The Elbe-Radweg follows the Elbe river from the German-Czech border through Dresden, Wittenberg, Magdeburg and Hamburg to the river's mouth at Cuxhaven on the North Sea. It's consistently rated one of Germany's most popular long-distance cycle routes.
Route map
Getting there
Terrain
Flat and easy for almost its entire length, following the river on dedicated cycle paths and dykes, making it well suited to relaxed multi-day family touring rather than demanding cycle-touring fitness. Well signed throughout.
Tips
The Dresden-to-Meissen stretch through the Elbe Sandstone Mountains is the most scenic; the lower river towards Hamburg is flatter and more agricultural. Bike-friendly train connections along the whole route make it easy to shorten or extend a trip on the fly.
Permits & access
No permits required.