Here I outline what are considered by many to be the ten best motorcycle trips throughout Europe.
I’ll layout for you the best places in Europe to ride your bike. Get ready for an awesome adventure! From big mountains to sunny beaches, Europe has lots of amazing places to explore on your motorcycle.
So let’s check out my top 10.
Trans Euro Trail
Number 10
At number ten on my list (it would have been higher but it’s just so long) is the Trans Euro Trail, spanning over 50,000 km across 47 countries in Europe.
This is severely hardcore, and not to be attempted by riders with little experience or stamina.
If you’re up to the challenge though, then it’s an unparalleled adventure for bikers seeking the ultimate thrill.
While every stretch of the trail offers its own unique charm, one standout section that captivates riders is the Balkans. With its rugged terrain, stunning vistas, and rich cultural heritage, the Balkans segment of the trail presents bikers with a challenging yet immensely rewarding journey.
You’ll have to navigate rocky mountain passes, remote villages, and everything in between. So you’ll need both skill and endurance to master the untamed beauty of Southeastern Europe.
If you’re planning a trip through mainland Europe, we suggest you read all about Motorcycling in France via the Drive-France website. It covers all the legal requirements you need to ride your motorbike safely and legally through France and beyond.
Tatra Mountains
Number 9
Nestled within the heart of Europe, the Tatra Mountains form a majestic backdrop to one of the most captivating segments of the Trans Euro Trail. Stretching across Poland and Slovakia, this rugged terrain spans approximately 785 km, offering bikers a thrilling adventure through diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
However, it’s the High Tatras, with their towering peaks, dramatic ridgelines, and pristine alpine lakes, that stand out as the crown jewel of this trail.
Here, bikers are treated to exhilarating ascents, adrenaline-pumping descents, and unparalleled panoramic views that make every twist and turn an unforgettable experience, showcasing the untamed beauty of the Tatra Mountains in all its glory.
Bergen
Number 8
Located on the western coast of Norway, Bergen serves as the gateway to one of the most mesmerizing stretches of the Trans Euro Trail. This segment winds its way through the rugged landscapes of Western Norway, spanning approximately 300 km.
However, it’s the stunning fjords surrounding Bergen that steal the show for bikers. With their sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear waters, these majestic fjords offer a truly unforgettable riding experience.
From the challenging twists and turns of the mountain roads to the serene beauty of the coastal villages nestled along the shorelines, every mile traversed in this region is a testament to the raw, unspoiled magnificence of Norway’s natural wonders.
See the accompanying video for this article below.
North Coast 500
Number 7
The North Coast 500, a scenic route that loops around the northern coast of Scotland, spans approximately 500 miles and is a haven for bikers seeking adventure amidst rugged landscapes and coastal splendor.
The route begins and ends in Inverness, meandering through picturesque villages, historic castles, and breathtaking vistas along the way.
Probably the highlight for most are the dramatic cliffs, sweeping beaches, and winding single-track roads of the Northwest Highlands that make the North Coast 500 truly irresistible for bikers.
Here, riders are treated to exhilarating twists and turns as they navigate through the wild and untamed beauty of Scotland’s remote coastline, encountering everything from ancient ruins to soaring mountains, making every moment on the North Coast 500 an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s most scenic landscapes.
Stelvio Pass
Number 6
Situated in the heart of the Italian Alps, the Stelvio Pass is a legendary mountain pass renowned for its breathtaking scenery and challenging twists and turns, making it a magnet for bikers worldwide.
Spanning approximately 48 km, this iconic route winds its way through the majestic peaks of the Ortler Alps, connecting the Lombardy and Trentino Alto Adige regions.
However, it’s the section between Bormio and Prato allo Stelvio that stands out as the most exhilarating stretch for bikers.
With its dizzying switchbacks, steep gradients, and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, conquering the Stelvio Pass is a bucket-list experience for any rider, offering an adrenaline-fueled adventure through some of the most stunning mountain scenery in Europe.
Picos de Europa
Number 5
Northern Spain, offers the Picos de Europa mountain range and presents bikers with a thrilling adventure amidst its rugged landscapes and picturesque villages.
Spanning approximately 40 km, the Picos de Europa Trail winds through the heart of this stunning natural paradise, showcasing towering peaks, deep gorges, and lush valleys.
However, it’s the stretch between Potes and Cangas de Onís that steals the spotlight for bikers.
This section features winding mountain roads, dramatic cliffsides, and breathtaking vistas around every turn, providing riders with an unforgettable journey through one of Spain’s most scenic and exhilarating landscapes.
Atlantic Road
Number 4
Located along the stunning Norwegian coastline, the Atlantic Road stretches approximately 8 km, offering bikers a short but unforgettable journey through some of Norway’s best scenery.
What sets this route apart is its iconic architectural marvels, including eight bridges that span islets and skerries, creating a spectacular pathway over the Atlantic Ocean.
The highlight for bikers is undoubtedly the Storseisundet Bridge, with its dramatic curve that seems to defy gravity, providing an exhilarating experience as riders navigate its winding path.
With panoramic views of the ocean, rugged cliffs, and picturesque fishing villages, the Atlantic Road promises bikers a thrilling adventure through Norway’s coastal wonders in just a short stretch of road.
The Wild Atlantic Way
Number 3
Stretching along the untamed western coastline of Ireland, the Wild Atlantic Way is a legendary route that spans approximately 2,500 km, making it one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world and a dream for bikers seeking adventure.
However, it’s the section between County Clare and County Kerry that stands out as the most captivating stretch for bikers. Here, riders are treated to a mesmerizing blend of rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches, and charming coastal towns, with highlights including the iconic Cliffs of Moher and the winding roads of the Ring of Kerry.
With each twist and turn revealing new vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the stunning Irish countryside, the Wild Atlantic Way offers bikers an unforgettable journey through some of Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage.
German Alpine Road
Number Two
Stretching across the Bavarian Alps in southern Germany, the German Alpine Road offers bikers an exhilarating journey through some of Europe’s most stunning mountain scenery.
It’s about 450 km from Lake Constance to Lake Königssee, so this iconic route winds through picturesque Alpine villages, lush valleys, and towering peaks.
However, it’s the section between Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Berchtesgaden that stands out as the most thrilling for bikers. Here, riders are treated to sweeping curves, breathtaking panoramas of snowcapped mountains, and the opportunity to conquer the famed Eagle’s Nest Road.
With its combination of challenging twists and turns and breathtaking vistas, the German Alpine Road promises bikers an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Bavarian Alps.
French Alps
Number One
Nestled in the southeastern corner of France, the French Alps offer bikers an unparalleled adventure amidst some of Europe’s most iconic mountain scenery. Spanning a vast distance of approximately 1,200 km, this legendary trail winds through dramatic peaks, lush valleys, and charming Alpine villages.
Read: Essential Driving in France Kit.
However, it’s the section between Grenoble and Chamonix that stands out as the most captivating for bikers. Here, riders are treated to hairpin turns, challenging ascents, and awe-inspiring vistas of towering mountains, including the majestic Mont Blanc.
With its combination of adrenaline-pumping rides and breathtaking natural beauty, the French Alps promise bikers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Alps.
And there you have it, the top 10 best destinations in Europe for motorcycle adventure. Whether you’re craving adrenaline-fueled rides or scenic journeys through breathtaking landscapes, Europe has something for every motorcycle enthusiast.
So, rev up your engines, hit the road, and let the adventure begin! Thanks for joining us. Until next time, ride safe and keep exploring!
