Green Velo

Green Velo is the longest and one of the most well-known cycling routes in Poland, stretching over 2,000 km. It runs through five eastern voivodeships – from Elbląg in the north to Końskie in the Subcarpathian region near the Ukrainian border in the south. The route passes through national parks, forests, river valleys, open-air museums, Orthodox churches, and towns with a unique atmosphere. Green Velo is an exceptional project – not only because of its length and landscapes, but also thanks to its extensive cycling infrastructure, including Cyclist-Friendly Places. It’s the perfect choice for a longer cycling adventure with panniers and a sense of discovery.

Key route information

Length: approx. 2,070 km (from Elbląg to Końskie)
Difficulty level: varied – from easy segments to more demanding ones
Elevation: mostly gentle, but there are some longer climbs in areas like Roztocze and the Przemyśl Foothills
Surface: mostly asphalt, high-quality gravel and forest roads
Route type: linear, largely separated from car traffic

Route signage – quality and continuity

Main segments

Green Velo is very well marked – both on the ground and in maps and apps. The trail is marked with an orange symbol on a white background. Throughout the route, you’ll find distance maps, tourist information, and so-called MORs (Cyclist Service Areas) with shelters, benches, and bike racks.

Local segments and connectors

Some side routes and detours to tourist attractions are less clearly marked – in these cases, using GPS maps is recommended. However, the entire route is constantly being upgraded and updated.

Best direction and season to ride

You can ride Green Velo in either direction, although many people choose to go from north to south – from Elbląg to the Ukrainian border. This option lets you gradually “escape into nature,” farther from large cities and deeper into lesser-known regions.

The best time of year is May to September. Spring offers blooming meadows and fewer tourists, summer brings full food and accommodation services, and autumn charms with colors and a peaceful atmosphere on quieter sections of the route.

Main stages and highlights along the way

Stage 1: Elbląg – Biebrza – Białystok (approx. 400 km)

The route begins in Elbląg and runs through Warmia, Masuria, and the Narew Valley. Highlights include the Elbląg Canal, Biebrza National Park, and charming villages of Podlasie. In Białystok, visit the Branicki Palace and the old town.

Stage 2: Białystok – Janów Podlaski – Chełm (approx. 500 km)

This stage takes you through the Land of Open Shutters, along the Bug River and through Southern Podlasie. In Janów Podlaski, visit the famous horse stud, and in Chełm explore the chalk tunnels and historical town square.

Stage 3: Chełm – Zamość – Roztocze (approx. 300 km)

The trail passes through Polesie and Roztocze – with scenic hills, rivers, and forests. Spend time in Zamość exploring the fortress and Renaissance town square. Roztocze National Park is one of the most beautiful parts of the entire route.

Stage 4: Roztocze – Rzeszów – Końskie (approx. 400 km)

The final section runs through the Przemyśl Foothills and the San River Valley. Though demanding in places, it is stunningly scenic. In Rzeszów, take a break and enjoy city attractions, and in Końskie symbolically end your journey.

What to see along the way?

Biebrza National Park – a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers
Land of Open Shutters – unique wooden villages in Podlasie
Zamość – the "Pearl of the Renaissance" with a historic fortress
Roztocze National Park – wild nature and hiking trails
Rzeszów – a modern city with a lively main square and underground tourist route

Accommodation along the route

Green Velo has an extensive network of accommodation options – from agritourism to certified Cyclist-Friendly Places:

Hotels and guesthouses in larger cities – Elbląg, Białystok, Zamość, Rzeszów
Agritourism and private lodgings along the route – often with secure bike storage
Youth hostels and pilgrim houses – in border regions and national parks
Cyclist-Friendly Places – facilities with added amenities like laundry, repair stations, and route maps

Getting there and back – transport options

Getting to Elbląg:

Long-distance trains from the Tricity (Gdańsk, Gdynia, Sopot), Warsaw, and Olsztyn
Buses from major Polish cities

Return from Końskie:

Regional trains to Kielce, Radom, and Warsaw
Bike transport is possible – it's a good idea to reserve a spot in advance

What could be challenging?

The biggest challenge on Green Velo is the sheer length of the route and varying surfaces. Some forest or gravel sections may be difficult after rain or during dry spells. Due to the distances between towns, it’s wise to plan your route in advance and carry extra water and food. The Green Velo mobile app is useful for up-to-date information on trail conditions and available accommodations.