What Rick Steves Recommends To Explore European Cities Like A Local Instead Of A Bus Tour

Traveling through Europe can feel stressful. Public transportation might be hard to figure out –– even if you research tips for navigating Europe's city bus system –– and tours can cost a pretty penny. This is why travel aficionado Rick Steves recommends one city sightseeing method that provides a scenic, flexible, and economical way to get from point A to B. Plus, it's perfect for eco-friendly travel. His suggestion? Hop on a bicycle. Biking around European cities is more than just a way to get to your destination, it's also an experience that connects visitors with the local culture and nature. Whether you plan a trip that involves pedaling past the Colosseum, weaving through the hoards of other cyclists in Amsterdam, or riding beachside in Barcelona, traveling by bike offers a unique perspective to whichever destination you choose to visit. 

While plenty of people commute on two wheels in the United States, this method of transportation is even more prevalent across the Atlantic. It also cuts travel time practically in half compared to walking. Plus, you can discover plenty of hidden gems off the beaten path, savor authentic local cuisine, and engage with the community. It's a chance to slow down and appreciate the journey as much as the destination. 

Many of Europe's major cities have become more bicycle-friendly, especially in recent years. According to Steves, dozens of Europe's major cities have joined a "European Union initiative to make bicycles on par with cars as a form of urban transport." But not every city is made for cyclists just yet. Some places, like Rome, are much more difficult to bike through due to their cobbled streets and hilly terrain. However, several other places, such as Amsterdam, Stockholm, and Copenhagen, have progressively become more and more bike-friendly. If you don't plan on visiting a European city with your own bicycle, consider a rental or signing up for one of the citywide programs offering loan bikes, Steves suggests. 

It's best to do research first before deciding on where to rent a bike, as some places can be more expensive per hour than others. However, a full-day bike rental may only set you back a few euros depending on the city and the type of bike you want (such as an e-bike). Many places also offer discounts for half-day rentals. For the citywide bike rental program, Rick suggests using the app Donkey Republic, where tourists can pick up a bike at random locations throughout certain cities. Often, these bikes tend to be clunkier than regular bikes, and you need to find a station to drop them back off at, so consider this if you are not traveling near a drop-off zone.

Rick also suggests joining a bike tour for those who feel uncomfortable or uncertain about biking in an unknown city. Bike tours are also a great way to explore a lot in a short amount of time or to see parts of the city that you wouldn't otherwise get to see via bus or train. Although there are more expensive tours that cater to smaller groups, other group tours are usually reasonably priced, running for as little as $35 to $50.

On a tour (unless you're doing a self-guided option), you'll also have an experienced guide who can answer questions, explain local history, and even share some hidden or lesser-known locations. For those looking to zip around a city, electric bike tours are also a great option –– especially for locations with lots of hills. Group tours are a great way to experience the city at a leisurely pace while still getting to immerse yourself in different cultures and landscapes. Not to mention, you can easily meet other like-minded travelers. Consider signing up for a tour through reputable groups like Fat Tire Tours, or check travel sights like Get Your Guide or Viator for more specifically catered options.