Cycling trips in Turkey – ancient history, metropolitan cities, and sandy beaches

Legendary history combined with fantastic landscapes

The focus for cycling trips in Turkey is on two of the country's coasts. One is the northern coast, where Turkey borders the Black Sea, and the other is the west coast – here, the Greek islands offer a wide variety of ancient sites and magnificent island landscapes. There are no major differences in altitude to overcome on either coast, so a cycling tour in Turkey is not too demanding.

Climate and best time to travel

Turkey has very different climate zones depending on the region: the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts have a warm Mediterranean climate, while the interior can be significantly cooler. The best time for a cycling trip is in spring (April–June) and fall (September–November), when temperatures are pleasant and the intense summer heat is avoided. In summer, of course, the heat is a factor that should be considered when packing for a cycling tour in Turkey. Tip: Pack a spare inner tube or two and some bicycle tools in your luggage, as bicycle shops in Turkey are mainly found in the big cities.

Cuisine on the road

On a cycling holiday in Turkey, you can expect a culinary diversity that is almost as varied as the country itself. Turkish cuisine combines Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Central European influences to create hearty but light dishes that provide energy on the road and delight the palate. Hearty dishes such as kebabs, köfte, and etli ekmek are particularly popular. They are usually freshly prepared and ideal as a substantial meal after a long stage. Gözleme, a thin flatbread filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat, is also perfect as a snack on the go or a quick bite to eat at small roadside stands.

Explore other countries by bike and boat

Off the breathtaking Turkish west coast lie many Greek islands, whose beauty is equally breathtaking. Cycling tours in Turkey can be combined perfectly with the Greek Aegean by bike & boat, for example. With a comfortable yacht, known as a gulet, and by bike, you can explore five islands on this tour. Breaks on sandy beaches and history from ancient times to the present day – that's what's on the agenda here. In addition to this tour, we have others where you can cross the sea by bike. On the Black Sea coast, pretty and dreamy coastal towns are waiting to be explored. In addition, this tour offers many fabulous views of the Black Sea – and here, too, there are countless sandy beaches where you can cool off. The starting and ending point here is the metropolis of Istanbul, a legendary cosmopolitan city on the Bosphorus. Greek islands visited on cycling tours in Turkey: Rhodes, Halki, Tilos, Nissiros, Symi, Kos, Leros, Lipsi, Skala, Sym

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about cycling tours in Turkey

Is Turkey good for cycling?

A cycling tour in Turkey offers a wide variety of routes along the coast, through mountains and cultural landscapes. Although the infrastructure for cyclists is not yet well developed everywhere and many routes use side roads, this often allows you to experience quiet, scenic routes with friendly encounters and historical highlights.

Which regions are particularly suitable for a cycling tour in Turkey?

The Mediterranean coast around Antalya, Fethiye, and Kaş are particularly attractive for cycling tours in Turkey, as they offer spectacular sea views and varied landscapes. The inland regions, such as Cappadocia with its surreal valleys and historic landscapes, and the Phrygian Way in western and central Anatolia, are also popular cycling areas with unique natural and cultural experiences.

When is the best time to go on a cycling holiday in Turkey?

The best time for a cycling holiday in Turkey is spring and fall, as the weather is usually pleasantly mild then. During the hot summer months of July and August, it can get very hot in many regions.