More travellers are choosing adventure over airports, embracing slower, more sustainable ways to explore. Google Trends data shows searches for “no-fly travel” have risen by 77% this year, reflecting a growing appetite for journeys that prioritise experience over speed. At the same time, sustainability is becoming a key factor in travel decisions. A recent survey indicates that two-thirds of Brits (66%)* now factor environmental impact into their travel choices (YouGov 2025), a sign that greener travel is moving from niche to mainstream.
There’s also a noticeable shift in the kind of breaks people want. More holidaymakers are turning to active, adventure-based trips that combine fitness and discovery, a natural antidote to increasingly sedentary, screen-filled daily lives.
And cycling? It’s the perfect fit, its energy-efficient, empowering and one of the most rewarding ways to explore. Combine it with rail or sea, and you’ve got a holiday built on freedom, fitness and a real sense of connection to place.
To show what’s possible, we mapped 10 UK and European regions you can reach without flying. Each route was tested for approximate travel time, cost, bike access, connections to EuroVelo and national cycle networks, scenery, landmarks and the carbon savings versus flying. Using data from EuroVelo, Wheel Walk and Cyle Trust, formerly, Sustrans and local sources, we found routes that are both practical and inspiring, from quick coastal breaks to full continental adventures.
The no-fly cycling movement blends two powerful shifts: growing environmental awareness and a rising appetite for active, wellbeing-led travel. More people are choosing trips that challenge, refresh and reconnect, pursuing journeys that feel good in every sense.
It’s travel that’s greener, healthier and will fill your memory bank. Read on to discover the highlights of our options…
Key findings at a glance
Biggest winners by overall experience (based on rating):
- Edinburgh to Scotland from London (93%)
- London → Normandie Coast (84–86%)
- London → Paris (79–83% depending on route).
Fastest & easiest gateways:
- London → Paris by Eurostar (2h20)
- London → Calais/Normandie via Dover/Folkestone (2.5–3.5h).
Massive CO₂ cuts: no-fly itineraries typically save approximately 80–95% in carbon emissions vs flying, for example:
- London → Paris – approximately 95% less emissions.
- London → Rotterdam – approximately 87% less emissions.
- London → Edinburgh – approximately 92% less emissions.
Budget-friendly hops:
- London → Edinburgh rail (approximately £45–£70)
- London → Normandie (approximately £40–£90), and bike-friendly TER trains in France (often free carriage for assembled bikes on regional legs).
How we built the shortlist
To provide breadth and variety in our rating system we started with four popular launchpads in different areas of the UK – London, Bristol, Manchester, Edinburgh.
We then scored each destination on:
- Transport simplicity: time, cost, and number of changes.
- Bike logistics: whether you pre-book, keep it assembled, or dismantle your bike.
- Ride quality: density of EuroVelo and national routes, plus locally popular classics.
- Experience: scenery, landmarks, reviews and popularity online (various platforms).
- Carbon emissions: transport CO₂ vs flight CO₂ to show the real-world saving.
Where to go (and why)
1. Scotland (via Edinburgh)
Overview:
Scotland is one of the most rewarding cycling destinations on the doorstep for UK travellers. It’s low impact and easy to reach, affordable, and packed with iconic scenery. The direct train from London to Edinburgh makes it a straightforward starting point, and from there, a network of national and long-distance routes fan out across the country.
Riders can choose from coastal rides and loops beside lochs to full highland adventures. Expect a mix of challenging terrain, dramatic weather, and spectacular rewards from the wild beauty of the Cairngorms National Park to historic castles and quiet whisky trails through the glens.
Getting there:
- From London: Direct train, approximately 4.5 hours, costing around £45–£70.
- From Bristol: Direct train, approximately 6.5 hours, costing around £95–£235.
- From Manchester: Direct train, approximately 3 hours 15 minutes, costing around £25–£75.
Bike travel: Bikes can be taken assembled on board but should be pre-booked in advance as space is limited.
Cycling Routes:
- EuroVelo 12 (North Sea Cycle Route) – tracing the rugged coastline from Edinburgh northwards.
- National Cycle Network (NCN) 1, 7, 75 & 76 – connecting the capital to Glasgow, Inverness, and beyond.
- Great East Lothian Loop – a scenic coastal route east of Edinburgh.
- Coast & Castles – linking Edinburgh and Northumberland via dramatic coastal scenery.
- Other cycling tours in Scotland
Carbon emissions saved: 12.15 kg train transport vs 144.91 kg flight → about 92% less.
