Europe is a true paradise for motorcyclists. Whether you dream of conquering the winding Alpine passes, exploring the wild fjords of Norway, or riding along the sun-soaked coasts of Spain, the Old Continent offers some of the most spectacular motorcycle routes in the world. It is home to legendary roads that attract thousands of riders from across the globe every year.
In this guide, we present the best motorcycle routes in Europe that deserve a place on every motorcycle travel enthusiast’s bucket list.
Why Is Europe the Perfect Destination for a Motorcycle Adventure?
Europe stands out for its incredible diversity of landscapes and its excellent road infrastructure. In just a few days, riders can travel through the towering Alps, Mediterranean coastlines, dense Scandinavian forests, and the picturesque valleys of the Balkans. The Alpine region, in particular, is widely regarded as one of the world’s best motorcycling destinations, thanks to its combination of well-maintained roads, challenging twisties, and breathtaking scenery.
1. Route des Grandes Alpes, France
The Queen of Europe’s Motorcycle Routes
If there is one route that every motorcyclist should ride at least once in their lifetime, it is the Route des Grandes Alpes.
This legendary road stretches from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea. Covering approximately 700–720 kilometers, it crosses some of the most spectacular mountain passes in the French Alps. Along the way, riders encounter more than 15 high-altitude passes, including the famous Col de l’Iseran — the highest paved mountain pass in France.
Top Attractions
- Col de l’Iseran (2,764 m / 9,068 ft)
- Col du Galibier
- Col d’Izoard
- Cormet de Roselend
- Menton on the French Riviera
Best Suited For
- Touring motorcycles
- Adventure and adventure-touring bikes
- Experienced riders
Did You Know?
Depending on the chosen itinerary, the route can include more than 20 mountain passes and thousands of corners. Some riders refer to it as the “motorcycling equivalent of Route 66.”
2. Stelvio Pass, Italy
Europe’s Most Iconic Motorcycle Road
Passo dello Stelvio is a legendary destination for motorcyclists. Famous worldwide thanks to motoring shows and countless drone photographs, the pass sits at an elevation of approximately 2,758 meters (9,049 feet) above sea level.
Its greatest attraction is the northern ascent, featuring 48 tight hairpin bends stacked almost one above another. It is a true test of riding skill and precision.
Top Attractions
- 48 legendary hairpin turns
- Spectacular views of the Ortler Alps
- Traditional Italian mountain huts and restaurants at the summit
Best Time to Visit
From June to September, when the pass is fully open.
Tip
Start your ride early in the morning. During the peak season, the road quickly becomes crowded with cyclists, motorhomes, and tourists.
3. Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania
One of the Most Beautiful Roads in the World
The Transfăgărășan Highway cuts through the Southern Carpathian Mountains, offering an unforgettable combination of sweeping curves, tight switchbacks, and stunning wilderness.
The route gained worldwide recognition after being named one of the greatest driving roads on the planet by automotive journalists. To this day, it remains a must-ride destination for anyone planning a motorcycle adventure through Eastern Europe.
What Will You See?
- Bâlea Lake
- Tunnels carved directly into the mountainside
- Breathtaking Carpathian mountain panoramas
- Wild bears roaming the area (viewed from a safe distance)
Difficulty Level
Intermediate to advanced.
4. Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
Alpine Perfection
Austria is renowned for its exceptionally well-maintained roads, and the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is one of its finest showcases.
Running through the heart of the High Alps, this scenic route offers near-perfect asphalt, wide sweeping bends, and spectacular viewpoints. The highest point of the road reaches an elevation of over 2,500 meters (8,200 feet).
Why Ride It?
- Perfect road surface
- Numerous scenic viewpoints
- Views of Austria’s highest mountain, Grossglockner
Ideal For
- Sport-touring motorcycles
- Touring motorcycles
- Group motorcycle tours
5. Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway
Riding Between the Ocean and the Sky
The Atlantic Ocean Road is one of the world’s most spectacular scenic routes. It connects a series of small islands through a network of bridges that appear to rise directly out of the ocean.
Although the route itself is relatively short, it delivers an unforgettable visual experience, especially during stormy weather when powerful waves crash against the coastline and bridges.
What Makes This Route Special?
- Iconic ocean-spanning bridges
- Magnificent fjord and ocean scenery
- The unique light of the Scandinavian summer
Best Time to Visit
May to August.
6. Picos de Europa, Spain
A Hidden Gem for European Motorcyclists
Most riders associate Spain with Andalusia, but the Picos de Europa mountain range is one of the most underrated motorcycling destinations in Europe.
Here you’ll find:
- Light traffic and quiet roads
- Hundreds of thrilling bends and curves
- Excellent road surfaces
- Authentic Spanish villages and mountain towns
It is the perfect alternative to the often-crowded Alpine routes. You can rent a motorbike in Malaga and hit the road
7. North Coast 500, Scotland
Europe’s Answer to Route 66
The North Coast 500 (NC500) takes riders through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Scottish Highlands.
Spanning more than 800 kilometers (500 miles), the route passes through:
- Wild and rugged coastlines
- Dramatic mountain passes
- Historic castles
- Charming fishing villages
One of its most famous sections is the Bealach na Bà pass, often referred to as Scotland’s answer to the Stelvio Pass due to its steep gradients and tight hairpin bends.
How to Prepare for a Motorcycle Trip Across Europe
Check the Weather
In the Alps, conditions can change several times within a single day.
Bring Proper Gear
Even in midsummer, temperatures at mountain passes above 2,500 m (8,200 ft) can drop to just a few degrees above freezing.
Plan Your Fuel Stops
In mountainous regions, gas stations can be located dozens of kilometers apart.
Download Offline Maps
In many mountain areas, mobile network coverage is limited or unavailable.
Motorcycle rental in Europe – a practical tip for travellers from outside Europe
If you are flying to Europe from the USA, Canada, Australia, South America or Asia, the most convenient solution is to rent a motorcycle on site.
Motorland.rent is one of the most flexible motorcycle rental companies in Europe, with bases in, among others, Malaga (Spain) and Poland. This allows you to start your trip either in Southern Europe or in Central Europe.
Additionally, for group rentals of 5 or more motorcycles, Motorland.rent offers delivery of bikes to any airport in Europe. This solution is especially valued by international motorcycle groups, tour organisers and premium clients planning multi-day trips across the Alps, the Balkans, Spain or Scandinavia.
Best motorcycle routes in Europe
Europe offers some of the best motorcycle routes in the world. From the legendary Stelvio passes, through the majestic French Alps and the Romanian Carpathians, to the Scottish coast and Norwegian fjords – every rider will find something for themselves here.
If you are planning the motorcycle trip of a lifetime, it is worth starting with the Route des Grandes Alpes, Stelvio or Transfăgărășan. These are routes that have been on motorcyclists’ bucket lists worldwide for years and continue to impress both beginners and the most experienced riders.
