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  • Top 10 Motorcycle routes in: Europe

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Motorcycle tours in Europe: Top 10 best motorcycle routes in Europe

Nathan Millward

NateThePostman

Round the world adventurer Nathan Millward rode home to the East Midlands from Australia on a 105cc Australian postal bike (he didn’t like flying). He’s since ridden across America to Alaska, writing two brilliant books about the experience.

www.nathanmillward.com

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The UK has a huge amount to offer, but if you fancy venturing further afield then here are ten motorcycle trips in Europe that might be of interest. Obviously, the list isn’t exhaustive, but should offer some idea as to great directions and destinations to consider. The main thing to remember is that, while it can be nerve wracking, riding in Europe is little different to the UK – once you get the hang of being on the other side of the road and not being able to speak the lingo. Take your time, and don’t give yourself unreasonable time frames or distances to cover. Above all though… enjoy the ride!

1. The Iceland Ring Road

Where does it start?  Reykjavik

Where does it end?  Reykjavik 

How long is it?  828 miles

Why’s it great?  

The ring road of Iceland is by no means the best route on the island, but it does serve as a great jump off point for exploring the more interesting corners of the island.

What do I need to know? 

Getting to Iceland is the tricky part. You can either take the two-day ferry from the top of Denmark (about a 1000 mile run from the UK) or ship your bike with Eimskip  out of Immingham and fly in to meet it. Both options cost roughly the same at around £1000 by the time you’ve paid for either the flights if you’re shipping in, or the travelling costs through Europe if you’re taking the ferry. Not cheap, granted, but then bike rental is on the expensive side, with costs of around 250 Euros per day, which might make sense if you’re there for less than seven days. 

Anything else? 

Be prepared for poor weather even in summer; it can be a bleak place. Prices are high, especially for restaurant meals, alcohol and hotels, but if you’re camping and stove cooking it shouldn’t cost you any more than travelling to mainland Europe. The roads are surprisingly well surfaced, with the unpaved F roads heading into more remote, challenging places that are perfect for trail bike riders. But even a Harley could make a good fist of touring Iceland. For more information read the full BikeSocial report here .

Download the GPX file of this route for your TomTom or Garmin SatNav by clicking here

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2. Trans European Trail

Where does it start ? Wherever you like

Where does it end?  Wherever you finish

How long is it?  21,000 miles

Why is it great?  

A hugely ambitious project – initiated by Brit John Ross – to map a largely unpaved route from the top to the bottom of Europe, and from the East to the West. The route map is free to download and should keep people entertained for years.

As well as through the UK, the TET passes through 27 other countries, including the Scandinavian countries - Norway, Sweden and Denmark, the southern Mediterranean nations of Spain, Greece and Italy, the Eastern European countries of Poland, Romania and Serbia, as well as France, Germany and Belgium. The route spends as much time away from tarmac as possible, though there are linking paved sections taking you from one trail to another. The Scandinavian countries seem to have miles of easy forestry trails, with Portugal and Spain also offering plenty of variety. 

Bike choice is a big factor and while plenty of the TET is accessible to large capacity adventure machines, a lot comes down to skill level and tyre choice. A lighter trail bike might make life easier, and even look at the possibility of renting a machine out there, enabling you to maximise your holiday time on the trails, rather than ploughing through Europe to get there.

The Facebook group  is a great place for picking up advice for local riders.  

To download the maps and to find out more visit www.transeurotrail.org

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3. The Transfăgărășan Highway

Where does it start?  Bascov

Where does it end?  Sibiu

How long is it?  56 miles

Why is it great?

An obvious suggestion ever since Top Gear featured it a few years back, the road definitely carries some romance and gives good reason to push east out of western Europe.

What do I need to know?

The road is 56 miles in length and crosses the southern section of the Carpathian Mountains. It’s located approximately 130 miles west of the Romanian capital Bucharest, and almost 1500 miles east of Dover, meaning that it’s going to need a couple of weeks to get out there and back. The advice, if you do go, is to get there early as traffic can be dense.

Check the road is open before heading out. Generally, it’s closed from mid-October to early June due to snow, so the window is short. In a way the road would arguably best serve as a marker for a wider trip, with good excuse for finding an interesting route for getting down there and back. A route down through the Balkan countries of Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia is increasingly popular with bikers, while a route back through the Alps would give you the best of both worlds.

But so much depends on how much time you have. If you’re racing to get down there and racing to get back, then maybe consider an interesting road a little closer to home. Good information can be found here .

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4. The Wild Atlantic Way

Where does it start?  Kinsale, County Cork

Where does it end?  Londonderry

How long is it?  1553 miles

Why is it great? 

Officially the longest coastal route in the world, and with inexpensive ferries from the Welsh ports of either Fishguard or Holyhead, the Wild Atlantic Way is a dream destination for those with limited time or looking for adventure a little closer to home.  

It’s not so much a point-to-point route, more a theme of travel along the coastline of Ireland, covering a total distance of 1553 miles and passing through nine counties and three provinces. The tourist board designates six regions of the route; Northern Headlands, Surf Coast, Bay Coast, Cliff Coast, Southern Peninsulas and Haven Coast, with the Southern Peninsula likely to be increasingly popular as it’s just off shore that Great Skellig – the island featured in the latest Star Wars movies, The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi – can be found, with boats from the mainland able to take you there.

Anything else?

Prepare for rain and be realistic about distances. Those narrow country lanes take a lot longer to navigate than a regular A-road, so 150 miles a day might be the top end of what’s manageable. To plan a route or to find out more head to the official site at www.wildatlanticway.com

5. The Three Passes of Switzerland 

Where does it start?  Andermatt 

Where does end?  Andermatt

How long is it?  80 miles

An easy to navigate route that takes in three amazing Alpine passes with the full route do-able in a day.  

The three passes of Susten, Furka and Grimsel are in the Alpine region of Switzerland, crossing the Bernese Alps at an elevation above 2000 metres. The passes are generally closed between October and May due to show.

The Grimsel is a personal favourite due to the multiple well-surfaced switchbacks on the way up, heading clockwise, with emerald blue lakes on the way down. The Furka Pass is higher, at a peak of 2429 metres, and arguably tighter and not as well surfaced, but still an excellent riding road, as is Susten. 

The small Alpine town of Andermatt is a good place to base yourself, with all the facilities and some great riding east of there if you wish to venture further into Switzerland. Be wary of Switzerland’s strict speed limits and try not to get carried away; fines are harsh. Also be wary of busy weekend traffic, and as with all foreign riding, try to keep within your own limits and enjoy the scenery. If you have the time then the Nufenen Pass, just to the south of the loop, is also worth riding.

Time wise, if you push straight through France it is easily possible to do this loop and be back home again in a week. 

6. Verdon Gorge

     

Where does it start?  Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Where does it end?  Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

The Verdon Gorge is a magnificent site in itself – Europe’s Grand Canyon – and the roads around it match it for excitement. The coastal resorts of Nice and Monaco aren’t far away either. 

The Verdon Gorge is down in the south of France, just to the north of Nice and Monaco. It’s 25 kilometres in length and 700 metres deep, and was formed by the Verdon River. Much like most canyons, it creeps up on you; one minute the land is flat, the next minute you’re at the rim of a huge canyon. The road around it is what you’re going for, with endless twisting sections and parts where it traces right across the top of the rim, a steel barrier the only thing stopping you from a long drop to the bottom.

Great riding, great scenery, great weather. And if you want to explore the gorge further then venture along D23, an interior road (broken tarmac in the main) that drops south from the town of La Palud-sur-Verdon on the north side of the rim. Camping is a good option for accommodation in this region, with campsites plentiful.

As with any popular tourist place, traffic can be an issue in peak season, but at least unlike the Alpine passes listed above, you can ride the Verdon Gorge most of the year, so aim for the shoulder season of spring or autumn and you’ll be fine. Riding clockwise is recommended for the novice rider as you’re not as exposed to the drops, and if you don’t fancy riding all the way down to the South of France, consider using www.bikeshuttle.co.uk , who can freight your bike down to Toulouse while your fly. It still leaves a 300 mile ride to the Gorge, but that might be a better option than riding from your home in the UK, especially if time is a factor.

7. The Normandy Beaches

Where does it start?  Rouen

Where does it end?   Mont Saint-Michael

How long is it?  340 miles

Good riding as well as the historical element makes for an easily accessible overseas road trip.   

This coastline of France has long held significance in the minds of British visitors. It’s also easy to access and doesn’t feel that far from home, so for the novice overseas explorer it’s not going to be as intimidating as heading out to the Alps for example.

The route starts in the Normandy capital of Rouen, where you’ll find lots of history dating back to medieval times, before heading towards the Normandy Beaches, and passing through Caen where you’ll find a selection of war museums at the old castle. Then you have the beaches; Omaha Beach with cliffs riddled with German bunkers, Juno Beach where the Canadians came ashore, Utah Beach led by the US 4th infantry, Gold Beach at Arromanches – where the British 50th Infantry Division landed – and Sword Beach on the left flank, where the 6th Airborne Division landed.

The war graves of the Bayeux War Cemetery, Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, Ranville, Beny-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery and the La Cambe German War Cemetery can also all be visited in this area.

The route finally concludes with the stunning medieval monastery at Mont Saint-Michael. The Brittany ferries website – a great option for getting over there – has a superb guide to the region at www.brittany-ferries.co.uk/d-day-guide

Anything Else?

The cheapest way of getting there is via the Dover-Calais route, but for more convenience consider sailing from Portsmouth to either Le Havre, Caen or Cherbourg, which can also be reached via a ferry from Poole. Take one of these options and you could make a good tour of it even in the time frame of a long weekend. For more information on Normandy visit the tourist board website .

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8. The Garmisch Run

Where does it start?  Calais, France

Where does it end?  Garmisch, Germany 

How long is it?  715 miles

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a town in southern Bavaria that every year plays host to the biggest BMW gathering in the world (it’s also open to riders of any bike) – it’s well worth heading down to. This is a scenic way of getting there.  

For 2018 the event is from 6 th to 8 th July, with this route taking three days to get down there at a leisurely pace, with time to enjoy some stop-offs on the way. You can do the ride back via motorways in a day if needs be, but it’s best if you have time to make an interesting round-trip of it.

From Calais take the A26/E7 all the way down to junction 9 near Bonavis. From there follow the 644 to Le Catelet, then the D28 to the D960 all the way to Vernis.

From there, the D966 to Montcornet, D946 to Vouziers, D982 to Sainte-Menehould, then A4 and finally D904 and D3 down to Port-a-Mousson for the first night’s stop. You’ll find a good choice of hotels here.

On the second day, head across country on the D913 and D955 to the N4, aiming for Baden-Baden. South from here begins the famous B500 through the Black Forest, aiming for somewhere around the town of Schluchsee, 105 miles to the south of Baden-Baden. Be mindful that the B500 can be busy with tourist traffic and police.

The final day (and to be honest you could shorten this run down to two days if you got cracking) is east along the German/Austrian border, aiming for Friedrichshafen on the shores of Lake Constance. The 308 east from there takes you to the 199 and briefly into Austria, before returning to Germany on the 187 where you’ll soon arrive in Garmisch.

You can find route maps here:

Day One: https://www.motogoloco.com/map/?route=9955 Day Two: https://www.motogoloco.com/map/?route=9956 Day Three: https://www.motogoloco.com/map?route=9957

Book early if you want accommodation in the town during the event as it gets busy with tens of thousands of bikers over the weekend. It is something of a spectacle, even for those not interested in the BMW brand. The food and drink are good, and there’s free camping in the meadows beneath the ski mountains. The event itself is also free to attend – a great excuse for a road trip. 

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9. The Alpine Loop, including Stelvio

Where does it start?  Garmisch 

Where does it end?  Garmisch 

How long is it?  200 miles

If you’ve made it down to Garmisch, this is a fine route for exploring some of the best mountain roads through the Alps .

Heading clockwise, this route takes you on two good passes of Stelvio and the excellent Timmelsjoch that connects the Ötztal valley in the Austrian state of Tyrol to the Passeier Valley in the Italian province of South Tyrol.

On the Italian side, the road to reach the summit is called SS44bis, and on the Austrian side, there’s a toll road, called Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstrasse. From Garmisch take the E533 down to the A12, then 186 south to the ski resort of Sölden (or Soelden) and the start of the Timmelsjoch. Sölden is an upmarket resort with some camping options.

The Ötztal Glacier Road up from Sölden to the glacier (and back) is also a must-ride, with a nominal toll charge mid-way up. From there south along the Timmelsjoch, with a single journey by motorcycle costing 14 Euros, but well worth it, with 38 kilometres of twisting Alpine road that’s well-surfaced and well-sighted. From there take the SS44 leading to Merano, west on the SS38 with a left turn leading to the famous Stelvio Pass.

The Stelvio is maybe a touch over-rated, but it’s still worth riding. It’s quite busy and narrow in places, but worth it for the experience. The town of Bormio at the bottom has good facilities, while onto Livingo has you pointing north, back towards Garmisch, with the SS41 east to the SS40 running north, before figuring your way back to Garmisch, or simply heading back from the foot of the Stelvio heading west to where you could link up with the Furka-Susten-Grimsel Pass listed earlier. 

While it takes effort to get through France to the Alps, it is worth it, though try not to rush it and look for ways of avoiding the monotony of the motorways where possible.

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10. The Road to the Fjords 

Where does it start?  Bergen  

Where does it end?  Kristiansand 

How long is it?  273 miles

This is a road trip in itself – up along the coast of Norway – but the best bit is that upon reaching Bergen, a world of opportunity opens up for exploring the famous Norwegian fjords.

This route begins in the port town of Kristiansand, which can be reached by catching a ferry from Hirtshals at the top of Denmark. This is a two-hour ferry, operated by either Color Line  or Fjord Line ,  with multiple sailings throughout the day and costs around £90 return.

There’s no easy way of reaching the top of Denmark to begin with – not since DFDS stopped its route from the UK to Denmark back in 2014. Harwich to the Hook of Holland is about the best you’ll get, with a 650mile slog to Hirtshals from there.

Once in Norway, the route is easy to follow along the E39, winding along the coast, passing through tunnels and with short ferry crossings between the longer stretches. Once you’ve reached Bergen the options are endless for exploring the Fjords, all of which are no more than a day’s ride away, including Hardangerfjord and Aurlandsfjorden. Or park the bike and take a boat ride.  

Norway is a surprisingly easy country to explore, with good road conditions, plentiful camping and lodging facilities and a well-established tourist network. Some push onto Nordkapp at the very top, but without doing that extra huge distance, there’s plenty to be seen in South and Central Norway, with it easy to bolt on a side tour through Sweden. If you’re into your trail riding, consider combining it with parts of the TET listed above.

Photo by Brent Leport

Do I need travel insurance?

Just like any holiday, a trip on a motorcycle – be it in the UK, Europe or beyond – can be ruined by delays, lost documents, illness and more. There are plenty of travel insurance options, but you need to make sure you get a policy that includes riding motorcycles, and if it does, that it's for bikes of the engine size you'll be riding (many only cover up to 250cc). At its most basic, you should look for insurance that provides cover for the following: 

  • Medical expenses
  • Loss or theft of personal possessions
  • Lost or delayed luggage
  • Loss of your passport and other documents
  • Travel delays and disruptions
  • Having to cut your holiday short

In addition though, if you’re taking a motorcycle (or you're renting one while you’re away) be sure that your insurer will cover you for any medical expenses, should you have an accident. You must also think about where you’re riding – some policies won’t cover you if you’re trail or enduro riding, or if you’re on a race track. Remember – this isn’t about your bike being covered, it’s about your medical expenses, should the worst happen.

If you're only going away once, a single-trip policy will likely be all you need, but also consider an annual policy, which could extend to cover your family holidays too (a good insurer should also be able to offer cover for your whole family). 

BikeSocial’s parent company, Bennetts, has a motorcycle-specific travel insurance policy – find out if it suits your needs by  clicking here .

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Tips for Motorcycle Touring in Europe

Tips for Motorcycle Touring in Europe

If you’re planning a European motorbike trip but aren’t sure where to begin, this comprehensive guide of motorcycle touring in Europe will help you get started. From the best time to ride to the most scenic routes and motorcycle choices, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

When should you go, what are the best motorcycle tours in Europe, and which countries offer the best experience?

