Bicycling in Prague

Much of the Czech Republic is a cyclist's dream of gently sloping tracks for pedalers. The capital, however, can be unkind to bicyclers. Prague's ubiquitous tram tracks and cobblestones make for hazardous conditions—as do the legions of tourist groups clogging the streets. Nevertheless, cycling is increasingly popular, and there are now several adequate yellow-marked cycling trails that crisscross the city. From April to October two bike-rental companies provide decent bikes—as well as locks, helmets, and maps.

City Bike runs guided tours leaving at 10:30, 1:30, and 4:30. Your English-speaking guides offer fun tidbits of history and point out architecture, but do not offer a full tour. The ride's pace is comfortable for those who haven't taken a spin in a while. Králodvorská 5, Staré Mesto, Prague, Bohemia. 776-180-284. www.citybike-prague.com pragueonline.cz/citybike. Line B: Nám. Republiky.

One of the multicultural teams from Praha Bike can casually guide you around one of two routes; tours are at 11:30 and 2:30, which are considered the "classic city" tours, and 5:30, which is the "panoramic" tour that hits all of the best vantage points in the city (so don't forget your camera). Dlouhá 24, Staré Mesto, Prague, Bohemia. 732-388-880. www.prahabike.cz. Line B: Nám. Republiky.