2026
Der große Elbe–Radurlaub

The Great Cycling Holiday on the Elbe

Six federal states – countless highlights

Hamburg – Magdeburg – Dresden

  • Green Citadel, Middle Elbe biosphere reserve, porcelain city of Meissen
  • Daily routes ●●●●●, altitude profile ●○○○○

Days
13

Ø km per day
60

On your Cycling Holiday on the Elbe, you will cycle from Hamburg to Dresden along a large part of the Elbe Cycle Path, which is one of the most beautiful cycle paths in Germany. Six federal states – each with its own history, landscape and culture. This is exactly what makes the journey so varied. You will experience the flair of the state capitals: Hamburg with its large port and lively city center. In Magdeburg, those interested in culture will find the Hundertwasser House. And last but not least, Dresden with its long history and numerous sights. Cycle along dykes, through moors, nature reserves and vineyards on well-signposted paths. Treat yourself to an extended break and watch the grazing sheep and the passing birds in the wonderfully peaceful and wide landscape. The great thing is that the Elbe Cycle Path can often be cycled on both sides. The many yaw ferries –  motorless ferries that use the current of the river –  make it easy to change banks.

 

Itinerary

  • Booking code
    NO-ELHD12
  • Accommodation level
    national 3* level
  • Duration
    13 days / 12 nights
  • Arrival days
    on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Sundays
  • Travel documents languages
    German, English
  • Print version PDF
    incl. hotel examples
  • Parking information
    Public parking garages, cost approx. 12 to 20 Euro per day. Hotel parking spaces (available in individual hotels, subject to a fee, further details in the travel documents); no reservation possible through Radweg-Reisen.
  • Return to Hamburg
    On your own by train, connections every 2 hours, duration approx. 4.5 hours.

Day 1: Individual arrival in Hamburg

The Hanseatic city of Hamburg is one of Germany's most captivating and vibrant destinations offering a wealth of attractions. It is the perfect starting point for your great cycling holiday on the Elbe. 
Arrive early to explore the historic quarter Speicherstadt either on foot or by boat. In the evening, unwind along the scenic banks of the Alster. Enjoy a romantic sunset while anticipating the exciting cycling days that lie ahead.

Ballindamm_Hamburg

The Ballindamm in Hamburg

Day 2: Hamburg – Lauenburg, approx. 55 km

You leave bustling Hamburg with a tailwind and cycle through the wild dune landscape of Schleswig-Holstein. In Geesthacht, you can marvel at the Elbe lock and the largest fish ladder in Europe before you cycle comfortably close to the banks to Lauenburg. Learn more about the history of shipping, which has always been an important part of the
town‘s life, at the Elbe Shipping Museum in this tranquil little town.

Lauenburg on the Elbe

View of Lauenburg on the Elbe

Day 3: Lauenburg – Hitzacker, approx. 55 km

Today‘s cycling holiday on the Elbe takes you through the tranquil marshland past fruit trees, quaint farms and picturesque half-timbered houses. Flocks of sheep graze on the wide open spaces. Enjoy the vastness and tranquillity and park your bike on a lush green meadow to take a break. Rest and relax as you cycle to Hitzacker. Take a stroll
around the old town and marvel at the numerous restored half-timbered houses.

Hitzacker

View of Hitzacker

Day 4: Hitzacker – Wittenberge, approx. 75 km

The Elbe cycle path always leads over or along the dyke into the former German-German border area. In the Niedersächsische Elbtalaue biosphere reserve, you will experience a true paradise for plants and birds. A protected habitat for storks, sand martins and grey herons. Your stage destination of Wittenberge shines with numerous Art Nouveau buildings. Enjoy the evening in the beautiful old town centre.

Wittenberge Town Hall

The town hall in Wittenberge

Day 5: Wittenberge – Havelberg, approx. 40 km

Because the Elbe often floods the areas here, today you cycle through deserted, lonely stretches of land, which makes this stage a special experience. Every year, over 30 pairs of storks come to Rühstädt to make their home high above the rooftops. Roll comfortably into idyllic Havelberg. From the cathedral, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the
old town island and the Havel lowlands.

Havelberg, St. Laurentius Church

View of the St. Laurentius Church in Havelberg

Day 6: Havelberg – Tangermünde, approx. 55 km

Today, your cycling holiday along the Elbe takes you from one Hanseatic city to another. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to cross the Elbe on the traditional yaw rope ferries, still in operation at various points. Your destination for the day is Tangermünde, a town where history comes alive. The medieval castle, originally built to protect this picturesque town on the River Tangier, stands proudly above the town, offering a captivating glimpse into the past.

Tangermünde, town wall

The town wall in Tangermünde

Day 7: Tangermünde – Magdeburg, approx. 75 km

Architectural superlatives await you on today‘s stage. First, you reach the European waterway intersection at Hohenwarte. The trough bridge, the longest canal bridge in Europe, carries the Mittelland Canal over the Elbe. In the Elbe metropolis of Magdeburg, you will experience a wonderful evening. Take time to visit the green citadel, a masterpiece by the artist Hundertwasser. The cathedral and the Old Market are also well worth a visit.