In this article, we’ll cover all the essentials for planning a motorcycle tour in Europe. You’ll find:

  • What’s the best time of year to tour Europe by motorcycle?
  • Where to go
  • What are the best motorcycle routes in Europe?
  • Which are the best motorcycle tours in Europe
  • What gear you’ll need for touring Europe
  • How to travel Europe safely

In addition, we’ll share some advice on what the best motorcycles for touring Europe are, what documents you’ll need for your European motorcycle tour, and what to pack for the trip.

Planning a Motorcycle Trip in Europe

When you plan a motorcycle trip in Europe, one of the most important things to consider is the best time of year to go.  While most Southern European countries are great for motorcycling year-round, Western and Northern Europe sees cold temperatures during the late fall, winter, and early spring months.

To get the best experience out of your motorcycle tour in Europe, plan your ride for late April through to mid-September. Remember, however, that some of the European mountain passes may still be closed until as late as mid-May. If your goal is to explore the Swiss Alps, aim to ride here in June, July, or August.

Planning a Motorcycle Trip in Europe

April and September months are the best for motorcycling in Spain, Portugal, Greece, and Italy. During May, June, and July, the temperatures here are hot, and it’s high-tourism season. To avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather, pan your motorcycle tour of Southern Europe in early spring or fall.

On the other hand, Norway, Finland, Sweden, and Denmark are best explored in mid-summer. If you’re planning to ride your motorcycle to Nordkap, for example, the best time to go is August.

While the best time for motorcycle touring in Europe is generally spring, summer, and fall, there are a few great winter destinations Europe has to offer. If you plan to ride Europe in December, January, February, or March, the best paces to travel are Crete (Greece), Sardinia (Italy), Southern Portugal, and Southern Spain.

Motorcycle trip Europe

Where to Go

If you’re planning to go on a motorcycle tour in Europe, you’ll need to fly in to start your journey in one of the major cities. The best airports to choose from are located Amsterdam (the Netherlands), Frankfurt (Germany), Paris (France), Madrid (Spain), Rome (Italy), and Athens (Greece). From these major hubs, you’ll easily find connecting flights to your destination or get a transfer to the location by the motorcycle tour operator.

Choosing one of these cities to fly in means you’ll most likely get a direct flight. In addition, airfares to the major hubs are typically cheaper than to smaller, less popular destinations.

For more, see this extensive list of Europe’s best airports .

Avoid flying to Europe during major holidays such as Christmas and Easter to avoid high prices and lots of tourist traffic. Thanksgiving, on the other hand, is a great time to travel as Europeans do not have this holiday.

Best Motorcycle for Touring Europe

In addition to knowing the best time to go, it’s important to choose a motorcycle that will be comfortable and easy to handle during your trip. The best motorcycle for touring Europe is a bike that’s mechanically sound, reliable, and comfortable for long distances.

For on-road motorcycle tours in Europe, look into sport tourers, adventure motorcycles, and cruiser motorcycles . These bikes are meant for traveling and offer a comfortable seating position, plenty of power, and great performance. Sport tourers, adventure bikes, and cruisers are ideal for European roads. You will comfortably cover long distances and enjoy those legendary mountain twisties and meandering coastal routes alike.

Best Motorcycle for Touring Europe

If you hope to explore the continent off-road, some of the best motorcycles for traveling Europe are dual-sport, adventure, and enduro motorcycles . These bikes are capable of both on-road and off-road riding, weigh less than cruiser and sport tourer motorcycles, and offer enough power and grip on gravel roads and trails.

If you plan to combine trail riding and tarmac, the best motorcycle for touring Europe will be an adventure or a mid-sized dual-sport motorcycle.

Best Motorcycle Routes in Europe

When it comes to the best motorcycle routes in Europe, there’s no shortage of scenic rides to choose from. For the best mountain passes in Europe, look into Swiss, French, and Italian Alps: this region offers the best of European mountain motorcycle routes. In addition, the Spanish Pyrenees is another great region to explore, and you can ride both on-road and off-road here.

Best Motorcycle Routes in Europe

For coastal motorcycle routes in Europe, Italy’s Amalfi Coast has few rivals. This scenic ride is considered one of the best motorcycle routes in Europe, along with the Adriatic Coast in Croatia.

If you prefer getting off the beaten path and see diverse scenery, explore Romania and the Balkans. Romania boasts two of Europe’s most scenic motorcycle roads – the Transfagarasan and Transalpina – whereas Bosnia, Montenegro, and Croatia offer breath-taking mountain and coastal scenery combined. Another hidden gem in Europe is Slovenia. This tiny country packs a serious punch: it offers endless mountain twisties on good-quality tarmac roads, and there are plenty of trails to explore if you hope to get off the road.

For spectacular fjord scenery, dreamy coastal routes, and island hopping, Norway is your best bet. Two of the most scenic motorcycle routes in Europe, the Atlantic Highway and Trollstigen, are located in Northern Norway, and you’re guaranteed to get your fill of awe-inspiring landscapes traveling here.

Portugal and Spain are great for diverse terrain ranging from deserts to mountains, both on-road and off-road riding, and fantastic weather year-round.

Best Motorcycle Tours in Europe

If you’re planning to go on a motorcycle tour in Europe rather than ride on your own, there are plenty of interesting options to choose from. To research the best motorcycle tours in Europe, head over to MOTOURISMO, the biggest motorcycle tours booking platform online . MOTOURISMO is a combined online booking platform and travel agency for motorcycle tours, and they have a wide selection of motorcycle tours in Europe for each country, region, and type of riding.

Best Motorcycle Tours in Europe

When researching the best motorcycle tours in Europe, look for options that appeal to you the most. You can choose between week-long trips or longer, twenty-day motorcycle adventures, pick on-road, off-road, or combined tours, or look into self-guided tour options. Some motorcycle tours in Europe offer all-inclusive packages. These packages have a motorcycle rental, accommodation, and routes all planned out ahead.

Others offer bike rental only, or self-guided motorcycle tour options where you ride a rental with pre-planned routes and hotels.

Guided Motorcycle Tours in Europe

Guided motorcycle tours in Europe usually offer the best experience if you don’t have much time for planning and researching on your own. Guided tours typically include a rental motorcycle, a tour guide, hotels, points of interest, rest days, and meals.

All you need to do is fly in and ride. Everything else is taken care of for you. Some guided motorcycle tours also include a chase vehicle to carry your luggage.

For the best guided tours, see the extensive listings for guided motorcycle tours in Europe . You can also search by country, region, or the type of riding (on-road, off-road, or combination).

Guided Motorcycle Tours in Europe

Self-Guided Motorcycle Tours in Europe

Self-guided motorcycle tours in Europe are ideal for riders who want to have the safety and comfort of an organized tour but travel independently. Self-guided tours typically include a rental motorcycle, a pre-planned route, and pre-booked hotels along the way. Self-guided tours are easier to customize, and you do not need to ride in a group.

To browse independent tour options, see this self-guided European motorcycle tours list .

What Gear Do You Need for Touring Europe?

For a motorcycle tour in Europe, you will need good quality riding gear. Remember, wearing a helmet is mandatory across the entire continent. Riding without one is illegal throughout the entire EU, so make sure you bring your helmet with you.

In addition, it’s best to ride in sturdy, over-the ankle boots and wear protective pants, jacket, and gloves. If you’re planning to ride Europe in summer, take lightweight, breathable motorcycle gear. For spring and fall riding, it’s best to wear four-season riding gear or pack a few warmer layers. While the temperatures mostly stay mild and balmy, some high-altitude mountain passes may be a little chilly, even during the summer months.

Touring Europe gear

Motorcycle Navigation in Europe

If you’re planning to go on a self-guided motorcycle tour in Europe, you’ll need to have means of navigation. If you normally use a GPS unit, be sure to download European maps before you go. If you use a phone navigation app like Google Maps or similar, the maps will download automatically when you arrive. Just make sure you’re downloading using WiFi, not data, to save on data costs.

If you prefer paper maps, you find European road maps at the airport or any gas station along the way.

 Safety When Touring Europe by Motorcycle

Traveling in Europe by motorcycle is generally safe. However, it’s best to make sure you have some security measures when it comes to your motorcycle. Whether you’re renting or riding your own, keeping your motorcycle safe while riding Europe is important, especially in big cities.

We strongly recommend only parking your motorcycle in secure garages and well-lit, secure parking lots. In addition, consider carrying a disc lock or a motorcycle chain with you so you can secure the bike while parked. Finally, having a GPS motorcycle tracker may save you a lot of hassle in case your bike gets stolen. A GPS tracker and alarm will alert you if your motorcycle is being moved, and you can track its live location via the app if the bike has been stolen.

Can you travel Europe on a motorcycle?

Yes, you can travel Europe on your own or rental motorcycle. Motorcycle rentals are available in all major European cities.

Can you tour on any motorcycle?

You can tour Europe on any motorcycle you choose. For the best road touring experience, consider renting a sport cruiser bike. For dual-sport and adventure riding, it’s best to pick an off-road capable motorcycle like an enduro or an adventure bike.

Which country is best for motorcycles?

While most European countries are great for riding, the best country for motorcycles is undoubtedly Italy. The Italian Alps, the Dolomites, and the Amalfi Coast are all iconic motorcycle destinations in Europe. For more European motorcycling route ideas, see this list of epic biking roads .

What do I need to travel to Europe by motorcycle?

To travel Europe by motorcycle, you will need your passport, your driver’s licence, and your travel insurance. Your motorcycle will most likely be insured by the motorcycle tour or rental company, but double-check before you go. You do not need to have an international driver’s license for Europe.

Get Ready for Your European Motorcycle Tour

Now that you know the best time to ride Europe, where to go for the most scenic roads, and what motorcycle should you choose, it’s time to start planning your motorcycle tour in Europe. Research the destinations that you’ve always dreamt of seeing, pick a motorcycle tour that suits your needs, and hit the road! Wherever you go, a motorcycle tour in Europe will be an unforgettable experience, and we hope you thoroughly enjoy your two-wheeled adventure here.

Happy miles!

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Motorcycle Tourer

Top Routes in Europe for Motorcycle Tours

Motorcycle Tourer | 26 December 2023 7 May 2023 | Route Planning , Routing Tips

Motorcycling is a great way to explore the world, and Europe is up there on the list of top places to visit! With its winding roads, stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder that motorcycle tours in Europe are so popular.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled tour of the Alps or a leisurely ride along the coast of southern Spain, there are plenty of routes to choose from. Here are some of the top routes in Europe for motorcycle tours.

Corsica & Sardinia

Slovenian alps, french alps, austrian alps, picos de europa, southern spain & andalusia, top motorcycle routes in europe: conclusion.

top motorcycle routes europe

Corsica and Sardinia offer some of the most beautiful motorcycle routes in Europe. Both islands boast stunning coastal roads, winding mountain passes, lush valleys and picturesque villages.

In Corsica, you can explore incredible mountain routes which take you on a breathtaking journey through peaks and lakes. In addition to its marvellous landscape, the island has much to offer to those who like more adventure – from beachfront camping to rock climbing.

Sardinia is famous for its panoramic views of rugged coastlines, deep gorges and crystal-clear waters. Ride iconic roads like the SP85 from Narcao and Iglesias and discover hidden gems across the island, like Gennargentu National Park or Baunei’s amazing inland canyons.

  • D80, Northern coast, Corsica
  • D84 from Porto to Francado, Corsica
  • D81 Calanques de Piana balcony road, Corsica
  • Porto Vecchio to Calvi, Corsica
  • Ajaccio to Propriano Coast Road, Corsica
  • Monte Acuto – Talana, Corsica
  • SP85, Sardinia
  • SS49/105 from Bosa to Alghero, Sardinia
  • SP17 from Cagliari to Villasimius, Sardinia
  • SP71 (Chia coastal road), Sardinia
  • SS392 from Oschiri to Tempio Pausania, Sardinia
  • Cagliari to Oristano, Sardinia
  • Loop around Gennargentu National Park, Sardinia

corsica shoreline

Portugal provides some of the best motorcycle touring routes in Europe. Located on the Iberian Peninsula, it is renowned for its picturesque coastal roads, historic villages and charming culture.

Explore a variety of scenic roads, such as the Atlantic Road, which takes visitors along one of the most stunning cliffside routes in Portugal. Riders can enjoy Monsanto or Faia Brava and explore enchanting cities like Lisbon or Porto.

  • Atlantic Road
  • Porto – Braga – Guimarães
  • Troviscais to Reguengos de Monsaraz
  • Algarve Coastline
  • Sintra to Fátima
  • Douro Valley
  • Minho Vineyards

top motorcycle routes europe - portugal

Norway provides some of the most picturesque motorcycle touring routes in Europe. Located in northern Europe, the country is renowned for its stunning fjords, towering mountains, and frozen glaciers.

Getting to Norway is a mission. But once there, you’ll have a variety of incredible roads in front of you, such as Trollstigen, which takes visitors over one of the most iconic mountain passes in the region. Riders can also take on some of the most exciting roads in Norway, like Gaularfjellet or Lom, and explore quaint villages like Geiranger and Flåm.

  • Geiranger-Trollstigen
  • Loop around Rondane range
  • A trip to Hardangervidda national park
  • Sognefjellet (Road 55)
  • The E6 and E10 offer an easy way to see Norway

rider on twisty mountain road in norway, senja

The Slovenian Alps offer some of Europe’s most thrilling and beautiful motorcycle touring routes. Located in the heart of southern Europe, the region is renowned for its lush valleys, pristine rivers, and breathtaking mountain views.

The roads of Slovenia are perfect for motorcycle enthusiasts looking to explore the stunning landscape. Bikers can take on some of the toughest roads in the region, such as Vršič Pass or Logarska Dolina – both renowned for their spectacular views and challenging terrain.

Those looking for a more leisurely ride should check out Lake Bled or Triglav National Park. You can also visit nearby towns such as Bovec and Kranjska Gora to experience some of Slovenia’s delicious traditional cuisine and charming culture.

  • The Vršič Pass
  • Trenta Valley
  • Bled to Lake Bohinj
  • Road 206 from Kranjska Gora
  • Bovec and Tolmin

Related: Off-Bike Gems: Motorcycle Touring In Bohinj, Slovenia

top motorcycle routes europe - slovenia

Motorcycle touring in the French Alps is an unforgettable experience for any biker, offering stunning scenery, thrilling roads, and charming towns. Located in Western Europe, the region is renowned for its picturesque mountain ranges, beautiful lakes and rivers, and delicious traditional cuisine.

The famous Route des Grandes Alpes takes riders over some of the highest mountain passes in the Alps, offering plenty of opportunities to take in breathtaking views.

Bikers can also explore iconic destinations such as Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest peak, Lac d’Annecy, a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, and the thrilling Col de la Bonette, one of the highest roads in Europe. 

  • Route Napoleon
  • Route des Grandes Alpes
  • Col de la Bonette
  • Col du Galibier
  • Lac d’Annecy
  • Col de l’Iseran

road in french alps

The Austrian Alps provide some of the most thrilling and scenic routes for motorcycle touring. Located in central Europe, the region is renowned for its majestic mountains, valleys, and crystal-clear rivers.

Explore a variety of incredible roads, including Grossglockner High Alpine Road , which takes visitors over Austria’s highest mountain pass. Or take on some of the most exhilarating roads in Europe, such as Felbertauern Strasse or Hahntennjoch.

In addition, the area offers plenty of opportunities to ride along breathtaking lakes, such as Lake Achensee or Lake Zell, and explore traditional villages like Innsbruck or Salzburg.

  • Grossglockner High Alpine Road
  • Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road
  • Silvretta High Alpine Road
  • Arlberg Pass
  • Stelvio Pass

top motorcycle routes europe - austria

The Swiss Alps (notoriously!) provide some of the most exhilarating and picturesque motorcycle touring routes worldwide. Located in Western Europe, the region is renowned for its monster mountains, fabulous roads, and general riding nirvana.

Explore a variety of incredible roads, including some of the highest mountain passes in Europe. Riders can also take on classic passes like Furka Pass or Stelvio Pass and explore traditional villages like Zermatt or Interlaken.

  • Grimsel Pass
  • Susten Pass
  • Oberalp Pass
  • Gotthard Pass
  • Any other pass you stumble across!

mountains and pass in swiss alps

The Pyrenees provide some of the most thrilling motorcycle touring routes in Europe. Located between France and Spain, the mountain range is renowned for its steep slopes, winding roads, and stunning views.

