The Top 5 Countries for a Bike Tour in 2026
There are a few countries that truly stand out from the rest of them when it comes to experiencing a bike holiday. The incredible scenery, rich culture, memorable food (that tastes even better after a day on the bike!) and the simple pleasure of seeing it all from the saddle.
Our top 5 countries for a bike tour in 2026 (in no particular order) are: Australia, Portugal, Japan, Croatia and France.
Read below to learn why these countries continue to inspire cyclists, year after year.
1. Australia
Incredible Scenery & World-Class Produce
Australia is an underrated cycling destination. It offers stunning landscapes, quiet roads and a strong food-and-wine culture that pairs perfectly with time on the bike. With its varied terrain and relaxed pace, South Australia is a region that rewards riders who go beyond its famous beaches.
For those short on time but big on taste, South Australia consistently stands out. Centred around Adelaide, it offers mild temperatures, smooth roads and easy access to renowned wine regions. Areas like the Barossa Valley are ideal for relaxed cycling days balanced with exceptional local produce, making it a flavour-packed introduction to cycling in Australia.
👉 Explore our tour in Australia
2. Portugal
Compact, Varied & Perfect for Cycling
Portugal is perfectly suited for bike travel. With compact distances, welcoming towns and a landscape that changes and morphs as you ride. Cycling between Porto and Lisbon reveals far more than the cities themselves, whether you head inland or follow the coast.
The interior route passes through beautiful valleys, vineyards and historic villages, best enjoyed in April/May or September when the weather is warm and sunny (but not too hot!). The Atlantic coastline, on the other hand, offers ocean views, fishing towns and cooling sea breezes, making it ideal right throughout the European summer months.
👉 Explore our tours in Portugal
3. Japan
Unexpected, Immersive & Deeply Rewarding
Japan may surprise you as a cycling destination, but it is actually one of the most rewarding places to explore by bike. Riding allows you to move effortlessly between regions and landscapes, and experience small Japanese towns in a way that feels both intimate and authentic.
Whether cycling through historic areas like Kyoto, Ogoto and Nara, along the coastline of the San-in Region, or hopping between the onsens (hot springs) of Kyushu - Japan consistently delivers extraordinary food, rich culture and warm hospitality. Very few experiences compare to finishing a day on the bike with a beautifully prepared Japanese meal and a soak in an onsen.
👉 Explore our tours in Japan
4. Croatia
Coastlines, Islands & Sailing
Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is one of Europe’s most visually striking. Combine that with quiet island roads, historic harbour towns, and crystal-clear waters - it truly is a magical place. Cycling in this region offers a relaxed and immersive way to explore, but we have another suggestion to make it even better… to stay on a sailboat.
Regions such as Dalmatia and Kvarner Bay are particularly well suited to combining cycling with sailing. You ride during the day, unwind on the ship’s deck in the evening, and be gently rocked to sleep on your floating hotel. It’s a seamless and iconic way to explore multiple islands, while keeping the pace comfortable and enjoyable.
👉 Explore our tours in Croatia
5. France
Endless Variety & Timeless Appeal
France remains one of the world’s great cycling destinations, offering everything from vineyard lanes and riverside paths, to historic villages and regional cuisines. The vast diversity of France means there’s a bike holiday here for almost everyone.
In the south, Provence and Camargue are ideal for gentle riding through sunlit landscapes, particularly when paired with a relaxed bike and barge experience. Further north, the Champagne region offers elegant cycling through rolling vineyards and quintessential French towns.
These regions continue to be in high demand, with 2026 departures already filling quickly, and 2027 dates now available for those planning further ahead. For something a little different, there is always Sardinia and Corsica for a more rugged, self-guided take on the French (and Italian) cycling experience.
👉 Explore our tours in France
Whether you’re drawn to vineyards, coastlines, cultural heartlands or quiet backroads, 2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional year for cycling travel.
If one of these destinations has got you thinking, please get in touch. We’d love to help you explore it further!
Happy cycling,
The Global Cycling Adventures Team
