Cruise the Heart of Northern Germany

(0)
7 nights
24 miles/day
Guided from EUR € 2145
Countries: Germany
Rider Level: Leisure Electric bike tours Bike and boat tours

Cruise the Heart of Northern Germany

(0)

Rider Level: Leisure Electric bike tours Bike and boat tours

7 nights
24 miles/day

Guided from EUR € 2145
Bike and Boat Tour aboard Merlijn
Countries: Germany

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  • German Waterways and Canals from Berlin to Wolfsburg

    Bike and boat the heart of Northern Germany through vibrant cities, charming towns, and picturesque landscapes. This is eight days of pure delight; culture, history, art... and food!

    Berlin is a city that is buzzing with energy and history, so we encourage you to arrive a day or two before your bike and boat tour begins. Visit iconic landmarks like the historic Brandenburg Gate, the deeply moving Holocaust Memorial, and the hip cultural scene along Friedrichstraße. Once on board the Merlijn, you will have the chance to hit the streets of the charming district of Spandau.

    From Berlin, you will follow the European Cycling Track through Berlin's Grunewald forest, cruise across the iconic Glienicker bridge, and roll into Potsdam: the provincial capital of Brandenburg with architectural gems like Sanssouci Castle and its historic quarters.

    From Brandenburg to Genthin and onward to the captivating city of Magdeburg, each day offers up a fresh chapter in your immersive journey. As you drift along these tranquil waterways, kick back and relax on board to enjoy breathtaking views.

    The grand finale is Wolfsburg, a city with options galore. Visit the renowned Volkswagen 'Autostadt' and explore the fascinating old town center!

    This tour is also run in reverse! See dates.

    • Schnitzel in Germany is amazing! Mark Konig@Unsplash
    • Berlin is a UNESCO "City of Design" in Germany. CC:Kasa Fue
    • Vineyards to make Riesling wines abound in Germany. Luca J@Unsplash
    • Berlin Cathedral, Germany. Christian Ladewig@Unsplash
    • Currywurst is a German favorite! CC:Ziko van Dijk
    • Berlin, Germany. Mahesh Kumar Painam@Unsplash
    • Berlin is a UNESCO "City of Design" in Germany. Levin@Unsplash
    • Grunewald Forest, Germany. Sergiy Galyonkin@Flickr

    View more photos

    Highlights

    • Iconic Berlin
    • Grunewald Forest and European Cycling Track routes
    • Historic Transromanica and Brandenburg tour route
    • Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam, the former summer residence of Frederick the Great, is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Picturesque landscapes
    • Magdeburg's rich history
    • Volkswagen 'Autostadt'


    Cruise the Heart of Northern Germany

    Photos 


  • Cruise the Heart of Northern Germany

     Tour Description Daily Program 

  • Daily program

    Berlin to Wolfsburg

    Day 1: Berlin
    Your adventure begins in Berlin, a city that electrifies the senses. Unlike any other German city, Berlin is bursting with art, culture, and history. It's a place where the lines between past and present blur, where grand museums and vibrant theaters coexist with a buzzing nightlife. Since the "Wende," the era of German reunification, Berlin has transformed into a dynamic, cosmopolitan metropolis offering endless possibilities for exploration.

    Arrive and drop off luggage at the boat as early as 10 a.m., though official check-in starts at 3:30 p.m. At 4 p.m., the program begins with a welcome drink, crew introductions, and a tour presentation to cover everything you need to know about safety and the journey on both bike and boat. After a delicious dinner, stroll through Spandau, where the Merlijn will be docked overnight.

    Day 2: Berlin - Potsdam
    Today, you will follow the European Cycling Track through Berlin's Grunewald forest. Tracing the Havel River, the route crosses the iconic Glienicker Bridge on the way to Potsdam, the enchanting provincial capital of Brandenburg. Potsdam is a true gem among Germany's cities, and the boat will be conveniently moored just a short walk from its vibrant city center.

