1,220 kilometers
From the Czech Republic to the North Sea
Mostly flat – gently hilly
For leisure cyclists & long-distance riders
Up to 2,000 meters of descent
along the entire route
April – October
Best travel season
20 well-known cities
and many other charming places
Verlauf & Streckenführung
The Elbe Cycle Path is one of Europe’s most popular long-distance routes, stretching 1,220 kilometers (760 miles) from the river’s source in the Czech Krkonoše Mountains to the North Sea at Cuxhaven. About 400 kilometers run through the Czech Republic, the remaining 820 through Germany. The path leads from the hills of the south and the rock formations of Saxon Switzerland to the wide northern landscapes, passing cities such as Dresden, Magdeburg, and Hamburg.
Mostly flat, well-marked, and suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists alike, the route combines natural beauty, cultural highlights, and regional specialties. To make it easier to explore, the Elbe Cycle Path is divided into three multi-day sections: Prague–Dresden, Dresden–Hamburg, and Hamburg–Cuxhaven, with optional variations to experience the river’s many highlights.
Questions and answers about the Elbe Cycle Path
The Most Beautiful Cities along the Elbe Cycle Path
The most scenic Stages of the Elbe Cycle Path
Why cycle along the Elbe cycle path?
Scenic pleasures
.. With restaurants, beer gardens, and cafés dotted along the river, you can pause for a relaxing break or enjoy a leisurely riverside picnic.
Fresh fish from the Elbe
.. Perch, pike, and eel thrive in these waters, especially delicious when smoked.
Birdwatching
.. Keep your eyes open along the route for a chance to spot a variety of fascinating bird species.
Cultural highlights
.. From the baroque splendor of Dresden to Meissen’s porcelain tradition and Wittenberg’s Reformation history, experience remarkable culture and heritage right from the saddle.
River landscapes & nature
.. Follow the Elbe past tranquil river islands and lush floodplains, enjoying a serene, unspoiled stretch of countryside.