Best Tours for Your First Cycling Holiday

These selections are based on our and our customers' experiences, so we're sure they're the right fit for a first cycling tour and will have you catching the cycling holiday bug. They’re all tours where the distances are long enough to feel like you've had a good cycle, but also allow plenty of time to explore the pretty villages and admire the incredible views along the way without any time pressure - not to forget the frequent breaks for ice creams, coffees and local specialities!

Seven of these tours feature in our biggest ever January Sale, joining 100+ more. Book by 31 January 2025 and save £50pp on your booking - then put those savings towards an extra glass (or two!) of wine or a luxurious meal out on a tour. The discount isn't shown on our website prices - we’ll take it off after you book.

If you have any questions or you want to find out more about any of these tours, call our team on +44 (0)1273 224066 or enquire online. We're all keen cyclists and are happy to have a chat! You can also find out more about us and our gold-certified customer reviews.

By Catherine Gray, Head of Freedom Treks

The Danube River, which flows through 10 countries and is home to the world's most famous cycle path, is a cycling mecca for beginners. Our Passau to Vienna Bike Tour is the pick of the bunch for first-timers, but you won't feel out of place on any of our Danube cycling holidays.

Cycling what we think is the prettiest section of the Danube with its beautiful scenery as it follows the river, traffic-free cycle paths and flat terrain will leave you wanting to come back for more. In fact, lots of our customers do just that, returning the same or following year to carry on the path from Vienna to Budapest!

From riverside villages to captivating cities and the wooded slopes of the spectacular Great Loop, you won't be short of stunning sights. That's not to mention the palaces in the UNESCO-listed Wachau region, as well as the fairytale castles you'll be treated to as a halfway highlight.

Think this tour stops there? Well, if having a floating home on the Danube for the week sounds up your street, you'll love the Boat & Bike version of this tour. If you prefer to stay in hotels but want that added bit of luxury, the deluxe version of this tour is the one for you.

Passau to Vienna is a real 'has it all' tour - I couldn't recommend it more for a first cycling holiday.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I experienced a Freedom Treks holiday for the first time back in May when myself and four friends did the Passau to Vienna bike tour - we had absolutely the best time! We received excellent customer service from start to finish, particularly as we'd put together our ideal itinerary and Saul did his very best to accommodate all our requests. The tour organisation was fantastic, with such detailed information provided in our 'tour guide' for the route and each place we were staying at along the way. The standard of accommodation throughout the tour was very good and the scenery along this part of the Danube was stunning. It also helped that we had amazing weather. We had a brilliant holiday, would thoroughly recommend Freedom Treks to anyone considering a cycling holiday. We will definitely be using them again - the challenge will be which trip to choose next!” - Jessica Heavey

View tour: Danube - Passau to Vienna Bike Tour

Touring through three countries around one of Europe's most stunning lakes and visiting the largest waterfall in Europe, all while utilising a well-signposted and flat cycle path network - it doesn't get much better for beginners than our Lake Constance and Rhine Falls Bike Tour.

The shimmering Lake Constance is, of course, the major attraction of this tour. But the easy to navigate, mainly traffic-free cycle path sets this tour apart for a first-time Freedom Trekker.

Bringing your swimwear in your pannier comes highly recommended for this one - there'll be plenty of time to swim in the lake itself or nearby lidos.

Circumnavigate your way from Constance in Germany, following the sparkling shoreline through Austria and Switzerland, before making your way back to Constance to complete a memorable loop around the lake.

There's much more to this tour than just the lake. En route, you'll pass interesting local towns and lush green meadows with the snow-capped Alps making for a striking backdrop.

Highlights include the medieval town of Stein am Rhein, the castle of Kirchberg and the Swiss harbour of Romanshorn. Plus, we think the wooden slopes and nature reserves of the Höri Peninsula are worthy of a mention too.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "A fantastic week cycling around Lake Constance. The scenery was beautiful particularly the ride from Konstanz to Schaffhausen and back (an add on to the trip to see the Rhine Falls). The cycle paths were very well marked and easy to follow in most places. The hotels were a good standard with excellent breakfasts to set you up for the day. This is a must do tour!" - Jacqueline Field

View tour: Lake Constance & Rhine Falls Bike Tour

The majority of our 6-night Innsbruck to Verona Bike Tour is spent following the river downstream along one of Italy's most scenic cycle paths, making it a great option for first-timers. Easy-going cycling is coupled with plenty of opportunities for breaks along the way (particularly on the slightly longer day 4!)