    Day 3: Potsdam
    Potsdam, another jewel of Brandenburg, awaits your exploration today. The city is best known for the exquisite Sanssouci Castle, and your entrance is already included. Beyond this former summer residence of Friedrich the Great, Potsdam has much more to offer. You can stroll through the historical city quarters, wander the Russian colony of Alexandrowka, explore the Dutch Quarter, and immerse yourself in the former Bohemian Weaver Quarters. All these experiences will evoke the rich, European influence on this city. Your day's options include independent exploration, cultural immersion, watersports on Potsdam's many lakes, or a scenic bike ride around the lakes. The evening offers a chance to savor regional cuisine in one of Potsdam's numerous restaurants (not included in the price).

    Day 4: Potsdam - Brandenburg
    You will navigate to Werder, the city of blossoming trees and the starting point the cycling itinerary. Werder is surrounded by the countless lakes and tributaries of the Havel River, promising water views at every turn. Your ride will lead us to the Schwielowsee, Glindowsee, Big Plessower See, Zernsee, and the Havel River itself. From Werder, you will cycle to Marquardt, Paretz– where Queen Louise enjoyed her summer resort in the local castle– and Paretz Park. Your journey continues to the picturesque fishing village of Ketzin. After crossing the Havel by ferry, you'll pedal through spacious lowlands and quaint "märkische" villages with traditional timber-framed buildings. The afternoon and evening are yours to explore Brandenburg, with highlights including St. Nicolai Church, St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, the old town hall, and the impressive Steintor-turm.

    Day 5: Brandenburg - Genthin
    Today's ride crosses two German federal states: Brandenburg and Saxony-Anhalt. Departing from Brandenburg, you will follow the "Tour Brandenburg" cycle path along the western side of the Havel Lake Plateau. The Merlijn will take the northern route along the Silocanal and the lower Havel Waterway, leading to the Elbe-Havel Canal. After you pedal through endless forests with captivating green vistas, your ride concludes in the charming town of Genthin, often referred to by its mayor as "The Pearl along the Canal".

    Day 6: Genthin - Magdeburg
    After a hearty breakfast, the Merlijn gently floats along the Elbe-Havel Canal to Burg, where you will hop back on your bikes. Burg boasts a rich history, with 1055 years of heritage to admire. Check out the churches along the Romanesque Road, including the Lower Church St. Nicolai from the 12th century and the Upper Church "Unser Lieber Frauen" from the 13th century.

    A must-see site near Magdeburg is the famous Magdeburg Water Bridge, where ships on the Elbe-Havel Canal cross the Elbe River on a navigable aqueduct. Magdeburg is renowned for its historical significance as the royal palace of Emperor Otto the 1st, the first Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, crowned in 962. Enjoy modern-day Magdeburg as you explore various attractions including the Green Citadel, the Magdeburg Cathedral, the Old Market Square with the Golden Rider Statue, and the Old City Hall. For culture enthusiasts, there's an option to leave bikes onboard and spend the day in Magdeburg, with assistance available for transfers from Burg to the city. After dinner on board, you will stroll to the old Shiplift and the new lock 'Rothensee.'

    Day 7: Magdeburg - Wolfsburg
    The Merlijn navigates first to Calvörde, where the cycling begins and then continues on to Wolfsburg. You will have the opportunity to explore the home of the Volkswagen Autostadt, where you will enjoy a 45-minute guided tour through the park. Then, you'll have free time to explore more sites at your own pace here. If cars aren't your thing, you can also explore the old city center of Wolfsburg.

    Day 8: Farewell in Wolfsburg
    Your incredible journey comes to an official end today. Disembarkation after breakfast. The Merlijn will be conveniently docked near the Wolfsburg railway station, ensuring a smooth departure for your onward adventures.