2. Ireland (via Dublin or Belfast)
Overview:
Ireland offers a warm welcome for cyclists, with a mix of coastal scenery, historic towns, and peaceful countryside. From Dublin’s lively streets to Belfast’s vibrant waterfront, the island is crisscrossed by scenic greenways and long-distance trails that suit every pace.
Riders can follow canal paths through quiet farmland, trace the wild edges of the Atlantic coast, or take on the famous Mizen to Malin route that spans the full length of the island. Expect ever-changing weather, friendly encounters, and a slower rhythm of travel that rewards curiosity and stamina in equal measure.
Getting there:
- From London, take the train to Holyhead, then the ferry to Dublin. The journey involves one change, takes around seven to eight hours, and typically costs £80–£110.
- From Scotland, take the train to Stranraer, then the ferry to Belfast, a trip of roughly six to seven hours depending on connections.
- From Bristol: Train to Fishguard, ferry to Rosslare, approximately 7.5–8.5 hours, costing around £80–£110.
Bike travel: On trains, bikes can be taken assembled, though it is essential to pre-book a space as capacity is limited. On ferries, bikes are stored and secured assembled in a designated cargo area and straightforward for boarding and disembarking.
Cycling routes:
- EuroVelo 1 – The Atlantic Coast Route, following Ireland’s western shoreline.
- EuroVelo 2 – The Capitals Route, linking Dublin with Cardiff, London, and Amsterdam.
- Royal Canal Greenway, a newly developed route stretching inland from Dublin.
- Mizen to Malin, Ireland’s iconic end-to-end challenge.
- Belfast OS routes 9, 93, 94 and 99, offering local and regional rides in Northern Ireland.
Carbon emissions saved: Exact figures vary by route, but taking the train and ferry from London to Dublin produces around 20.9 kg CO₂, compared with 63.4 kg by air, a reduction of roughly 67%.
3. Netherlands (Rotterdam / Amsterdam / The Hague)
Overview:
The Netherlands is the undisputed home of everyday cycling renowned for being a flat, bike-friendly nation where two wheels are the natural way to travel. This is one of the most sustainable and accessible routes from the UK, ideal for families, beginners, or anyone seeking gentle rides through classic Dutch scenery.
You can follow canal-side paths, coast past windmills, and weave through flower fields or national parks with ease. Excellent onward transport makes it simple to extend your adventure into Belgium or Germany, all while keeping emissions low and costs manageable.
Getting there:
- From London, take the train to Harwich, then the Hook of Holland ferry (one change, 10.5–12 hours, £100–£150).
- From Newcastle, the ferry to Amsterdam offers a direct, overnight crossing.
- From Bristol: Train to London then Harwich, ferry to Hook of Holland, approximately 12–13 hours, costing around £130–£180.
- From Manchester: Train to Hull, ferry to Hook of Holland, approximately 14–15 hours, costing around £145–£150.
Bike travel: Bikes can usually be taken assembled on trains and pre-booked in advance. Ferry crossings charge a small fee for bike carriage but boarding and storage are straightforward.
Routes:
- EuroVelo 12 – North Sea Cycle Route
- LF Maas (EuroVelo 19)
- LF Waterline Route
- EuroVelo 2 – Capitals Route
- EuroVelo 15 – Rhine Route
Carbon emissions: Approximately 5.8 kg CO₂ for train and ferry travel compared with 43.6 kg by air, a reduction of about 87%.
4. Normandie Coast (via Calais)
Overview:
France’s Normandie coast offers an inviting mix of coastal drama, historic landmarks, and scenic countryside. It’s one of the quickest and most straightforward routes from the UK, ideal for shorter cycling holidays or as a starting point for longer rides deeper into France.
The coastline combines sandy beaches with heritage-rich towns, from Calais to Dieppe and beyond, while inland trails follow quiet rivers and rolling farmland.
Getting there:
- From London: Take the train to Dover or Folkestone, then the ferry to Calais (one change, 2.5–3.5 hours, £40–£90).
- From Bristol: Train to London then Dover/Folkstone, ferry to Calais, approximately 5.5–6 hours, costing around £55–£140.
- From Manchester: Train to London then Dover/Folkstone, ferry to Calais, approximately 5.5–6 hours, costing around £70–£155.
- From Edinburgh: Train to London then Dover/Folkstone, ferry to Calais, approximately 7.5–8.5 hours, costing around £140–£165.
Bike travel: Bikes can be taken assembled, but it’s best to pre-book as spaces are limited on some services.
