HOW TO PLAN Your Own European Bicycle Tour

INTRODUCTION

For those who want to plan their own bicycle tour, Europe is a great place to start. Cycling is an integral part of European culture, serving as a preferred method of transportation, as well as an active pastime. Not only is the continent home to countless bike routes, but Europe also has an excellent rail network and exceptional local tourism aids to complete all your riding needs.

• Study the Map: Start the process by looking at a map to brainstorm ideal locations. Remember to consider trip components like seasonal weather and altitude, which can vary widely by region.

• Determine Trip Length: Be realistic about the length of your journey. Factor in ample time for unexpected setbacks.

• Ride Beforehand: Before you finalize the trip, practice your riding skills. With experience under your belt, you will feel more confident about riding long distances in a new destination.

PREPARING FOR THE JOURNEY

• Using a pen, trace potential cycling routes on a map.

• Search the internet to learn more about your favorite route, locating must-see tourist sites, viable lodging, and local food.

• Estimate how long the trip will take. Factor in extra time for unavoidable delays like inclement weather or blocked roads.

• Ask other bicyclists for advice and tips about the route.

PLANNING THE ROUTE

ASK FOR POINTERS

Word of mouth is often the best way to learn about local bike routes. The internet offers countless forums and articles covering everything from the best place in Poland to buy cycling shoes, to affordable hostels in Ireland. You may also be able to contact local European cycling clubs for valuable advice.

• For long-term rides, a tour bike is best. Racing-style bicycles can also work, provided you won’t have much luggage.

• On the road, most days all you will need is a pannier packed with local currency, sunscreen, and water. You may also want to bring along a lightweight tent and sleeping bag.

• Don’t want to deal with the hassle of flying with a bike? Many European tour providers offer road bike rentals. One example is river cruise line AmaWaterways. They carry more than two dozen bicycles and safety helmets onboard, for passengers to use as they wish – and at no extra cost.

WHAT TO BRING

One of the most popular areas in Europe to experience scenic bicycling is a tour along the Danube River, riding through the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary: • Adventure through the

Bavarian Forest • Enjoy historic

architecture in Passau, Germany

• Witness city cycling in Vienna, Austria

• Explore Wachau Valley vineyards

• Soak in Budapest’s famous thermal springs

POPULAR ROUTES: EASTERN EUROPE

Ride along the banks of the Rhine River to see the Alsace region of France from a whole new perspective. On this route, bicyclists will enjoy:

• Varied terrain, including picturesque mountains and quaint countryside paths

• Vineyards that produce some of the world’s finest white wines

• Scenes of the Vosges Mountains bordering Germany

• City life in Strasbourg

POPULAR ROUTES: FRANCE

REMEMBER TO PACK A SENSE OF ADVENTURE

One of the most important parts of planning your own bike tour is to remember that the journey is as important as the destination. Traveling by bike can bring new and exciting experiences that may not be seen by car, so face the trip with an open mind. No matter where the road takes you, be willing to alter your original plan, whether that means taking a day off to tour an ancient winery or cycling on a less-traveled mountain road.

AmaWaterways is an all-inclusive river cruise line offering vacations on the waterways of Europe, Africa, Vietnam, Cambodia, and more. The company was founded in 2002 and is a pioneer in the market. For more info about European river cruises from AmaWaterways, call 1-800-626-0126 or visit http://www.amawaterways.com/.

ABOUT AMAWATERWAYS