From organising events for cyclists to drafting and executing infrastructural programmes that encourage safe cycling, cities around the world are coming of age and making roads more bike-friendly. Such initiatives are serving dual purpose: promoting sustainable mode of transportation and reducing pollution.

So, if you are an avid biker or a tourist who loves to pedal to explore, do take a look at these cities that are no less a paradise for your feet!

1. Copenhagen

Denmark

With 180 miles of bike paths, the city was undoubtedly a deserving winner of the world’s most bicycle-friendly cities of the world in 2014. It’s not just the quaint cobbledstoned streets that win our heart, but unbelievable sight of individuals wearing formal clothes, skirts, trainers, even hijab, who cycle to their destinations! It is interesting to note that for most Danes cycling is not a form of exercise, in fact it is ‘only’ one of the ‘fastest’ modes of transport.

2. Amsterdam

Netherland

Amsterdam, the best cycleable city of the world in 2013 with population of 8,00,000 people has about 8,00,000 bicycles, which is self-explanatory of their love to cycle their way around the city! So much is the craze that the government, in fact is working on a plan where they can tackle bicycle traffic and create more parking facilities for riders.

3. Kyoto

Japan

Asia’s most bicycle-friendly city, Kyoto offers a scenic ride because the roads are well-maintained and motor vehicle drivers drive cautiously. So, you can satiate your appetite with most scenic views – from markets to temples and shrines! If you’re a tourist and planning to rent a cycle, keep in mind that you cycle on the left and park in bicycle parking zones; at night it is illegal to cycle without a bike light.

4 Berlin

Germany

Demarcated cycling lanes on pavements and roads, special traffic signals on key routes and self-policing measures make Berlin a safe city to cycle around. But, this is only possible due to a two-way relationship between cyclists and authorities. The cyclists can flag issues like potholes, dangerous to cycle junctions and blocked roads, while the authorities ensure that cyclists follow rules. For instance, you better not invite trouble by drunk cycling; if you test positive for alcohol content over 0.16% in your blood, you will be fined.

5 Paris

France

“La ville est plus belle a velo” that translates to ‘the city is more beautiful by bike’, is an apt tag line on Velib (cycle) service card available in Paris! Hire a cycle and manoeuvre your way on isolated and dual lanes (solely for cyclists), lanes adjacent to traffic, combined bus, taxi and bicycle lane and contraflow lane, which is a little risky because you cycle in the direction of the moving traffic! But, if you are a little cautious you will be thrilled to have surpassed your expectations and soaked in good vibes in the world’s capital city of love!

6. Cape Town

South Africa

Numerous cycling-friendly routes in Cape Town for daily commute and pocket-friendly bike rent services motivate locals and tourists to cycle a lot. Another appealing factor is the concern of authorities in Cape Town for the safety of cyclists: there are green paths (only for cyclists) and a bus service that allows you to take your bicycle on board and get off wherever you like. You can also participate in the Cape Town Cycle Tour held annually that sees at least 35,000 cyclists every year!

7. Bogota

Colombia

In a country where cars symbolise status, the comprehensive network of bike paths called ciclorrutas for cyclists, helps change cultural and societal perceptions and bring a sense of equality in society. Cycling through the lanes, you will enjoy flat topography as much as the hilly terrains. One of the best ways to take on the road is on Sundays’ Ciclovia events when roads close for motor vehicles and cyclists get time to bike around a 100km range.

8. Barcelona

Spain

Bicing, a revolutionary bike sharing scheme was introduced in 2007 and soon Barcelona ranked high on the list of cycleable cities of the world. Although the service is not for tourists, it was a superhit formula since it aimed to encourage people to travel small and medium routes on cycles, reduce traffic congestion on roads and cut down pollution level. Since the city is not hilly, almost all distance long or short can be commuted on cycle. So, as a tourist you indirectly reap the benefits of these biking paths laid out for daily commuting and enjoy wide biking paths on the coastal areas.

9. Montreal

Canada

Although Montreal is hillier than other European cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam, you will notice that people in Montreal still prefer cycling. Besides, its cycling infrastructure dates back to the 1980s. Thanks to its 600 km bike path and Bixi (bike rental) system, it is fast becoming a popular cycling destination in North America. The city is super crazy for bikes and even the parks have paths to cycle on for both commuting and recreational purposes.

10. Moscow

Russia

Imagesource: Flickr@Pavel Kazachkov

Who isn’t aware of the nail biting winter months of Moscow? But, despite the freezing cold, summers allow cycling enthusiasts to sprawl the city streets. It is a good time to cycle along the embankments and parks and soak up some summer sun! As far as the initiatives are concerned, recently in 2013, the Bank of Moscow funded 1,000 bikes and 79 rental points across the city to promote cycling. Use them for free for first half an hour and then 60p if you have paid a registration fee to use the service.

Sharanya Manola

Sharanya is a mountain soul and tries to perch herself amidst the familiar flora and fauna at any and every opportunity she gets to travel home. To escape the monotony of the cityscape and corporate life, she plays 'Words with Friends'. Besides, rumour has it that she is hunting for a typewriter her sister once owned!

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