CYCLING TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AND MOBILITY: INSIGHTS FROM THE CZECH REPUBLIC

The purpose of this article is to explore the role of cycling tourism in promoting sustainable urban mobility and environmentally friendly tourism practices, with a focus on the Czech Republic. The study investigates the motivations, behaviors, and preferences of cycling tourists, particularly in the post-COVID-19 context. Findings reveal that relaxation and exploring new destinations are primary motivations for cyclists, who favor dedicated cycling paths over mixed road traffic. Generation Z tends to use bicycles for leisure activities with friends, rather than for long-distance touring. Contrary to expectations, the availability of charging stations for e-bikes is not yet a significant factor influencing cycling route choices in the country. The results also show that, during long-distance cycling trips, tourists tend to prefer local guesthouses or alternative forms of accommodation over hotels. Cyclists also prioritize routes that are close to amenities such as dining facilities, highlighting the importance of accessible infrastructure. Furthermore, after the pandemic, there has been a shift towards active forms of mobility, such as walking and cycling, over the use of public transport. This study provides valuable insights into how cycling tourism can contribute to sustainability goals by promoting eco-friendly travel options and encouraging urban planners to develop cycling-friendly infrastructure. The findings suggest that cycling tourism is an important driver of sustainable urban mobility, offering a model for integrating tourism with broader urban development strategies focused on reducing environmental impacts.