Türkiye is a magical land that has the unique ability to convert the humble bicycle into a “time machine.” The opportunity to ride through this fantastic land that bridges West and East is not to be missed. Here every stroke of the pedal leads to the fulfillment of a promise, a promise of seeing and experiencing exotic vistas and fantastic civilizations, receiving the warmest hospitality, and being welcomed with open arms, just like family.
Cycling provides the optimum pace to appreciate fully this mesmerizing dance of the magnificence of history and the spellbinding beauty of the land that is Türkiye. Be prepared to be transported back in time, to pedal in the footsteps of Neolithic man right through to the modern world.
Whether you are a keen cyclist looking for a pleasant ride on a road bike along the turquoise coast, an adventurer in search of some physical activity with plenty of sightseeing, or just a traveler who is responsibly exploring in comfort, the route options are endless in a geography where East meets West.
The Taurus Mountains are a range in Antalya along the Mediterranean coast of Türkiye that is a heaven for mountain bikers with climbs of up to almost 1,800 m (5,900 ft). Here you will be dazzled by the thick cedar and pine forests, and the ancient cities hidden among them.
The western coast of Türkiye is a wonderland. İzmir and Muğla offer unique and contrasting regions to experience on a bike. You will find all the quintessential attractions to explore on two wheels: historical villages, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Cittaslow towns, more than a dozen ancient Ionian cities, beautiful coastlines, and delicious Aegean food accompanied by local wine.
Who can resist winding through the fairy chimneys of magical Cappadocia? The geological phenomena create a lunar-like landscape fractured by deep valleys that have justly earned UNESCO World Heritage status. Cappadocia is not only a great mountain bike destination, it is equally blessed when it comes to gravel and road biking. The amazing network of trails will surprise you with cave dwellings and hidden churches of early Christianity.
The fantastic evergreen scenery of coastal vistas and forested mountains along the long stretch of Türkiye’s Black Sea coast is well worth the effort it requires to bike in this terrain. You will also have the chance to meet the hospitable people of the Black Sea over a glass of local çay, the brewed black tea of the region.
İstanbul, a bustling city that spreads over two continents, is a melting pot of cultures and religions. Cycling in İstanbul runs the spectrum from a stunning ride through imperial monuments on the Historical Peninsula to a romantic escape from the city to the Princes’ Islands on a day trip. Whether you are visiting the city for a day or in between business meetings, you will find that cycling is the most pleasant way to discover this beautiful and vast city. İstanbul is full of historical and natural surprises for explorers on two wheels. The Bosphorus, the natural strait that divides Europe from Asia, will accompany you from the Marmara Sea to the Black Sea in the north with jewel-like wooden seaside mansions, rose-purple Judas trees along its shores, and with some dolphins, if you are lucky.
Türkiye is a fascinating land to explore with its deep and long history forming an unbroken chain of civilizations from the Neolithic times to the modern world. It is filled with nature that humbles one with its beauty and people who welcome all visitors with open hearts and arms.
We invite you to discover Türkiye on your bicycle. Captain your time machine and marvel at the wonderful experiences that await you!