On Your Bike! Why Cycling In Munich, GERMANY Is Wheely Wonderful

Cycling in Germany – and Munich in particular – is easy, safe and fun… but fair warning! If you see a sign that says “Fahrräder abstellen verboten,” you may want to park your bicycle elsewhere. This actually means bicycles aren’t allowed to park here! Don’t worry though – there are plenty of spots available throughout the city, for good reason…

No less than 80% of Munich’s population own a bike and cyclists account for 18% of traffic in the city! What’s more, a survey by Sinus found that 30% of those cycling in Germany use their bicycles ‘intensively’. These are locals who cycle at least 30 km a week. In Munich, bicycles are the most efficient vehicle to get you from point A to point B. In fact, even Munich’s Lord Mayor still rides a bicycle going to work.

Munich is known as Germany’s most bike-friendly city. In the same survey from Sinus, respondents rate bicycles/pedelecs as the best means of transport for the future. With that said, the city of Munich has already begun finding ways to make its streets even more suitable for cyclists. Munich’s cycling network spans more than 1,200 km in length, which accounts for a whopping 50% of Munich’s road network.

Why cycling in Munich is wheely wonderful

Since 2010, Munich has proudly called itself Germany’s ‘Radlhauptstadt’ (bicycle capital). The city of Munich has recognized the role that cycling plays in the progress of our city. As such, they’ve invested in multiple projects to transform Munich into a bike-friendly city. Here’s why biking in Munich has gained so much momentum:

It’s a convenient mode of transportation

Cycling in Munich, Germany is the fastest and most flexible mode of transportation. Compared to larger vehicles, riding a bicycle allows you to have complete control of how you get around. You can pedal as fast or as slow as you want, inhale the fresh air, and sometimes break a sweat.

Dedicated bike routes have also been created for protection and to encourage people to hop on their bikes. What’s more, cycling in Germany is subject to strict rules: These include speed limits, children under 8 not being allowed to use bike lanes, and cyclists needing to follow traffic lights.

It helps you stay active

When you’re on vacation or heading off to a coworking space, it can be hard to find time to exercise. Hopping on a bicycle to travel to your desired location can change all that. Biking is known to strengthen your legs and boost mental health. Moreover, it’s been proven to reduce the risks of diabetes as well as high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases.

This makes cycling perfect for people who want to live a longer, healthier life – and it’s a key reason why cycling in Germany is so popular.

It’s environment friendly

When you ride a bike instead of driving a car, you help in two respects: reducing traffic and helping the environment. What’s more, you can save a lot of money on gas or using public transportation systems.

The conventional bicycle runs on a rider’s bodily mechanical functions, limiting carbon emissions from polluting the air. Environmental protections are taken seriously here, which is why cycling in Germany is made as easy as possible.

A great combination of public transport and cycling

If you’re in a rush, Munich has also catered to the needs of people who need to travel longer distances. There are designated parking spots for bikes and you can even rent a bicycle once you hop off a train. An example of this is the Munich S-Bahn. Numerous parking spaces for bicycles are provided for cyclists who travel to certain stops, then transfer to trains. When it comes to cycling in Germany, Munich ranks right at the top thanks to these kinds of initiatives!

Touring in Munich while on a bike

There are over 14,000 biking routes you can conveniently choose from to explore the city of Munich. Some routes are well-paved surfaces, while some are tailored for more experienced riders.

You can discover all there is to know about Munich by riding a bike. Regardless of your destination, you’re bound to cycle by breathtaking sights one way or another. Here are just some of them:

Marienplatz

Founded in 1158 by Henry the Lion, Marienplatz has long been the focal point of the city of Munich. The central square is known for being a hub for both residents and tourists. This is where you’ll find the Christkindlmarkt and where FC Bayern hosts their championship celebrations.

Ohel Jakob Synagogue

This architectural masterpiece can be found at Sankt-Jakobs-Platz in Munich. Cyclists get to stop off to see such fascinating places as the Jüdisches Zentrum and Museum (Jewish Museum) and Gemeindezentrum (Community Center).

Wasser-Radlwege Oberbayern

You’ll be mesmerized by the structures found in the Wasser-Radlwege Oberbayern cycling route. It’s a route that will take you on a tour all over upper Bavaria. One loop will lead you to hops and beer. Meanwhile, other routes will lead you along paths of art and culture.

Isar cycle path

This path promises to help you explore some of the most breathtaking rivers and mountains of Germany. You’ll come across the Karwendel mountains, the oldest town along Isar, and riverside meadows surrounding the Isar estuary.

Focus Lounge by King’s

This spot is perfect whether you need a place to work or simply take a break from cycling in Munich. It is located right in the heart of the city and has everything you can ask for. This innovative coworking cafe and bar has great coffee, healthy food, comfy workspaces and superfast Wi-Fi.

Final thoughts

Cycling in Germany is a popular pastime! In Munich especially, cyclists will find themselves completely at home. The bicycle-friendly infrastructure has decreased traffic, benefiting the environment and the health of locals and visitors.

The city has gone to great lengths to make it convenient for cyclists to get around. You’ll see bike lanes and parking spots all over the city. After all, more than €32 million was spent from 1992 to 2010 just to improve Munich’s biking infrastructure!

What’s more, cycling is one of the best ways to tour the city of Munich. It allows you to connect with residents and easily reach different parts of the city.

Bike rentals are available all around Munich. So if ever you plan to visit this wonderful city and want to experience the best cycling in Germany, you won’t have to go very far before you can get pedaling!

“You are one ride away from a good mood.” — Sarah Bentley, professional cyclist

Featured image source: Unsplash