Who says indulgence and adventure can't go hand in hand? Certainly not us! If you love cycling and trying out local cuisines, then a food and drink bike tour is the perfect way to combine your two passions.
Work up an appetite pedaling through Europe's most spectacular terrains, before rewarding your physical efforts with guilt-free indulgence at each stop along the way.
Do bike tours get better than this? We don't think so! In this guide, we've compiled all the information you need to know about food and drink bike tours, including what to expect, how to prepare, and some of the best destinations for this type of tour.
So, whether you’re sipping Italian espresso or indulging in a French pastry, hop on your bike and get ready for a tour de taste like no other!
A typical day on a food and drink bike tour will involve cycling through scenic routes, exploring local villages or towns, and making stops at various restaurants, cafes, wineries, or breweries. You'll have the opportunity to try out a variety of dishes and drinks, from traditional and iconic to modern and innovative. Depending on the tour, you may also have the chance to participate in cooking classes or visit local markets for an immersive culinary experience.
Along with the food and drinks, you'll also get to enjoy the beautiful scenery of your destination. Bike tours allow you to see more than just the popular tourist spots – you'll get to explore lesser-known locations that you may not have discovered otherwise.
There are many reasons why food and drink bike tours should be on every foodie and cyclist's bucket list. Here are just a few:
Europe is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, making it the perfect destination for a food and drink bike tour. Here are some of our top picks:
Known as the gastronomic capital of the world, France has no shortage of delicious dishes to try. On a food and drink bike tour in this country, you'll get to taste regional specialties like Coq Au Vin, Ratatouille, and, of course, the infamous baguette. You'll also have the chance to sample some of the best wines in the world.
Experience the Burgundy region with fine wines, sumptuous food, and the ease of an electric bike. Picture rolling hills with vineyards, charming valleys, and canals inviting you to unwind. Standard bikes are available for the adventurous, turning every hill into a chance for triumph.
You'll explore the birthplace of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, riding through historic winemaking landscapes. Cycle the "Route des Grands Crus," weaving through famous vineyards and wine towns like Pommard, Volnay, and Meursault. Enjoy the peaceful towpaths along the Canal du Centre and Burgundy Canal, embracing the tranquil French countryside.
Each day is a new journey on premium cycling routes, followed by evenings of superb cuisine and fine wines. Stay in upscale, boutique accommodations, ending your days in comfort and luxury.
Another top destination for foodies, Italy offers a mouth-watering array of pasta dishes, pizza, gelato, and more. Enjoy views of rolling hills while stopping at local wineries and trattorias for some authentic Italian fare.
Emilia-Romagna is often referred to as Italy's "food valley," celebrated far and wide for its unparalleled contributions to both Italian and global cuisine. This region takes pride in being the originn of many iconic Italian foods and ingredients that have delighted taste buds across the globe.
This best-selling bike tour immerses you in the rich flavors and traditions of Italian cuisine. Each day, you'll indulge in extraordinary local dishes, painstakingly prepared according to age-old recipes, providing an authentic taste of the region.
Your journey will take you behind the scenes to see some of Italy's most celebrated gastronomic treasures. The birthplace of Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, on this tour, you’ll get the unique opportunity to experience behind-the-scenes tours of authentic local producers.
But that's not all; your path will also lead you to ancient castles such as the magnificent Castle of Torrechiara and UNESCO World Heritage sites, where history, art, and culture combine to make your experience truly unforgettable.
Experience the ultimate mix of cycling and cooking on our 6-night guided bike tour across Sardinia. Perfect for those wanting to blend their passion for biking with a love for good food. Enjoy the best Mediterranean flavors, from fine Sardinian olive oil to glorious wines and cheeses.
Dive into Sardinia's rich culinary tradition as you learn to prepare classic dishes like malloreddus, culurgiones, and fregola, featuring fresh fish and meat with vibrant flavors. Cycle through gorgeous landscapes, from Montiferru's hills to Arborea's plains, visiting historical sites like the Punic-Roman ruins of Tharros and the Nuragic town of Su Nuraxi in Barumini.
