This summer, the Hanseatic city of Bremen will once again be crowned the essential meeting point for cyclists from all over Europe and the world.
The big highlight: the international GFNY race in August. A challenge that will attract top cyclists to a spectacular route between the heart of Bremen and its green surroundings. With a packed calendar of cycling events and a carefully selected range of themed routes, Bremen is establishing itself as the perfect destination for those looking to discover the world on two wheels.
International cycling: the GFNY series comes to Bremen
The summer of 2026 in Bremen will be lived on two wheels. The city is preparing to reach top speed on 30 August, when the prestigious GFNY (Gran Fondo New York) world series makes its stop in the Hanseatic capital, unleashing a real cycling fever in every street of the city. Founded in New York in 2011, this competition combines high-performance sport with an unrivalled community spirit, bringing amateur and professional cyclists together on the same starting line. The start and finish lines are located in Bremen’s avant-garde Tabakquartier. More than 100 kilometres through picture-postcard landscapes, historic corners and the city’s most modern architecture. Participants will have the opportunity to qualify for the legendary GFNY World Championship in New York City.
The day will culminate in style with a post-race event at the Tabakquartier, where the winners’ efforts and the festive atmosphere of all the riders will be celebrated.
A different kind of competition: the Bremer Lastenradrennen (Bremen Cargo Bike Race)
In June 2026, Bremen will be taking its “beasts of burden” out onto the streets! On 20 June, we will be celebrating the 10th edition of the Bremen Cargo Bike Race (and the 4th edition of the United Cargobike Race). It’s not just a race; it’s a show of skill where cyclists demonstrate what they can do on modern cargo bikes. More than speed: it’s not enough to be the fastest; participants must overcome ingenious obstacles that will test their dexterity and balance.
There will be competitions for conventional and electric cargo bikes. The event includes the Family Race, where even the youngest members of the family can join in the adventure.
Pure cycling culture: the BIKE IT! festival comes to Überseeinsel
The BIKE IT! Festival on Überseeinsel is definitive proof that a passion for cycling and Bremen’s cultural spirit go hand in hand. The event, on 5 and 6 September, offers an inspiring mix of bike expo, technical talks, test areas, road trips and street food, as well as an extensive artistic and cultural programme. The atmosphere among the old shipyard buildings and artists’ studios in Bremen’s most innovative urban development district makes the event a special experience that not only cycling enthusiasts will enjoy.
Art cycle route marking the 150th anniversary of Paula Modersohn-Becker
A highlight this year is the new 107-kilometre art cycle route ‘Moor, Magie und große Kunst’ (Moor, Magic and Great Art), launched to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Bremen’s most famous artist, Paula Modersohn-Becker. The route connects important places in the life and work of the expressionist painter with museums in Bremen, Worpswede, Vegesack and Fischerhude, inviting visitors to actively experience art and nature. The route is now open to the public and is ideal for one-day or multi-day exploration tours.
Bremen: one of the best cities for cycling in the world
In the Hanseatic city, cycling is part of everyday life. That’s why the conditions for visitors to explore the city on two wheels could hardly be better. With an extensive network of cycle paths and excellent cycling infrastructure, Bremen is an ideal destination for cycling holidays of all kinds. Whether you’re on a family cycling tour of Bremen and Bremerhaven or a longer cycling trip through the region, the various themed exploration routes offer the right option for every need. The Bremen Tourism website offers more information about cycling in the city.