Top 8 Cycling Routes in Germany

Exploring Germany by bike is one of the best experiences. Whether you're navigating through bustling cities, cruising alongside rivers, meandering through vineyards, or circling tranquil lakes, each route provides a unique perspective of the country.

Some trails can be completed in just a few hours, while others may span days or even weeks, taking you across various landscapes and federal states. Along the way, you'll discover charming guesthouses, delightful eateries, scenic resting spots, and plenty of fellow cyclists. So grab your bike and start your adventure with our top picks below.

1. The Berlin Wall Trail (Berliner Mauerweg)

Ideal for history buffs 163km (101 miles); easy

This route in the German capital follows the remnants of the GDR border fortifications surrounding West Berlin. Established in 2006, this straightforward trail mainly utilizes old patrol and border control roads, marked by frequent signposts and maps for easy navigation. You'll find photographs and informational displays at various points, illustrating life in the divided city. At times, the historical significance of your journey will resonate deeply, while at other moments, you'll be captivated by the nature that has flourished in the area.

Divided into 14 sections, the trail can be completed in one day or tackled in segments, with excellent public transport links allowing for convenient access—just remember to include your bike when purchasing tickets. Alternatively, you can stay in the city center and join a guided bike tour focusing on the inner-city portion.

2. German Wine Cycle Route

Ideal for consistent weather 97km (60 miles); moderate to challenging

Beginning in Bockenheim and concluding in Schweigen-Rechtenbach near the French border, the renowned German Wine Route meanders through the heart of the Palatinate (Pfalz), one of Germany’s premier wine-producing areas. Here, you’ll encounter vine-clad hills, sprawling forests, charming villages, and outstanding wineries, along with local specialties like almonds, figs, and lemons, all thanks to the pleasant climate.

The sunny weather combined with bike-friendly infrastructure makes planning a visit here a breeze. Stop by a tourist office for cycling maps and bike rental information, and don’t forget to include stops at wineries or enjoy an evening drink at a local tavern.

For additional wine-themed routes, consider the Baden Wine Cycle Route in the southwest, or the Moselle Cycle Path, which leads you to some of the nation’s oldest and most famous wine towns.

3. 100 Castles Route (100-Schlösser-Route)

Perfect for… castle enthusiasts! 960km (597 miles); easy to moderate

Winding through the Münsterland region in Nordrhein-Westfalen, this route features four interconnected loops showcasing a rich array of castles, gardens, fortresses, and moated estates, reflecting Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic architecture.

The routes are categorized into north, south, east, and west. For a shorter ride, try the southern loop (210km/130 miles), or tackle the northern route (305km/190 miles) for more challenging terrain in the Tecklenburger Land. There are also shorter day trips starting around 22km (14 miles). Be sure to visit the city of Münster, which offers a cycling-friendly environment with a car-free ring around the center and an extensive bike lane network.

4. Hessen Railway Cycle Route (BahnRadweg Hessen)

Ideal for a circular journey 245km (152 miles); easy to moderate

This extensive route, as the name implies, follows former railway tracks in Hessen. It begins in Hanau, the birthplace of the Brothers Grimm, and concludes in Bad Hersfeld, with additional paths allowing for a round trip. Along the way, you'll encounter impressive castles, monastery ruins, charming towns like Lauterbach and Fulda, and the scenic low mountain ranges of Vogelsberg and Rhön.

Thanks to gentle gradients and smooth tarmac, the ride is generally easy-going. Keep an eye out for iron bridges, vintage train cars, and tunnels; on the Milseburgradweg section, you'll need to trust that motion-sensor lights will activate as you enter a kilometer-long stretch of darkness!

5. Elbe Cycle Route (Elberadweg)

Ideal for city explorations 1270km (789 miles); easy to moderate

Spanning nearly 1300km, the Elbe Cycle Route follows Germany's second-longest river and is a favorite among cyclists, as noted by the General German Bicycle Club (ADFC).

Though the route begins in Czechia, it crosses into Germany near Schöna, leading to the stunning rock formations of Saxon Switzerland. From there, it’s approximately 40km (25 miles) to the beautifully restored city of Dresden, featuring the Frauenkirche and Renaissance city palace. Continue on to visit more towns, including Magdeburg, Dessau, and Hamburg, with Cuxhaven as the final stop, where the Elbe meets the North Sea.

Given its length, traversing the Elbe cycle route completely can take about two weeks, or even longer if you plan to make several stops. Consequently, many cyclists opt to concentrate on specific segments, such as the stretch from Dresden to Hamburg, or from Prague to Dresden. Numerous tour operators are available to arrange your accommodations and handle luggage transfers between locations.

6. Chiemsee Bike Route (Chiemsee Radweg)

Highlights of Bavaria 52km (32 miles); easy to moderate

Offering stunning views of the water, the alpine foothills, and towering peaks, this route around Bavaria’s largest lake is a must-see for anyone exploring the southern part of Germany. Begin in Übersee, which is accessible by train from Munich, and you can choose to cycle around either side of the lake—just be cautious of pedestrians sharing the path. The ride can be completed in half a day or less.

You'll find plenty of spots to stop for a swim and pass the main boat departure area, where you can catch rides to the islands. Most towns along the route offer bike services and rental options.

7. Baltic Sea Cycle Route (Ostseeküsten-Radweg)

Ideal for families 1140km (708 miles); easy

Stretching from Flensburg near the Danish border to Ahlbeck on the Polish border, this coastal route in Germany covers the regions of Schleswig-Holstein and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Experience sandy beaches, the sea, rugged coastlines, and ever-changing weather.

Notable sights along the route include the cliffs of Rügen, the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Wismar and Stralsund, and the city of Lübeck, famous for its unique brick architecture and delicious marzipan. The route is mostly flat, offering numerous beach break opportunities, making it suitable for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. Many choose to divide the journey into two parts, using Lübeck as a midpoint, or extend their adventure into neighboring countries.

8. The Industrial Heritage Route (Die Route der Industriekultur per Rad)

Ideal for unique architecture 700km (435 miles); easy to moderate

Germany’s Industrial Heritage Route connects significant sites related to the history and culture of the Ruhr area, which was once a hub for coal mining and steel production. While remnants like blast furnaces and gasometers still stand, many have been repurposed as cultural spaces, sports facilities, or parks. Cycling is a fantastic way to explore the diverse landscape, with extensive trails weaving through the region.

The main routes include the Emscher Park Cycle Path (Emscher Park Radweg) and the Ruhr Area Circuit (Rundkurs Ruhrgebiet). The latter spans nearly 300km (186 miles) and passes by steel mills, collieries, and workers' communities, including major landmarks like the UNESCO World Heritage Site Zeche Zollverein and the Gasometer Oberhausen. Connecting paths enable you to create shorter routes as well.