Your journey includes hands-on cooking classes and visits to local artisan food producers. Dining experiences range from cozy osterias and family-run trattorias to fine restaurants, offering a comprehensive taste of Sardinian cuisine. Return from your trip not just with a collection of new recipes but with a renewed zest for life, inspired to incorporate these culinary experiences into your everyday lifestyle. It's the ultimate keepsake from a holiday that combines the joys of cycling, cooking, and cultural immersion in one of Italy's most beautiful islands.
Known for its vibrant culture and tapas culture, Spain offers a unique food and drink bike tour experience. You'll pedal through charming villages, stopping at tapas bars along the way to sample dishes like Gazpacho, Tortilla Española, and Churros con Chocolate.
Indulge in a remarkable adventure across the Basque Country on our premium road bike tour, a unique blend of spectacular scenery, distinct culture, and gastronomic excellence.
This meticulously crafted tour takes you through Northern Spain's mesmerizing landscapes, featuring iconic climbs and unparalleled routes. From the lush hills surrounding Bilbao to the timeless charm of San Sebastián, and the vineyard-laden expanses of Rioja Alavesa, each day unveils a new facet of the Basque Country's beauty.
Beyond the thrill of cycling, immerse yourself in luxury with premium accommodations, professional guidance, relaxing massages, and exclusive dining experiences that include wine tastings, Michelin-starred cuisine, and authentic Basque Pintxos. This tour promises a seamless blend of athletic challenge and opulent relaxation, presenting an unforgettable exploration of the Basque Country's rich heritage and culinary delights.
A lesser-known destination for food and drink bike tours, Portugal offers a delicious and affordable culinary experience. You'll pedal through charming cities like Lisbon and Porto, trying traditional dishes like Bacalhau (salted cod), Pastel de Nata (custard tarts), and Port wine.
From the olive groves of Alvados to the wine and cork routes of Évora, on this tour you'll learn about the ingredients, techniques, and traditions that shape Portuguese cuisine.
Your adventure starts in the stunning Natural Park of Serra d’Aire e Candeeiros, takes you through the historic streets of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and ends in the breathtaking landscapes of SW Alentejano e Costa Vicentina.
Each night, enjoy cooking classes with expert chefs or local cooks, learning to prepare delicious Portuguese dishes. You'll get a recipe booklet to try these dishes at home. Stops in Batalha and Arraiolos, with free time in Évora, let you explore local markets and eateries to try traditional foods like Pastéis de Toucinho (pork pastry) and Queijo de Évora (local cheese). And, of course, no tour of Portugal would be complete without tastings of the country's award-winning wines!
The tour ends by the coast, showcasing Portuguese cuisine with opportunities to sample seafood and coastal dishes alongside gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean.
With its dazzling coastline and mix of Mediterranean and Balkan influences, Croatia is a food lover's paradise. On a bike tour here, you'll taste fresh seafood, hearty stews, and even some unique dishes like Peka (slow-cooked meat and vegetables under a bell-shaped lid).
In just 8 hours, enjoy a thrilling Peljesac bike tour with gorgeous landscapes, historical sites, and Croatia’s finest foods. Your guided tour includes biking through the beautiful Peljesac Peninsula, visiting Ston, Mali Ston, Ponikve, and a traditional wine cellar, all with a spectacular finish!
Bike rental is included, ensuring a hassle-free adventure. Starting from Dubrovnik, cycle to the historic town of Ston, known for its long city walls. Sample local delicacies before heading to Mali Ston in a minivan to learn more about the peninsula. Amid ancient vineyards, visit Ponikve for exquisite Croatian wines at the renowned Milos wine cellar. Learn about local winemaking and enjoy a scenic bay trip, meeting a local oyster farmer for fresh oysters and mussels, paired with wine and grappa. This tour blends Croatian culture and hospitality into unforgettable memories.