    Wolfsburg to Berlin

    Day 1: Wolfsburg
    Day 2: Wolfsburg - Calvörde - Magdeburg
    Day 3: Magdeburg - Burg - Genthin
    Day 4: Genthin - Brandenburg
    Day 5: Brandenburg - Werder - Potsdam
    Day 6: Potsdam
    Day 7: Potsdam - Berlin/Spandau
    Day 8: Berlin/Spandau

    Daily distance is from 25 to 50 km. We will be updating our each day's distance soon. Thank you for your patience.


    Cruise the Heart of Northern Germany

     Photos Accommodation 

  • Accommodation

    Boats

      Merlijn

      Originally constructed in 1930 and then lovingly converted to a passenger vessel with many renovations throughout the years, this beautiful boat boasts 12 luxurious cabins with two comfortable beds that can be pushed together or separated. Read more

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        Overview

        • Sundeck (40 m²)
        • Bar, lounge and dining area; Lounge covering (90 m²)
        • Climate control throughout entire ship (including individual cc in cabins)
        • Free Hot drinks machine (Unlimited coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and water during the cruise)
        • Water on board is drinkable. Unlimited cooled tap water provided. Bottled water available to purchase at the bar.
        • Special Diet Requests: The boat is able to accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free at no extra charge. Vegan diets can also be accommodated, a €50 per person per week surcharge will be applied. Diets need to be requested with your booking.
        • Daily cabin cleaning
        • Laundry service available. Price on board.

      Merlijn


      Cruise the Heart of Northern Germany

       Daily program Bikes 

    • Bikes

      • Standard Touring Bike - Jan Jansen Zero CO2

        • Step-through frame
        • 11-speeds
        • Hydraulic disc brakes
        • Super light available in different sizes
        • Shimano Alfine gear hub
        • Max S5 Superflow saddle

        Included with the bike rental:

        • Pannier bag
        • Helmet
        • Lock
        • Water bottle
        • Towel

        Standard touring bikes are included in the cost of all Merlijn tours.


        Electrically Assisted Bike - ISY or Gudereit (limited number, upon request)

        • Bosch engine
        • 7-gears
        • Continuously variable ENVIOLO 3.8 hub gear
        • Disk breaks

        Included with the bike rental:

        • Pannier bag
        • Helmet
        • Lock
        • Water bottle
        • Towel

        *More about electrically-assisted bikes >


      Bike Protection
      Can be purchased at the time of booking. You can read more about that HERE.


      Cruise the Heart of Northern Germany

       Accommodation Dates & Prices 

    • Dates

      Wolfsburg to Berlin: Jul 06, 2024

      Berlin to Wolfsburg: Aug 17, 2024

      Prices

      Tour package

      Per person, double occupancy €2145
      Single-use cabin (1 person/1 cabin) On request

      Bike Rentals

      27-speed standard touring bike Included
      Electrically assisted bikes €180

      Included services

      • 7 nights aboard the Merlijn
      • Welcome drink
      • 7 x breakfast, 6 x packed lunches, and 6 x three-course dinner
      • Coffee, tea, and water
      • Supply of bedding, towels, facial tissues, hand soap, soap, shampoo, sewing kit, vanity kit, bathrobe, and slippers
      • Daily cabin cleaning
      • Tour guide and daily tour briefing
      • 11-speed bicycle, which includes a waterproof pannier, towel, and helmet
      • Complimentary water bottle
      • GPS-tracks on the majority of routes
      • Canal, bridge & harbor fees
      • All ferry fares
      • Entrance and guided tour of Volkswagen Autostadt
      • Entrance to Sanssouci Castle or similar

      Tour Company


      Cruise the Heart of Northern Germany

       Bikes Other Details 

    • Surface and terrain

      The terrain is mostly flat and the route follows paved bike paths. At times, you will encounter gravel or dirt when riding through a forest.


      How to get there

      Tour start/end

      Berlin-Brandenburg (BER)

      BER is well connected to the city center by various transportation options, including train and bus. The airport has its own railway station.


      Cruise the Heart of Northern Germany

       Dates & Prices Tour Reviews 

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      Cruise the Heart of Northern Germany

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