The large-scale L'ÉTAPE SLOVAKIA by Tour de France bike race will close roads in Bratislava and surrounding areas on Sunday, August 23, 2026. The police warn drivers about full road closures during the passage of the bike peloton.
"We ask drivers to respect the instructions and requests of the police throughout the event," the police say, emphasizing the importance of following traffic rules for the safety of all participants.
Where and when to expect restrictions?
The sixth annual cycling event L'ÉTAPE SLOVAKIA by Tour de France – RACE starts at 7:00 AM from the Aupark shopping center on Einsteinova street in Bratislava. The route then goes over the Most SNP bridge and continues to Riviéra.
The police detailed the route: "From there, the course goes through Devín – Devínska Nová Ves – Záhorská Bystrica – Stupava – Borinka – Lozorno – Jablonové – Pernek – Pezinská Baba – vineyards above Pezinok – Limbach, through the Malé Karpaty (Little Carpathians) and shortly before 10:00 AM to the finish at Kamzík in the Bratislava III district."
Full road closures are expected to happen in stages, according to the schedule of participant progress.
Distances for everyone
The organizers prepared two main distances. The long route – THE RACE – is 112 kilometers with a total elevation gain of 1700 meters, which will be a real challenge for experienced cyclists. For less prepared participants or those who want to enjoy the atmosphere without extreme effort, there is a shorter route – THE RIDE – 60 kilometers long with an elevation gain of 900 meters.
Additionally, on Saturday, August 22, 2026, there will be family rides FAMILY RIDE of 23 and 40 km, as well as children's races KIDS RACE for different age categories.
This event is part of the global series L'Etape by Tour de France, which allows amateurs to experience the atmosphere of the legendary race. The event ambassadors are Slovak brothers Peter and Martin Velits, who together finished the Tour de France seven times.
For detailed information about routes and possible changes in public transport, visit our transport section.
