Cycling is the nicest way to get to know a new city, or simply to get from one place to another. In Tampere, cycling lanes and services are constantly being developed to make bicycles the best option to move around. Here are some of the most important points you need to know about cycling in Tampere.
Cycling maps
City centre cycling lanes, region cycling routes, scenery routes… All cycling maps provided by the city of Tampere can be downloaded from the City of Tampere website (site in Finnish). Printed maps are available in the public transportation customer service at Frenckellinaukio 2 B.
Bike rental
Tampere City bikes offer a fast way to move around. Bikes can be found at city bike stations in the extended city center area. For use, you need the Tampereen kaupunkipyörät application, through which registration and payment are handled. The app can be found on app stores.
You can also rent a bicycle from Easybike (you need to download Easybike app and register online). Electric fatbikes can be rented for example from Pakomatkat.
Pyhä-Näsi – Lake Trails
Did you know you can cycle around the whole Näsijärvi lake? Depending on how much time you have to spare, you can combine cycling with a leg on the Poet’s Way aboard steamship Tarjanne. There’s also a route built around the city’s other big lake, Pyhäjärvi, where you can for instance follow a 30-kilometer scenic route around the lake. Read more about the options and services from Lake Trails website.
Pirkka Cycling
If you’d prefer some company on your adventure around Näsijärvi, take part in Pirkka Cycling. The main legs, 217 and 134 kilometres, are a challenge to a recreational cyclist, but you can also choose one of the shorter legs for a more relaxed approach. A specialty is the Pirkka Night Cycling that allows you to combine the classic 134 km route with the white night of Finnish midsummer. About three thousand enthusiastic cyclists take part in Pirkka Cycling yearly. It’s part of the Tour De Pirkka sports event.