The strong pro-cycling movement has gained momentum in Germany in recent years, inspired by international examples and European initiatives. A key milestone is the still recent adoption of the European Declaration on Cycling, against which Germany is now measuring its progress—aligning national goals with broader EU ambitions for sustainable mobility.

Within this international framework and with Germany's goal of becoming a cycling country by 2030, a number of successful government-funded initiatives have emerged, such as a programme to fund cycling infrastructure (Stadt & Land), the setting up of an information centre that advises municipalities on bicycle parking at railway stations (Infostelle Fahrradparken) and a programme fostering climate action through cycling-related initiatives (Klimaschutz durch Radverkehr). These initiatives are not just about the mobility transition, but also about creating liveable cities and improving climate protection.
  The growing commitment to more and safer cycling is visible everywhere: from the surge in cycling referendums in many German cities to the rising membership of the ADFC. The founding of the youth organisation “Junger ADFC” in April 2025 reflects young people’s increasing engagement in shaping sustainable transport policy, counting today more than 38,000 young members.

Germany is also investing in education and research to support the rapid development of cycling infrastructure and policy. The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMV) funded the creation of seven new cycling professorships. In addition to advancing research into cycling-related issues, universities are training urgently needed transport and urban planning specialists, whose work is crucial in designing the inclusive, resilient cities of tomorrow.
  While Germany’s commitment to everyday cycling continues to grow year after year, the country already leads the way in cycling tourism. Germany ranked as the #1 destination for cycling holidays in Europe. In 2024, over 455 million cycling day trips were made, generating nearly €14 billion in tourism spending. 

Beyond tourism, the German bicycle industry remains strong even in challenging economic times. A major driver of this resilience is the rising popularity of e-bikes. In 2024, for the second consecutive year, more e-bikes than traditional bicycles were sold, nearly 2.1 million in total. One of the key contributors to this boom is the company bike initiative, which enables employees to lease bikes. More than two million employees have taken advantage of the scheme since its introduction—illustrating the strong and growing demand for flexible, climate-friendly, and health-conscious mobility options.


Join the German Cycling Embassy's representatives in the Velo-city Exhibition at booth 68-69 for a special reception, Wednesday 17 June at 15:45 - and on the Freewheel Stage, Thursday 18 June at 10:30!