Cycling Routes:
- Vélomaritime (Calais to Brittany)
- Avenue Verte (London to Paris)
- La Seine à Vélo (Normandie to Paris)
- Somme Valley Route (battlefield region)
- Link to the Vélodyssée (Atlantic coast)
Carbon emissions saved: Not directly comparable with flights, but emissions are minimal for this short cross-channel route.
5. Paris
Overview:
Paris combines urban cycling charm with excellent connections to the rest of France’s major cycle routes. Ride along the Seine, explore grand boulevards, and then head out to the Loire, Burgundy, or the Alps with ease. The city’s expanding network of bike lanes makes it increasingly friendly for cyclists, and it’s a perfect launchpad for linking multiple regions into one longer journey.
Getting there:
- From London: Take the Eurostar (2 hours 20 minutes, £75–£150).
- Alternatively, travel via Calais and the TER network, taking around 6.5 hours (£100–£135), with more flexible bike options.
- From Bristol: Train to London, then Eurostar to Paris, approximately 3.5–4 hours, costing around £100–£185.
- From Manchester: Train to London, Eurostar to Paris, approximately 4.5–5 hours, costing around £110–£195.
- From Edinburgh: Train to London, Eurostar to Paris, approximately 6.5 hours, costing around £125–£225.
Bike travel: On Eurostar, bikes must be pre-booked and dismantled; TER regional trains often allow assembled bikes at no extra cost, but it can depend on availability and time of travel.
Cycling routes:
- La Véloscénie (Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel)
- La Seine à Vélo (Paris to the Normandie coast)
- EuroVelo 3 – Pilgrims Route
- EuroVelo 5 – Via Romea Francigena
Carbon emissions saved: Approximately 2 kg CO₂ by train compared with 40.4 kg by air, a saving of around 95%.
6. Loire Valley from Nantes
Overview:
The Loire Valley is one of Europe’s most scenic and culturally rich cycling regions. Its gently undulating riverside paths take you past UNESCO-listed châteaux, vineyards, and picturesque villages. Perfect for leisurely cycling, this route combines great food, history, and outdoor beauty. The dedicated Loire à Vélo path is among France’s best-known and most loved cycle routes, famous for its clear signage and easy gradients.
Getting there:
- From London, take the Eurostar to Paris, then continue by train to Nantes (approximately 5 hours total, £125–£200).
- For estimates from Bristol, Manchester and Edinburgh, see Calais timings
Bike travel: Bikes must be dismantled for the Eurostar leg but can be taken assembled on regional trains.
Cycling routes:
- La Loire à Vélo.
Carbon emissions saved: Train travel produces about 4 kg CO₂, compared with 59.9 kg by air, a saving of roughly 93%.
7. Lyon & the Rhône Valley / Southern Burgundy
Overview:
Lyon and the Rhône Valley offer some of France’s most picturesque cycling. From vineyard-covered hillsides to riverside paths, this region combines gourmet food, culture, and outdoor adventure. The ViaRhôna follows the Rhône River from the Alps to the Mediterranean, while La Voie Bleue meanders through Southern Burgundy’s waterways and charming villages.
Getting there:
- From London, take the Eurostar to Paris, then the TGV to Lyon (approximately 4.5 hours, £150–£225).
- For estimates from Bristol, Manchester and Edinburgh, see Calais timings
Bike travel: Bikes must be dismantled for Eurostar but are easier to carry on the onward TGV.
Cycling routes:
- ViaRhôna (EuroVelo 17) – connecting Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean.
- La Voie Bleue – following canals and rivers through Burgundy.
Carbon emissions saved: Around 5.6 kg CO₂ for train travel compared with 94.3 kg by air, or about 94% less.
8. Geneva & the Alps
Overview:
For cyclists who love a challenge, Geneva and the Alps deliver spectacular rewards. From serene lakeside towns to steep mountain climbs and balcony roads, this region is made for adventurous riders. The scenery is breathtaking at every turn, with routes that combine lakes, valleys, high passes and famous points you may recognise from the Tour de France.
Getting there:
- From London, take the Eurostar and TGV/Lyria, around 6.5 hours in total, costing £175–£250.
- For estimates from Bristol, Manchester and Edinburgh, see Calais timings
Bike travel: Bikes must be dismantled for the Eurostar segment.
Cycling routes:
- ViaRhôna – from Geneva south through the Rhône Valley.
- Petites Routes du Soleil – quieter, scenic mountain routes.
- Route des Grandes Alpes – the classic alpine challenge linking Geneva to the Mediterranean.
