Copenhagen approves its largest-ever cycling budget
Copenhagen is doubling down on its reputation as the world’s premier cycling capital. The Danish capital is setting aside more than $86 million (DKK 600 million) in its latest city budget. This budget represents the largest-ever allocation for cycling-related projects. The record investment aims to make biking safer, more efficient, and more accessible for all residents and travelers.
“I’m very happy and proud that we’ve gained more momentum for cyclists with the largest cycling budget Copenhagen has ever seen,” said Line Barfod, Mayor of Technical and Environmental Affairs. “There’s more funding for safe school routes, green waves for cyclists, and better bike connections. More cycling means better climate protection, more greenery, and less traffic.”
Among the highlights:
-
A new bicycle bridge will span Copenhagen’s harbor, linking the Little Mermaid area to Refshaleøen — a trendy district known for its food market and cutting-edge restaurants. This is likely to become a favorite cycling route for travelers in the Danish capital.
-
Safer school routes, including a dedicated path in Nørrebro, and separated bike lanes leading to Refshaleøen to protect riders from car traffic.
Sharp budget increase for bicycles in 2026
Barfod emphasized that the substantial investment is necessary to preserve Copenhagen’s cycling legacy: “We spend large sums every year supporting cars — about $29 million (DKK 200 million) just for road restoration. It’s only fair and long overdue that we invest more in bicycles. We must continue this in future budgets.”
From 2016 to 2025, Copenhagen has allocated an average of $23 million (DKK 160 million) per year toward cycling initiatives — including infrastructure upgrades, safety programs, and school route improvements, often supported by external funding. In 2025 alone, $25 million (DKK 174 million) has been granted for cycling-related efforts, underscoring the city’s long-term commitment to sustainable mobility.
Key cycling initiatives:
-
Safe school route and bike path on Mimersgade
-
Bicycle bridge between Østerbro and Refshaleøen
-
Improved traffic safety and accessibility on Refshaleøen
-
Expansion of green-wave traffic lights for cyclists
-
Underground bike parking at new metro stations (Sundbyøster Plads and Lergravsparken)
(Currency conversions based on an approximate rate of 1 DKK = 0.143 USD.)
TravelMole Editorial Team
Vegas’s Billion-Dollar Secrets – What They Don’t Want Tourists to Know
Visit Florida’s New CEO Bryan Griffin Shares His Vision for State Tourism with Graham
Chicago’s Tourism Renaissance: Graham Interviews Kristin Reynolds of Choose Chicago
Graham Talks with Cassandra McCauley of MMGY NextFactor About the Latest Industry Research
Destination International’s Andreas Weissenborn: Research, Advocacy, and Destination Impact
Graham and Don Welsh Discuss the Success of Destinations International’s Annual Conference
Graham and CEO Andre Kiwitz on Ventura Travel’s UK Move and Recruitment for the Role
Brett Laiken and Graham Discuss Florida’s Tourism Momentum and Global Appeal
Graham and Elliot Ferguson on Positioning DC as a Cultural and Inclusive Global Destination
Graham Talks to Fraser Last About His England-to-Ireland Trek for Mental Health Awareness
Kathy Nelson Tells Graham About the Honour of Hosting the World Cup and Kansas City’s Future
Graham McKenzie on Sir Richie Richardson’s Dual Passion for Golf and His Homeland, Antigua
ADS PRO 
Germany new European Entry/Exit System limited to a single airport on October 12, 2025
Airlines suspend Madagascar services following unrest and army revolt
Qatar Airways offers flexible payment options for European travellers
Air Mauritius reduces frequencies to Europe and Asia for the holiday season
TAP Air Portugal to operate 29 flights due to strike on December 11