though much of that may come down to misunderstanding. The culture here is distinct – often unfamiliar even to seasoned travellers – but if you embrace the challenge (and yes, it will be a challenge), you’ll encounter remarkably curious people living in a world that operates very differently from your own.

On the bike, the landscapes near Tibet feel otherworldly, and the mountain roads of Sichuan are nothing short of spectacular. Turquoise lakes and strings of prayer flags add constant bursts of colour to your ride. Are you ready for it?

Where in China*?
Western China, Tibetan Plateau (G219), Sichuan Province.

*Equal with Australia, Turkey, Norway, France, and India.

Norway (8th)

Norway has earned its reputation among bike tourers thanks to its pristine mountain landscapes and beautifully smooth, winding roads. Wild camping is allowed almost anywhere, and you’ll find wildlife – and even fresh berries – throughout the countryside.

The terrain can be demanding, but with summer’s near-endless daylight, the hardest part might simply be convincing yourself to stop riding each day.

Where in Norway*?
Trondheim, Narvik, Mo i Rana.

*Equal with Australia, Turkey, China, France, and India.

Turkey (7th)

Turkey is a dream destination that truly has it all. The warm and hospitable Turkish people often welcome cyclists to share çai (tea), meals, and sometimes even a place to stay. Beyond the friendliness, Turkey boasts a rich history, fascinating culture, incredible cuisine, and an ideal climate for bike travel.

The landscapes are wonderfully diverse, with authentic towns and villages scattered throughout, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and stay.

Where in Turkey*?
Istanbul, Izmir, Cappadocia, Iran Border, North East, Anatolia.

*Equal with Australia, Norway, China, France, India.

Australia (6th)

Australia is made for those seeking wide-open spaces. The fiery red interior stretches endlessly with dirt tracks and open horizons under a warm sun. Along the coast, the scenery shifts from alpine peaks to sprawling beaches, coral reefs, and dense rainforests.

Small historic towns invite a stop, and the local pubs are the perfect place to meet the unforgettable Australians who inhabit them.

Where in Australia*?
The Great Dividing Range, Buntine Highway, the Outback.

*Equal with Turkey, Norway, China, France, India.

Kyrgyzstan (5th)

Kyrgyzstan looks like a scene straight out of a Windows desktop wallpaper. You’ll camp amid some of the world’s most stunning landscapes, surrounded by grassy hills and the soaring peaks of the western Himalayas.

Locals often welcome travellers into their yurts, offering a glimpse of the nomadic Kyrgyz way of life. Venture off the main roads to discover the country’s more remote and untouched corners.

Where in Kyrgyzstan*?
Central region, Tosor Pass, Torkent to Kochkor.

*Equal with Tajikistan.

Tajikistan (4th)

Tajikistan – and the Pamir Highway in particular – is a favourite among bike tourers. While the route sees plenty of cyclists in the summer, it remains a tough and demanding journey for both rider and bike.

Pedal along rollercoaster-like roads, past rusting tanks and crumbling watchtowers, alongside turquoise lakes and beneath vast, untouched mountain ranges.

Where in Tajikistan*?
Pamir Mountains, Wakhan Corridor.

*Equal with Kyrgyzstan.

Argentina (3rd)

In Argentina, high-altitude landscapes rule. Rugged mountains, quiet gravel roads, and minimal traffic combine to create an intense feeling of isolation. Wild camping opportunities abound, and mountain passes along the Chilean border stretch endlessly for adventure-seeking cyclists.

Where in Argentina?
San Pedro de Atacama to Cachi, Patagonia, Paso de Agua Negra, Paso de San Francisco, North West.

United States of America (2nd)

The USA offers a vast and varied tapestry of stunning landscapes, from dramatic rock formations and sprawling deserts to towering redwood forests.

Cyclists can choose quiet, low-traffic roads for solitude or popular routes like the Pacific Coast to meet fellow touring enthusiasts. There’s always a region with mild weather, and excellent infrastructure – campsites, stores, and more – makes travelling by bike convenient and enjoyable.

Where in the USA?
The Great Divide, Mojave Desert, Southern Utah, Northern Arizona, Pacific Coast, Mississippi River Trail, Dalton Highway (Northern Alaska), Redwoods, Vermont.

Chile (1st)

This is a land where nature reigns supreme. In Chile, you’ll face unpredictable weather as you ride along quiet gravel roads, wind through forests, skirt giant lakes, cross mountain passes, traverse deserts, and pass snow-capped peaks. Yet none of that matters – Chile is a paradise for wild camping, with breathtaking scenery and unrivalled solitude.

Experience it, and you’ll feel more alive than ever.

Where in Chile?
Patagonia, Lake District, Sico Pass, Carretera Austral, Puna de Atacama.

Check Out The 159 Best Bike Touring Destinations Infographic HERE