How to plan your first EuroVelo trip: the ultimate guide to cycling Europe
Cycling across Europe along the EuroVelo network is one of the most rewarding adventures a cyclist can experience. With 17 long-distance cycle routes connecting the entire continent over 90,000 kilometers, EuroVelo offers an unparalleled way to discover history, culture, and nature on two wheels.
However, embarking on a multi-day or multi-week bike tour requires proper planning. From selecting the right route and choosing your bikepacking gear to handling navigation and tracking your progress, preparation is key to a smooth journey.
In this guide, we break down how to plan your very first EuroVelo trip and show how gamifying your route with checkpoints can make your tour even more exciting.
1. Choose the right EuroVelo route for your level
Not all EuroVelo routes are created equal. Some are fully developed, flat, and paved, while others are still in planning phases or feature heavy climbing. For your first trip, it is wise to choose a route with high infrastructure readiness.
Popular beginner choices include EuroVelo 6 (The Rivers Route), which is mostly flat and follows the Danube River, or EuroVelo 15 (The Rhine Cycle Route), known for excellent signage and cycling-friendly facilities.
- EuroVelo 6: Flat, scenic, and highly developed—perfect for beginners.
- EuroVelo 15: Runs along the Rhine, offering superb infrastructure and services.
- Check the official EuroVelo website for route development status before booking.
2. Essential bikepacking gear list
The golden rule of bicycle touring is: pack light, but pack smart. Every extra kilogram must be pedaled up every hill. Divide your gear into panniers or frame bags to keep the bike balanced.
Your basic kit should cover shelter (if camping), clothes for all weather conditions, a compact cooking set, a robust tool kit for roadside repairs, and high-visibility safety clothing.
- Bags: Waterproof panniers or a set of modular bikepacking bags.
- Tools: Multi-tool, tire levers, spare inner tubes, patch kit, and a mini-pump.
- Safety: High-vis vest, front and rear lights, and a well-fitted helmet.
3. Navigation and offline mapping
While EuroVelo routes are generally signposted, signs can sometimes be missing or hidden. Relying solely on physical signage is risky. Always have a digital navigation tool with offline maps.
Download the GPX tracks for your selected route beforehand. Keep a power bank handy to ensure your phone or GPS device stays charged throughout long days in the saddle.
4. Tracking your progress and collecting checkpoints
Multi-week touring can sometimes feel exhausting, especially when facing tough headwinds or long climbs. Gamifying your progress is a great way to stay motivated and keep a digital diary of your adventure.
The UpaonBike app features a unique **Biketourism Checkpoints** system. As you pedal along key routes and cross historical towns, you can log in, claim checkpoints, and track your total distance. It turns your epic European tour into a rewarding game, documenting every milestone you achieve.
- Log your daily mileage automatically using GPS tracking.
- Collect virtual checkpoints at historical markers and city borders.
- Share your trip progress and achievements with the community.
Frequently Asked Questions about EuroVelo Touring
Do I need a special touring bike for EuroVelo?
Not necessarily. A hybrid, gravel, or trekking bike with mounts for racks and wider tires (at least 32mm) is perfect for most EuroVelo routes, which include both paved paths and light gravel.
Can I do a EuroVelo trip on a budget?
Yes. Camping at designated sites, cooking your own meals, and planning self-supported rides makes EuroVelo touring highly affordable.
How does the UpaonBike app help during long tours?
UpaonBike tracks your route, monitors your bike parts' wear in the Virtual Garage so you don't get stranded, and lets you collect checkpoints at key destinations.