Cycle path through the Schorfheide-Chorin nature reserve

Visit Germany by bicycle: 16 popular cycle routes [2025]

Traveling by bicycle through Germany, it's hard not to appreciate the comfort of German cycling routes. For several years, the Elbe-Radweg, a cycling route along the Elbe River, held the top spot as the most popular route in a survey conducted by the German National Cyclists' Association (ADFC). Then, for two years, it was overtaken by the Weser route, but the Elbe has now reclaimed its leading position. Every German region boasts dozens of bicycle routes, with Brandenburg offering an impressive 7,000 kilometers of cycle routes, including the longest bicycle route in Germany. Below, we present the German cycling routes that have left the greatest impression on us.

Cycling Partners

Cycling tourism in Brandenburg

Burgundy by bike

Bicycle panniers and trailers

Uckermark - cycling Brandenburg — Cycle Route around Uckermark in Brandenburg

How do we create our ranking? Each cycling route is rated across seven categories, with ratings assigned from 1 to 5 points. These categories include the amount of cycling infrastructure along the route, sightseeing opportunities, scenic beauty, accessibility by train (covering the start, end and key stops), the availability of dining and accommodation options, the quality of informational resources, and our personal impressions. A route can earn a maximum of 35 points in total.

The most attractive cycle routes in Germany:

Baltic Sea Coast Cycle Route (Ostseeküsten-Radweg) - Northern Germany
Main Cycle Route (Main-Radweg) - Franconia
Havel Cycle Route (Havel-Radweg) - Brandenburg
Tauber-Altmühl Cycle Route (Tauber-Altmühl Radweg) - Franconia
Hessen Railway Cycle Route (BahnRadweg Hessen) - Hesse
Lower Lusatia Mining Route (Niederlausitzer Bergbautour) - Brandenburg
Oder-Spree-Tour - Brandenburg
Berlin Wall Route (Berliner Mauerweg) - Berlin
Tour Brandenburg - Brandenburg
Mecklenburg Lakes Cycle Route (Mecklenburgischer Seen-Radweg) - Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
Cycle Route around Uckermark (Uckermärkischer Radrundweg) - Brandenburg
Cycle Route around Chiemsee Lake (Chiemsee Rundweg) - Bavaria
Oder-Neisse Cycle Route (Oder-Neiße-Radweg) - Eastern Germany
Leipzig New Lakeland Cycle Route (Neuseenland-Radroute) - Saxony
Ore Mountains Cycle Route (Sächsische Mittelgebirge Radfernweg) - Saxony
Hohenzollern Experience Bicycle Route (Erlebnisradweg Hohenzollern) - Franconia

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

All photos by Simon Thread, Cycling Thread.

Biking atmosphere by the Baltic Sea — Baltic Sea Cycle Route in Northern Germany

Baltic Sea Coast Cycle Route (Ostseeküsten-Radweg) - Northern Germany

The cycle route along the German part of the Baltic Sea coast starts in Flensburg at the border with Denmark and stretches for 800 kilometers to end in Ahlbeck at the border with Poland. We cycled its middle section - from Lübeck through Wismar, Rostock to Stralsund - enjoying the beloved seaside landscapes, harbor atmospheres, the history of the medieval Hanseatic League and the culinary delights dominated by Baltic seafood and... marzipan, for which Lübeck is the European capital. The Baltic Sea cycle route is an excellent proposal for a family-friendly, safe cycling summer. (33 points)

More: Baltic Sea Coast Cycle Route - Northern Germany (coming soon) 👇

Würzburg - cycling in Franconia — Main Cycle Route in Franconia

Main Cycle Route (Main-Radweg) - Franconia

The Main River and its accompanying 600-kilometer bicycle route take the top spot on our list of the best cycling routes in Germany, being the first in the country to be awarded 5 ADFC quality stars. The route's scenic and natural experiences are shaped by the river valley's topography, typically surrounded by forests or picturesque vineyards for which Franconia is renowned. Along the Main, there's no shortage of cultural and historical attractions - cities like Bayreuth, Bamberg, Würzburg or Aschaffenburg are worth a longer stay, not just a brief stop. (33)

More: Main Cycle Route - Franconia

Cycling Brandeburg along the Havel-Radweg — Havel Cycle Route in Brandenburg

Havel Cycle Route (Havel-Radweg) - Brandenburg

The Havel Cycle Route offers a scenic journey following the Havel River from its source in Mecklenburg to its confluence with the Elbe. This well-marked route takes cyclists through the diverse landscapes of Brandenburg, including the vibrant cities of Potsdam and Berlin. With its predominantly flat terrain, the route is suitable for cycling tourists of all skill levels. It features a mix of paved and unpaved sections, all maintained to a high standard. From tranquil lakeshores to bustling urban centers, the Havel Cycle Route is a top choice for those eager to explore the rich natural and cultural heritage of northeastern Germany. (32)