Magdeburg, Cathedral

View of the cathedral in Magdeburg

Day 8: Magdeburg – Dessau, approx. 85 km

A brisk ride through the Middle Elbe biosphere reserve. On the cycle tour from Hamburg to Dresden, you cycle again through the wonderful Elbe meadows and forests, passing pretty towns such as Breitenhagen, Barby and Schönebeck. Dessau, the overnight stop, became famous worldwide for the Bauhaus, which was built according to plans by Walter Gropius in 1925. It is considered one of the most important and interesting architectural monuments of the 20th century. Artists such as Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky and Mies van der Rohe worked there. Take a walk through the extensive Georgengarten landscape park with the beautiful Georgium Palace or the Wörlitz Park, where the pretty Gothic House is located.

Dessau, Bauhaus

The Bauhaus School of Architecture and Art in Dessau

Day 9: Dessau – Lutherstadt Wittenberg, approx. 40 km

Follow the winding path of the Elbe through picturesque countryside, charming villages, and quaint towns. In the afternoon, you will arrive in Wittenberg, a town famous for its historical significance. Walk in the footsteps of Martin Luther, who famously pinned his 95 theses on the reformation here at the church doors. These historic documents are displayed to this day. Explore, unwind and enjoy a relaxing evening in one of the town’s excellent restaurants, savoring both the local cuisine and the vibrant atmosphere.

Wittenberg, town church

View of the town church in Wittenberg

Day 10: Wittenberg – Torgau, approx. 70 km

Before departing Wittenberg, take the opportunity to visit sites associated with other notable figures, such as the philosopher Philipp Melanchthon and the painter Lucas Cranach, who also made their mark on the town. Then, cycle through the stunning floodplain landscape along the banks of the Elbe toward Pretzsch. Shortly after, you’ll cross the state border into Saxony. Hartenfels Castle, a Renaissance masterpiece, will greet you from afar. Explore its various exhibitions and guided tours, which vividly bring history to life and offer a fascinating glimpse into life during the time of the electors.

Pretzsch on the Elbe

Pretzsch on the Elbe

Day 11: Torgau – Strehla / Riesa, approx. 40 / 50 km

In the former Electoral Saxon residence town of Torgau, it is worth visiting Hartenfels Castle and the castle church. You then continue your cycle tour and cycle via Belgern and Strehla to Riesa.

Strehla

Strehla

Day 12: Riesa – Dresden, approx. 60 / 65 km

Today’s stage takes you through a series of renowned towns, each with its own charm. Start by cycling past Riesa, known for its pasta production, and continue on to Meissen, the famous porcelain town. Your final destination, however, is the stunning Florence of the North—Dresden. As you approach, the impressive silhouette of the historic old town will welcome you. Take your time to explore the city’s many iconic sights, including the Zwinger Palace, Semper Opera House, Frauenkirche, and the Green Vault. In the evening, unwind at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Dresden sauerbraten paired with a refreshing Waldschlösschen beer.

Dresden Zwinger

The Dresden Zwinger

Day 13: Individual departure

Today marks the conclusion of your Cycling Holiday along the Elbe. Take with you the memories and experiences of the past days as you begin your journey home. If you’d like to extend your adventure, we would be happy to help you arrange an extended stay in Dresden, allowing you to further explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Dresden

View of Dresden

Dates / Prices / Services

Season times and prices 2026

Arrival on Tuesday, on Wednesdays and Sundays from 01.04.2026 to 28.10.2026Early booking discount: -20 €

Bookable dates are shown in the booking form. The season is dictated by the arrival date.

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Season A
01.04. - 10.05.
13.09. - 28.10.
from1469 €
Season B
12.05. - 09.09.

from1529 €

All prices per person in a double room

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Services

  • 12 nights incl. breakfast, national 3* level
  • Luggage transport from hotel to hotel to Dresden, max. 2 pieces of luggage per person, max. 20 kg / piece
  • Travel documents with maps (1 x per room)
  • Service hotline (7 days, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
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Not included is the city or visitor's tax (if payable).

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Children discounts

discount-icon discount-icon-baby

From 0 to 3 years

-100%

discount-icon discount-icon-lego

From 4 to 12 years

-50%

discount-icon discount-icon-football

From 13 to 17 years

-10%

Applies for accommodation in rooms with 2 full-paying guests. 
Due to the more demanding stages, we only recommend this trip for young people with good stamina.

 

 

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Additional services

Additional bookable services

Additional fee single room

449 €

All prices are per person

Additional nights

Room
Breakfast
Price
Dresden
 DBL

85 €

 SGL

119 €

Hamburg
 DBL

95 €

 SGL

129 €

All prices are per person

Rental bikes

Rental Bikes

Rental Bike
Rental Bike
109 €
E-Bike
E-Bike
299 €

Types of rental bikes

  • 7-gear unisex bike, hub gears with coaster brakes (men's bikes from 1.75 m)
  • 21-gear unisex bike, derailleur gears with freewheel (men's bikes from 1,75 m)
  • E-bike / pedelec with coaster brakes
Features

Pannier, map holder (1x per room), puncture repair kit (1x per room), bike lock
on request: Mileometer (to be specified when booking)

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Route profile

  • Start / Destination
    Hamburg / Dresden
  • Length
    approx. 645 km
    Daily routes ●●●●●
    between 40 and 80 km, Ø 60 km
    Altitude profile ●○○○○
  • Tour operated by
    Local cooperation partner
  • Mobility note
    The trip is only conditionally suitable for people with limited mobility.
    Please do not hesitate to contact us regarding your individual needs.
The Great Cycling Holiday on the Elbe

Days
13

Ø km per day
60