Get ready to explore a variety of incredible roads, such as Col de Portalet, which takes visitors over one of the highest mountain passes in Europe. You can also enjoy popular Cols like the Tourmalet or Peyresourde and explore traditional towns like Bolquère or Font-Romeu.

  • The Roncesvalles Pass
  • Col d’Aspin
  • The Col de Tourmalet

top motorcycle routes europe - pyrenees

Germany provides some of the most exciting motorcycle touring routes in Europe. Located in central Europe, the country is renowned for its smooth roads, breathtaking forests, and hospitable people.

Bikers can explore a variety of incredible routes, such as the Black Forest , which takes visitors over one of the most iconic mountain passes in the region. Riders can also take on some of Germany’s twisty rides, such as the Harz Mountains (B85 Kyffhäuserstrasseor) and explore charming towns like Rothenburg and Trier.

  • The Romantic Road
  • The Black Forest High Road
  • The Castle Road
  • The German Alpine Road

car and bike black forest germany

The Picos de Europa provides some of Europe’s most breathtaking motorcycle touring routes. Located in northern Spain, the region is renowned for its winding roads, stunning valleys and deep ravines.

Enjoy various incredible roads that take riders over the most majestic mountain regions in Europe. Riders can enjoy the Picos to the fullest by exploring Urdón or Asón or quaint villages like Potes or Tama. And the best bit? The lack of traffic!

  • Ruta del Cares
  • Lagos de Covadonga
  • Sierra de Bejes
  • Desfiladero de la Hermida
  • Puerto de San Glorio and the N-621

top motorcycle routes europe - picos de europa

The Vosges Mountains provide some of Europe’s most incredible motorcycle touring routes. Located in Eastern France, the region is renowned for its picturesque roads, lush forests and quaint villages.

Take on some breathtaking roads, such as Grand Ballon, which takes visitors over one of the highest mountain passes in the region. Visit areas such as the Hautes-Vallées or La Bresse and explore charming towns like Gérardmer or Saint-Dié-des-Vosges.

  • Route des Crêtes
  • Ballons des Vosges National Park
  • Route des Vins d’Alsace
  • Route des Cinq Châteaux (five castles road)
  • Col du Grand Ballon

drone shot vosges grand ballon

The Dolomites provide some of the best motorcycle touring routes in Europe. Located in Northern Italy, the region is renowned for its winding roads, mesmerizing mountains and ancient villages.

There are plenty of spectacular roads for you to enjoy, such as the Valparola Pass, which takes you over one of the most iconic mountain passes in the area. Riders can also take on some of the Dolomites’ toughest challenges, such as Gardena or Santa Cristina, and explore charming towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo or Ortisei.

  • Sella Ronda Loop
  • Great Dolomites Road
  • Pordoi Pass
  • Passo di Giau

top motorcycle routes europe - dolomites

Southern Spain and Andalusia region provide some of Europe’s finest motorcycle touring routes. Located primarily in the southern part of the country, it is renowned for its stunning landscapes, colourful cities, and fascinating culture.

Explore a variety of breathtaking roads, such as the Sierra Nevada, which offers incredible views across the highest point in mainland Europe. Riders can also enjoy La Alpujarra or El Chorro and explore enchanting cities like Seville or Granada.

  • Sierra Nevada National Park
  • Cabo de Gata – Níjar Natural Park
  • Ronda Mountain Range
  • Jaén Province
  • Route of the White Towns of Andalusia (Malaga to Cadiz)

andalusian town

Europe is a continent full of incredible motorcycle routes. From the winding roads of the Swiss Alps to the picturesque Corsican coast, there are plenty of options for motorcyclists looking for an unforgettable adventure.

The Route des Crêtes in France, Trollstigen in Norway and Stelvio Pass in Italy are some of the most popular routes. But many lesser-known gems offer breathtaking views and thrilling rides across the continent.

Whether looking for a scenic tour or an adrenaline-filled journey, Europe has something for everyone. And with so many spectacular routes, it’s no wonder Europe is one of the top destinations for motorcycle touring!

Preparing your Motorcycle Before your Next Tour

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  • January 27, 2022

Motorcycle tour within Europe 2023: Guide, price and tips

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Table of Contents

So don’t forget to take a piece of paper to write down everything we’re going to mention, so that you’re fully prepared for whatever comes your way on this trip !

Everything you need to know about touring Europe by motorbike

Do you imagine yourself travelling on a motorbike , admiring the landscapes of Europe , feeling the breeze on your clothes and stopping for a hot coffee in a cafe in Italy? Or do you want to travel with your two-wheeled companion to get away from the comfort that trains, planes or even buses offer? Whatever your situation, bear in mind that this dream is closer than you think. Travelling by motorbike can provide you with sensations and a unique dazzling journey, with everything at your fingertips, in an economical way and that will be worth it without a doubt.

Therefore, it is necessary for you to know what you need to travel by motorbike and everything you need to understand to finally make your motorcycle tour in Europe . So, here is some information that will help you!

PLAN YOUR TRIP

mortorcycle-tour-planning

When making a trip, it is necessary to ask several questions and review if such an opportunity is really within your reach. So, it is important to plan your trip , so that this way there are no headaches or even a trip that you do not like. Here are some questions that are important for you to decide if travelling by motorbike through Europe will really be a good experience:

  • Which attractions do I want to see?
  • Which events do I want to attend?
  • Which countries and regions do I want to visit?
  • How long do I want and can I afford to travel?
  • How much time will I have during my trip?
  • Do I know how to ride a motorbike and do I have all my papers up to date?

If the answers are positive and you are decided about your trip, what are you waiting for? Plan now your tour in Europe by motorbike , besides saving on air tickets, you will have perfect experiences. Maybe you still don’t know how to plan a complete trip, so take a look at How to Travel Europe Cheap: 5 tips that will help you , so you can save a lot!

TRAVEL ALONE OR IN A GROUP

Another question you must decide is whether you will travel in a group or completely alone. It is obvious that any option has its advantages and disadvantages, so you must be prepared for any situation. So, we have separated the advantages of travelling alone and travelling in a group, so that you can decide which option is more viable and comfortable.

If you intend to travel in a group, know that:

  • You will have someone to help if you have problems.
  • You will have companions to share the fun experiences and help chase away the loneliness, being able to dialogue daily, have fun and even do group activities.
  • You can get cheaper group rates on tours and accommodation.

Now, if you wish to travel alone, know that:

  • You will never have to compromise on which countries to visit or attractions to see, as there will be no likely opinions contrary to yours.
  • There is no concern about the coordination of the group and whether everyone is keeping up.
  • Booking accommodation will generally be easier if you are on your own.
  • You won’t return home with strained relationships if you don’t get along during the trip, avoiding headaches, occasional fights and disagreements.

The choice is yours alone, just decide the best option and do your motorbike tour in Europe.

RENTING MOTORCYCLES

motorcycle-tour-model

Sending your bike to Europe is a choice not very recommended, after all, it will be an extra problem and will generate many expenses, which makes this option not economical at all. If you want to save money on your trip , a good advice is to rent a motorbike , because Europe contains several companies that rent motorbikes for tourists. Some companies to recommend are Hertz , MotoAdventours and AdriatcMotours .

In a way to help you, we have separated some types of bikes and their rental prices. Check below:

  • Touring: if you want to go on a long trip, regardless of the season, know that the Touring is extremely recommended for you. Besides being big and having a stability with more cargo capacity, it can carry up to two people and gives you more autonomy, since the fuel tank is bigger. For being wide and heavy, this motorbike has a lower performance in relation to other types of motorbikes, however, the stability on the track and speed end up making up for it.
  • Sport touring: This type of motorbike has a higher windshield and a seat in a position that provides comfort to those who are riding. Its main feature is versatility with a sportier design, being produced especially for travel
  • Big trail: If you are looking for a motorbike with power and comfort, keep in mind that big trail motorbikes are quite versatile, produced to face any type of terrain, be it earth or asphalt. This option helps you save money, as this motorbike is more financially accessible, having a more adventurous characteristic, offering a wide compatibility in relation to travel accessories.
  • Cruisers: Don’t you like the size of other motorbikes? Cruisers have the closest seats to the ground, making them a popular motorbike for short-statured riders; it’s clear that they approach practicality and plenty of style on two wheels, helping you get on and off. 
  • Standard: Are you looking for a motorbike that fits any destination? Standard motorbikes can help you from a commute to your home to a long trip. Despite being basic, they can be optimised according to the rider’s needs.

Now all you have to do is choose the one that is ideal for you and rent it, however, remember that bigger motorbikes can end up making your trip more difficult, since some roads in Europe are narrow. Don’t forget that there are several official websites and companies that you can find to make your purchase in a safe way!

THE EQUIPMENT YOU NEED FOR YOUR EUROPEAN TOUR

Choosing a motorbike for travelling is clearly essential, however, knowing what equipment is needed for your trip in Europe is without a doubt an extremely important necessity. So, take a look at this list and check if everything is within your reach!

  • The most important thing: your and international driver’s license, if possible in a separate waterproof container with backup photocopies stored. The weather is changeable and depending on the season you are travelling, rain may occur, given this, it is good to avoid your documents getting wet.The most important thing: your passport and international driver’s license, if possible in a separate waterproof container with backup photocopies stored. The weather is changeable and depending on the season you are travelling, rain may occur, given this, it is good to avoid your documents getting wet.
  • Have you ever thought in case any damage occurs to your bike? Therefore, a roadside plane repair kit will help you in any situation, preventing you from being left on the side of the road without any help.
  • It is important that you take your bottle of water with you and if you do not intend to stop at snack bars or restaurants to eat, it is necessary that you take your snack with you .
  • As we mentioned, it may rain while driving, so have waterproof equipment, a good example is a waterproof bag with your clothes or most important belongings.
  • We obviously cannot forget the helmet , so that you travel safely and before the law.
  • It is good to take a pair of walking shoes with you in case you want to explore the local towns and so on.
  • There are essential items for survival, such as a first aid kit , tapes , pocket knife and other objects.
  • If you are travelling in summer, remember to wear light clothing, now if you are travelling in cold weather such as autumn or winter, thermal or insulated clothing is important.

WHERE TO SLEEP ON A MOTORCYCLE TOUR?

Have you ever wondered what are the best options for spending the night on a motorcycle tour? Know that the answer is easy. If you want to save a lot of money, a great recommendation is to stay in hostels or hostels instead of staying in local hotels. At least in hostels you can meet new people and share the costs with the person staying with you.

There are some hostel and hostel recommendations for you:

  • Old Town Alur Hostel (Estonia): The daily cost is €12,71 ($14,50). The Hostel is laid back in the historic centre and offers a great location, close to restaurants, public transport and so on. 3 star rating.
  • Patio Hostel (Slovakia): With free laundry, bar and a good atmosphere. You will pay per night around €17.47 ($19.93).

Another option that might surprise you is camping , so you can not only save money, but it can also be a new experience for your trip. From sleeping in a tent or in a hammock, it’s your choice! Remember to book your camping in advance. If you want to know more about camping in europe, check out:

Camping in Portugal 2023: Prices, Spots, tips and more!

The last option, but not least, are the hotels themselves, you can find some fairly cheap ones (usually 2 to 3 star hotels), that is if you want to sleep comfortably in a bed by yourself.

Be sure to check out two hotel recommendations for you:

  • Atlantic Garden Resort (Ukraine): The hotel has absolutely everything you need, be it spa, clean rooms, restaurants with great and cheap food, and friendly staff. The daily rate is around €25.10 ($28.64).
  • A&O Prague Rhea (Prague): Being a stripped-down, cheap hotel with a good location and great service. It accepts pets and despite being economical, it manages to be a luxurious environment. You will pay around €11.76 ($13.42) per night.

AVERAGE DAILY COST OF A MOTOCYCLE TRIP IN EUROPE

A question often asked about the motorcycle tour, is the average daily cost expected to be spent . Know that the expenses for a day vary according to your choice, a good example is if you will sleep in a hotel or intend to go camping, obviously practicing camping will be much cheaper than sleeping in lodgings, however, if you intend to rent hotels for nights, eat in restaurants or visit certain excursions or tours, know that it will cost a little more.

To decide your budget to spend on a daily basis, check where your money will go:

  • Accommodation. It is up to you to decide which option is more viable, whether you spend the night in a hostel, hotel or outdoors in a camp. If you choose a hotel, opt for single rooms, it will be cheaper.
  • Travel, transport and rent . These expenses depend on where you live, because if the distance is great, it may be necessary to pay a plane or ship ticket. A good choice is to rent a motorbike from Europe, so you will not have more expenses with the transportation of your motorbike. However, if you still intend to take your own motorbike, opt for boat, it will certainly be cheaper.
  • Bike rental. Know that there are a few options for you, however the most recommended is to book a bike and pay in advance online.  The price of bike hire is £120 to £150 per day.
  • Meals. Unfortunately, meals are one of the most expensive expenses in a motorcycle tour to Europe. You can stay in a hotel that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner can be consumed in some local restaurant.
  • Fuel. Fuel prices in Europe can end up being cheaper and it is clear that it is something important for your trip. If you want to check petrol prices in European countries, the website globalpetrolprices.com is a great recommendation.
  • Tours and excursions (optional). It is necessary that you add some extra money for your tours and excursions. Prices can be found online if you wish to check in advance, as you can buy tickets at home.

According to the prices spent by other travellers, the daily rate was around €150 per day, which is equivalent to $171.11; therefore:

  • Around €100 ($114.07) for accommodation, however some places can be as low as €50 ($57.04).
  • 20 (22.81) for a tank of fuel.
  • For food, from €30 ($34.22).
  • You can check the prices on this site https://www.motorcycletourer.com/cost-of-motorcycle-touring/

AVERAGE TOTAL COST OF A MOTORCYCLE TOUR IN EUROPE

Now, if you want to know the average total cost of a motorcycle tour in Europe, keep in mind that the price may vary according to the amount of days you intend to stay riding. Accordingly, here lies some predicted values to be spent based on some amounts of days on the trip:

  • 3-day trip: from €450 ($513.38).
  • 7 day trip: from €1,050 ($1,197.89).
  • 10 days on the go: from €1050 ($1. 711.27).
  • 15 days on the go: from €2,250 ($2. 566.91).
  • 20 days on the go: from €3,000 ($3,438.69).

It is worth mentioning that prices may vary according to your choice of hotel, food and transportation. Therefore, it is necessary to make a sum of all your expenses in advance and carry extra money in case you need more or lack a certain amount.

IMPORTANT TIPS FOR YOUR MOTORBIKE TOUR IN EUROPE

Do you intend to travel by motorbike, however you don’t have much experience in this matter? Of course tips are important, even more when we intend to travel to another place that presents culture, gastronomy and customs totally different. Because of this, it is necessary that you have in mind some information that can instruct and help you in this journey. Check below:

EASTERN EUROPE COUNTRIES 2023: PRICE AND HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT?

  • Bring your necessary documents and don’t forget your travel insurance.
  • Be careful when planning your route as Europe has many expensive tolls . If you want to check prices, visit: https://www.tollsmart.com/european-toll-calculator/
  • Speeding in Europe can be very risky as there are countries that impose expensive fines.
  • The best season to visit depends on which country is included in your route.
  • Your luggage must not hinder your riding performance.
  • Keep an eye on the weather and be prepared in case of rain and storms.
  • Have a GPS to guide you, if using the phone as a GPS, have a local SIM card or map at hand.
  • Remember to stay out of the left-hand lane, only do this to overtake another car.
  • There are many bizarre regulations and rules in Europe, so keep in mind which ones are from the country you are visiting, this way you will prevent later fines.
  • Don’t forget to explore the places you are passing through, this way you can find new landscapes, cafes and much cheaper accommodation
  • Be wary of the pavement in Europe , as there are places where the old roads are littered with bricks and many other building materials.
  • If you want to see more information on tips, take a look at https://motorbikewriter.com/tips-motorcycle-riding-europe/

SOME MOTORBIKE TOURS IN EUROPE

Europe offers many roads , from chilling bends and even incredible Roman architecture to make you sigh for the built beauty. Soon, it is normal to feel lost to choose the first route or plan it, so here are some of the most popular motorbike routes through Europe that might catch your eye! Remember to opt for the route that suits you and that you like the most.