More: Havel Cycle Route - Brandenburg (coming soon) 👇

Burgstein - a rock formation above in Franconia — Tauber-Altmühl Cycle Route in Franconia

Tauber-Altmühl Cycle Route (Tauber-Altmühl Radweg) - Franconia

The Tauber-Altmühl Cycle Route combines two rivers into a seamless cycling experience. The journey begins in Wertheim, where the Tauber merges with the Main River, and follows the Tauber upstream to the enchanting Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This picturesque Franconian town is often hailed as the most beatiful German city. From Rothenburg, the trail crosses the nearby European Watershed, connecting cyclists to the Altmühl River. The Altmühl guides cycling tourists to the route’s conclusion in Kelheim, where it meets the Danube. The Tauber-Altmühl Cycle Route showcases the best of southern Germany’s landscapes. (32)

More: Tauber-Altmühl Cycle Route - Franconia

Hessen Railway Cycle Route (BahnRadweg Hessen) - Hesse

The Hessen Railway Cycle Route (BahnRadweg Hessen) holds the title as the longest bike route in Germany and is likely the longest route in Europe, tracing the paths of former railway lines. The entire route of the Hessen Railway Cycle Route consists of several shorter post-railway bike trails. This bike route, lying close to Frankfurt (Main), is famed for its surrounding natural landscapes. The two small post-volcanic mountain ranges, Vogelsberg and Rhön, not only add to the scenic beauty but also provide varied cycling activities. The longest ascent is over 20 kilometers long, yet thanks to the very slight, railway-grade incline, it is easy to cycle. (30)

More: Hessen Railway Cycle Route - Hesse (coming soon) 👇

Lusatian Lakeland - a pier over Großräschener See — Lower Lusatia Mining Route in Brandenburg

Lower Lusatia Mining Route (Niederlausitzer Bergbautour) - Brandenburg

The Niederlausitzer Bergbautour, or Lower Lusatia Mining Route, is a cycling route through the southern part of Brandenburg. This trail offers a unique journey through more than 150 years of lignite (brown coal) mining history, showcasing a blend of industrial heritage, picturesque towns, active and former open-cast mines, and newly created landscapes. Cyclists can explore various attractions along the way, including the F60 overburden conveyor bridge in Lichterfeld, often referred to as the "lying Eiffel Tower" due to its impressive size. This former industrial giant now serves as a visitor mine and can be toured to gain insights into the region's mining past. (30)

More: Lower Lusatia Mining Route - Brandenburg

A cycling bridge over the Oder-Spree Canal — The Oder-Spree-Tour in Brandenburg

Oder-Spree-Tour - Brandenburg

The Oder-Spree-Tour left a more significant impression on me than the famous Oder-Neisse bike path. The nearly 300-kilometer loop winds through forests, between lakes, and along the canals of the Oder-Spree Lakeland in Brandenburg, which should enchant cyclists looking for close contact with nature. The nearest major cities are Frankfurt (Oder) and Berlin, precisely between which the bike paths of the Oder-Spree-Tour run. Smaller towns along the route include, among others, Beeskow, Storkow and Fürstenwalde (Spree), known for their well-preserved medieval urban layouts. (30)

More: Oder-Spree-Tour - Brandenburg

The Berlin Wall Memorial at Bernauer Strasse — Berlin Wall Route in Berlin

Berlin Wall Route (Berliner Mauerweg) - Berlin

The Berlin Wall Route (Berliner Mauerweg) stands out as one of the most remarkable bike routes in Europe. It traces the boundaries of what used to be West Berlin, separating it from the territory of former East Germany for decades. From the vantage point of a bicycle saddle, riders have the opportunity to see one of Europe's largest cities, passing through both Berlin's bustling center and its more peripheral districts. Along the Berlin Wall Route, you'll find not only historical sites but also many modern attractions that showcase the capital of Germany in a more contemporary light. (29)

More: Berlin Wall Route - Berlin (coming soon) 👇

Tour Brandenburg in Wittstock — Tour Brandenburg in Brandenburg

Tour Brandenburg - Brandenburg

We encountered the signposts for the Tour Brandenburg bike route several times during our travels in Germany, and on two occasions, this route was our primary guide around Brandenburg. The Tour Brandenburg spans a total of 1,111 kilometers, making it the longest marked tourist cycling route in Germany. The entire route can be divided into several trips, each offering a unique experience. In this report, we recommend the section in the north of Brandenburg, which reveals a less known side of Germany - areas with very low population density and large forest expanses. (29)

More: Tour Brandenburg - Brandenburg (coming soon) 👇

Bike path in Müritz National Park — Mecklenburg Lakes Cycle Route in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

Mecklenburg Lakes Cycle Route (Mecklenburgischer Seen-Radweg) - Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

The Mecklenburg Lakes Cycle Route spans approximately 600 kilometers, navigating through the Mecklenburg Lake District. It starts on the island of Usedom, briefly heads towards Szczecin, then veers westward, traversing central Mecklenburg all the way to Lüneburg in Lower Saxony. The route encompasses, among other attractions, the largest national park in Germany and numerous Mecklenburg manors and palaces, which offer additional route variations through the Mecklenburg Lake District. (27)