Carbon emissions saved: Approximately 6 kg CO₂ by train versus 93.98 kg by air, saving about 94%.
9. Northern Spain (Santander & Camino links)
Overview:
Northern Spain offers a greener, cooler alternative to the country’s southern coastlines — a land of rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and rich cultural heritage. The ferry from the UK lands in Santander, an ideal gateway to Spain’s famed Camino de Santiago routes and the scenic Cantabrian coast. Expect a mix of seaside villages, forested trails, and rewarding climbs, with the warmth and hospitality Spain is known for.
Getting there:
- From London: Take the train to Portsmouth, then the ferry to Santander (approximately 11.5 hours, from £165).
- From Bristol: Train to Plymouth, ferry to Santander, approximately 13 hours, costing around £180.
Bike travel: Bikes can be taken assembled but should be pre-booked for both train and ferry travel.
Cycling routes:
- EuroVelo 1 – Atlantic Coast Route
- EuroVelo 3 – Pilgrims Route
- Vía Verde del Pas
- North Coast to Santiago de Compostela and Cape Finisterre.
Carbon emissions saved: Train and ferry travel produce about 19.8 kg CO₂, compared with 118.4 kg by air, a reduction of around 83%.
10. Italy (Milan, Lakes, onward to Rome)
Overview:
Italy combines art, history, and effortless style with some of Europe’s most beautiful cycling. Starting in Milan, riders can explore tranquil lakes, Alpine foothills, and vineyard-dotted countryside before heading south toward Rome. The routes are varied — from relaxed rides along Lake Garda to more demanding climbs through the Apennines. With ancient towns, world-class food, and Mediterranean warmth, Italy is a destination that rewards every mile.
Getting there:
- From London, take the Eurostar to Paris, then connect to the Paris–Milan TGV, a journey of about 10 hours, from £200.
- For estimates from Bristol, Manchester and Edinburgh, see Calais timings
Bike travel: Bikes must be dismantled for Eurostar and some TGV services.
Routes:
- AIDA – a major north–south Italian cycle corridor.
- Via Romea Francigena – historic route toward Rome.
- EuroVelo 8 – Mediterranean Route.
- EuroVelo 7 – Sun Route, extending to Sicily.
Carbon emissions saved: Train travel produces around 8 kg CO₂, compared with 118.2 kg by air, a saving of roughly 93%.
Comparing plane vs train & ferry travel with a bike
Travelling with a bike can be part of the fun or part of the challenge, it depends on how much time you have and how flexible you’re willing to be.
Taking your bike fully assembled keeps things simple but usually means opting for slower, more direct overland routes by train or ferry. Faster trains often require bikes to be bagged or dismantled, while flying always means taking your bike apart, packing it carefully, and hoping it arrives safely.
While overland travel takes a little more planning, it usually offers greater freedom, lower emissions, and fewer surprises along the way.
Carbon savings
When it comes to emissions, overland wins hands down. From our data:
- London → Paris: around 95% less CO₂ (2kg vs 40.44 kg)
- London → Rotterdam: around 87% less (5.8kg vs 43.59 kg)
- London → Edinburgh: around 92% less (12.15kg vs 144.91 kg)
A few extra hours on a train or ferry can cut your carbon footprint by nearly 90–95%, a huge saving for a relatively small change in how you travel.
Logistics
Flying with a bike can test both patience and budget. Airlines have different rules, charge sports-equipment fees, and often insist on specific bike boxes or padded bags.
Dismantling the bike is unavoidable, and once checked in, you’re relying on baggage handlers to ensure it arrives intact. Lost or damaged bike boxes aren’t uncommon and resolving issues abroad can be stressful and time-consuming.
By comparison, train and ferry travel put you back in control. You handle your own bike, board directly, and roll off at your destination ready to ride.
In France, TER regional trains often carry assembled bikes free of charge, while Eurostar requires pre-booking and a dismantled bike packed in a bag or box (rules vary slightly by destination). It’s a little extra work at the start, but far more predictable once you’re on the move.
Learn more: Bike Shipping & transporting your bike by plane →
Experience
Overland journeys turn travel into part of the adventure. You arrive in the heart of the city, not miles from it. You can add spontaneous stops, explore detours, and link multiple cycling regions in one trip.
If you’re comfortable with a multitool and a bit of mechanical know-how, dismantling and reassembling your bike takes less than 30 minutes. The payoff is huge: a smoother, more scenic, and far more immersive way to reach Europe.
