On 3 June, people across Europe and around the world will mark World Bicycle Day 2025, a celebration of cycling as a practical, sustainable, and increasingly popular way to get around, not just for short trips, but for long-distance travel too.
In both cities and rural areas, people are encouraged to use bicycles for short journeys, whether it’s the school run, commuting to work, or a trip to the local market. But did you know that cycling tourism is also on the rise? Across Europe, thousands are discovering the joy of long-distance bike travel, thanks in part to EuroVelo, an initiative developed by the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) that offers cycling routes across the continent.
The ECF, a Brussels-based umbrella federation of national cycling organisations, created EuroVelo as a network of well-connected cycling routes crossing the entire continent. To celebrate World Bicycle Day 2025, we’re shining a spotlight on EuroVelo, your gateway to travelling Europe by bike.
A Celebration of Sustainable Mobility
Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018, World Bicycle Day celebrates the bicycle’s role in promoting sustainable transportation, enhancing health and well-being, and supporting a greener, more inclusive future.
Europe has long been a global leader in cycling innovation and infrastructure. Cities like Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Strasbourg, and Antwerp are famous for their cycling-friendly designs, and many others are following suit. Now, thanks to EuroVelo, you can not only bike within your city or region, you can also plan rides that take you from one city to the next, or even one country to another.
Introducing EuroVelo: The Continental Cycling Network
EuroVelo is a network of long-distance cycling routes that span the European continent. With over 90,000 kilometres of planned routes, more than 45,000 kilometres of which are already developed along dedicated cycle paths and low-traffic roads, EuroVelo offers a unique opportunity to experience Europe at your own pace.
The network features 17 designated routes, each with its own theme, from the Atlantic Coast Route (EuroVelo 1) to the historic Iron Curtain Trail (EuroVelo 13) and the scenic Rivers Route (EuroVelo 6).
These routes are more than just pathways; they are a living testament to Europe’s cultural richness, environmental beauty, and cross-border cooperation. Whether you’re an experienced touring cyclist or simply looking for a new adventure, EuroVelo invites you to explore Europe in a way that is healthy, sustainable, and deeply connected to local communities.
Spotlight on EuroVelo 19: The Meuse Cycle Route
With our office situated in Brussels, Belgium, it’s only natural that our highlighted EuroVelo route is EuroVelo 19 – The Meuse Cycle Route.
This picturesque route follows the Meuse River through France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, offering a journey through charming towns, beautiful river landscapes, and centuries of shared history. In Belgium, cyclists can experience the historic cities of Liège, Namur, and Dinant, stopping at riverside cafés, exploring medieval fortresses, and enjoying the natural beauty along the way.
Pedal for the Goals
This World Bicycle Day, the United Nations in Europe invites everyone — from daily commuters to cross-country adventurers — to celebrate the transformative power of the bicycle.
By choosing to cycle, whether for short trips or long journeys, we help advance the Sustainable Development Goals: cutting carbon emissions (SDG 13: Climate Action), improving health and well-being (SDG 3), supporting sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11), and reducing inequalities through affordable mobility (SDG 10).
So this 3 June, let’s celebrate the bicycle — and remember: why limit yourself to the neighbourhood? With EuroVelo, the whole of Europe is within reach, one pedal stroke at a time.