Ringstrasse Loop: Vienna's Grand Boulevard by Bike

The ring road encircles the historic centre, and a dedicated cycle track runs almost the whole way, separated from cars and trams.

At about 5.5 km and flat, the loop is easy to ride in either direction and links neatly to the Danube Canal path.

In one circuit you pass the State Opera, the Hofburg palace, Parliament, the neo-Gothic City Hall, the Burgtheater and the main university building.

Each grand facade dates from the 19th-century Ringstrasse era, so the ride doubles as a quick lesson in imperial Vienna.

Watch for pedestrians crossing to the tram islands and obey the cycle traffic lights at the busy junctions.

Early morning gives the clearest views and the lightest traffic, ideal for photos in front of the landmarks.