EuroVelo 10 cycling route

EuroVelo 10, also known as the Baltic Sea Cycle Route, is a spectacular long-distance cycling route that circles the entire Baltic Sea, passing through nine countries and showcasing an impressive variety of landscapes, coastal views, and cultural treasures. Spanning over 9,000 km (~5,600 miles), this route offers everything from sandy beaches and medieval cities to pine forests and fishing villages. Whether you're planning to ride a section of the route or tackle the entire loop, EuroVelo 10 promises a diverse and unforgettable cycling adventure.

Key Route Information

• Total Distance: ~9,000 km (~5,600 miles)
• Countries: Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Russia (Kaliningrad exclave), Finland, Sweden, Denmark
• Difficulty Level: Moderate -- primarily flat with some hilly sections in Sweden and Finland
• Elevation Profile: Mostly flat in Poland, the Baltic States, and Denmark; rolling hills in Sweden and Finland
• Route Type: Mix of dedicated cycle paths, quiet coastal roads, and some urban sections
• Surface: Mostly paved, but some gravel and dirt roads in forested areas

EuroVelo 10 signposting quality and route conditions by region

Germany (Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Schleswig-Holstein)

The German section offers well-marked, high-quality cycle paths, particularly in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania along the Baltic coast. Routes are paved, with clear signage and plenty of amenities.

Poland

The signage varies across Poland. In the western sections near Świnoujście, markings are decent and infrastructure is improving. However, some gaps exist in the central and eastern parts, requiring occasional navigation with GPS. Expect forest trails and country roads in some stretches.

Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia

Signage quality improves moving northward. Lithuania has marked sections, especially near Klaipėda and Palanga, but rural roads may require extra attention. Latvia's coastal paths are scenic, but some sections have sandy and gravel roads. Estonia has excellent signposting, particularly near Tallinn and along its well-developed cycling network.

Finland and Sweden

Sweden's cycle paths near Malmö and Stockholm are well-developed, but some inland sections require navigation. Finland's coast features great cycling infrastructure, particularly in the Turku Archipelago. Signage is consistent in both countries.

Denmark

Denmark boasts some of the best cycling infrastructure in the world. The route is fully signposted, well-maintained, and offers dedicated lanes in most urban areas.

Recommended Direction and Best Time to Ride

• Preferred Direction: Clockwise -- to follow the prevailing winds along the Baltic Sea and avoid headwinds.
• Best Time to Ride: May to September, when temperatures are warm, days are long, and most services are open. Early summer (June) offers fewer tourists, while July and August provide ideal weather but more crowds.

EuroVelo 10 main stages and regional highlights

1. Germany (Flensburg -- Świnoujście, ~600 km)

• Highlights: Lübeck (UNESCO-listed medieval town), Rügen Island (chalk cliffs), Usedom Island (seaside resorts)
• Mostly paved, excellent infrastructure, well-marked coastal cycleways.

2. Poland (Świnoujście -- Kaliningrad, ~500 km)

• Highlights: Gdańsk (historic port city), Hel Peninsula (beaches and dunes), Słowiński National Park (moving sand dunes)
• Some gaps in cycle infrastructure; a mix of paved roads and forest trails.

3. Baltic States (Kaliningrad -- Tallinn, ~1,200 km)

• Highlights: Curonian Spit (UNESCO site), Riga (Latvia's capital), Pärnu (Estonia's summer capital)
• Some gravel roads; strong cycling culture in Estonia.

4. Finland (Tallinn -- Haparanda, ~1,500 km)

• Highlights: Helsinki, Åland Islands, Turku Archipelago
• Well-developed cycle lanes, scenic coastal stretches.

5. Sweden (Haparanda -- Malmö, ~2,000 km)

• Highlights: Stockholm, Kalmar, Öland Island
• Rolling hills in the south; excellent ferry connections.

6. Denmark (Malmö -- Flensburg, ~1,000 km)

• Highlights: Copenhagen, Møn Cliffs, Odense
• World-class cycle paths, fully signposted.

Notable points of interest along the EuroVelo 10 route

EuroVelo 10 offers an incredible variety of landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences as it loops around the Baltic Sea. From rugged Nordic coastlines to charming medieval towns, each section has its own unique highlights. Here's what you shouldn't miss along the way:

Gulf of Bothnia: Nordic wilderness and coastal towns

The Gulf of Bothnia forms the northernmost section of the Baltic Sea, separating Sweden and Finland. This stretch of the route offers a mix of remote wilderness, historic coastal towns, and UNESCO-listed sites.

