In recent years, cycling tourism has undergone a transformation. It is no longer just about performance, long distances or training: more and more travellers are choosing the bike to enjoy authentic, slow and immersive experiences.
It is against this backdrop that the phenomenon of food and wine cycling tourism is growing, one of the strongest trends in European tourism for 2026. Cycling through vineyards, historic villages, rolling hills and scenic roads has become a new way to discover the region, combining sport, local culture and traditional cuisine.
According to the latest data shared by UN Tourism (UNWTO) and the European Travel Commission, experiential and gastronomic tourism continues to grow across Europe, with strong demand for ‘slow’ and sustainable travel. And the bicycle is the perfect way to enjoy this kind of experience.
But what are today’s most popular destinations for a ‘Ride & Taste’ trip?
Here are some of the most iconic and well-known destinations for European food and wine cycling tourism.
Tuscany: the queen of cycle tourism, where wine meets country lanes
When it comes to cycling holidays centred around wine and gastronomy, Tuscany remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the world.
The Chianti, Val d’Orcia and Crete Senesi regions offer a unique blend of scenic roads, iconic gravel trails, medieval villages, historic wineries and traditional Tuscan cuisine.
Cycling through Radda, Gaiole, Montalcino or Pienza means alternating spectacular climbs with tastings of Brunello, Chianti Classico and local produce.
In recent years, Tuscany has also become a European hub for gravel tourism, thanks to international events and routes dedicated to slow, experiential cycling.
Recommended experiences:
- Strade Bianche del Chianti
- Eroica Route
- Val d’Orcia Loop
- Gravel Tuscany itineraries
Bordeaux: cycling and wine in the heart of France
The Bordeaux region offers one of the most elegant and iconic ‘Ride & Taste’ experiences in Europe. Here, cycling takes you past historic châteaux, UNESCO-listed vineyards, quiet country lanes and quaint French villages.
The Saint-Émilion and Médoc areas are particularly popular with cycle tourists thanks to their smooth routes and the exceptionally high quality of the local cuisine.
According to various reports on French tourism for 2025–2026, there is growing demand for premium experiences that combine cycle travel, wine tourism and luxury slow travel.
A trend that is transforming Bordeaux into one of Europe’s capitals of cycle and wine tourism.
La Rioja: the new frontier of wine cycling in Spain
Less well-known than other European destinations, but rapidly growing in popularity among international cycle tourists.
La Rioja, in northern Spain, is becoming one of the most interesting destinations for those seeking quiet roads, authentic landscapes, modern and traditional wineries, and experiences far removed from mass tourism
Here, cycling blends perfectly with the wine culture and a local cuisine that is increasingly appreciated internationally.
The favourable climate also makes La Rioja an ideal destination, especially in spring and autumn, seasons increasingly chosen by cycle tourists to avoid overtourism and high temperatures.
The Basque Country: cycling, the ocean and culinary culture
The Basque Country is one of the most well-rounded destinations for those who love to combine cycling with culinary culture.
From San Sebastián to the inland roads of the Basque hinterland, this region offers legendary climbs, spectacular coastal routes, a strong cycling identity and one of Europe’s finest culinary traditions.
The concept of ‘ride & taste’ reaches its peak here: bike rides between the ocean and the mountains followed by pintxos, local cuisine and a culture deeply rooted in the region.
It is no coincidence that northern Spain continues to be one of the European regions with the highest growth in outdoor and cycling-oriented tourism.
Why is food and wine cycling tourism growing?
According to the 2025–2026 travel sector analysis, there are several key factors behind this growth:
1. The search for authentic experiences
Travellers want to experience destinations in a deeper, less touristy way.
2. Slow tourism
Cycling allows you to slow down, stop, explore and forge genuine connections with the places you pass through.
3. Sustainable tourism
Cycling tourism is perceived as a more responsible form of travel with a low environmental impact.
4. Multisensory experiences
It’s not just about cycling, but about experiencing the landscapes, flavours, culture, people and local traditions
Cycling as a new way to travel
Today, cycle tourism is no longer just about sport; it has become a lifestyle, a means of discovery, a source of wellbeing and a cultural experience.
Cycling allows you to experience your journey in a more direct and authentic way than other modes of transport, especially when travelling through regions rich in culinary traditions and rural landscapes.
And it is precisely this combination of movement, freedom and authenticity that is making ‘Ride & Taste’ tourism one of the strongest trends of 2026.
Travelling with your own bike: an increasingly popular choice
More and more cyclists are choosing to set off with their own bikes, especially for experiential trips or multi-day journeys. Being able to use your own bike means greater comfort, a better riding experience and more freedom during the journey.
And this is where specialised services like Ship To Cycle allow travellers to ship their bikes directly to their destination, simplifying trip planning and leaving more room for the experience. Because the best adventures begin long before the first pedal stroke.
Ready for your next “Ride & Taste” trip?
Whether it’s the Tuscan hills, the Basque roads or the French vineyards, the best way to discover a region might just be on two wheels.
With Ship To Cycle, you can ship your bike directly to your destination and focus solely on the journey.
