Vorarlberg and Salzburg lead Austria in cycling rates

A study by the Ministry of Transport, titled ‘Active Mobility 2026’, reveals that Vorarlberg and Salzburg have the highest rates of cycling in Austria. In Vorarlberg, 20 percent of the population cycles daily or almost daily, significantly higher than the national average of nine percent. Salzburg follows with 16 percent of residents cycling daily.

Electric bicycles are playing an increasingly important role in changing mobility patterns. In Vorarlberg, 58 percent of cyclists have experience with e-bikes, compared to a national average of 40 percent. Experts from the Austrian Cycling Club (VCÖ) note that e-bikes allow for longer distances to be covered, which can improve climate balances and reduce traffic congestion.

To further promote cycling, the VCÖ emphasizes the need for optimized infrastructure, such as 30 km/h zones and narrower roads to accommodate new bike paths. The study also highlights significant potential for growth, noting that 52 percent of the population in Vorarlberg lives within five kilometers of their workplace.