  • The Wild Atlantic Way (Ireland): Did you know that several sets from this location were used to shoot the Star Wars movie? If you’re looking for an incredible drive, complete with small towns and cliffs rising out of the sea, this is a perfect option for you; with an Irish coastal road of around 1,500 miles
  • Iceland Ring Road (Iceland): It is possible to cross this route in a few days, being a quiet and fast trip. Iceland has volcanic activities that make the country very beautiful, plus there is a course that offers tourists ways to enjoy the country’s main attractions
  • Transfagarasan Highway (Romania): Being an interconnected road through the mountains of the Southern Carpathians, and can climb to over 6,500 feet in altitude, Transfagarasan Highway is truly an extraordinary place, offering incredible guesthouses and a delicious food culture.
  • Furka Pass (Switzerland): This is a stretch of road that goes into some of Switzerland’s most powerful mountains and glaciers, making it a great option for those who crave a chilling and other adrenaline-pumping adventure; being full of sharp bends, narrow straits and having almost no protection.
  • Stelvio pass (Italy): Considered the highest paved mountain pass in the Eastern Alps, it offers winding curves and great views, with 2,758m and a total of 48 hairpins on the north side.
  • Col de Turini (France): The Col de Turini is perfect for you to test your skill, with dense forests and zigzagging roads, boasting breathtaking sea views.
  • Amalfi Drive (Italy): On one side of the roads are towering cliffs and on the other, the crystal clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, allowing you to venture out and get lost on the 50-mile stretch of sculpted Roman road.

If you wish to visit other motorbike travel routes, visit Other routes .

RIDE YOUR BIKE ACROSS EUROPE!

If you intend to travel Europe by motorbike , surely this article must have helped you a lot! After all, a tour through Europe by motorbike can be very economical, as well as providing you with unique experiences and unimaginable landscapes. Now, book your gear, buy your ticket, rent your motorbike and get ready for the different roads that await you. Don’t forget to have fun and make the most of this trip!

And since we are talking about Europe , it is of utmost importance that you keep in mind which are the most expensive and cheapest countries to visit, so check it out: List of countries in Europe, from expensive to cheapest.

Not only that, don’t forget to take a look at other articles about Europe that can really educate and help you!

Railway in Europe 2023: The complete guide

Italy countryside: Complete and best experiences for 2023

What to do in Portugal in one week 2023?

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Planning a Motorcycle Trip in Europe: Everything You Need to Know

The good news is with a little bit of savings and a lot of planning, your dream of a motorcycle trip in Europe can be a reality! Europe has a long history of motorcycle culture, and it’s got some amazing sights to offer. What does it take to pull off an epic journey like this, and what challenges should an aspiring road tripper be ready to face? We cover everything from planning to licensing and regulations to even the advantages of traveling and riding alone or with a group. 

Planning Your Trip

Start with brainstorming on what you’d like to achieve on your European motorcycle trip. Ask yourself questions like:

-What attractions do I want to see?

-What events do I want to participate in?

-What countries and regions do I want to visit?

-How long do I want and can afford to travel for?

-How much time will I have during my trip? 

Take some time to mull over your answers to these questions. When you’re ready to pull the trigger, book your dates and ask for time away from work as soon as you’re sure you can go. Not only will you save on airfare, you’ll also have a strong incentive to go through with the trip. 

Solo vs. Group

Another important choice to make when planning your trip is whether you’re going to ride solo or in a group. Advantages of going it alone include:

-You’ll never have to compromise on which countries to visit or attractions to see. 

-There’s no worrying about group coordination and whether everyone is keeping up. 

-Booking lodging will often be easier when rolling solo. 

-You won’t come home with strained relationships if you don’t get along during the trip.

That said, there are also advantages to a group ride, including: 

-You’ll have someone to help if you get into trouble. 

-You’ll have companions to share the fun experiences with and help ward off loneliness. 

-You may be able to get cheaper group rates on tours and lodging. 

For those doing group rides, staying in touch with the group during the ride is essential. You’ll be exploring unfamiliar roads all day, many of which will be narrower and have lower visibility distances than the roads in the U.S. So keeping in contact effortlessly is important. 

The Cardo PACKTALK BOLD and Cardo PACKTALK SLIM give you the power of a dynamic motorcycle mesh network that works at distances of up to a mile and lets riders seamlessly drop in and out at any time. With their hands-free voice command operation, group riders can instantly access group intercom channels, phone calls and their favorite media. A pair of Bluetooth helmet speakers , like the Cardo JBL 45mm Audio Set , will upgrade the audio quality on the soundtrack to your European adventures. 

Getting a Bike

Although possible with the right resources, having your own bike shipped to Europe and back can be expensive and raises the potential problem of non-compliant emissions standards. Many riders, who tour Europe by motorcycle, instead rent their bikes from one of the many companies which offer motorcycles to tourists. Again, renting as far as possible in advance will help you score better prices, and you’ll also probably have a better selection of bikes. Pro tip: if you rent with Hertz Ride , you can even rent a Cardo Systems communicator with your bike! (Only in select locations). 

The most popular bikes for touring European roads are adventure bikes, but you can also find other types, like naked bikes, cruisers or touring bikes. Adventure bikes are a particularly great choice because they can traverse rougher backwoods that a normal motorcycle would have trouble with, opening up interesting new routes and attractions. Bigger, heavier bikes, like cruisers and touring bikes, are still present, but they’re not always well-suited for many of the smaller, older European roads. So be cautious of your decision as a larger bike might limit where you can go.

Licensing and Regulations

An international driving permit (IDP) is your best bet for a smooth ride in Europe. IDPs are internationally recognized by 174 countries, and it’s not difficult to get one. Just go to a AAA office, present your motorcycle license, fill out the application and pay a fee. It’s that easy and now you’re ready to ride! Just make sure your new international license is issued with a motorcycle endorsement. 

Fortunately for Americans, the UK and Ireland are the only European countries that drive on the left so you won’t have to worry about everything being flip-flopped. That said, European roads still require some getting used to. 

For one thing, roundabouts are everywhere in Europe, so get comfortable with navigating through them. They’re often much larger than American roundabouts, and some, like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, have their own complicated rules. Lane changes are also more heavily regulated in many European countries, and you can be pulled over for riding continuously in the left lane or for passing on the right. 

Additionally, be aware of where you can and can’t ride. Some European cities ban all motor vehicles in their city centers while other areas may allow motorcycles but not cars. And even if that sleepy medieval village you’re staying in does allow motorcycles, reconsider revving loudly at the crack of dawn. Common courtesy will take you a long way even if you don’t know the letter of the law where you’re staying. 

Essential Gear for Your European Road Trip

Needless to say, you want to pack light. A good basic kit will include:

-Riding gear, such as a helmet, riding jacket and riding boots

-Comfortable casual clothing, including a good pair of walking shoes

-Multiple layers of waterproof gear with a separate waterproof bag for your clothes

-Your passport and international driver’s license in a separate waterproof container with backup photocopies stored somewhere else

-Lightweight insulated garments depending on the time of year (although summers can still be chilly in countries like Switzerland)

-Survival essentials such as a first-aid kit and pocket knife

-Roadside flat repair kit

-Water bottle and snacks 

The key is to have a kit that’s compact enough to fit in your panniers and saddlebags. The lighter you travel, the less you’ll have to worry about storing and protecting your luggage and the better your bike will handle. 

You can save a lot of money by staying in hostels rather than hotels as they’re much cheaper. Plus, hostels can offer a great opportunity to make new friends–they come in all shapes and sizes, including party hostels for those who want to live it up and quieter ones for those more interested in getting a good night sleep. 

Motorcycle camping is another great option. It can be tons of fun if you’ve got a small tent or hammock; plus, it’s nice to save some money and get some fresh night air at the same time. But choose a campsite ahead of time. Don’t just throw up a tent on the side of the road. You also want to have a backup plan in case the weather isn’t cooperative. 

Popular Routes

The roads of Europe can take you thousands of different ways depending on where you want to go. However, there are some popular European motorcycle tour routes that offer views, food, history and pretty much anything else a rider could want: 

– The Wild Atlantic Way (Ireland): Stretching all the way from Ulster in the North to Cork in the South, this 1,500-mile Irish coast road runs nearly the entire length of Ireland and provides an incredible ride full of charming small towns and dramatic cliffs rising from the sea. You’ll also spot several locations used for filming recent Star Wars films.

– Furka Pass (Switzerland): Ready for something a little more hair-raising? Furka Pass is a sliver of a road that passes through some of Switzerland’s mightiest mountains and glaciers. It’s narrow, packed with hairpin turns and has little to nothing in the way of guardrails—in other words, it might be just right. Bring a warm jacket! 

– Iceland Ring Road (Iceland): Iceland’s volcanic activity makes it a heartbreakingly gorgeous country, and what’s more, you can traverse the whole thing in a few days. The Icelandic Ring Road allows you to do just that, with a course that allows tourists to easily take in many of Iceland’s major attractions. For those willing to go a little off the beaten path, a huge variety of world-class hiking trails are just an hour or two away from the ring road. 

– Cabo de Gata to Granada (Spain): Spain features a head-spinning variety of scenery, and this ride in the Andalusia region will show you some of its best. This route starts in the arid volcanic cliffs of the Cabo de Gata National Park and winds its way up to the city of Granada where you’ll find not only the legendary Alhambra Palace but also the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains. 

– Transfagarasan Highway (Romania): Eastern Europe doesn’t get enough credit for its incredible scenery, but one trip down the Transfagarasan Highway (featured on the BBC’s Top Gear ) will make you see the light. This twisty highway winds its way through the Southern Carpathian Mountains, climbing up to over 6,500 feet in elevation, and the journey is packed with amazing lodges and guest houses where you’ll find delicious local cooking. 

Verdon Gorge (France): One of Europe’s most popular spots for motorcycle touring, the Verdon Gorge is France’s answer to the Grand Canyon. And the roads that surround it are no joke, with steep, twisty turns that will give even seasoned riders a challenge. Head up early in the morning to beat the crowds that flock to it, especially during the summer. 

Some of these routes are long enough for a tour of their own while others are relatively short and can be strung together into a longer tour. They also offer a wealth of opportunities for independent exploration, making them awesome routes whether you’re using a guide or not. 

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few key things to remember that will help save you time and money as well as keep you and your friends safe:

-Explore local street food options for a tasty and authentic meal that will also save you some coin. 

-If you use your phone for navigation, make sure that you bring a handlebar clip for it and get a European SIM card to power your phone. 

-Build some flexibility into your itinerary and give yourself time to roam. Part of what’s awesome about exploring Europe is finding the hidden gems, like out-of-the-way cafés and small towns with unique histories. 

-Remember that Europe has lower blood alcohol content limits for intoxicated driving. In many European countries, it’s just 0.05 which you might hit from having a single strong drink. Since even one drink impairs your ability to ride safely , the best bet is to simply avoid mixing motorcycles and booze at all. 

-Take the time to learn a little bit about the history and culture of each place that you visit. Not only will it give you a better appreciation of your environment, it can help you avoid embarrassment and understand local customs better.  

-We can’t stress enough how important it is to be aware of pavement conditions at all times. Europe is full of ancient roads made out of brick, cobblestone and many other old-school building materials which are likely to be extremely bumpy and require special care to avoid a wipeout (if you ride them at all). 

Europe from the back of a motorbike is an experience unlike any other. So, if you’re going to do it, you owe it to yourself and your companions to do it right. Pack smart, practice your riding skills and make plans—but leave a little room for the magic of the road to happen. 

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Unforgettable european motorcycle trip options.

Whether you call them vacations or holidays, motorcycles or motorbikes, RIDE Adventures would love to see you cruising on two wheels as you explore the breathtaking Alps or the spectacular Balkans. Motorcycling in Europe creates lasting memories and full cameras--we know, we've been there.

From the incredible historical opportunity that is exploring Europe, to the outstanding cuisines, scenery, and riding, if you're on this page, you probably know: There's no better way to explore than by motorcycle. Make it easy on yourself by having the rental bike you want waiting for you along with the host of services shown as "Included" in each of the trip packages below (click the Inclusions tab once looking at a tour.) Our Guides, Support Vehicle, hotel packages and route plans all combine for a lifetime experience that you will never, ever forget.

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10 best bikes for European touring holidays

  • by Frazer Ansell
  • March 22, 2021

Two people on the Honda Goldwing 1800

European touring holidays can be some of the most fun you can have on a motorcycle. You get to take in some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet, and drive on some fabulous roads at your own pace. Of course, having the right bike for long trips is vital, and you’re going to need something that combines power with comfort. The team at Bikesure has put together a list of the best of the new bikes being released this year, which are perfect if you’re planning a grand tour.

The rules for travelling in Europe in 2021

Before we start on the good stuff, though, there are some new rules for British tourists travelling to Europe in 2021. Please note that advice is changing all the time, so it might be a good idea to check the rules about driving abroad on the official government website before travelling. Firstly, you can no longer use the EU customs lanes when moving between countries, which could cause delays.

When entering a country, you may need to show a return or onward ticket, and prove that you have enough money for your stay. You won’t need a visa if you’re staying less than 90 days, but it’s probably a good idea to check on the individual requirements of the countries included in your trip. You are not allowed to take milk or meat, or any products containing them, into any EU country.

Your vehicle will need a green card and a GB sticker, and you will need the correct international driving permit for the country you’re visiting. You should also carry around your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which is still valid until it expires. If your card has already expired, you can apply for a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) .

It might also be a good idea to fill in a European Accident Statement Form and keep this on your person. If you get into an accident on your trip, you’ll be asked to fill in one of these forms. However, most forms will be in the local language of the place you’re visiting. As all forms have a standard design, keeping a statement form in English will help you know how to fill in the form if you’re given one in a different language. Car Travel Docs offers a downloadable version you can print out if necessary.

Finally, your passport must have more than six months of validity remaining and must be less than ten years old (even if it does have over six months remaining).

1. Triumph Tiger 1200

Triumph Tiger 200XR on white background

Triumph’s Tiger is an excellent bike for touring, with a powerful engine and the capacity to carry enough luggage for a trip. It’s available in a range of variations including an alpine and desert edition, as well as some that are as comfortable off-road as they are on. In 2021, Triumph is releasing updated versions of the XR and XC models, which feature different levels of trim and also come in low profile versions that are ideal for shorter riders.

2: Yamaha Tracer 9

Yamaha Tracer 9 on a white background

The Tracer 9 updates Yamaha’s flagship Tracer sports tourer with advanced new components to create an even more powerful ride. Some of the new features include electronic suspension, a new more powerful engine and lighter wheels, which help to make it faster and more powerful overall. It comes with two hard cases fitted as standard, so it’s holiday-ready the second you buy it.

3. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT

KTM Super Duke 1290 GT on a white background

With a more powerful, Euro 5 compliant engine and a redesigned chassis heading up a range of incremental advancements, the latest version of KTM’s flagship sports tourer is ideally suited to tear up any road. Alongside the new engine, for 2021 KTM have upgraded the electronics and generally made it a more rider-friendly bike without sacrificing any of the raw ability users have come to expect from the manufacturer.

4. Honda Goldwing 1800

The Honda Goldwing 1800 on the road

The Honda Goldwing is in many ways the archetypal touring motorcycle. It’s designed to maximise comfort for long rides. The changes for the 2021 version include an upgraded audio system, a 61-litre capacity top box and a redesigned seat that makes it even more comfortable for both the driver and the pillion passenger. If you want a relaxing holiday, then the Goldwing is basically an armchair on wheels – albeit one that’s powerful enough to keep up with the sportier tourers.

5. Indian Roadmaster

Indian Roadmaster on a white background

The Roadmaster is almost the Goldwing’s equal in terms of comfort, but with a more classic chopper look. Despite its retro styling, it’s packed with the latest modern equipment, with electronic fuel injection, a touchscreen control panel with full Apple integration, a powerful audio system, and heated grips and seats, as well as saddlebags and a rear trunk. Indian are releasing a Limited version for 2021, which features a newly designed fairing to showcase the powerful engine and new saddlebags.

6. BMW R1250GS

7. Suzuki V-Strom 1050

Suzuki V Strom 1050 on white background

The 2021 V-Strom adds aluminium panniers and a top box that gives a generous 112 litres of storage as standard. A powerful v-twin engine and three drive modes mean it can eat up the miles with ease, whether on the motorway or smaller, bendier roads.

8. Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro Touring

Multistrada 1260 Enduro on the road

Ducati’s “ maxi enduro ” features a new auto-levelling suspension system, clutchless gear shifts, 19-inch wheels and cruise control among its additions, as well as a powerful new 1262cc spring valve engine. This helps increase its service intervals from 15k up to 36k miles travelled, which makes it ideal for the longest tours. It’s equally at home off as well as on-road, making it a great choice for anyone planning on venturing off the beaten track.

9. Kawasaki Versys, 1000S

Kawasaki Versys 1000S on a white background

Kawasaki has given their popular Versys tourer some hefty upgrades for 2021. A new semi-active suspension system uses advanced sensors to constantly adjust the vertical position of the bike, giving an extra smooth ride, while a larger dashboard screen gives you all the information you could possibly need at a glance. A larger windshield and handguards make for a more comfortable ride, and it’s also fitted with innovative self-healing paint that protects against lighter scuffs and scratches.

10. Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide

Person riding the Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide

Harley-Davidson has been busy, preparing new versions of 27 of their models for 2021. The CVO Road Glide features the most powerful V-Twin engine yet offered by the big H-D, backed up by a powerful suite of assistive driving technology that helps you maintain control no matter how tough the driving gets. With the unmistakably bold Harley styling and a powerful new audio system, it’s a pricey bike for sure but undeniably luxurious. Large saddlebags as standard give you plenty of luggage room, and you’ll definitely be turning heads on your holiday riding this.

Cover for every bike on a European road trip

Whatever bike you plan to use on your grand European road trip, make sure you take bespoke Bikesure motorcycle insurance with you. Call us on 0330 123 1028 for a quicker, better and cheaper deal. Our policies come with green card insurance for your European touring holiday.

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Motorcycling Itineraries – the Top Ranking

Every motorcycling or tourism publication has tried to put  together a list of the best routes in the world. they have drawn on  experience from those who work in the business or people who have quite  simply put in the hard (yet pleasurable) hours on the road, as well as  using the feedback from their readership., we’ve analyzed some  of these top ten lists that have been published on the web to find out  which routes are the most uniformly popular. the world is full of tracks  that seem made for 2 wheels, and unfortunately, one lifetime is not  enough to try them all…. we’d love to hear your comments and suggestions., north and central america.

best motorcycle to tour europe

DUFFY LAKE ROUTE - CANADA

A 575km ring road in the Vancouver area that starts on Highway 99  west of the Canadian city and passes through some really spectacular  scenery. The first part is along the fjord in Howe Sound with mountain  and sea views, then on to the desert area in Pemberton, after that  you’ll be greeted by lush scenery that will accompany you to Lilloet and  Fraser Canyon. A real pleasure to ride on,… this route gives you a  taste of what this part of the American continent has to offer.

CRESTON, BC TO KOOTENAY BAY – CANADA

Just a small stretch of road when you consider how vast this country  is. 72 short, yet intense kilometres. We’re in the south of British  Columbia, along the eastern coast of Lake Kootenay. It’s interesting to  note that part of this itinerary (9km) requires crossing Lake Belfour on  a ferry (free).

THE HANA HIGHWAY, HAWAII

Ocean on one side, mountains on the other. 60 miles through Jurassic  Park with around 600 bends and 60 small one-way bridges. This is a real  paradise for motorcyclists in search of routes off the beaten track.

ROUTE 66. THE MOTHER ROAD

Exactly. The mother of all roads. Almost 4,000km, from Chicago to Los  Angeles, crossing through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico  and Arizona.

BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY, VIRGINIA

The local charm of the country passing through sites from the battles  during the Civil War, then it’s up towards the Great Smoky Mountains  winding through the bends of Blue Ridge Parkway.

NEEDLES HIGHWAY, BLACK HILLS, SOUTH DAKOTA

An amazing highway (it almost seems as if it was made for motorbikes)  that takes you directly to Sturgis Motorcycles Rally. Along the way  you’ll be accompanied by beautiful scenery, tunnels with granite walls,  buffalos grazing in the pastures, and you’ll spot numerous wild small  animals going about their day. Make sure to ride with prudence.

TAIL OF THE DRAGON AT DEALS GAP, NORTH CAROLINA/TENNESSEE, USA

11 miles with 318 bends. Whether it be considered heaven or hell, it  is noted as one of the most incredible American routes to ride on. Along  the way you’ll find motorcycle parts hanging from trees, an homage to  the various falls along the road. It’s also one of Hollywood’s favourite  stretches to film. The Tail of the Dragon is ideal for sport bikes.  Luckily, no trucks are allowed…..

BEARTOOTH PASS, WYOMING

An adventurous itinerary to say the least, with enough ups and downs  to rival the best roller-coasters. Incredible mountains, dense forests,  rivers, … snow and tundras. If you find yourself in the vicinity, add  this pass to your itinerary. You won’t be sorry.

PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY, CALIFORNIA

320 km (200 miles), from San Luis Obispo to San Francisco. For many  this is one of those stellar routes that should be on everyone’s  list. Beaches, forests of redwoods, cliffs of Big Sur, the capital of  surfing in Santa Cruz, Monterey… finishing up on the Golden Gate Bridge.

AMERICA’S WILD WEST

The wildest part of west America Here you get to drive through the  lands of the Navajo and Apache, and you can go off-road, adventuring  along the parallel trails. And what could be better than traversing the  1,864 miles of canyons, deserts and forests? Not to mention the border  cities or the great National Parks.

PALOMAR MOUNTAIN

One of the favourite roads of American bikers is found between San  Diego and Los Angeles. It takes you away from the coast in the direction  of the Cleveland National Forest. From here you can visit the  spectacular High Point in the Palomar Mountain range. It’s here that  you’ll find the famous observatory that from 1949 to 1992 enjoyed the  title of the biggest in the world. Keep an eye out for the rattlesnakes  though……

PEAK TO PEAK HIGHWAY: COLORADO

A diverse patch of nature in just 60 miles, with a road that offers  some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. You can find the  famous Rocky Mountain range here. Settle down for the night here, and  take in the night sky from the warmth of your sleeping bag.

GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD: MONTANA

Remote, and accessible only in summer, this epic stretch of narrow  and winding road which is 50 miles long is the holy grail for adventure  lovers. It goes through the Glacier National Park in Montana, and Logan  Pass at an altitude of 2,000 metres. Don’t forget your binoculars, and  to check the weather forecast before setting off.

COASTAL ROUTE ONE: MAINE

You may just get a whiff of seafood as you make your way along this  coast. It’s Route 1 from Brunswick to Machias in New England. All up  there are 167 miles that wind through small seaside towns, breathtaking  scenery off the beaten track and old light houses. It would be advisable  to keep two fingers on the brake: you just might find yourself eye to  eye with a moose around the next bend.

RIVER ROAD: TEXAS

A loop for hardcore motorcyclists of 17 miles through the Valley of  the Gods. The high point of the road that follows the Rio Grande, is a  115-mile long trail. Best to avoid it in the summer. Too much dust.

PIKES PEAK, COLORADO, US

A road that takes you up amongst the clouds. It’s also a known  hill-climbing spot for motorcyclists that has an annual competition with  a starting point of 2,800 metres, that goes up to 4,300 metres. The  maximum incline is 10.5%.

PRUDHOE BAY – ALASKA

Best left to experienced bikers. This is Alaska, a place known for  it’s extreme, yet stunning landscape. You’re up against disconnected  dirt roads, rain, snow ….. it’s better faced in a group, perhaps even  with a specialised tour. The route is worth the hard work.

THE GREAT RIVER ROAD (HWY 61)

2,552 miles that start in Itasca State Park in Minnesota and end up  in Jackson in Louisiana. The route (GRR 61) was created in 1938 and is  still considered one of the most beautiful stretches of road for  motorcyclists in that it goes through the 10 states that border the  Mississippi, departing from its source in Louisiana Cajun Country,  passing by marshland, dense woods and rocky areas without ever getting  close to built up industrial zones.

A number of day-long routes leaving from the capital San Josè, and  taking you through rainforests, across rivers, along beaches, even  besides a volcano….

COZUMEL ISLAND LOOP MEXICO

Short, yet intense. 41 miles in total, leaving from San Miguel and  returning to the second biggest island of Mexico. Beaches, a Mayan  village, a black coral factory, tequilla and much more….

CHASING CHE, CUBA

2,000 km, from L’Avana to Baracoa, on an island that was a sort of  forbidden fruit for decades. A true beauty, that can finally be crossed  also by American citizens.

South America

best motorcycle to tour europe

THE CARRETERA AUSTRAL – CILE

550 miles leaving from Chaiten and going south until Villa O’Higgins.  On this stretch you will rarely see any asphalt. This road is best  tackled only by experienced off-road motorcyclists. You’ll be rewarded  by views of pristine lakes, glacial waterfalls, and breathtaking  scenery.

 LOS CARACOLES PASS, CHILE AND ARGENTINA

Chile and Argentina share at least 5,000 miles of a border. Los  Caracoles is the most important pass between the two countries and  connects Santiago to the region of Mendoza.

SERRA DO RIO DO RASTRO, SANTA CATARINA, BRAZIL

The most famous motorcycling track in Brazil passes through this  mountain range which is located in the south, in the state of Santa  Caterina.

RUTA 40. THE END OF THE WORLD

One of the longest roads in the world. We’re talking about a massive  5,301km from Cabo Vírgenes (Santa Cruz) to Quiaca (Jujuy) on the borer  of Bolivia. Enchanting landscapes which take you through a record number  of 20 National Parks! Utterly amazing!

CHE GUEVARA TOUR

This very popular long South American route was made famous by Che who wrote about his extraordinary experiences in his diary.

best motorcycle to tour europe

Regno Unito E Irlanda

best motorcycle to tour europe

The Transfagarasan Highway – Sibiu to Curtea de Arges, Transylvania, Romania Built in 1970 by direction Nicolae Ceaucescu ……to dominate nature.  This road crosses the highest mountains of Romania for a good 90km. It  snakes around with fast bends, and leaves you speechless with its  beauty. Please note that it is closed in Winter. This road connects the  historical regions of Transylvania and Wallachia.

Switzerland

Furka Pass, between Gletsch and Andermatt, Switzerland Turkish motorcyclists say it reminds them of the Eastern Anatolia. Take a break to admire the glaciers.

Deutschland

Nurburgring, Germany A legendary route that is 43 miles south of Cologne and 75 miles  north-west of Frankfurt. It naturally includes the automobile circuit  built in 1984 and 12.8 miles long (one of the most demanding in the  world), but what will really fascinate you will be the hamlet and  medieval castle of Nürburg. Eastern German Alpine Road 150 km. Leaving from Bayrischzell, in Oberaudorf you set off north  towards Brannenburg and then east towards Samerberg and Bernau, then  south once again until you reach Reit and then north again following the  305 until Berchtesgaden, that gives its name to the beautiful national  park. You’ll drive through the mountains of Chiemgau, through the green  forests and pastures. A corner of Germany that is not to be missed.

best motorcycle to tour europe

Silver Coast Route – Portugal An itinerary of 260km that starts in Lisbon and ends up on the shores  of the Atlantic Ocean near Aveiro. You’ll find many interesting little  towns, on roads that are perfect for motorbikes, such as Sintra,  Ericeira, Figueira da Foz, to name a few. A large quantity of mountains,  forests, beautiful, wild beaches, that few other countries could offer,  with compulsory side trips such as “Cabo da Roca”, “Bidos e Nazaré,  where Hawaain surfer Garret McNamara surfed a Guiness World Record wave  of 24m.

South Africa

best motorcycle to tour europe

Morocco North Africa is perfect for those motorcyclists who are after a  winter escape. There’s something for everyone – all types of bikes, and  ability levels. The more adventurous can head south and face the mule  tracks and sand dunes. And then there is the High Atlas,on the the  Atlantic Coast. Ceuta to Marrakesh loop, Morocco On the ferry to Ceuta and then there’s a long stretch of 2,570km that  explores the exotic kingdom and the desert culture. You’ll cross the  mountains from Rif to Fes and then the Atlas range to end up in the  Sahara in Erfound. The Todgha Gorge, the palms of Ouarzazate, and  Marrakech are not to be missed. You head back along the Atlantic coast  going through Agadir and Casablanca.

best motorcycle to tour europe

Trabzon to Savsat, Eastern Turkey 300 km that feel as if you’re passing through different continents.  From Trabzon you’ll head towards Hopa that is situated on the border  with Georgia. Here the women are colourfully clothed with red and brown  striped shawls, and you’ll travel through the lush tea plantations. Then  it’s off to the heat in the Eastern Anatolia Region. You’ll travel  along parallel to the border until you find the town of Artvin, where  you will then find yourself in ‘Switzerland’. Well, at the very least,  you’ll feel as if you were, what with the crisp, fresh air and your  green surroundings. This is Savsat.

best motorcycle to tour europe

THE ROAD OF BONES, MAGADAN TO YAKUTSK, RUSSIA

Another large endeavour. The road of bones (as legend would have it  this road was paved with a mixture of earth, gravel and bones ot the  prisoners who died while building it) is 2,320km long and starts in  Madagan on the sea of Okhotsk and Yakutsk on the Eastern shore of Lena.

best motorcycle to tour europe

 MAE HONG SON LOOP

In south-east Asia, in Thailand to be exact, there is this wild loop  that is worth experiencing on two wheels. It goes for 600km through the  mountainous country side of the country with over a thousand hairpin  bends. Enough to make your head spin. Luckily, with a smorgasboard of  waterfalls, caves and villages to visit, there will be plenty of breaks.  It’s best to travel clockwise, as it’s a bit more pleasant. Average  travel time is 4 days. Departure from Chiang Mai.

NORTH VIETNAM

In the middle of the remote Northern province. Departing from Hanoi,  soon the roads become single lanes and full of pot holes, and then  subsequently become small dirt road tracks. What makes the route so  special? Well, because it takes you through lush valleys, up and down  tea and coffee plantations. It’s a real pleasure to ride, and you’ll be  well and truly away from the hustle and bustle we all know too well.

MONTAIN AND SEA VIETNAM

A 120km circuit that snakes it way from  Nang City to Hue City, in the   centre of the country. You’ll pass by the  coast, small villages, rice   fields, a stunning national park and  passes over the mountains.

  • Chirihama Nagisa Driveway
  • Aso Panorama Line
  • Kouya Ryuujin Skyline
  • (tie) Shimanami-kaido
  • Shiretoko Oudan Road
  • Izu Skyline
  • Shiga Kusatsu Road
  • Yamanami Highway
  • Bandai Azuma Skyline

The Arab Emirates

The jebel hafeet mountain road, abu dhabi .

This route is just over 11km and takes you up to 1,200m high with an  incline of 8%. This stunning mountain road is about 60 minutes outside  of Dubai. The Hafeet Mountain Road reaches the border with Oman and  boasts 60 bends and a smooth surface that has recently been paved. A  real joy to ride on!

best motorcycle to tour europe

THE ABOVE RANKINGS WERE DRAWN FROM MANY DIFFERENT SITES AND WE RECCOMEND VISITING THEM TO GAIN FURTHER INFORMATION REGARDING THE MENTIONED ROUTES. 

https://www.theguardian.com/international   https://www.lonelyplanet.com/   www.travelchannel.co.uk https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/   https://www.motorcycleroads.com/   https://www.motorcycleparadise.net/   https://www.businessinsider.com/   https://www.telegraph.co.uk/   https://edition.cnn.com/   https://www.redbull.com/it-it/www.discovery.com   https://www.redbull.com/it-it/   https://www.motorcycle.com/   https://www.tripit.com/  

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best motorcycle to tour europe

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best motorcycle to tour europe

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best motorcycle to tour europe

4 of the best motorcycle routes in Europe (that aren’t in the Alps)

best motorcycle to tour europe

Here at ABR, we love riding in the mountains. You can probably tell that by the number of photos of glorious passes and snow-capped peaks adorning the pages of our magazine and website.

And, being based in the UK, we’re lucky to be able to hop on a ferry to France and Spain and blast our way to the Alps or the Pyrenees in a day or two to experience the ecstasy of mountain riding.

best motorcycle to tour europe

The downside to this approach is missing out on so much along the way. Hundreds of miles of natural wonders and historic towns and villages are often bypassed in favour of mundane toll roads and soulless roadside services.

To rectify this, we decided to join forces with Brittany Ferries to list some of the best motorcycle routes in France, Spain and neighbouring Portugal that aren’t in the Alps or the Pyrenees.