Cycling through the mountains is usually something that a more experienced cyclist will tackle. On this tour, you take a transfer at the beginning from Innsbruck up to the Brenner Pass at 1370m, meaning you still witness the incredible scenery in the mountains without the hard climbs.

This sublime route takes you through the ancient villages of South Tyrol, with incredible Baroque castles and ornate cathedrals. You'll also pass mountain fortresses before a leisurely stretch alongside the Adige River takes you to Lake Garda's sparkling shores, where you can take a breathtaking ferry cruise across the water.

Each medieval village and historic town you visit on the way from the Brenner Pass to Verona tells a different story - the wine village of Ora and the 1100-year-old town of Bressanone are just two of many memorable moments.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "I was a little worried about taking our teenage daughters on the trip as they had little cycling experience. However, the route was nearly all on dedicated cycle paths, the distances were just right and the first couple of days really built confidence as they were mostly downhill! I'm glad we went out for a few practice rides before the holiday but this is certainly a 'doable' family holiday. The scenery was beautiful and we passed through some lovely towns. A great trip!" - Paul Froome

View tour: Innsbruck to Verona Bike Tour

The easy-to-follow, numbered cycle path called the Junction Network makes this tour the ultimate leisurely cycling experience - plus it lives up to its Highlights of Holland name. It's one of our best entry-level tours, with the distances intentionally short to allow for more sightseeing time. It's also only five nights, with four days in the saddle; all of which will be spent on flat and quiet cycle paths through beautiful green countryside.

Thinking of travelling in April or May? You'll have the chance to extend your distances to see the stunning rows of colourful tulips that arrive in spring.

From famous windmills to the lovely streets of Haarlem, Amsterdam’s canals to the red-brick houses of Volendam, this tour guides you through the heart of this charming country. The packed itinerary for this tour includes sampling the tasty cheese and delicious waffles, seeing clogs being made and exploring the fascinating museums.

If you want to stay longer but stick to four cycling days, we recommend adding an extra night or two in the amazing city of Amsterdam.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  "Loved the trip with routes around Amsterdam." - Sheryl Knight

View tour: Highlights of Holland Bike Tour

Ride along gentle riverside tracks and cycle paths between two of Europe's most culture-rich cities on our Prague to Dresden Bike Tour. This is the perfect opportunity to discover the lesser-known gems between these cities, as you pass dramatic mountain scenery and Bohemian towns while pedalling through the peaceful banks of Rivers Vltava and Elbe.

Our Chairman Richard cycled this tour in 2022 with his family and loved it - I highly recommend reading his Prague to Dresden trip report for a more detailed insight into this tour.

The golden spires of Prague make a magnificent first impression, and it’s well worth maximising the experience by spending an extra day here to uncover the cobbled streets and hidden courtyards.

Riding from the Czech Republic to Germany, you’ll pedal past diverse landscapes of sandstone towers, watery meadows and terraced vineyards. Charming spa towns line the riverbanks and story-book castles crown the clifftops. Seeing the domes of Dresden come into view at the end of your tour is an incredible, long-lasting memory.

If you prefer to cycle this tour with the knowledge and experience of a guide, why not choose the guided Prague to Dresden tour with a back-up support vehicle?

