Attractiveness of Bicycle Tourism in Poland

Purpose: The aim of the study is to present the phenomenon of demand for cycling tourism by means of a qualitative method, based on reports of the Polish Tourist Organisation (PTO). The attempt was made with the help of an in-depth perspective of people practising cycling tourism, including among others: their previous experience of cycling, assessment of the infrastructure available in Poland and their expectations towards cycling trips. Design/Methodology/Approach: The following qualitative research methods were used in this paper: online focus group interviews (FGI - Focus Group Interview, Telephone in-depth interview (TDI), inventory and scoping review. Findings: Increased tourist activity with the use of the bicycle as a means of transport has been observed. The period of pandemics and limited possibilities to stay in larger human concentrations has accentuated the mentioned phenomenon. The bicycle is not only a form of transport to the workplace, but also a means of leisure, tourism and recreation. Urban development strategies assume the development of cycling infrastructure, also in the area of strict city centres, however, a direct assessment allows to verify its condition, quality and accessibility for users. The obtained opinion is an extremely valuable source of information, allows to create further plans and to implement them in the future by, among others, local authorities of towns and cities. Practical Implications: The results of the research may be used for promotional purposes, e.g. by institutions supporting the development of tourism in the region, by tourism organisers, promoting cycling tourism products, such as cycling routes or active ways of spending leisure time, by non-governmental and governmental organisations, for educational purposes by educational establishments. Originality/Value: Application of qualitative methods to quantify the growing phenomenon of cycling tourism. Carrying out a survey among respondents from the entire country. Comparison of opinions of users of cycling routes and organisers of cycling tours (entrepreneurs). Possibility of comparing the results with other quantitative statements of the phenomenon of active - cycling tourism in the world.