These rides will give you time to explore the landscape, cuisine and culture so often missed by bikers with mountain fever, while also providing some brilliant roads to ride.

Normandy, France

From Flickr

Mont Saint Michel. Photo: Christine Y-K

A rich yet brutal history attracts thousands of people to Normandy each year, and in particular to the battlefields of the two world wars. If you haven’t sat and contemplated the heroism of the D-day landings from one of its beaches, or experienced the seemingly endless rows of headstones that represent the final resting place of the fallen, we’d recommend it.

It’s certainly a poignant experience but also an uplifting one as you get an understanding for the scale of human endeavour and sacrifice it took to liberate Europe. Linking these sites on a motorbike tour over a few days is the perfect way to explore this area’s rich history. You can read our top six unmissable D-Day sites to visit here .

But a visit to Normandy isn’t all about wars of the past. The north coast of France is a rugged and beautiful landscape featuring some cracking coastal roads. It is dotted with quaint towns and villages where you can enjoy fresh seafood, including oysters, scallops and mussels, the region is known for.

And a visit to Normandy wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Mont Saint Michel. This iconic monastery perched atop an island has been occupied for centuries and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Loire Valley, France

best motorcycle to tour europe

Saumur in the Loire Valley. Photo  Nikolai Karaneschev

If meandering through beautiful country roads without a care in the world tickles your fancy, then the Loire Valley could be the perfect motorcycle touring destination for you. During the morning and evening light, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re travelling through a watercolour painting as you follow the famous river for 70 or so miles through the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Nature Park

There are plenty of scenic country roads to explore in the nature park as you ride through forests, vineyards and criss-cross the River Loire. The picturesque tourist town of Saumur is a popular destination with both cyclists and bikers and a great place to base yourself for a few relaxing days of exploring this beautiful corner of the world.

If instead, you like to stay somewhere new each night, Brittany Ferries offers a four-night 185-mile tour starting in Biere near Leonardo da Vinci’s former home, following the Loire west and taking in some of the finest chateaus in the region.

Douro Valley, Portugal

best motorcycle to tour europe

Douro Valley. Photo:  Nicolas Vogt

Instead of turning left towards the Pyrenees when you roll off the ferry in Santander or Bilbao , take a right and head towards Portugal’s Douro Valley. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to around 2,000 years of wine-making history, including the production of its world-famous port wine. And handily for us, it’s a biker’s paradise with superb roads and a network of trails to explore.

One road in particular, the N222, is a must-ride with the stretch between Peso de Regua and Pinhao named the best road in the world in 2015. This scenic highway winds its way alongside the River Douro, slicing through vineyards and providing spectacular views of the valley below.

A number of companies offer off-road tours of the Douro Valley area which is testament to the quality of trail riding to be had in this part of northern Portugal .

If you fancy a little more comfort and culture during your trip, make a stop in the city of Porto. Perched on the banks of the River Douro, Portugal’s second city is a picturesque yet vibrant destination and the perfect place for a couple of days off the bike.

Basque Country and Navarra, Spain

best motorcycle to tour europe

Exploring the Bardenes Reales Natural Park. Photo: Pierre Maelzer

By the time you’ve taken the ferry from the UK to Bilbao in northern Spain, you will have arrived in Basque Country. The area is noticeably different to the rest of Spain, with its own language, culture, traditions and food. Bilbao itself is certainly worth exploring, and no visit would be complete without a trip to the Guggenheim Museum, the architectural masterpiece created by Frank Gehry.

Heading west out of Bilbao you’ll find yourself on the Basque coast road, one of Europe’s most scenic coastal rides along rugged cliff tops with views of the rolling waves below. Around 90 miles exhilarating miles later you’ll arrive in San Sebastian, Spain’s culinary capital known as much for its natural setting amid sweeping beaches and lush green hills, as it is for its world class food and culture.

If the city isn’t for you, then head south west and cross into the Navarra region of northern Spain to reach the Bardenes Reales Natural Park. This desolate expanse of desert resembles the setting of a Hollywood cowboy movie with its imposing rock structures and arid landscape. Spend a few hours kicking up dust on the rocky trails as you explore this isolated part of the world. An early start is advised as the area can get stiflingly hot, particularly if you’re wearing full textiles.

Brittany Ferries offers a five-night tour taking in the best of the Basque Country and Navarra, including a visit to Pamplona where you’ll be able to see the Running of the Bulls if you visit in July.

Brittany Ferries

Even without the exhilarating mountain passes of the Alps and the Pyrenees, it is easy to find brilliant places to ride in Europe. The joy of the living in the UK is the ease of hopping on a ferry, experiencing a relaxing crossing, and then getting stuck into a motorcycle adventure.

Onboard a Brittany Ferries ship, you can choose to relax in restaurants, comfortable lounges, and stylish bars, or enjoy the cinema and live entertainment, before retiring to a well-appointed cabin. With the widest choice of routes from Portsmouth, Plymouth and Poole, Brittany Ferries makes it easy to travel to France and Spain and enjoy the open road. Choose from daytime, overnight or high-speed sailings to France, or a leisurely cruise to northern Spain.

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THE 14 BEST MOTORCYCLE TRIPS IN EUROPE

May 26, 2023 10 min read

When it comes to epic motorcycle journeys, it's hard to beat the stunning landscape of Europe. Rich scenery, tall mountain passes, and wide open roads make a Euro trip essential for any rider's bucket list.

The only question is where do you go? With so much great riding to choose from, narrowing things down can be a bit tough. We've put together a list of the best routes that Europe has to offer, so you have the freedom to choose your own adventure.

We'll run through Europe's top routes and everything you'll need to know for your journey. Whether riding is a small part of your trip or you're planning a full tour around the continent, Europe is truly a riding heaven for motorcyclists.

TOP 14 MOTORCYCLE ROUTES IN EUROPE

Trans european trail.

The Trans European trail is the mother of all trails. It spans a whopping 80,000km and covers over 30 countries! Most of the way is unpaved, so expect rough terrain and remote locations if you choose to take on this massive trail. This is one for the adventure riders.

Riding the entire trail in one shot would take weeks, so you might opt to only ride part of it. If you really want to immerse yourself in the trail riding experience, camping along the way is an option. But if you need some comfort, hostels, and B&Bs are available in some areas.

The Atlantic Road, Norway

The Atlantic Road, Norway

This picturesque road on the Northwest coast of Norway is the perfect way to experience the country's coastal scenery. Hugging the Atlantic Ocean, it's a stunning combination of coastal views and dramatic cliffs.

The road stretches for about eight kilometres, so it's a short trip that can easily be knocked out in the morning or afternoon. A highlight is the famous Storseisundet Bridge or 'Bridge to Nowhere', which is built with a curved design to give the illusion that it's rising out of the water.

The North Coast 500, Scotland

This gorgeous route will take you across the Scottish Highlands and show off all the country has to offer. Often referred to as Scotland's answer to Route 66, this journey gives you the chance to explore historic castles, whiskey distilleries, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Spanning 500 miles (hence the name), expect to see plenty of amazing panoramic views while taking on the twists and turns of this epic journey. The North Coast 500 takes about 5-7 days to complete, depending on how much you take your time, but there are plenty of charming towns and villages to stop and spend the night along the way.

The Swiss Alps, Switzerland

It's a classic for a reason. The Swiss Alps is a famous trip that will take you through scenic mountain passes, amazing landscapes, and some windy roads. Aside from the incredible views, the roads are both well-maintained and marked for a smooth experience.

There are plenty of different routes to choose from. It can take up to 7 days if you want to experience everything, or you might just take on part of the trip. Either way, expect some cold temperatures at high altitudes and plan accordingly, even in the summer months.

The Ring Road, Iceland

If you want to experience everything Iceland has to offer, this is the way to do it. This trip will take you on a circular route around the entire country, so you can experience all the scenery and natural wonders of Iceland all at once.

This unique road will take you through otherworldly volcanic landscapes and even near some still-active volcanoes. In saying that, the weather and riding conditions can make this route challenging so it's best to plan ahead.

Measuring at around 1,300km, this journey can be done in six days of hard riding or stretched out to a more relaxed 10-12 day trip. It connects through major towns and cities, so you can stop and spend the night wherever you choose.

The Transalpina, Romania

The Transalpina, Romania

Known as the "King's Road" and the "Road of Clouds", this trip is not for the faint of heart. Taking you through the Carpathian Mountains, this route has some hairpin bends, steep inclines/declines and narrow roads.

While the Transalpina packs plenty of action and rough terrain, don't forget about the stunning landscapes. It's a picturesque ride though forests, alpine meadows and beautiful vistas.

The Transalpina road doesn't offer much in the way of services, especially in remote areas, so plan ahead with plenty of food, water, and fuel. So if you're looking for an exciting challenge, this might be your ideal trip.

The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

A scenic ride that covers the western coast of Ireland, this route is famous for its incredible views, dramatic cliffs, and winding roads. As the name suggests, this is a thrilling but challenging ride that will take you through some twisty roads for an exhilarating experience.

The Wild Atlantic Way stretches for about 2,500km and covers the entire west coast of Ireland. There are plenty of historic sites and charming coastal towns to spend the night, so you can immerse yourself in the culture of Ireland along the way.

The Amalfi Coast Road, Italy

The Amalfi Coast Road is a coastal ride that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Stretching along the southern coastline of the Sorrentine Peninsula in the Campania region, it's a great way to experience the charming scenery of Italy.

A 50km ride with no shortage of cafes, restaurants, and shops along the way, you can easily stretch this ride out to an entire day of sightseeing. It's recommended to book early, especially in peak tourist season if you plan to spend the night.

The Picos de Europa, Northern Spain

The Picos de Europa is a mountain range in the North of Spain that's an exciting destination for riders. This mountain range is a perfect combination of fantastic scenery with hair-raising bends, so you've got the best of both worlds.

The ride can take between three to five days, depending on how much you want to see. There's a variety of accommodations and local cuisine along the way, so you can take a load off after a day of exhilarating riding.

Alghero to Bosa Route, Sardinia, Italy

The Alghero to Bosa route is a brilliant ride that lets bikers take in the crystal-clear waters of coastal Italy. Stretching for about 45km, you can easily make a day out of this route by hitting up the beaches and taking in some local seafood at the coastal towns along the way.

The Road to Nordkapp, Norway

The road to Nordkapp is an adventurous ride that will take you to some remote and scenic parts of Norway. It's about 2,000km, but you can start the journey anywhere you choose. Most people opt to begin from Norway's capital Oslo.

The road to Nordkapp has some stunning natural beauty. In summer you can experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun, which doesn't set north of the Arctic Circle so you can experience daylight at midnight. During winter, you might even catch a glimpse of the spectacular Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).

The Route des Grandes Alpes, France

The Route des Grandes Alpes, France

Spanning a massive 700km, this scenic route will take you from Lake Geneva all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. It crosses the French Alps and offers stunning mountain views and alpine towns along the way.

This is a well-known route for motorcyclists, and there are numerous accommodation options and services that cater to riders. The road is mostly well maintained, but expect the occasional tight turn and narrow road.

The Camino de Santiago, Spain

This famous pilgrimage route, also known as the Way of St James, attracts thousands of walkers and cyclists each year but can still be taken on with a motorcycle. Just keep in mind that the infrastructure is built more for pedestrians than motorists, so you'll be in for some rough riding at times.

A cultural and spiritual experience, the Camino de Santiago is a chance to explore historic towns and churches while taking in incredible landscapes along the way. Just research ahead, because some sections may have restrictions on motorised vehicles.

The Deutsche Alpenstrasse, Germany

Also known as the German Alpine Road, this amazing route stretches across southern Germany and offers stunning landscapes with picturesque mountain views. It's popular among motorcyclists for its winding roads, charming towns, and alpine scenery.

At 450km, this route will take you through the Bavarian Alps and some thrilling mountain passes with winding roads. Try to take in some of the sites, like the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, or the Zugspitze which is Germany's highest peak.

Accommodation can range from hotels to campsites or even mountain huts, but make sure to book ahead during the busy season.

Best Motorcycle Tours in Europe

Best Motorcycle Tours in Europe

There are two ways you can go about a European motorcycle tour. The first is a  guided tour , which means you pay a company to provide you with a rental bike and take care of your entire itinerary - accommodation, routes, and even meal stops.

The second is a  self-guided motorcycle tour . In this case, you're the boss. You decide where to go, what to bring, and how to go about it.

How you choose your motorcycle touring style comes down to personal preference. With that being said, let's run through some of the best options for both guided and self-guided motorcycle tours.

Guided Motorcycle Tours in the EU

If you choose to go through a touring company then try to pick one that's reliable. Some of the ones we recommend for Europe are  Moto Tours Europe ,  Overland Motorcycle Tours,  and  Magellan Motorcycle Tours .

These firms offer cross-border and multi-country tours, so you've got plenty of flexibility. Of course, you might have a specific destination in mind that's not covered by the above companies. In these cases, some extra research might be required.

Self-Guided Motorcycle Tours in the EU

If you choose to be your own master there's a ton of exciting routes to choose from. Here are just a few examples of some great self-guided tours to take on:

  • The Alps : Touring the Alps is an amazing riding experience that will take you through some incredible alpine landscapes. You can plan your own route through any of the Swiss, French, Italian, or Austrian Alps for a unique and personal experience
  • The Scottish Highlands : Rugged landscapes and rich history make Scotland a very special place to ride through. The North Coast 500 is an iconic road trip that stretches for 500 miles and will take you across the entire Northern coast of the country.
  • The Pyrenees : The Pyrenees mountain range, which borders France and Spain, offers winding roads and picturesque valleys that make for some pretty fantastic riding. Some notable routes are the Col du Tourmalet, Col d'Aspin, and the N260 through the Spanish Pyrenees.

What Gear Do You Need for Touring Europe on a Motorbike?

Motorcycle Jacket : A lightweight, comfortable, and breathable riding jacket is essential for taking on Europe. Not only will it keep you protected, but waterproof options could be handy in the right environment. Alternatively, put a waterproof throw over on top of a jacket if it doesn't have waterproofing.

READ MORE:  HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MOTORCYCLE JACKET

Gloves : A pair of  proper motorcycle gloves  won't just improve your grip and safety, but keep your fingers warm in cold environments.

Motorcycle Pants : Bring along some comfortable riding pants if you're planning a big riding trip. A good set of riding jeans can double as casual clothes to save on space.

READ MORE:  SHOULD I WEAR MOTORCYCLE PANTS?

Boots : A comfortable, worn-in pair of touring boots is a must. You'll be riding for a while so make sure your feet stay comfy.

Helmet : Wear a motorcycle helmet that's both comfortable and safe. Try to get one with an anti-fog visor and an internal sun visor as well.

Navigating Your Motorcycle Trip in Europe

Riding bikes around a foreign country can be a fun but chaotic experience. It's best to  start planning now  because there are just so many awesome routes to choose from. Be realistic in your planning and don't try to cram everything into one trip. Stop and smell the roses.

Bring along a   sat nav or try to hire a bike that includes one . However, having a paper map can be a handy backup if you're in a sticky situation with no reception. This is especially true if you plan on riding to any remote region.

Lastly, try booking accommodation as early as possible. Your trip might be partly improvised, so you might not know exactly where you'll be in a week's time but try to at least always have your next destination booked ahead.

Safety When Travelling Across Europe by Motorcycle

Europe is a diverse continent so familiarise yourself with the local traffic laws and regulations for each country you plan to visit. Keep in mind the cultural differences as well. Some countries will obey the traffic laws a lot closer than others.

Be self-aware while riding, because everything around you will be unfamiliar and you'll need to be on your toes. Stay focused and alert, taking frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.

Lastly, consider your gear. Arm yourself from head to toe with proper  motorcycle gear  so you can ride safely and confidently. Things sometimes go random on the road, so prepare yourself as best as possible.

Which country in Europe is best for motorcycles?

There's no one country in Europe that is best for motorcycles, but a few definitely stand out. Here are a few of the best places to ride:

  • Spain : Spain is famous for its diverse landscapes, from the Pyrenees mountains to the coastal roads of Costa Brava and Costa del Sol. It has a favorable climate, great road infrastructure, and picturesque routes like the Picos de Europa and Andalucia.
  • Italy : With its rich culture, amazing cuisine, and iconic cities, Italy is an amazing place to ride through. From the Amalfi Coast road to the Alghero to Bosa Route, bikers are spoiled for choice with this beautiful country.
  • France : France offers plenty of stunning landscapes, charming towns, and incredible food. The French Alps, Provence, the Loire Valley, and the Côte d'Azur are some of the most popular destinations for motorcycle touring.

