Prague to Dresden Along the Vltava & Elbe Rivers

Day 1: Arrival into Prague

Upon your arrival, settle into your first hotel and take the opportunity to explore the enchanting city of Prague at your own pace. The city is renowned for its well-preserved architecture. The Prague Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the largest ancient castle complex in the world. The Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock are other iconic landmarks that showcase Prague's architectural splendor.

Day 2: Prague – Melnik
33 miles/53 km

As you embark on your journey, a gentle climb leads to a picturesque trail guiding you to the heart of the Czech wine region, the town of Melnik. Along the way, you'll pass the Troja Baroque Castle and follow the northern bank of the Vltava River, unveiling interesting rock formations and deep valleys. Highlights include visits to Nelahozeves or Veltrusy castles, concluding the day in the historic wine town at the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe Rivers.

Overnight in Melnik.

Day 3: Melnik – Litomerice
31 miles/52 km

Today's stage unfolds through the serene Elbe region, characterized by its fertile lands. After passing the Libechov Castle, you'll arrive in the town of Roudnice nad Labem, where you can admire its old church and castle. A significant stop includes the massive Terezin Fortress, offering insights into military architecture and serving as a poignant reminder of World War II. The day concludes in Litomerice, an old town and spiritual center. . Litomerice boasts a rich history dating back to the 10th century, with landmarks such as the Baroque Bishop's Residence and the Gothic-style Church of St. Stephen

Overnight in Litomerice.

Day 4: Litomerice – Decin
31 miles/52 km

Today you head to the enchanting region of the Czech Central Mountains. As you pedal, the ancient volcanic landscape will rise around your river valley route, with medieval castles casting their shadows from the slender peaks of long-extinct cones. Follow the ancient trade route along the Labe River, connecting the Czech and Saxon Kingdoms, with your symbolic entry point into the Czech Central Mountains being the Porta Bohemica.

Continue along this historic route, and you'll reach the charming village of Žernoseky, renowned for its wine cultivation and the presence of a Baroque chateau. Moving forward, your next points of interest include the modern Masaryk flood-gates and the time-honored ruins of Střekov Castle, majestically perched above the city of Ústí. Take a moment in Ústí to marvel at the most off-center tower north of the Alps, its tilt attributed to the heavy bombing at the end of World War II.

As you pedal onward, Velké Březno Castle awaits, serving as a splendid testament to Empire architecture in the Czech Lands. Your bike route concludes in the city of Děčín, visually dominated by a chateau seated high atop a rocky perch. Your journey unfolds with a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and architectural wonders, providing you with a memorable exploration of the Czech Central Mountains.

Overnight in Decin.

Day 5: Decin - Czech-Saxon Switzerland national park area,
16 miles/25 km cycling | 3 - 9 miles/5 - 15 km hiking

Today, you will be crossing the border to Germany. The bike path through the Czech and Saxon Switzerland National Park will lead you alongside amazing sandstone cliffs and pillars. Upon reaching Hřensko, you can dedicate the remaining time to hike across this exquisite terrain.

You have a few options to choose from. You can hike up to the largest natural arch in Central Europe, Pravčická brána (Gate of Pravčice), offering an admirable view of the surrounding area. Alternatively, opt for a relaxed stroll and gondola ride through an untouched part of the Kamenice River valley. A third option is to combine these two hikes into one trip. Conclude the day with a short bike ride and cross the border to Germany in the lovely spa town of Bad Schandau. For those not interested in hiking, consider spending half a day with spa procedures or at the swimming pool in this town

Overnight in Bad Schandau/ Krippen area

Day 6: Bad Schandau – Dresden
28 miles/45 km

As you set off from Bad Schandau, the picturesque landscapes along the Elbe River will accompany you on your journey.

A significant highlight of your bike tour will be the Königstein Fortress, majestically perched atop a table mountain overlooking the Elbe River. This well-preserved fortress, often referred to as the "Saxon Bastille," boasts a rich history dating back over 750 years. The fortress served various purposes throughout the centuries, functioning as a medieval castle, a state prison, and a refuge for the Saxon royal family during times of war.

Overnight in Dresden.

Day 7: Dresden

There is probably no other town in Germany that better symbolizes the turbulent history of this country and shows many centuries of cultural and architectural boom combined with religious freedom and economic prosperity. A short stint of Nazism was followed by punishment in the form of the biggest bombing during World War II, which turned almost the entire city into ruins overnight. We can arrange tour guiding services or help you to extend your stay.