• High Coast, Sweden (Höga Kusten) -- This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts stunning cliffs, rugged coastlines, and one of the world's highest post-glacial rebound areas. The cycling path passes through small fishing villages, offering breathtaking views over the sea.
• Kvarken Archipelago, Finland -- Another UNESCO-listed region, this archipelago is home to unique moraine formations and a rich birdlife. Cyclists can explore the islands via ferry connections.
• Umeå, Sweden -- Known as the "City of Birches," Umeå is a cultural hotspot featuring contemporary museums, live music venues, and a vibrant food scene.
• Oulu, Finland -- A tech-driven city with a strong cycling culture. The well-maintained bike lanes here are among the best in Finland, and the waterfront market square is a great stop for local delicacies like smoked salmon and cloudberry desserts.
• Rauma, Finland -- Home to Old Rauma, a beautifully preserved medieval wooden town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its colorful wooden buildings and artisan workshops make for a delightful visit.

Gulf of Finland: historic capitals and naval fortresses

Cycling along the Gulf of Finland takes you through three vibrant capital cities—Helsinki, Tallinn, and St. Petersburg (if detouring into Russia)—each offering a mix of modern culture and deep historical roots.

• Helsinki, Finland -- The Finnish capital is packed with architecture, waterfront parks, and lively markets. Highlights include Suomenlinna Fortress (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the contemporary Oodi Library, and the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum showcasing traditional Finnish life.
• Tallinn, Estonia -- One of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities, Tallinn's Old Town features fairy-tale-like towers, cobbled streets, and cozy cafés. Visit Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the local markets to try Estonian black bread and marzipan.
• Lahemaa National Park, Estonia -- Just east of Tallinn, this park is ideal for a scenic cycling detour with forests, bogs, and grand 18th-century manors like Palmse and Sagadi.
• Narva, Estonia -- The border town between Estonia and Russia, featuring Narva Castle, which overlooks the Narva River with a fascinating view of Ivangorod Fortress on the Russian side.

Gulf of Riga and Courland's Coast: castles, cliffs, and fishing villages

This section follows Latvia's and Lithuania's western coasts, with long sandy beaches, charming towns, and the unique landscapes of Courland and the Curonian Lagoon.

• Riga, Latvia -- A major highlight, the Latvian capital blends Art Nouveau architecture, a dynamic nightlife scene, and a thriving café culture. Don't miss Riga Central Market, one of the largest in Europe, where you can sample smoked fish, rye bread, and Latvian cheese.
• Jūrmala, Latvia -- This famous seaside resort town is known for its wooden villas, mineral springs, and long white-sand beaches. It's a perfect place to relax before continuing the journey south.
• Cape Kolka, Latvia -- Where the Gulf of Riga meets the Baltic Sea, Cape Kolka is a windswept, remote headland with wild nature and traditional Livonian fishing villages.
• Kuldīga, Latvia (slight inland detour) -- Home to the Venta Rapid, Europe's widest waterfall, Kuldīga is a picturesque town full of historical charm and wooden bridges.
• Palanga, Lithuania -- A lively seaside resort known for its Amber Museum, located in a grand 19th-century manor surrounded by beautiful botanical gardens.

Curonian Spit and Gulf of Gdańsk: shifting dunes and historic seaside towns

This section passes through some of the most unique natural landscapes in Europe, including the shifting sand dunes of the Curonian Spit, and into Poland's historic coastline.

• Curonian Spit, Lithuania/Russia -- This UNESCO-listed sand dune peninsula is a surreal mix of forests, massive dunes, and fishing villages. Highlights include the Dancing Forest, Dead Dunes, and the charming town of Nida, famous for its wooden houses and writer Thomas Mann's summer house.
• Kaliningrad, Russia -- A detour into Kaliningrad offers a mix of Prussian, Soviet, and modern Russian history, including the Königsberg Cathedral and Amber Museum.
• Gdańsk, Poland -- One of Poland's most beautiful cities, Gdańsk is famous for its colorful facades, maritime history, and rich amber trade. Visit St. Mary's Church, the European Solidarity Centre, and the bustling waterfront promenade.

Southern Coast: Poland to Germany's historic seaside towns

This stretch of the route takes cyclists through Poland's and Germany's most popular coastal regions, featuring sand dunes, charming old towns, and historic resorts.