Can you ride a motorcycle through Europe?

You can absolutely ride a motorcycle through Europe. It's an incredibly popular destination for motorcycle touring. Of course, it's important to familiarise yourself with the laws of a country before planning your next riding trip.

In most cases, you'll need an international driver's licence. Your bike will also need to be registered and insured, so double-check whether your insurance policy covers international travel. Remember, travel insurance and motorcycle insurance are two separate things.

Be prepared for border crossings and road tolls. Always carry the necessary documents to avoid getting caught out in the wrong situation.

What do you need to travel in Europe on a motorcycle?

So what do you need to travel in Europe on a motorcycle? The most obvious thing is a  passport . Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the planned duration of your trip, and always keep it on you.

A  driver's licence  from your home country will also be needed, but most likely you'll need to get an international driver's licence as well. Check the requirements of each country that you plan to visit.

Insurance  is a must, especially for motorcycle touring. Keep in mind that you'll need both travel insurance and motorcycle insurance unless you can find a policy that covers both.

Lastly, keep your  vehicle registration  documents handy at all times. These should include proof of ownership and any necessary import or customs documentation.

Can you tour on any motorcycle?

So can you tour on any motorcycle? While some bikes are certainly better than others, almost any motorcycle can be used for touring. Some will just have certain advantages over others.

For example, an adventure bike is great for off-road riding, but a proper touring bike is ideal for those massive cross-country trips. So you can tour using basically any bike but try to be realistic when planning your rides.

Travel Bravely

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning that when you make a purchase, I earn a small commission. For more information, see the site  Discl aimer .

10 Best Guided Motorcycle Tours in France

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Best Motorcycle Tours in France

Are you dreaming of the perfect motorcycle tour through France? 

This post lists the ten best guided motorcycle tours in France, to help you choose your next holiday. 

Each of these motorcycling tours is perfect for motorcycle enthusiasts seeking exhilarating rides through a variety of terrain.

As you consider these tours, you’ll see options for many of France’s diverse landscapes.

There are several Alpine tours that feature mountain passes, twisty roads, steep inclines, and hairpin turns. 

Expect to be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains, green valleys, and beautiful villages. 

There are tours that will take you along the French coastline, from the sun-kissed roads of the French Riviera to the golden roads of Corsica.

You can experience the timeless allure of Provence, the Basque region, or Catalonia.

Of course, in France, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious cuisine, great wine, and excellent accommodations. 

These French motorcycle tours will give you a chance to ride a motorbike that you may have admired from afar, but not yet ridden—all while viewing some of the world’s most gorgeous scenery and having a holiday like no other!

These motorcycle tours of France are some of the great motorcycle tours of Europe—so let’s check them out!

best motorcycle to tour europe

10 Best Motorcycle Tours in France

best motorcycle to tour europe

1. The Pyrenees and The Alps—Guided Motorcycle Tour In France

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   15 Days | ✅  Book it!

The Pyrenees and the Alps 15-day guided tour is an absolutely epic motorcycle tour of France. You’ll have 14 days of riding through the spectacular mountain passes of the Pyrenees and the Alps.

After arriving in Marseille, you’ll head to the Catalan region, before taking on the beautiful Pyrenees passes.

You’ll ride through Basque Country as you head to Biarritz, then pass through medieval villages and over lovely rivers.

Continuing on, you’ll head to the Cevennes, then venture through the narrow gorges of the Northern Alps.

Next on the tour, you’ll have amazing views of Lake Annecy and Lake Geneva. You’ll ride around Mont Blanc, venturing into Italy and Switzerland.

On the Great Alpine Road, you’ll take on the high passes of the Grand Alps, then the Southern Alps. You’ll ride on narrow roads through the Ecrins National Park, the Devoluy region, and the Vercors range, before returning to Marseille.

This motorbike tour allows you explore some of France’s most panoramic landscapes. Incredibly, you’ll experience riding through two of the best regions for motorcycle tours Europe has to offer.

best motorcycle to tour europe

Tour Details

  • Terrain : Asphalt
  • Bike : Rental bike (options include Class T, Class GT, Class GT plus)
  • Total mileage : 3,000 km/1,865 miles
  • Daily rides : 215 km/134 miles
  • Riding gear : Not included
  • Meals : All breakfasts
  • Accommodation : 3-star hotels
  • Start/end point : Marseilles, France
  • Skill level : Advanced
  • Age : Minimum age is 25 years old
  • Experience : Motorcycle license for more than three years

best motorcycle to tour europe

2. Provence and Corsica—Guided Motorcycle Tour in France

The 15-Day Provence and Corsica Guided Motorcycle Tour in France will take you through some of France’s most scenic areas.

You’ll experience 14 riding days along the Mediterranean Coast, through the French countryside, and around Corsica.

Your adventure will begin in Marseille, France, and you’ll first ride through the Carmargue before exploring the roads of Provence.

You’ll ride to the top of Mont Ventoux, through hilltop villages in the Luberon, then ride over several small mountains and along the coast.

You’ll have a small ride (for a bit of a rest day) back to Marseilles, where you’ll head to Corsica using the overnight ferry services. Your motorbike adventure will continue along great roads on the coast of Cap Corse, around rugged shoreline and hidden coves.

You’ll then ride through the Agriates Desert and through historic villages, before returning to stunning coastal roads.

After a ferry back to mainland France, you’ll have one more day of motorcycling along the French coast roads before your incredible motorcycle trip ends.

best motorcycle to tour europe

  • Bike : Rental bike (BMW, Ducati, Honda, or Kawasaki models)
  • Total mileage : 2,100 km/1,305 miles
  • Daily rides : 150 km/95 miles
  • Meals : 14 breakfasts and 14 dinners
  • Accommodation : 3-star hotels and aboard the boat
  • Start/end point : Marseille, France
  • Skill level : Intermediate

best motorcycle to tour europe

3. Heart of the Alps—Guided Motorcycle Tour in France, Italy, Switzerland & Austria

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   9 days | ✅  Book it!

Get ready for a thrilling 8-day riding adventure on the Heart of the Alps Motorcycle Tour of the French, Swiss, Austrian, and Italian Alps!

From narrow winding roads to the peaks of the Alps, this trip will be one you’ll never forget.

After a short ride on the first day, you’ll have an early start from Marseille for your guided motorcycle ride through the Alps. You’ll climb the passes of Vars and Montgenevre as you make your way to the Northern Italy and the Italian Alps.

There, you’ll ride through beautiful the Lake Maggiore region in the Swiss Alps. Next, you’ll ride your motorcycle to Austria, through spectacular alpine forests and beside peaceful lakes.

You’ll spend a full day exploring the Grossglockner glacier in the Austrian Alps.

Next, you’ll take on the challenging Stelio Pass—a bucket-list ride for many motorcyclists! You’ll end your motorbike tour of the Alps by riding the Mercantour Park, via Europe’s highest paved pass, Col de la Bonette.

This tour goes through four countries, making it a mini Europe motorcycle tour!

best motorcycle to tour europe

  • Terrain : Paved roads
  • Total mileage : 2,400 km/1,491 miles
  • Daily rides : 267 km/166 miles

best motorcycle to tour europe

4. Coast and Corsica—Guided Motorcycle Tour in France

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   8 Days | ✅  Book it!

For anyone dreaming of a motorcycle ride along the coast in France, this is your tour! The 8-Day Guided Scenic Motorcycle Tour in Corsica, France will take you along the Mediterranean Sea and around Corsica for an unforgettable motorcycle holiday!

For this tour, you’ll first travel by boat to Corsica to ride along the coast of Cap Corse. The route will take you around Le Cap, from Bastia to Saint-Florent.

Next you’ll head to the Agriates Desert. You’ll observe a mineral landscape, gorgeous windy roads, and incredibles views of many Corsican gulfs.

Your motorcycle tour of Corsica will take you to the famed Chestnut Grove, through historic villages, up and down breathtaking gorges, and finally along the coast by the Bay of Ajaccio.

Your motorcycle tour of France will conclude with a final day of riding along the French Rivierain the South of France between Cassis and the Ciotat.

best motorcycle to tour europe

  • Total mileage : 1050 km/652 miles
  • Meals : Breakfasts & dinners
  • Accommodation : 3-star hotels and onboard the boat

best motorcycle to tour europe

5. Auvergne Volcanoes Road—Guided Motorcycle Tour in France

Perfect for the motorcyclist who wants a tour through less-visited areas of France, the 8-Day Guided Motorcycle Tour on the Auvergne Volcanoes Road will be an incredible experience!

For seven days, you’ll ride through the long-forgotten Auvergne volcanoes, regional parks, and nature reserves.

You’ll explore the winding roads, rivers, and forests of the Cevennes nature reserves. Next you’ll ride across the volcanic area of Aubrac; wild natural beauty and the culinary specialties of the area will delight you!

As you continue your motorcycle tour through France, you’ll ride curvy roads through the ancient volcanoes, forests, and lovely villages.

You’ll also venture through Provence to explore Port du Gard and the Saint-Michel de Frigolet Abbey.

best motorcycle to tour europe

  • Total mileage : 1350 km/839 miles
  • Meals : Breakfasts and dinners
  • Skill level : Beginner

best motorcycle to tour europe

6. Auvergne & Cevennes—Guided Motorcycle Tour in France

⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   10 Days | ✅  Book it!

On the unforgettable 10-Day Auvergne and Cevennes Guided Motorcycle Tour , you’ll discover the best biking roads in France, historic French villages, and stunning natural areas.

Your France motorcycle tour will begin at the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park. Stops will include opportunities to see Romanesque art and the Murol castle.

Between climbing mountain passes, you’ll have time to stroll through small village streets and sample tasty French cheeses. .

Your guide will lead you through the regional Haut Languedoc Parc. You’ll see beautiful medieval villages like Ambialet or Templar villages like the Couvertoirade.

You’ll ride through the Dourbie gorges, the Tarn gorges, and Mont Lozere, and take in spectacular panoramic views of the spectacular landscape.

best motorcycle to tour europe

  • Terrain : Paved Roads
  • Bike : Rental bike (Moto Guzzi or BMW models)
  • Total mileage : 1,531 km/951 miles
  • Daily rides : 133-233 km/83-145 miles
  • Meals : All breakfasts and 2 dinners
  • Accommodation : 2- and 3-star hotels
  • Start/end point : Vichy, France/Puy en Velay, France
  • Skill level : Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced

best motorcycle to tour europe

7. Provence—Guided Motorcycle Tour in France

This incredible 8-Day Guided Motorcycle Tour in Provence, France , is the perfect way to experience the best of Provence, from the Mediterranean coast to the perched villages of the Luberon.

You’ll begin your ride through Southern France by experiencing the stunning landscapes of the Carmargue.

You’ll explore the Provence countryside, full of the scents of rosemary, lavender, and thyme, before visiting one of Provence’s most famous villages, Les Baux de Provence.

As a reward for climbing the twisting road to Mont Ventoux, you’ll have views of Marseilles and Mont Blanc.

You’ll then ride on uncrowded country roads through the beautiful landscape of the Luberon (and marvel at the hilltop villages).

Breathtaking gorges, lakes, mountains, and landscapes will await you around every turn on this motorbike tour through Provence.

best motorcycle to tour europe

8. The Pyrenees—Guided Motorcycle Tour in France

If you like thrilling motorcycle rides, sign up for the 8-Day Guided Motorcycle Tour of the Pyrenees.

You’ll begin by exploring the Carmargue, with beautiful landscapes and charming villages.

Riding near the sea and through mountain passes (like Tourmalet, Soulor, Aspen, and Aubisque), you’ll be enthralled by the area’s scenic beauty.

You’ll head to Basque Country, to Biarritz, then to Armagnac, where you’ll marvel at villages dating to the Middle Ages.

After exploring the winding roads and stunning views in the Pyrenees from your motorbike, you’ll enjoy the area’s gastronomy and history. The natural beauty of the cliffs, forests, and canyons will amaze you.

best motorcycle to tour europe

  • Total mileage : 1750 km/1087 miles
  • Daily rides : 250 km/155 miles
  • Meals : Breakfast
  • Start/end point : Marseille

best motorcycle to tour europe

9. The Fantastic Pyrenees—Guided Motorcycle Tour in France, Andorra & Spain

Is crossing the Pyrenees Mountains, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea your dream? The 8-Day Fantastic Pyrenees Guided Tour will take you through France, plus into Andorra and Spain, as you make your way from coast to coast, through the Pyrenees.

From Biarritz, France, you’ll ride your motorcycle through the Basque region, passing through Ainhoa, Espelette, and the Ispequy pass. You’ll also see the village of St. Jean Pied de Port.

You’ll ride on the Santiago trail road, go through Iraty Forest, and see the city and basilica of Lourdes.

This motorcycle tour of the Pyrenees will take you through many mountain passes (Tourmalet pass, Aspin pass, Bonaigua and Boixols pass).

You’ll also get to explore beautiful, charming villages, including lovely Andorra and Villefranche de Conflent, with its medieval castle and yellow train.

You’ll experience riding through stunning gorges, valleys, and historic sites. Your motorcycle tour of the Pyrenees will end in the Spanish Catalan Pyrenees, after an unforgettable adventure.

best motorcycle to tour europe

  • Bike : Rental bike (BMW, Honda, Moto Guzzi models)
  • Total mileage : 1316 km/818 miles
  • Daily rides : 219 km/136 miles
  • Meals : Daily breakfast, two dinners
  • Accommodation : 2- and 3-star hotel
  • Start/end point : Biarritz, France/Rosas, Spain

best motorcycle to tour europe

10. The French Alps—Guided Motorcycle Tour in France

Best for anyone who loves twists and turns—and beautiful vistas—this 8-Day Motorcycle Tour in the French Alps is an exceptional ride!

From Marseille, you’ll begin the 7 day ride to the largest natural park in the Northern Alps, marveling at the Vercors’ spectacular cliffs and narrow gorges.

You’ll ride by Lake Annecy and Lake Leman, before riding around the famous Mont Blanc. The Route des Grandes Alpes is unlike any other, and you’ll be amazed by the scale of the landscapes around you!

You’ll continue riding through the Southern Alps, following the Route Napoleon, through passes after pass, by clear lakes, and through unspoiled wilderness. There won’t be a dull moment as you ride through the French Alps.

best motorcycle to tour europe

  • Total mileage : 1900 km/1180 miles
  • Daily rides : 271 km/168 miles

What to Know Before You Book

Each tour listing specifies which transfers, meals, and additional expenses are included in the tour price (and which are not).

Please read each tour description completely before booking.

If there are discrepancies within a tour listing or if you have questions about a tour, reach out directly to the tour operator.

For each tour listed, you’ll have a choice about the type of motorcycle rental you prefer.

Riders are responsible for personal expenses, such as:

  • your flight ticket
  • gas/petrol for the motorbike
  • personal gear
  • optional accessories
  • certain meals and beverages

Earlier booking is encouraged, particularly for guided motorcycle tours in France during the summer season.

The fly-ride motorcycle tours in France listed here allow you to fly in and immediately begin your tour. When booking your flight, consider whether you’d like to allow an extra day or two before your motorbike tour begins to recover from any jet lag you might experience.

Why Take a Guided Motorcycle Tour of France?

Taking a guided motorcycle tour is an incredible way for motorcyclists to experience France and enjoy their favorite hobby.

On a guided motorbike tour, you can rely on the guide’s extensive knowledge of the best routes, which often include less-traveled roads you wouldn’t have found on your own and the best roads to avoid heavy traffic.

Guides know the local history, culture, and special places of the regions you’re visiting, so you can get insider knowledge and deeper insights.

Plus, a fantastic guide will clue you in to the best restaurants, bars, and local specialties!

The guide can also help navigate any challenges that may arise. They can deal with mechanical issues, arrange for a support vehicle if necessary, or monitor weather conditions.

Also, planning a motorcycle tour of a foreign country can be quite time consuming and confusing.

Choosing a guided tour means you don’t have to worry about the route, the distance between accommodations, or unfamiliar roads.