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "The Prague to Dresden was a lovely relaxed and friendly cycling trip. The trip started with a nice afternoon in Prague where we did some sight seeing including the Charles Bridge. We found a lovely Pizza place next to the Church in the centre of Prague ( Great pizza). The trip started the next morning beside the river which we followed for most of the trip. We stayed in some nice hotels along the way with Bad Shandau standing out as the most memorable. The distances were all modest so you had plenty of time for a nice lunch. There were always places to stop along the way for coffee and lunch. At the end of the trip we added an extra night in Dresden and an extra night in Prague. In Dresden we did the walking tour and this was fascinating. We were ready for a cold German beer after that. Overall a really nice relaxing way to spend a week. Highly recommend." - Paul Comyn

View tour: Prague to Dresden Bike Tour

Our Mantua to Venice Boat & Bike Tour provides flat, leisurely and guided cycling as well as ample time to visit interesting historic cities; Mantua, Ferrara and Venice (you have a whole day in Mantua and Venice) - does it get much better for your first tour? Plus, there are loads more riveting stops, from Murano glass blowing to cheese tasting, as well as the unique National Museum of Carousel - trust us on this one!

The Boat & Bike aspect of this tour adds some extra flavour to your trip. Sailing into Venice is a truly special experience. Choose from two boats, enjoy the top service from the staff and indulge in wonderful Italian food.

Our Content Specialist Beccy's first Freedom Treks experience was on this tour. She said "The cheerful staff and friendly guides made us feel at ease, and we were served exceptional home-cooked three-course meals, complete with regional wine pairing recommendations. It was the perfect atmosphere to bring together like-minded people from all walks of life, sharing the same sense of adventure. My fondness for Italy has grown tenfold since experiencing this tour, and I hands-down recommend this holiday to anyone." - you can find out more in her Mantua to Venice trip report.

Travelling by Boat & Bike means another beautiful tour with peaceful riverside cycling, this time following the River Po, Italy's longest river. Expect frequent gelato and coffee stops as you cycle through serene countryside and farmland dotted with historic architecture.

Other fascinating route highlights include the medieval fortress at Ostiglia, the walled city of Ferrera and the ancient port of Adria.

On your floating home you can expect a delightful culinary experience, as chefs on your barge rustle up freshly prepared three-course meals daily. Ingredients are locally sourced en route. Nibbles and refreshments are also provided when you return from the saddle each day.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "The bikes were clean and well maintained and of excellent quality. The route was beautiful and stops were interesting and represented the local area well. The accommodations on the Ave Maria were clean and the food was excellent. The staff and tour leaders were outstanding. We would love to do this one again." -Chris Cayanas

View tour: Mantua to Venice Boat & Bike Tour

A Boat & Bike tour in Croatia usually means one thing when starting at sea level on the islands - that you'll be cycling a hefty upward path. Which is why our Highlights of Istria Boat & Bike Tour is ideal for first-timers, as it follows the much less undulating mainland.

Croatia is a simply breathtaking country, with something to appeal to any visitor. Explore one of Croatia's most beautiful coastlines, cycling on gentle coastal trails and cruising along the Istrian peninsula - often referred to as the heart of Europe by the locals, and rightfully so.

When it's time for a break from the bike, stop off at historic harbour towns and stone-built villages. The postcard-worthy views create magical photos of emerald-green islands and pristine, sparkling blue seas to bring home. The dazzling, fjord-like Lim Channel is the perfect example.

On land, your knowledgeable guide will ensure that you don't miss a beat, seeing the amazing towns of Pula, Porec and Roving. On water, the boat provides the perfect chance to cool off in the Adriatic Sea and relax on the sundeck. The tranquil beauty makes for a lasting memory.

If you're a true beginner looking for a more luxurious boat and even easier cycling, then our Highlights of Istria Deluxe Boat & E-Bike Tour will blow you away. E-bikes are a brilliant way to get an extra boost of pedal power, giving those with weary legs peace of mind.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "This is a lovely holiday to a rather unknown part of Croatia. Fabulous blue seas, great cycling routes and really interesting city tours." -Claire Crowther

View tour: Highlights of Istria Boat & Bike Tour

When I cycled our Family Lake Constance Bike Tour with my family, it confirmed that this is the perfect tour for first-time families. It's so much more than just a cycling holiday; you’ll take ferries, go up cable cars and enjoy daily dips in the lidos and lake itself.

My son James did it when he was 7 - his first tour on his own bike - and felt so accomplished! I'd personally recommend this tour for families in a heartbeat, and to those who wish to enjoy Lake Constance in a more leisurely manner to maximise time exploring off the bikes.

