Why Cycle in Denmark

Cycling is part of everyday life in Denmark, and it’s also one of the best ways for visitors to explore the country. With safe cycling conditions, well-developed infrastructure, and a variety of landscapes, Denmark makes cycling easy, enjoyable, and accessible to everyone.

Why Denmark stands out as a cycling destination

If you’re wondering why Denmark stands out as a cycling destination, here are the key reasons that make it one of the best places in the world to explore on a bike:

• Long & flat bike trails for all levels – Easy routes with short stages ideal for casual riders and children
• Diverse cycling terrains – 11 national trails up to 820 kilometers for variety and longer rides
• 11,000+ kilometers of marked routes – Including 11 long-distance national trails
• Bike-friendly culture – 90% of Danes own a bike; 62% commute daily in Copenhagen
• Mild summers & long days – 20°C highs and up to 18 hours of daylight in June
• Easy communication in English – 87% of Danes speak English fluently
• Rich history & nature – Castles, Viking heritage sites, and scenic coastlines
• Safe country with low crime rates – Peaceful roads and welcoming environment

Flat terrain and amazing cycling infrastructure

Cycling in Denmark is easy to enjoy thanks to its geography and modern cycling infrastructure. The flat terrain removes the challenge of steep climbs, and the country continues to invest heavily in making cycling practical and comfortable for all. 

Here is what you can expect when going on a bike adventure in Denmark:

Routes for all levels of cyclists 

Due to Denmark being mostly flat, cycling here is suitable for complete beginners as well as seasoned riders. Families with children or senior travelers can enjoy the routes just as much as those looking to cover long distances.

Denmark has a national cycle network of over 12,000 kilometers, connecting towns, cities, and rural areas across the country. This includes 11 official long-distance routes (ranging from 170 kilometers to 820 kilometers) and hundreds of regional and local trails.

Signage is standardized with red and blue route markers, making it easy to follow even for first-time visitors.

Thanks to Denmark’s bike-first infrastructure development, navigation is simple and planning is seamless. Everything is made for your enjoyment on every ride.

Modern cycling infrastructure

Denmark is internationally recognized for its Cycle Superhighways – a growing network of wide, safe, and direct routes designed to make cycling between cities and suburbs fast and convenient. Already more than 60 routes are open.

Building on this foundation, Danish cities like Copenhagen and Odense continue to innovate with bike-only bridges, tunnels, and parking hubs. The iconic “Cycle Snake” bridge is a prime example of how cycling is seamlessly integrated into urban life.

To further support everyday riders, Denmark has expanded public e-bike charging stations and created cyclist-friendly cafés along major routes. These plug-in options ensure that even e-bike users enjoy the same level of convenience, making the infrastructure practical and inclusive for all types of cyclists.

Safe, clean, and organized

Denmark consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, placing in the global top 8 of the Global Peace Index of 2025. Crime rates are very low, and drivers are respectful toward cyclists, making the roads comfortable even for families and less experienced riders.

It is also one of the cleanest countries in Europe, supported by strict environmental policies and efficient waste management systems. Visitors quickly notice how well-kept the cycle paths, countryside, and city streets are — litter-free and carefully maintained.

Denmark’s reputation for being highly organized shows in its travel infrastructure. Public transport integrates seamlessly with cycling (you can take bikes on trains, metros, and ferries), signage is clear and standardized nationwide, and facilities such as bike parking hubs and repair stations are reliable. This level of organization makes cycling here stress-free and efficient.

Scenic and diverse landscapes

Although Denmark is small and mostly flat, the variety of scenery surprises many visitors. Within just a few days, you can experience coastal views, green countryside, and historic towns — all without long transfers.

Coastal beauty

Denmark’s 7,000 kilometers of coastline offers sandy beaches, dramatic chalk cliffs, and small fishing harbors. Cycling along the shore combines fresh sea air with endless scenic views.

Like coastal rides? See the this tour for a perfect sea view ride:

Green countryside

Rolling fields, quiet forests, and farmland provide a tranquil setting for riders. These rural areas are dotted with small villages and farm shops where you can pause for a local treat.

Try the Baltic Little Belt tour for the best countryside experience Denmark has to offer:

Island adventures

With frequent ferry connections, it’s easy to hop between islands such as Funen, Ero, or Bornholm. Each island has its own distinct character and cycling routes, adding variety to your trip.

