Introduction to Touring

cycle touring with warmshowers

A world of cyclists who’ll open their door to You

Find a global community of cyclists and trusted hosts, discover local knowledge, and build lasting connections wherever your tour takes you.

5 cyclists standing by a lake with 2 of them making a heart together with their arms

What is Cycle Touring?

Cycle touring is a simple idea: you travel by bike, carrying the essentials, and cover the distance under your own power. Tours can be short overnight trips or months-long journeys. Along the way, you make decisions about your route, rest stops, managing your gear, and adapting to whatever the day brings — from weather and terrain to where you’ll sleep each night.

Whether you camp, stay with locals, or mix both, touring works best when you have reliable tools and support along the way. Warmshowers helps by connecting you with hosts who understand what touring requires and can offer a safe, friendly place to end the day. It’s a practical way to support your journey.

How Warmshowers supports touring cyclists

Warmshowers gives touring cyclists dependable options and a global network of hosts who understand what life on the road is like — from long days in the saddle to the need for a clean shower and a reliable place to sleep. Using our website or mobile app, you can search for hosts, send requests, read reviews, and plan your stops with confidence.

Web App Map Preview
Search for hosts anywhere

Search for hosts in more than 160 countries using the interactive map or search bar. Filter by city, region, or availability so you can plan stops that match your route.

Web App Requests Preview
Message and confirm stays easily

Built-in messaging keeps all communication in one place. Send requests, share arrival details, and stay connected even while you’re on the road.

Web App Profile Preview
Read reviews and host profiles

Make confident choices with verified profiles, guest feedback, and hosting preferences — all the information you need before confirming a stay.

Web App Route Preview
Plan your tour on the go

Use the app to adjust your plans mid-ride, save hosts for future stops, and keep everything accessible from your phone, wherever your tour takes you.

Get started today and join a global community of cyclists and hosts.

“Hosts are the true heroes of Warmshowers! We reached out to a host a couple of weeks before we arrived, and she was incredibly welcoming. We had a very nice stay with great conversation, and exchanged amazing stories. Beautiful hosts like Karen make the journey unforgettable.” 

German Flag Mitch, Germany

Cyclist on a bridge

Countless stories, connections & memories

Amelia’s story is just one of many. Our community is full of first-hand experiences, advice, and inspiration from cyclists and hosts worldwide. Dive into stories, join the forums, and explore resources that will help you get started. 

Feature Highlight

Plan Anywhere with the Warmshowers App

Plans can change quickly when you are on the road. With the Warmshowers app, you can find hosts along your route, message them directly, and organise your next stay while you are still on the move.

Download the app and start planning your next stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a host that suits my needs? 

After you have created your Warmshowers account, you can search by host name (if you know who you’re looking for) or by location — country, town, province, etc. — and then go to the selected host’s profile to request a stay. Take time to read each profile carefully: it shares details about what they offer, their availability, and any special requests or preferences. If the map shows clusters, zoom in; the drop-down search menu will also let you see hosts in that area. Once you’ve found someone who aligns with your route and expectations, use the contact button on their profile to send a message.

Where is Warmshowers available?

Warmshowers is a global community with hosts in more than 160 countries — from big cities to remote villages. Availability varies by region, but you’ll find opportunities across many countries and routes. Search the map to see where your next adventure could take you.

Can I use Warmshowers if I’m not traveling by bicycle?

Warmshowers is an organisation of touring cyclists and community members who provide hosting — accommodation and use of amenities — to touring cyclists. Hosts will expect that you are cycle-touring, so it is not appropriate to use the Warmshowers hosting community when you’re travelling by other means.

How long do guests usually stay?

Most stays are short — typically one night, sometimes two. Hosts are offering space within their daily lives, so shorter visits tend to work best unless something else is agreed in advance.

What if my plans change?

Plans on the road can shift. If they do, let your host know as early as possible. Clear communication helps avoid inconvenience and keeps the experience positive for everyone.

What do cyclists typically need when they stay?

Most touring cyclists need only the basics: a place to sleep, a shower, access to water, and somewhere safe to put their bike. Many hosts offer more, but expectations are simple and flexible.

How safe is Warmshowers?

Warmshowers is built on trust, communication, and community accountability. Profiles, references, and reviews help you make informed decisions, and most interactions are positive, respectful, and mutually supportive. Personal Safety Statement

What if I have a great experience, can I leave feedback?

Yes — and in fact, it’s expected. If you’ve been hosted (or have hosted a cyclist yourself), you should leave feedback on the user’s profile to share your experience. Feedback is a vital part of informing future hosts and guests of the experiences others have had with an individual, and it should always be factually accurate and honest. It also helps keep the network transparent and reliable.