Read more about why I think Lake Constance is perfect for families in my trip report.

The route is based on a fantastic network of well-established cycle paths. And families can still enjoy all the best parts of a Lake Constance tour, including riding through Germany, Austria and Switzerland, passing green vineyards and orchards with the shimmering backdrop of the Alps.

The week starts with the stilt houses at the Lake Dwelling Museum, followed by the castle in Langenargen and the medieval walled town on Lindau Island. After crossing the River Rhine and making it to Switzerland, the ancient chapels of Arbon are a great place for a break before finishing the trip back in Constance.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "This was our first cycling holiday and we were so impressed by the support from Freedom Treks before we went and their follow-up. The cycle network around Lake Constance was excellent and the local partner who provided the bikes and transferred our luggage were very helpful and efficient. The hotels are perfect for this type of trip and we choose the 2*-3* grade. We were upgraded in one hotel which was a bonus. Local evening meal options at each stop were excellent and breakfasts provided by each hotel were very good. Each leg of the trip was enjoyable with excellent background information provided by Radweg and there was plenty time to enjoy the medieval villages and towns and visit museums with the passes included for most. One highlight was our trip up Pfänder inn Bregenz where we enjoyed the mountains and next time we’d spend more time walk there. Overall we throughly enjoyed this trip and are keen to book another cycling trip with Freedom Treks again. Top tip: An excellent tour tasting three countries in one trip and enjoying some beautiful towns and villages around Lake Constance, especially Meersburg and Arbon, which you should spend some more time enjoying on foot." -Kevin Crowie

View tour: Family Lake Constance Bike Tour

Two stunning Austrian cities mark the start and end of this tour, both so intricately connected by dedicated cycle routes along valley floors and riverside paths. Our Innsbruck to Salzburg Bike Tour is a brilliant way to round off this list.

First-timers benefit from witnessing the breathtaking snow-covered mountain scenery, without having to climb up the mountains and be breathless! The included transfer over the Gerlos Pass to Krimml has spectacular views while cutting out strenuous ascents. In Krimml, you'll visit Europe's highest waterfall in the pretty Ziller valley before continuing along the River Salzach, stopping in Zell am See for a refreshing swim in the lake.

The second half of your week involves pedalling north and reaching an Ice Age gorge, as well as one of Europe's largest cave systems near Lofer. Crossing into Germany, bear witness to Bavaria's National Park of Berchtesgaden before the final ride takes you through flowering meadows, made famous by The Sound of Music.

In Salzburg, the endearing old town still reflects its long, interesting history, including when Mozart lived there 250 years ago.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Cycling from Innsbruck to Salzburg was everything I'd wished for. Easy cycling, well signposted and the distance just right so that you knew you'd been out for a bike ride, but were ready for more the next day. The scenery was fantastic - most of the cycling was along rivers/through valleys with an ever changing view of the surrounding mountains. There was plenty to see/do on the way - do go to the Krimml waterfalls - , and there were scenic spots for a break/lunch. The hotels were excellent - welcoming and comfortable." - Kate Hall

View tour: Innsbruck to Salzburg Bike Tour

• Before you go, try and head out for short, easy-going bike rides on consecutive days to get used to being in the saddle. You don't need a great level of fitness for these tours, but you'll benefit from some practice!
• Invest in some decent cycling gear. I recommend padded shorts, fingerless gloves and a solid helmet to ensure a safe and comfortable ride.
• On a Hotel & Bike tour, there's no need to worry about luggage once you're in the saddle as it's transported between hotels daily.
• You'll be provided with a repair kit for punctures etc., but if something goes wrong that you can't fix, you’ll have a number to contact our local operator for help.

Here at Freedom Treks, we're all firm believers that you can't beat seeing the world by bike. That's why my team and I cycle our tours every year.

We use this personal experience to help you pick the right tour. For first-time Freedom Trekkers, you won't beat any of the tours on this list.

We advise contacting us before departure dates are booked up. You can reach our friendly team by enquiring online or calling +44 (0)1273 224066. Receive all of our top tips straight to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter, and stay up to date with all things Freedom Treks by liking us on Facebook and following us on Instagram.