More: Mecklenburg Lakes Cycle Route - Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (coming soon) 👇

Cycle Route around Uckermark (Uckermärkischer Radrundweg) - Brandenburg

The Uckermärkische Radrundweg, or the cycle route around the Uckermark region, was our next target during our cycling trips in the cyclist-friendly Brandenburg. A huge advantage of this trail is that almost half of the route passes through natural, protected areas - first through the German Lower Oder Valley National Park, then through the Schorfheide-Chorin biosphere reserve. Among the highlights of our trip were all the cities of the Uckermark district - Schwedt (Oder), Prenzlau, Templin, Angermünde and the tiny Lychen, and cycling the route around Uckermark at a tourist pace took us four days. (27)

More: Cycle Route around Uckermark - Brandenburg (coming soon) 👇

Bicycle route around Chiemsee Lake — Cycle Route around Chiemsee Lake - Bavaria

Cycle Route around Chiemsee Lake (Chiemsee Rundweg) - Bavaria

The bicycle route around Lake Chiemsee in Germany is a picturesque route that offers exceptional views and pleasant experiences for cyclists of all levels. Covering about 60 kilometers, the trail winds through charming villages and provides magnificent views of the Alps and the lake. Additionally, the route offers numerous stops where one can rest and enjoy tourist attractions such as castles, museums, and beautiful beaches. A great attraction of a one-day trip around Chiemsee are the two islands and the ferry, which can wonderfully diversify the cycling activity. (26)

More: Cycle Route around Chiemsee Lake - Bavaria (coming soon) 👇

Bicycle route in the Lower Oder Valley — Oder-Neisse Cycle Route in Eastern Germany

Oder-Neisse Cycle Route (Oder-Neiße-Radweg) - Eastern Germany

I was pleasantly surprised by the length and quality of the cycle route by the Lusatian Neisse and Oder rivers. The route is devoid of large cities - except for Frankfurt (Oder) - and mainly runs on dedicated bike paths, including along river embankments designed for flood control. The Oder-Neisse cycle route is a suitable spot for cycling families, including those with small children, as well as for individuals new to cycling tourism. The most interesting segment for me was in Saxony, due to its more intimate nature and many forested stretches. Be mindful of the wind direction, which can be challenging in the open spaces along the Oder. (26)

More: Oder-Neisse Cycle Route - Eastern Germany (coming soon) 👇

Cycling route near Leipzig — Leipzig New Lakeland Cycle Route in Saxony

Leipzig New Lakeland Cycle Route (Neuseenland-Radroute) - Saxony

The Neuseenland-Radroute is an almost hundred-kilometer-long bike route encircling the Leipzig New Lakeland - a revitalized mining industrial area south of Leipzig in Saxony. It starts and ends in Markkleeberg, near Leipzig. Throughout its course, it offers views into the transformation processes from a mining-degraded area to an attractive recreational zone. It is suitable for day trips from Leipzig as well as for cycling weekends. The route can also be easily modified using the post-industrial "Coal-Steam-Light-Lakes" bike route. (25)

More: Leipzig New Lakeland Cycle Route - Saxony (coming soon) 👇

Cycling through the Ore Mountains in Saxony — Ore Mountains Cycle Route in Saxony

Ore Mountains Cycle Route (Sächsische Mittelgebirge Radfernweg) - Saxony

The Ore Mountains Cycle Route in the Ore Mountains offers several days of diverse cycling adventures in the mountains. The bike route starts near the Elbe River close to the Schmilka-Hirschmühle train station and ends in Eibenstock, about 250 kilometers further. This main cycling route through the Ore Mountains requires more physical preparation due to its layout - the trail includes many ascents, forest and field sections, making it suitable for gravel-type bikes. The route's attraction lies in its journey through areas associated with the Ore Mountains' industrial traditions - toy and Christmas ornament production, as well as mining. (25)

More: Ore Mountains Cycle Route - Saxony (coming soon) 👇

Hohenzollern cycling route in Franconia — Hohenzollern Experience Bicycle Route in Franconia

Hohenzollern Experience Bicycle Route (Erlebnisradweg Hohenzollern) - Franconia

The roughly 100-kilometer-long Hohenzollern Route is an excellent example of a bike route that capitalizes on local historical themes. This bike route winds through locations associated with the Hohenzollern dynasty settled around Nuremberg in Franconia, specifically its Franconian line. It starts in Ansbach and ends in the most famous city of Franconia. This is a quiet, serene bike path through the German countryside, away from the loud attractions featured on the front pages of tourist brochures. It mostly follows comfortable asphalt bike roads, but a significant portion also comprises hard, comfortable gravel paths. (21)

More: Hohenzollern Experience - Franconia (coming soon) 👇