• Słowiński National Park, Poland -- A surreal landscape of moving sand dunes, creating a desert-like atmosphere on the Baltic coast.
• Kołobrzeg, Poland -- A historic spa and resort town with a lighthouse, long beaches, and a charming old town square.
• Usedom, Germany/Poland -- A unique cross-border island, home to imperial seaside resorts such as Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf, and Bansin.
• Rügen Island, Germany -- Germany's largest island, famous for its white chalk cliffs (Jasmund National Park), seaside resorts like Binz, and the historic Sellin pier.

Danish Straits: seaside castles and Viking history

This section includes the island-dotted waters between Denmark, Sweden, and Germany, home to Viking history, royal castles, and scenic coastal roads.

• Copenhagen, Denmark -- One of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, offering beautiful waterfront cycling paths, Nyhavn Harbor, Tivoli Gardens, and the famous Little Mermaid statue.
• Kronborg Castle, Denmark -- Also known as Hamlet's Castle, this UNESCO-listed fortress in Helsingør overlooks the narrowest point of the Øresund Strait.
• Møn and Stevns Cliffs, Denmark -- Dramatic white chalk cliffs rising from the Baltic Sea, offering some of the most spectacular coastal views in Denmark.
• Bornholm, Denmark -- A cyclist's paradise, this Danish island in the Baltic features rocky coastlines, medieval round churches, and small fishing villages.

Accommodation options along EuroVelo 10 route

• Camping: Numerous sites along the route, especially in Denmark, Sweden, and Germany.
• Hostels and Guesthouses: Common in urban areas, rural sections have fewer options.
• Hotels: Available in most cities; book in advance during summer.

Getting to EuroVelo10 by public transport with a bike

Traveling with a bicycle along the EuroVelo 10 route, which encircles the Baltic Sea, offers cyclists a diverse and enriching experience across multiple countries. Each nation along this route has its own set of regulations, facilities, and services concerning the transportation of bicycles via public transport. Understanding these specifics is crucial for a seamless journey. Below is a detailed overview of bicycle transport options in the countries traversed by EuroVelo 10.

1. Germany

Germany boasts an extensive and cyclist-friendly public transport system.

• Trains: Most regional trains (RegionalBahn and RegionalExpress) accommodate bicycles, often without the need for prior reservation. However, purchasing a bicycle ticket is mandatory. Long-distance trains, such as InterCity (IC) and EuroCity (EC), also allow bicycles, but these require advance reservations due to limited bike spaces. It's advisable to book these spots early, especially during peak travel seasons.

2. Denmark

Denmark is renowned for its cycling culture, and this is reflected in its public transport policies.

• Trains: DSB, the national railway operator, allows bicycles on most regional and intercity trains. A bicycle ticket is required, and during busy periods, such as summer weekends, it's recommended to reserve a spot in advance.
• Urban Public Transport: Copenhagen's S-trains permit bicycles free of charge, making urban cycling integration seamless. However, the Metro has restrictions during peak hours.
• Ferries: Given Denmark's archipelagic nature, ferries are integral to travel. Most ferry services accommodate bicycles, often with a small fee.

3. Sweden

Sweden offers varied policies regarding bicycle transport on public systems.

• Trains: Policies differ among operators. Some regional trains allow bicycles, while others do not. It's crucial to verify with the specific train company beforehand. For long-distance trains, bicycles are generally not permitted unless disassembled and packed as luggage.
• Ferries: Numerous ferry routes connect coastal areas and islands, and most allow bicycles, typically for a nominal fee.

4. Finland

Finland's public transport system is gradually becoming more accommodating to cyclists.

• Trains: VR, the national railway operator, permits bicycles on many long-distance and regional trains. A bicycle ticket is necessary, and due to limited spaces, booking in advance is advisable.
• Urban Public Transport: Policies vary by city. In Helsinki, for example, the metro allows bicycles during certain hours without an extra charge.

5. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania

The Baltic States are continually improving their cycling infrastructure, and public transport policies are evolving.

• Trains: Bicycle policies vary. Some regional trains permit bicycles, often requiring a separate ticket. It's best to check with local operators for specific guidelines.
• Buses: Long-distance buses might allow bicycles if there's sufficient luggage space, usually for an additional fee. Confirming in advance is recommended.

6. Poland

Poland has made significant strides in integrating cycling with public transport.

• Trains: Most regional and intercity trains accept bicycles, with a required bicycle ticket. During peak times, especially in popular tourist regions like the Baltic coast, securing a spot can be competitive. It's advisable to arrive early and, if possible, reserve in advance.
• Urban Public Transport: In cities, trams and buses may allow bicycles during off-peak hours, but policies vary, so checking local regulations is essential.