Unlike self-guided tours, riders on a guided motorbike tour in France can relax, knowing someone else will deal with the “what-ifs.” Guided tours are an easier, better way to travel somewhere you’ve never been before.

Ultimately, choosing a guided motorcycle tour in France is about the thrill of riding through the gorgeous French countryside, discovering new places, not worrying about the details, and just immersing yourself in the experience!

Final Thoughts on the Best Motorcycle Tours in France

Choosing the right motorcycle tour of France will lead to an amazing experience filled with beautiful sites, new challenges, and memorable encounters with local people—an amazing experience you’ll always remember!

Whether you’re exploring secondary roads or main highways, your guide’s expertise will ensure that you have a fantastic ride.

This list of ten of the best motorcycle routes in France is certain to have the perfect route for you.

Whether you choose to explore the Alps, Provence, Corsica, or the Pyrenees, you’ll find fantastic roads, gorgeous scenery, and thrilling new experiences.

And at the end of the day, you can appreciate the finest French cuisine, made with local ingredients and traditional techniques that make even the simplest foods extraordinary! Your taste buds are in for a treat!

No matter where you head next—the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the châteaux   of the Loire Valley, or home—your incredible motorcycle tour of France will be an adventure you’ll never forget!

So why not book an epic motorcycle travel experience that most people only dream about?

No matter which route you choose for motorcycle touring in France, I hope you have the absolute best time on your motorcycle ride through France!

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I’m a traveler at heart. I’ve been an exchange student, roadtripped across the US, backpacked around Europe, and lived in Australia with my family. Sharing tips and inspiration with you, so you can travel bravely too!

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best motorcycle to tour europe

What to Pack for a Europe Motorcycle Tour

Welcome to the Europe Motorcycle Tour Packing Guide. This article will explain everything you need for a European bike trip with links to more in-depth guides if you fancy digging deeper. Happy touring!

liseran motorcycle trip

Packing for a Europe Motorcycle Tour

Europe is motorcycle touring heaven. It’s got it all from jaw-dropping mountains to gorgeous coastal routes and everything in between. It’s easy to get to from the UK, easy to navigate and you’re pretty much guaranteed an epic ride. The only tricky thing is knowing what to take because the continent is so vast and the terrain so varied.

But as it’s over 6 million square miles, we can’t account for every type of European tour. So we’ll focus on the standard couple of weeks, summer tour to mainland Europe. If that sounds like your trip, then your main packing focus is to go ultra-light, compact and minimal. If you’re after a long-term, multi-climate trip then check out our RTW packing list and the complete trip checklist.

Your trip will most likely be more about the riding than the travelling and so your set-up wants to be as light and minimalist as possible. That makes your packing in the morning and evening quicker, your bike easier to ride and there’s less to worry about. It’s easy to get caught out with too much stuff and overpack, especially if it’s your first trip…

But this article’s job is to avoid that and provide you with a complete kit list for your European motorcycle tour with links to more in-depth guides if you fancy digging deeper.

  • Motorcycle Touring Guides
  • The Complete Motorcycle Trip Packing List

Motorcycle riding gear for Europe

It completely depends where in Europe you’re going, how long you’re travelling for and the time of year you’re going. We’ve experienced extremes of -20C to +40C in Europe and so it’s important to take the time of year and country into consideration.

But as mentioned above, the majority of European motorcycle tours are a couple of weeks and during summer. So we’ll go on that basis for this section.

Riding suit

Pro-laminate: If you’re not riding in winter then you don’t need pro-laminate. It’s fantastic for cold and wet weather riding as water slides off the outer shell, so your jacket wont feel heavy and sodden. But it’s expensive, heavy and not as breathable. If you are riding in winter, then take a look at this packed and comprehensive cold weather riding gear guide. 

READ MORE: The Ultimate Winter Motorcycle Riding Gear Guide

Gore-Tex:  You can get many types of waterproof layerings for motorcycle suits and Gore-Tex is the most well-known. It is usually provided in a removable inner layer. This is a good idea if you’re sometimes riding through cold and wet conditions but also need your suit to be breathable via vents. The problem is when you don’t have the layer in and then you’re met with a downpour, you’ve then got to take your jacket off and zip your layer back into it (even trickier with trousers!). Your outer jacket will still get sodden and soaked. 

READ MORE: The Best Waterproof Motorcycle Jackets

Mesh or non-waterproof: This is your best option. Go for a lightweight, breathable and comfortable motorcycle jacket. If you find one with a removable waterproof liner, then go for that and leave the liner at home. Instead, take a cheap two-piece waterproof throwover. It’s easier to chuck that on than taking your gear off on the side of the road to zip liners in. Your suit wont get sodden and it also acts as a windbreaker on cold rides. 

Your riding suit needs to be comfortable, large enough to take a decent thermal jacket underneath, with plenty of easily accessible pockets, plenty of ventilation and protection in the shoulder, elbows, back and knees. Bear in mind that jackets tend to come with rubbish foam back protectors and proper CE approved protectors need to be bought separately. 

  • The Best Adventure Bike Jackets
  • The Best Touring Jackets
  • The Best Summer Jackets
  • The Best Waterproof Jackets

It’s always worth packing two pairs of gloves: one lightweight, breathable summer pair with plenty of ventilation and a thick waterproof pair. Always dry your waterproof pair in the evenings as you never know when you’ll need them. 

A good, comfortable and worn-in pair of touring boots are important. Make sure they’re waterproof. 

READ MORE: The 10 Best Adventure Bike Boots

A motorcycle helmet must be comfortable and safe above all else. Next up, it’s worth investing in a lid that has a pinlock anti-fog visor and a drop down internal sun visor too. There should be decent vents at the mouthpiece, top of head and exhaust ports at the rear. We cover choosing the right helmet for your trip in more detail in our choosing your adventure gear guide below. We also have a top 10 Touring Helmets Guide as well as adventure bike helmet guide too.

  • The Best Touring Helmets
  • The Best Adventure Helmets

Like with the removable waterproof liner, if your suit comes with a removable thermal liner just throw it away – they’re usually rubbish. Pack a soft and light down-jacket instead. They pack up smaller into stuff sacks than those flimsy thermal liners you get with your jacket are ten times better and can be worn off the bike. For a good example check out our Sub Zero Review. 

READ MORE:  The Best Heated Riding Gear

Neck buff:  A neck buff is a great handy extra on tours. 

Ear plugs:  You’ll be riding constantly on your tour and ear plugs will stop you from feeling as knackered at the end of the day. 

Motorcycle riding gear

If you’re figuring out what riding gear you need, whether it’s for commuting, touring or even riding around the world, we recommend having a read of our packed ‘How to choose your riding gear’ article below. And check out the gear guides section for more in-depth articles and comparisons on the best kit on the market today. 

  • All Motorcycle Gear Guides
  • Riding Gear Guides
  • How to Choose Your Adventure Riding Gear

Paperwork for Europe

Main documents

Take originals of your passport, driver’s licence, insurance certificate, MoT and V5 logbook (all subject to change from January 2021). 

An International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is available from your local Post Office (for around £5) and will be required once the UK leaves the EU, probably from Jan 2021. It’s worth having one anyway. You just need to take a passport size photograph and your driver’s licence to the Post Office and it’s done there and then. Check the Gov website  for more information.

Vehicle insurance

Not all motorcycle insurance policies will cover you to ride in Europe. And some that say they do may only cover you for 15 or 30 days. You will have to check with your provider how long you are covered for. 

Green Card insurance for your motorcycle may also be needed for certain European countries like Bosnia for example. It is highly likely that a Green Card will be compulsory after January 2021.

Breakdown cover

Breakdown cover can sometimes come included with your vehicle insurance. If not, it’s often easy to add it as a bolt-on. It’s worth having this service if you’re touring in Europe as recovery costs can be very expensive. Make sure you know exactly what you’re covered for – for example, if your bike is beyond repair will they arrange for it to be returned to the UK? 

Personal insurance

It’s also highly advisable to get personal travel insurance. This is different and separate to your motorcycle insurance, which only covers your vehicle. For a comprehensive and detailed guide on it, check out the guide below.

Law and rules

Please remember that the paperwork, law and rules for UK nationals touring in Europe can change after January 2021. But for now, you will also need the following:

  • A GB sticker on your number plate is compulsory
  • You will need a daytime sticker for your headlight and spare bulbs.
  • A high-vis jacket (and one for your pillion in case you breakdown). 

Motorcycle Travel Insurance

Luggage options.

The type of motorcycle luggage set-up you go for is dependent on your type of trip. If you were headed to outer Mongolia then it’s worth using soft panniers as you’ll probably have a fair few spills. But you probably won’t have that problem on a European tour. Let’s assume your trip is 100% tarmac based, that means you can go for whatever set-up you like, whatever works for your bike and fits your budget. 

Hard luggage is a great option for security, protection and peace of mind. Lock your gear away and don’t worry about it as you dive in to those local coffee shops. The problem is that they’re wide, heavy and expensive. 

Soft panniers

Perfect for more off-road focused trips. Lightweight, cheaper but not as secure. Another option is to go for soft panniers and a hard top box for your valuables.

A short two-week tour means you’re probably not going to be diving in and out of panniers all the time. An easy option is to just go for a 40-60 litre duffel bag and strap it down with a pair of Rok Straps. Couple that with a tank bag for quick access items and you’re good to go. 

  • Motorcycle Luggage Guides
  • Hard vs Soft Luggage
  • The 6 Best Soft Panniers for Adventure Bikes
  • The Best Hard Motorcycle Panniers
  • The Best Top Boxes

Camping equipment

Camping gear is the bulkiest and largest kit you can carry on a motorcycle trip. The majority of motorcycle tours in Europe don’t take in camping because people have a lot of miles to cover and don’t want to spend their time setting up tents every night.

However, it is an extremely cost-effective way to travel, especially in Europe as hotels can be expensive. For an in-depth guide to camping while motorcycle travelling and how to save money on hotels, accommodation and camping check out this guide:

READ MORE: How to Motorcycle Travel on the Cheap

Be prepared to shave this kit down as much as you can to the bear essentials. And only take it if you’re definitely going to be camping (I know a guy who rode from the UK to Japan and camped once just so he didn’t feel like it was a complete waste).

If you are camping, then have a read of our dedicated guides: 

  • Motorcycle Camping Guides
  • The Complete Motorcycle Camping Guide
  • The Ultimate Motorcycle Camping Gear List
  • The 10 Best Motorcycle Camping Tents

Personal clothing and hygiene

Try and keep your personal clothing to a minimum. If you’re planning on regularly staying in hotels then you may want footwear other than bike boots and flip flops. Only pack a couple of shirts, a few t-shirts, enough pants and socks for a week, a pair of trousers, shorts and swimming trunks. If you wear a motorcycle specific riding top then you wont eat into your supply of fresh t-shirts. Keep your kit small and light and roll it instead of folding. 

As for hygiene, try and only pack small travel size versions of everything. Again, if you’re staying in hotels then you won’t need to pack shower gel and shampoo either.  

Electronics

Your electronics kit is completely down to personal preference. At the very least you should take a mobile phone in case you run into trouble, break down or get lost. Most UK phone data plans offer free data in Europe, but regardless it’s still worth downloading the free app Maps.Me and downloading the specific country maps you’re travelling to. They can be used off-line as navigation (it’s all we use to navigate on our round-the-world trip). If you don’t fancy using your phone then don’t forget to pack your sat-nav (or go old school with proper paper maps!). 

Camera equipment is also pretty important these days. If you want something more than your phone to shoot on, check out our photography guide: 

  • Motorcycle Electronics Guides
  • Motorcycle Travel Photography and Video Gear List
  • The Top 5 Free Apps for Motorcycle Travellers

Motorcycle and kit security when travelling abroad is always a concern. Your options are a bike tracker, chain and lock, disc-lock, alarm or a dusty old cover. 

If you’re worried about leaving your helmet or jacket and jeans on the bike while you go off for a stroll, you could always go for a PacSafe Exo Mesh or a single cable and lock your kit to the bike. 

If you’re after more info on keeping your motorcycle and gear safe while touring abroad, here’s our dedicated article:

  • How to Keep Your Motorcycle Safe While Travelling
  • Abus Granite Extreme Chain Review
  • PacSafe Exo Mesh Net Review

It’s always worth carrying a few tools for minor repairs while touring. If you’re not heading out into the wilds then you don’t need a full-on comprehensive kit – just enough to get you out of light trouble like a multi-tool, Gaffa tape, cable ties and metal epoxy. Our number one bit of kit is a small ratchet strap. They’re invaluable on motorcycle trips as they can hold a broken wheel together, fasten a broken pannier frame back and even tow your bike.   

The main thing is a puncture repair kit that includes an electric pump. If you have tubeless tyres then you’ll want a plug set and can get away with air canisters. If you have tubed tyres then you’re going to want to pack tyre levers, spare tubes, a patch kit and a bit of dish soap for easing the tyre back onto the rim. Having tubeless tyres will of course save you a lot of faff, but having a repair kit for either will save hours of waiting by the roadside. 

If you’re interested in packing a more comprehensive toolkit, then take a look at our detailed guide: 

  • The Ultimate Adventure Bike Tool Kit
  • Rocky Creek Tyre Pump Review
  • SBV Adventure Bike Tool Kit Review

Ultimate adventure bike tool kit

Money:  Don’t forget your money! It’s always worth carrying cash with you on a European tour as you’ll never know when you need it. Make sure your bank cards don’t charge an extortionate non-sterling transaction fee on top of whatever exchange rate they’re using. For a detailed write-up on the best bank card to use abroad for UK nationals, check out our cheap travel guide below. 

First aid kit:  It’s always worth carrying a small first aid kit with basic medication and emergency supplies. 

READ MORE: Emergency GPS Devices Explained

Europe Motorcycle Travel Guides

Now you’ve read up on what you need to pack for your European motorcycle tour it’s time to plan your route and trip! Check out our Europe Destination Guides page for all the packed country guides. You’ll find route info, ride reports, things to do, tips tricks and loads more. 

Read more Motorcycle Travel Guides and Tips  

Thanks for checking out our What to Pack on a Europe Motorcycle Tour Guide. We hope you found it useful! Here’s a few more articles on Europe, motorcycle gear and trip planning that we recommend you read next. 

  • Motorcycle Travel Guide: Europe
  • All Europe Guides
  • Tips for Planning a European Tour
  • How to Transport Your Motorcycle from the UK to Europe
  • Recommended Motorcycle Rental and Tour Companies 
  • The Ultimate Winter Motorcycle Riding Gear Guide
  • The 10 BEST Motorcycle Touring Helmets

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If you enjoyed this motorcycle touring packing guide or have any questions, please post your comments below. We’d love to hear from you. 

6 thoughts on “What to Pack for a Europe Motorcycle Tour”

Hi. Found this page after a little Google research on packing for my upcoming (but postponed) European bike tour. Wanted to say it’s very helpful and all of the links to the other more detailed guides are great. Thanks

Hi Bill! Thanks very much! Glad you found it helpful. Where are you planning on riding to on your tour?

Portugal is the plan. Time for some sun and sea for me but will have to wait until next year though. Doesn’t hurt to start planning though!

Portugal sounds brilliant! What a beautiful place to ride. We have a pretty detailed guide all on touring in Portugal that might be helpful. Here’s the link Motorcycle Travel Guide: Portugal . Best of luck with your planning and trip, just shout if you need anything! Cheers

Really enjoying your content from your website, my wife and I are leaving for a trip to Monoco from Inverness in Scotland, we leave in July. The plan is to do it over 2 weeks, we rode to Lake Garda in Italy in 2020 and had a blast! Very envious of you both being able to travel the globe, if I thought we had enough money to do it we would be off!

Take care for now and thanks again.

Hi Euan, Thanks very much for posting your comment and for your kind words! Oh that sounds like an awesome trip! Monaco is certainly an interesting place to visit – make sure you ride the roads above the city so you’re looking down on it. Great views. Ah don’t be envious, it’s not as glamorous as it sounds – soaking wet or boiling hot all the time, living in a tent and eating noodles every day haha. Monaco and Lake Garda sound much more like living the life! Hope you both enjoy your trip and all the best to you mate, Andy

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    Main documents. Take originals of your passport, driver's licence, insurance certificate, MoT and V5 logbook (all subject to change from January 2021). An International Driver's Permit (IDP) is available from your local Post Office (for around £5) and will be required once the UK leaves the EU, probably from Jan 2021.