Ultimate Bornholm Bike tour is the perfect example of a week-long island adventure suitable for all levels of bikers:

Compact distances

Denmark’s modest size means you can cover several different landscapes in a single holiday. Instead of long days in the saddle, you spend more time enjoying the sights along the way.

Get a chance to see the entire eastern coast of Denmark on our Berlin to Copenhagen tour. The routes are versatile and rewarding:

Nature and Heritage in Denmark

Denmark combines cultural landmarks with stunning natural beauty, and many of its highlights can be discovered directly on our cycling tours. 

From castles and UNESCO sites to charming towns and dramatic coastlines, here are some of the most memorable places you’ll encounter along the way:

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Take a look at more inspiring places in Denmark on our “Must-See Places in Denmark” page.

Mild summers and long days

Denmark’s climate makes it especially inviting for cycling during the warmer months. Compared to many southern European destinations, like Croatia with 30+°C heat in the summer months. 

Summers here are pleasantly warm without being too hot, with average highs around 20°C. This means you can comfortably cycle in July and August, when other countries might feel too hot for long rides.

Ideal cycling season

Summer is the most popular time to cycle, with comfortable temperatures and vibrant towns along the routes. But spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are also excellent, offering cooler rides, fewer crowds, and colorful scenery.

Check out more details on our “When to Cycle in Denmark?” page

Extended daylight

In June, daylight lasts up to 18 hours, with the sun setting after 10:00 pm. This gives you time for long rides, sightseeing stops, and relaxed dinners all in the same day.

Comfortable conditions

Extreme heatwaves are rare in Denmark, unlike in parts of southern Europe. Even in high summer, you’ll usually find conditions safe for steady riding, while spring and autumn add quieter roads and seasonal charm.

Family and Senior-friendly Cycling Destination

Because of its flat terrain, short distances, and excellent infrastructure, Denmark is particularly well-suited to families and older travelers. Most national cycling routes are divided into daily stages of 20–40 kilometers, with towns, cafés, and small attractions spaced along the way, making it easy to keep rides enjoyable and manageable for all ages.

Routes are designed to be safe and accessible, with separated bike lanes in cities, quiet country roads, and excellent integration with public transport. Bikes can be taken on most trains, ferries, and regional buses, allowing families to shorten or skip a stage if needed. 

A popular example is the Baltic Sea Cycle Route (N8), where distances between towns average just 20–30 kilometers, perfect for relaxed cycling holidays. You can experience this route on our Berlin to Copenhagen tour.

English widely spoken

Communication is easy in Denmark, as 87% of Danes speak English, one of the highest rates in Europe. The country also ranks 7th in the world on the EF English Proficiency Index, meaning you will have no difficulty communicating.

This makes everyday travel smooth and stress-free — whether asking for directions, chatting with locals, or ordering food. For international visitors, it removes barriers and makes cycling here especially comfortable.

In Denmark, People Live and Breathe Cycling

Cycling is an essential part of daily life in Denmark. Around 90% of Danes (5.3 million people) own a bike. In Copenhagen alone, there are more bicycles than cars. 

Every day, 62% of Copenhageners commute by bike, and across the country, nearly 16% of all trips are made on two wheels — one of the highest rates in the world.

As a visitor, joining the flow of local cyclists gives you a sense of connection to the country’s rhythm. The infrastructure is built around this culture, so whether you’re riding to a café, a castle, or a coastal trail, exploring Denmark by bike feels effortless and natural.

Environmental and sustainable travel

Denmark is a global leader in sustainability, ranked among the greenest countries in the world. The country has ambitious goals, such as becoming carbon neutral by 2050, and much of its progress is already visible in everyday life.

Cycling fits perfectly into this lifestyle. Denmark generates more than 70% of its electricity from renewable energy, much of it from offshore wind farms, which means even e-bikes are powered cleanly. 

Cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus invest heavily in green urban planning, including bike-first streets, car-free zones, and widespread recycling facilities.

For travelers, this commitment is easy to see. Drinking water from the tap is safe and high-quality, waste bins are available everywhere, and even small towns along cycle routes provide eco-friendly shelters and campsites. Choosing to explore by bike lets visitors join this culture of sustainability while enjoying a closer connection to Denmark’s landscapes and communities.

Thinking of Denmark for your next bike tour?

Knowing why Denmark is such a bike-friendly nation makes it easier to picture your own adventure here. 

Want help planning the right trip? Reach out to us and we’ll map out your perfect cycling holiday in Denmark.