Copenhagen is world famous for its biking culture and now officially the first Bike City in the World.

Biking is a central part of Copenhagen's culture and daily life. It’s often considered one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, with a strong biking infrastructure, public support, and a focus on sustainability.

Copenhagen has a reputation related to biking culture that is unique in the World. It has been voted the ‘Best city for cyclists’ and the ‘World’s most liveable city’.

62% of Copenhageners bike to work or school every day. Copenhagen has a long bike-friendly history and excellent biking infrastructure, such as bike bridges and cycle highways.

The Danes are well known for their love of cycling, and many cities worldwide are focusing on ways to copy this phenomenon. 

Biking infrastructure

Extensive Bike Lanes: Copenhagen has over 390 kilometres (about 240 miles) of dedicated, high-quality bike lanes. Many of these are separated from car traffic, making riding in the city safe and comfortable.

Bike Bridges:

Copenhagen has several bike-specific bridges, like "Cykelslangen" (The Bicycle Snake), that weave through the city, allowing cyclists to bypass traffic or difficult routes.

Green Wave:

Some routes in the city are designed to create a “green wave” for cyclists, where traffic lights are timed so that cyclists travelling at a steady speed will hit green lights throughout their journey.

Biking culture

Over 40% of Copenhageners commute to work or school by bike. Biking is seen as a normal, everyday activity for all age groups.

Biking is essential to Copenhagen’s goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2025. This focus on environmental sustainability has made biking a celebrated part of the city's life.

 In many parts of the city, more people commute by bike than car, creating a unique urban atmosphere where cyclists dominate the streets.

Biking facilities

Bike parking:

The city has ample bike parking spaces, including designated bike racks, bike stations, and even bike repair stands scattered throughout the city.

Biking with children:

Cargo bikes, locally known as "Christiania bikes", are very popular for transporting children, groceries, and even pets. This makes biking a family-friendly activity.

Bike sharing & rentals

Bike sharing:

Copenhagen offers several bike-sharing programs like Donkey Republic and Bycyklen, allowing residents and visitors to rent bikes via an app for short periods.

Tourist-friendly:

Many tourists explore the city by bike since it’s a flat and compact city, making it easy to navigate. Bike rental shops are common, offering different types of bikes, including electric bikes and cargo bikes.

Safety

Helmets optional:

While helmets are recommended, they’re not mandatory in Denmark. However, the city’s infrastructure and cyclist-friendly policies make biking relatively safe.

Cyclist etiquette:

Cyclists in Copenhagen follow certain rules, like signalling with hand gestures, staying in bike lanes, and observing traffic lights designed for bikes.