Planning made simple (and stress-free)
A bit of preparation goes a long way when organising a no-fly cycling trip. From booking transport to a packing checklist and choosing the right route, small details can make the journey smoother.
Booking
- Reserve bike spaces early on trains and Eurostar, as places are limited and rules vary by route.
- Choose overnight ferries to extend your range and arrive rested, ready to ride.
- Use regional TER or TGV trains for easy day trips from Paris, Lyon or Nantes, and to link directly with major cycling routes.
Packing
- Whenever possible, travel with your bike fully assembled. It keeps things simple and means you can start cycling as soon as you arrive.
- Ferries, TER trains and many UK intercity services allow assembled bikes with reservations.
- If you’re travelling by Eurostar or high-speed train, be ready to dismantle and bag your bike and able to reassemble it quickly at the other end.
Match route to rider
- Beginners or families: try the flat, well-marked paths of the Netherlands (EuroVelo 12, LF networks) or the coastal routes of Normandie’s Vélomaritime and Avenue Verte.
- Leisure and culture seekers: ride the Loire à Vélo, Voie Bleue or ViaRhôna for gentle gradients, vineyards and historic towns.
- Adventurers and climbers: take on Scotland’s multi-day routes or the Geneva–Alp’s region, where big climbs bring even bigger views.
Benefits to taking a no-fly travel route
Greener choices, lower impact
Choosing a no-fly route is one of the fastest ways to cut your travel emissions, often by 80-95% less CO₂ than flying the same distance. A return flight from London to Paris, for instance, creates around 80-90 kg of CO₂ per person. Take the train and bike instead, and that drops to just 4-6 kg.
Every kilometre you pedal instead of fly makes a measurable difference and across a whole trip, those savings really add up.
And when plans change? You’re flexible. If weather or energy use becomes a factor, you can simply roll your bike onto a train or ferry and keep going still low impact, still on your terms.
More active, more rewarding
Cycling holidays don’t just tread lighter; they help you feel stronger. A typical day’s ride (40–60 km) can burn between 1,500–2,500 calories, tones major muscle groups and boosts heart health, all while you’re exploring, not sitting still.
Regular time in the saddle gives you that sense of wellbeing and momentum most holidays lack. You’re moving slowly enough to see the world change around you, from the chalk cliffs of Normandy to the vineyards of Burgundy or the canals of Holland, yet fast enough to cover serious ground, keeping active.
It’s travel that feels good in every sense – for you, and for the planet.
Compare flight free routes from London
Time, cost & CO2 emissions savings
Route | Time | Changes | Typical Cost | CO₂ saving vs flight | |
| London | Edinburgh/Scotland | 4.5h | 0 | £45–£70 | 92% less CO2 |
| London | Normandie Coast (via Calais) | 2.5–3.5h | 1 | £40–£90 | Very high (no flight) |
| London | Paris (Eurostar) | 2h20 | 0 | £75–£150 | 95% less |
| London | Lyon | 4.5h | 1 | £150–£225 | 94% less |
| London | Rotterdam/Amsterdam | 10.5–12h | 1 | £100–£150 | 87% less |
| London | Loire (Nantes) | 5-6h | 1 | £125–£200 | 93% less |
| London | Geneva | 6.5-8h | 1 | £175–£250 | 94% less |
| London | Santander | 11.5-13h | 1 | £165 | 83% less |
| London | Milan | 10-12h | 1 | £200 | 93% less |
Ride further, leave less behind
With trains, ferries and two wheels, Europe opens up in the best possible way; from Scotland’s wild Highlands to the Loire’s châteaux, the Rhône’s vineyards, the Dutch canals and all the way to the lakes around Milan. You’ll trade airport queues for river paths, build real fitness as you go, and cut your carbon footprint by up to 95% compared to flying.
Whether it’s a weekend spin or a cross-continent ride, start with a route that suits your time, budget and appetite for climbs, then build from there. And before you set off, make sure you’re covered. Cycling travel insurance keeps you (and your bike) protected on the move — so you can focus on the adventure, not the what-if scenarios.
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Sources:
Google Trends with Glimpse, YouGov, P&O Ferries, DFDs Ferries, Irish Ferries, Britanny Ferries, National Rail, Rail Europe, EuroVelo, Biroto, Holland-Cycling, Ordnance Survey, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, Visit Scotland, Visit Ireland, British Airways, EasyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, Tui, Air Miles Calculator, GOV.UK – Greenhouse Gas Reporting Conversion Factors 2024 / Air Travel DEFRA 2024
This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation.