Greece has the landscapes and climate for cycling tourism, yet it lags behind Europe. Discover the game-changing strategies to unlock its full potential.

Cycling tourism has transformed into one of the fastest-growing travel trends in the world. According to market estimates, cycling tourism is now valued at €138 billion, placing it among the top ten most lucrative and expanding tourism sectors globally.

Europe is at the forefront of this movement. Countries like Denmark and Italy have capitalized on cycling tourism, turning it into a significant economic driver. In 2023 alone, Denmark earned €2.8 billion from cycling tourists, while Italy reported a staggering €5.5 billion, marking a 35% year-over-year growth. Meanwhile, in Germany, 37.7 million people reported using bicycles while on vacation.

However, while the cycling wave surges across Europe, Greece remains notably behind, struggling to establish itself in this thriving sector.

Why Cycling Tourism Matters

Cycling tourism isn’t just a trend—it’s a long-term shift in travel behavior driven by sustainability, fitness, and the search for immersive experiences. Unlike mass tourism, which often puts strain on local resources, cycling tourism promotes slow travel, supports local businesses, and reduces environmental impact.

A 2012 European Commission study found that cycling tourism generated €44 billion annually, surpassing the cruise industry (€39 billion). Since then, the sector has more than tripled in value, proving that cycling tourism isn’t just a niche—it’s an economic powerhouse.

In Europe, cycling is now among the top 10 most popular tourism activities:

• Mountain biking ranks 4th, after hiking, cultural tourism, and gastronomy.
• Electric biking ranks 7th, as demand for eco-friendly travel options surges.
• Road cycling follows at 8th, ahead of photography tours and birdwatching.

Who Are the Cycling Tourists?

Many assume cycling tourists are professional athletes or hardcore cyclists. In reality, they are everyday travelers looking for a unique way to explore new destinations. Their key characteristics include:

• Age Range: 31-55 years old (but participation among younger and older travelers is rising).
• Gender Breakdown: 60% male, 40% female (with a growing number of women taking up cycling tourism).
• Typical Distance: 40-60 km per day, cycling for 3-4 hours.
• Travel Motivation: Cycling tourists seek authentic experiences, such as discovering hidden villages, tasting local food, and connecting with the culture.
• Essential Needs: Safe cycling routes, well-marked signage, connectivity to public transport, and reliable internet access.

Countries that cater to these needs thrive in cycling tourism. Unfortunately, Greece is still working to develop a cycling-friendly infrastructure.

Greece’s Cycling Tourism: A Missed Opportunity?

Greece, with its breathtaking landscapes, Mediterranean climate, and historic sites, should be a dream destination for cycling tourists. Yet, it lags far behind European leaders in cycling infrastructure, investment, and tourism promotion.

According to European data, countries leading in cycling tourism participation include:

• Netherlands: 58% of the population cycles regularly.
• Germany: 36% cycle frequently.
• Denmark: 36% are active cyclists.
• Sweden: 31% participate in cycling tourism.

In contrast, Greece struggles to attract significant cycling tourism numbers. The primary barriers include:

• Limited cycling lanes and dedicated paths
• Lack of signage and marked cycling routes
• Minimal integration of bicycles with public transport
• Limited promotional efforts compared to competitors like Italy and France

However, there are promising signs that Greece is beginning to recognize the potential of cycling tourism.

Kos: Greece’s Cycling Success Story

One exception to Greece’s slow cycling tourism growth is Kos, a bike-friendly island with a rich cycling tradition dating back over a century.

For many Greeks, Kos evokes memories of the 1960s film Margarita, which showcased the island’s scenic coastal roads and bike-friendly boulevards. But beyond nostalgia, Kos is a true cycling tourism success story:

• Over 10,000 rental bicycles operate on the island.
• Many bike rentals are fully booked daily, indicating high demand.
• Kos is a key part of EuroVelo, the European Cycling Route Network spanning 92,000 km across 17 countries.

Despite the island’s success, Greece as a whole has yet to capitalize on this booming market.

Greece’s Plans for Cycling Tourism Expansion

Greece is beginning to take concrete steps toward boosting its cycling tourism industry. The country is currently working to expand EuroVelo routes and integrate them into a national cycling tourism strategy.

Key EuroVelo Routes in Greece

Greece is focusing on three major EuroVelo routes:

1. Route 13: From Promachonas (Serres) to Kastanies (Evros)
2. Route 8: From Igoumenitsa through Rio-Antirrio to Athens
3. Route 11: From Evzones border crossing to Athens

If fully developed, Greece would become the only European country with two fully signposted EuroVelo routes, significantly boosting its reputation as a cycling destination.

Investment & Policy Changes

Recognizing the importance of cycling tourism, Greece has taken additional steps:

• Bidding to Host EuroVelo & Cycling Tourism Conference 2026
• Developing a National Cycling Action Plan, set to be announced soon
• Investing €700,000 in infrastructure upgrades, signage improvements, and digital tourism tools

According to Efthymios Bakoyiannis, General Secretary for Spatial Planning, Greece’s Ministry of Environment and Energy (YPEN) is committed to expanding the cycling network. This initiative is expected to increase Greece’s cycling tourism appeal by improving infrastructure and accessibility.

The Future of Cycling Tourism in Greece

As demand for eco-friendly travel, slow tourism, and sustainable adventures rises, Greece has an incredible opportunity to become a top cycling tourism destination.

However, the country must act quickly. Competing nations like Italy, Denmark, and France continue to invest in cycling tourism, drawing millions of visitors annually.

What Greece Needs to Do Next

To catch up with European leaders, Greece should focus on:

• Expanding and maintaining EuroVelo routes
• Developing new cycling-friendly destinations beyond Kos
• Improving safety, signage, and cycling lane infrastructure
• Integrating bike transport with ferries, buses, and trains
• Launching international marketing campaigns to promote Greece as a cycling tourism hub

By making these changes, Greece could attract millions of cycling tourists annually, generating billions in revenue while promoting sustainable tourism.

The post Why Greece Is Missing Out On A Billion-Euro Cycling Boom And The Game-Changing Strategies To Unlock Its Full Potential appeared first on Travel And Tour World.