Top 10 most beautiful motorcycle touring locations in Europe
Complete guide with routes and tips for motorcyclists
Europe is made for motorcyclists. From technical mountain passes to endless coastal roads and secluded areas where you can ride for hours without encountering anyone. But a good motorcycle trip is more than just a beautiful route. Timing, preparation, and equipment make all the difference.
In this guide, you will find the 10 most beautiful motorcycle touring locations in Europe, including practical tips, routes, and considerations to get the most out of your ride.
1. Grossglockner High Alpine Road – Austria
The Grossglockner is perhaps the most perfectly designed motorcycle road in Europe. Everything is just right here: asphalt, bends, and views.
Route tip:
Combine the Grossglockner with the Gerlos Alpine Road for a full day of riding with variation in pace and scenery.
Things to consider:
- Toll road (approximately €30)
- It's quieter in the morning and you have better visibility
- Weather changes can be rapid at high altitudes
Best period: May to October
2. Stelvio Pass – Italy
The Stelvio is raw and chaotic, but that's precisely what makes it special. Especially the north side with its hairpin bends is technically challenging.
Route tip:
Ride Stelvio in combination with Umbrail Pass and Bormio for a beautiful loop without doubling back.
Things to consider:
- Heavy traffic during peak season
- Many cyclists and motorhomes
- First gear work, so good control is important
Best period: June to September
3. Route des Grandes Alpes – France
One of Europe's best multi-day motorcycle routes. You ride from the north of the Alps all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.
Route tip:
Plan at least 4 to 7 days and include passes like Col du Galibier and Col de l’Iseran.
Things to consider:
- Long distances per day
- Varying temperatures (cold in the mountains, warm on the coast)
- Fuel stations can be scarce in some areas
Best period: June to September
4. Furka Pass – Switzerland
The Furka Pass is clear and fast, with wide roads and long bends. Ideal for a sporty riding style.
Route tip:
Combine Furka with Grimselpass and Sustenpass for one of Europe's best day routes.
Things to consider:
- Strict speed controls in Switzerland
- High fines for violations
- Weather can change quickly
Best period: June to October
5. Atlantic Ocean Road – Norway
A short but unique route that takes you over bridges and small islands right in the ocean.
Route tip:
Combine this road with the Trollstigen for a complete Norway trip.
Things to consider:
- Strong winds and rapidly changing weather
- Fuel and amenities are limited
- Not long, but very impressive
Best period: May to September
6. Black Forest – Germany
The Black Forest is perfect for a weekend trip. Good roads, many bends, and easily accessible from the Netherlands.
Route tip:
Ride the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse (B500) as a base and take smaller side roads.
Things to consider:
- Popular with motorcyclists, so busy on weekends
- Some roads have speed restrictions specifically for motorcycles
- Speed cameras are common
Best period: April to October
7. Dolomites – Italy
One of Europe's most beautiful areas with impressive rock formations and many mountain passes close to each other.
Route tip:
Sella Ronda is a must. This is a circuit past four passes that you can ride in one day.
Things to consider:
- Lots of tourism during peak season
- Roads can be busy with cars and buses
- Leaving early pays off
Best period: June to September
8. Pyrenees – Spain and France
Less known than the Alps, but just as good. Here you'll find peace, space, and technical routes.
Route tip:
Ride from Andorra towards the Atlantic coast for a long, varied trip.
Things to consider:
- Fewer amenities than in the Alps
- Plan navigation well in advance
- Little traffic, so stay extra alert
Best period: May to October
9. Transfagarasan – Romania
Known as one of the most beautiful roads in the world. Technical, high, and impressive.
Route tip:
Combine with the Transalpina for a complete Romania experience.
Things to consider:
- Varying road quality
- Stray animals like sheep and sometimes bears
- Not always good guardrails or protection
Best period: June to September
10. North Coast 500 – Scotland
A long route along the rugged coast of Scotland. Here, it's not about speed, but about experience.
Route tip:
Plan at least 5 to 7 days and take your time for stops.
Things to consider:
- Narrow roads and single-track sections
- Unpredictable weather (rain is normal)
- Driving on the left
Best period: May to September
Practical tips for your motorcycle tour
A good route is one thing, but preparation determines how good your trip truly becomes.
1. Check your motorcycle beforehand
- Tires, brakes, and chain
- Oil and fluids
- Possibly a minor service
2. Bring the right gear
- Waterproof motorcycle clothing
- Thermal layer for cold mountain passes
- Earplugs and good gloves
3. Navigation and planning
- Download offline maps
- Plan fuel stops in advance
- Avoid busy times where possible
4. Be flexible
- Weather can change quickly
- Sometimes taking a detour is better than pushing through
- Enjoy the journey, not just the destination
Ready for departure
Europe's most beautiful routes are closer than you think. Whether you choose the Alps, Scandinavia, or Eastern Europe, one thing is certain: good preparation and the right equipment make all the difference.
Discover everything you need for your next motorcycle tour on WheelsWork.com
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