Brief information about the Elbe cycle path
For about 1300km the Elbe meanders from its origin in the Giant Mountains in the Czech Republic through Germany, past Dresden, Dessau, Magdeburg, Hamburg and finally flows into the North Sea between Brunsbüttel and Cuxhaven. Around 805km, the majority of this popular cycle path is located in Germany. Countless impressions, beautiful landscapes, the idyll of the Elbe meadows and the cultural aspect of the cities that sit on the banks of the Elbe make up the charm and attraction of this great long-distance cycle path! Acquired a taste? Then read on!
The most beautiful stages and cycle tours on the Elbe Cycle Path
Prague – Dresden
You probably can’t decide what you look forward to more – the starting point? The destination? Or everything in between? Believe us, you can really look forward to every part of this tour! And the relatively easy route makes it a dream holiday for young and old!
Dresden – Dessau
Countless sights line the cycle path between Dresden and Dessau. Look forward to the splendid buildings from earlier times in Dresden, romantic castles along the Saxon Wine Route and try excellent wines in Meißen. Wherever you go, the Elbe will always be your loyal companion.
Magdeburg - Hamburg
A somewhat shorter version is the cycle tour from Magdeburg to Hamburg. In just eight days, you also cycle along the Elbe to the northern German port city of Hamburg. There is a great mix of young and old and thus the Jungfernstieg also connects the New Town with the Old Town, where impressive landmarks await you.
The course of the Elbe
Length of river
The Elbe has a total length of 1094 kilometres. Its catchment areas also include numerous well-known watercourses such as the Vltava, Mulde, Saale, Havel, Spree and Elde.
Source
The source of the Elbe is the Elbe meadow in the Krkonoše Mountains. At an altitude of 1356 metres, this is the highest mountain range in the Czech Republic. From there it flows into Germany via Dresden, Dessau and Hamburg until it flows into the North Sea in Cuxhaven.
Elevation profile
The headwaters are 1386 metres above sea level and end in Cuxhaven on the North Sea. Therefore, there is an altitude difference of 1386 metres here, but only downhill if you start from the source.
Cycle route
The Elbe Cycle Route runs for approx. 1280 kilometres, mostly flat with few ascents, from the Czech Republic to the North Sea. Most of the time you cycle on separate paths next to the Elbe, most of which are asphalted. So you can look forward to a relaxed and quiet cycling adventure. Only on the way into and out of towns can you expect a higher volume of traffic.
Questions and answers about the Elbe Cycle Path
The most beautiful cities along the Elbe Cycle Path
Prague
Why is Prague known as ‘The Golden City’? There are several explanations for this. However, the most plausible is probably Emperor Charles IV had the towers of the Prague Castle gilded. The Prague Castle still serves as the residence of the Czech President. Other sights that you should definitely visit are the Golden Lane, St. Vitus Cathedral and of course you should see the changing of the castle guard at the courtyard. It takes place every day at noon.
Dresden
The capital of the federal state of Saxony is known for its numerous art treasures, the breathtaking architecture and its many museums. A visit to Dresden will appeal to both the art and culture lovers among you and will literally inspire you. The most popular places in Dresden include the Dresden Frauenkirche, the Zwinger – a magnificent building with beautiful gardens, and of course the Residenzschloss and the famous Semperoper
Magdeburg
Did you know that Germany’s oldest Gothic cathedral is located in Magdeburg? And why has Magdeburg been the Otto city for over 1000 years? Does that have anything to do with Otto the Great? The best way to find out the answer is to visit the beautiful state capital. Visit the somewhat sloping millennium tower, stroll through the old market and comfortably stretch your feet on the Elbau park!
Hamburg
Hamburg is probably the most dazzling city on the Elbe. With the large harbour, the world-famous entertainment mile, the many theatres and the beautiful warehouse district, Hamburg is one of the most popular destinations in all of Germany. Spend a few days in the millionaire city of Hamburg and see for yourself why so many people fall head over heels in love with this great city.
Cuxhaven
The pretty town of Cuxhaven is located directly at the mouth of the Elbe in the North Sea and is known as one of the largest North Sea spas in Germany. The colourful beach chairs along the miles of beaches on the North Sea give the city an incomparable charm. Marvel at the landmark of Cuxhaven – the Kugelbake, treat yourself to a long walk on deserted beaches and enjoy the soothing sea air!
Useful information about your cycling holiday on the Elbe Cycle Path
The climate
The Elbe Cycle Path is a recommended destination for your cycling holiday almost all year round. From March to October, the beautiful Elbe attracts our guests to its banks. June, July and August in particular are very popular travel months since the temperatures are the most pleasant in summer. But if you like it a little quieter and maybe a little cooler, we would recommend a cycle tour in spring or autumn. Because the average temperatures there are about 15 - 10 degrees. In summer, however, these rise to a pleasantly warm 20 - 25 degrees.
The cuisine along the Elbe
Wine lovers, take note! You will particularly like our cycle tours along the Elbe. Because on your cycle tour on the Elbe you will meet the beautiful Saxon Wine Route – home to well-known wines such as Riesling, Müller-Thurgau, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Traminer. Goldriesling and Schieler are considered regional specialties. And if you drink excellent wine, you should of course also eat fantastic food. The Elbe city of Hamburg is the perfect terrain for this. Because hardly any other German city concentrates on outstanding cuisine like Hamburg. Have you always wanted to have your food served by a famous TV chef? In Hamburg you have the opportunity to do so, because greats like Tim Mälzer, Steffen Henssler and Christian Rach run successful restaurants here, and a visit is really recommended! A reservation is advisable!
UNESCO biosphere reserve ‘Elbe River Landscape’
The UNESCO ‘Elbe River Landscape’ biosphere reserve is the largest biosphere reserve in the interior of Germany. Animal species that have been threatened with extinction have successfully settled here on around 282,000 hectares. The beaver is a local on the Elbe, for example, and the white storks are also welcome and returning guests in the Elbe. Some geese and swans even hibernate here and use the revitalised natural space to find food and shelter. We believe that this is a really successful project that offers animals a wonderful environment to survive and that we cyclists use as a wonderful backdrop for our tours.
Did you know…
- …that there are only 10 professional fishermen left on the Elbe?
- …that the Elbe can cope with a height difference of 1386 metres from its origin to its mouth in the Baltic Sea? Fortunately, it always goes downhill. 😉
- …that the Elbe is known as ‘Labe’ as its place of origin is in the Czech Republic?
- …that the Elbe is the second longest river in Germany? With a length of 727km, which flow on the German soil, it joins the Rhine and the Danube. In Europe, the Elbe occupies 8th place with a total length of 1094km.
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