EU progress on cycling - greener, healthier, more inclusive mobility

The European Commission has adopted its first progress report on the European Declaration on Cycling, showing strong momentum across the EU to boost cycling infrastructure and policies. The report confirms cycling’s role as a clean, affordable and health-boosting way to travel 

 Cycling could help tackle transport poverty by offering low-cost mobility. The Commission’s recent recommendation invites Member States to expand infrastructure and provide subsidies for bicycles, e-bikes and cargo bikes, especially for low-income households. 

The EU-funded ‘Cycling counts’ study is mapping cycling infrastructure. Preliminary results point to over 900,000 km of cycle paths across Europe, with major differences between regions. A new network of national cycling contact points (26 Member States) and the  expert group on urban mobility have identified more than 270 measures.

From 2021-2025, €4.5 billion is earmarked for cycling, including €3.2 billion from EU funds. This will deliver over 12,000 km of new or upgraded cycle paths. An estimated €1.3 billion under the recovery and resilience facility is earmarked for cycling-related projects.

Cities are stepping up cycling measures to meet the targets of the climate-netural and smart cities mission. At national level, inspired by the European declaration, Lithuania adopted its first cycling strategy in 2024. 

The report highlights the need to improve aspects such as cycle logistics, safe parking, charging in buildings, carriage of bikes on trains, climate-proofing infrastructure and engagement with industry. 

Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas said: "Cycling is much more than just a means of transport. It contributes to cleaner air, healthier communities, and more accessible and people-friendly cities. Europe is steadily expanding cycling opportunities, but we need to go further to ensure that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and convenient mobility options."

Background

The European Declaration on Cycling, signed in 2024 by the European Parliament, Council and Commission, recognises cycling as a fully-fledged mode of transport. It sets principles for action on planning, infrastructure, inclusivity, multimodality, investments, safety, industry and better data. This progress report is the first stocktake of progress since its adoption.

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.