7. Russia

In regions like Kaliningrad, which EuroVelo 10 passes through, public transport accommodating bicycles can be limited.

• Trains and Buses: Bicycle policies are inconsistent. It's crucial to inquire locally and be prepared for potential restrictions.

8. Norway

Norway offers a generally accommodating environment for cyclists using public transport.

• Trains: Most trains allow bicycles, but a separate ticket is required, and spaces can be limited, so booking in advance is recommended.
• Ferries: Given Norway's extensive coastline, ferries are common and typically permit bicycles, often without additional charges.

10 must-try foods along the EuroVelo 10 route

Cycling the EuroVelo 10 route is not just about breathtaking landscapes and historic towns—it's also an opportunity to explore the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the Baltic Sea region. From fresh seafood to hearty Nordic stews, every country along the route has something delicious to offer. Here are ten specialties you should absolutely try on your journey:

1. Smørrebrød (Denmark)

Denmark's famous open-faced sandwich is a must-try for any visitor. A slice of dense rye bread (rugbrød) serves as the base, topped with a variety of ingredients such as pickled herring, smoked salmon, roast beef, shrimp, egg, or potatoes, often garnished with fresh herbs, remoulade, or horseradish.

2. Räksmörgås (Sweden)

Another variation of an open-faced sandwich, this Swedish classic features fresh shrimp, boiled eggs, mayonnaise, dill, and lemon, all served on toast or rye bread. It's a refreshing, protein-packed meal that's perfect for refueling after a long ride.

3. Lohikeitto (Finland)

This Finnish salmon soup is a comforting, creamy dish made with salmon, potatoes, carrots, leeks, and dill, all simmered in a rich broth with a touch of cream. It's perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

4. Rügener Fischbrötchen (Germany)

A staple of northern Germany's Baltic coast, the Fischbrötchen is a simple but incredibly flavorful sandwich. It consists of a crispy bread roll filled with fresh or pickled herring, smoked mackerel, salmon, or shrimp, often served with onions, remoulade, and lettuce.

5. Cepelinai (Lithuania)

Lithuania's national dish, cepelinai, are potato dumplings stuffed with minced meat, curd cheese, or mushrooms and served with sour cream and bacon bits. They are hearty and filling—perfect for refueling after a long day of cycling.

6. Sklandrausis (Latvia)

A traditional Latvian pie, sklandrausis is made with a rye flour crust filled with mashed potatoes and sweet carrots, often flavored with honey and caraway seeds. This combination of sweet and savory flavors is unique to Latvia and reflects the country's agricultural traditions.

7. Piragi (Estonia and Latvia)

These small, baked pastries are filled with bacon and onions (or sometimes mushrooms for a vegetarian twist). They are a favorite snack in both Estonia and Latvia, often served at celebrations but also available in bakeries.

8. Pierogi Ruskie (Poland)

While Poland has many pierogi varieties, pierogi ruskie are the most popular—stuffed with mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, and onions. They are often pan-fried for extra crispiness and served with sour cream.

9. Curonian Smoked Fish (Lithuania & Russia)

On the Curonian Spit, smoking fish is an art form. Locals prepare a variety of smoked and cured fish, including perch, pike, and eel, often served with dark rye bread and butter. The smoky, salty flavors are deeply tied to the region's fishing heritage.

10. Sillipannkook (Estonia)

This savory Estonian pancake is filled with marinated herring, sour cream, and fresh herbs. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that reflects Estonia's deep-rooted love for preserved fish and dairy-based toppings. It's often eaten for breakfast or as a light snack.

Common challenges and how to tackle them

In some sections, cyclists may encounter rough gravel roads, particularly in Latvia and parts of Poland. A hybrid or touring bike with wide tires is recommended for comfort. Ferry crossings can be costly and require planning, especially between Sweden and Finland. In rural areas, services and accommodation can be sparse, so booking ahead or carrying food and water is advisable. Finally, weather along the Baltic Sea can change quickly, so having layered clothing and rain gear is essential for a comfortable ride.

Key legal takeaways for cyclists on EuroVelo 10

Lights and Reflectors: Most countries require front and rear lights when riding at night.
Helmet Laws: Helmets are mandatory for children in most countries and for all cyclists in Finland.
Sidewalk Cycling: Usually not allowed, except for children or if no bike lanes are available.
Alcohol Rules: Some countries, like Germany, Poland and Sweden, impose fines for cycling under the influence.
Priority a Right-Hand Rule: Cyclists should keep right and use designated bike lanes where available.