How Many Kilometers Per Day For A Cycling Holiday?
If you are planning a cycling holiday, you will probably ask yourself the question of how many kilometers to ride per day. It’s a question that may seem trivial and require a simple answer. However, it is not always the case. Before we give you an average number of kilometres or a general rule of thumb, we’ll give you a list of things to consider:
- The difference in altitude
- The type of road: asphalt, dirt, …
- The type of bike (electrically assisted or not) and its load
- The weather and the length of the day
- The training of the group members
In addition, the number of kilometres to be cycled depends very much on the day’s programme. Obviously, if you planned visits or other long breaks, plan less kilometers. A visit along the way can quickly take time, and it is better to take this into account to avoid finding yourself riding in the dark at the end of the day. Also, take into account your desired departure and arrival times, etc.
An illustrative table of daily distances:
| Distance | Level | Description | Example Routes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 – 45 km (15 – 28 mi) |
Easy | Ideal for a relaxed ride with plenty of breaks (sightseeing, meals, relaxation). Perfect for families with children. No time pressure. | |
| 35 – 55 km (22 – 34 mi) |
Moderate | Achievable distance, about 3 to 4 hours of cycling in a day. A good balance between effort and free time. | |
| 45 – 65 km (28 – 40 mi) |
Experienced | A common distance for **seasoned bike travelers**. With training and good organization, this becomes natural. | |
| 65+ km (40+ mi) | Sporty | Suitable for cyclists looking for a physical challenge. Requires good fitness and a steady pace. | |
| Other Factors | – | Reduce the indicated distances by about 10 to 20 km (6 – 12 mi) if the terrain is hilly. If you’re using an electric bike, you can easily add 10 to 20 km (6 – 12 mi). |
Test beforehand
Maybe you’re not sure where you stand in terms of physical preparation for a bike trip, or you’re a bit scared of the idea of pedalling for several hours a day. In that case we recommend that you do a day’s ride around your home. Calculate the mileage and elevation gain in advance, so you will get an idea of what to expect. There are some great apps for this, such as Bikemaps or Komoot (or even google maps), which we use ourselves to design our tours. These applications, designed for cyclists, allow you to create a route in advance on your phone or computer, and export the directions or GPS file.
Another prudent option is to start with a tour that is known to be easier, such as the Austrian Salzkammergut tour or the tour between the Black Forest and Lake Constance. In any case, we are always happy to discuss it with you!