Fall is one of the BEST times to explore Europe by bike! The days are cooler, the trails feel calmer with fewer tourists, and villages burst into life with harvest celebrations. Once the summer rush subsides, airfare often dips, making it easier to plan a trip.
The fall season also gives cyclists something no other time of year can: glowing vineyards, crisp air, and quieter roads. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or planning your first cycling adventure, autumn brings its own beauty and its own unique challenges. With the right preparation, these tours let you savor every ride.
Top Fall Cycling Tours in EuropeThe Mosel River Valley is a patchwork of vineyards, castles, and storybook villages. Add in Trier’s Roman ruins and Metz’s Gothic cathedral, and you have a trip full of history and flavor. This bike-and-boat format means you only unpack once, leaving you free to soak up the atmosphere.
Why it’s great in fall
Danube Bike Path 8 Nights (Upscale Lodging)The Danube is Europe’s most famous cycling route, and autumn transforms it into something special. Trees along the river blaze with color, and the Wachau Valley hums with harvest activity. Staying in upscale hotels adds comfort to every mile.
Why it’s great in fall
Swiss Lakes by E-bike: Lake Geneva to Lake LucerneThis route takes you from the shores of Lake Geneva through Gruyère’s cheese country and into alpine valleys, ending at Lake Lucerne. An e-bike makes the climbs easier, leaving you free to enjoy the scenery.
Why it’s great in fall
Wine, Dine, and Electric Bike in BurgundyBurgundy was made for fall cycling. You’ll ride the Route des Grands Crus, through world-renowned wine towns, and follow tranquil canal paths. Boutique accommodations and superb food complete the experience.
Why it’s great in fall
Castles and Wines of PortugalPortugal’s Alentejo region is all rolling landscapes, historic castles, and whitewashed villages. September is harvest time, with wineries offering tastings and festivals. Nights in converted convents and farmhouses add extra charm.
Why it’s great in fall
Great Pyrenees & Costa Brava E-bike TourFrom the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean, this route blends mountains, medieval towns, and seaside coves. With an e-bike, you can climb mountain passes in comfort and still have energy for village strolls and local markets.
Why it’s great in fall
Dolomites to Trieste via Lake BledThis three-country ride takes you from alpine Austria through Slovenia’s Lake Bled before descending into Italy’s Friuli wine region and finishing in Trieste. Each day brings a new culture and landscape.
Why it’s great in fall
Holland by Bike and Boat, Southern TourFlat paths, canals, and classic Dutch towns make this a gentle yet rich cycling adventure. Each night you return to your floating hotel, so you unpack once and relax.
Why it’s great in fall
Your Fall Festival CalendarOne of the joys of fall cycling is arriving in a village just as the locals are celebrating harvest. If you want to plan your tour around Europe’s biggest wine festivals, here are some key dates for 2025:
Vignobles en scène – Les Côtes du Couchois (Autun)
Chablis Wine Festival (Fête des Vins de Chablis)
Fête des Grands Vins de Bourgogne (Beaune)
Vente des Vins des Hospices de Beaune (Beaune)
Les Festivinales – Vente des Vins de Beaune
What to Wear for Fall CyclingRiding in autumn is rewarding, but it brings unique challenges. Temperatures shift quickly, rain can slick the roads, and daylight is shorter. The right cycling gear keeps you safe, visible, and comfortable.
These simple fall cycling tips will keep you comfortable and confident so you can focus on the ride.
Ready to Ride This Fall?The beauty of the autumn season lies in its colors, cooler air, and festive spirit. With the right cycling gear and safety habits, you can enjoy every mile. From Burgundy’s vineyards to Switzerland’s lakes, Portugal’s castles to the canals of Holland, fall cycling showcases Europe at its finest.
