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.

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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'

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.

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.

Boats

• Merlijn

Merlijn

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.

Dates

Prices

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
• 27-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

Bike rentals

Bikes available and included in the tour package (must be reserved at time of booking) include:

• Standard city touring bike: Jan Janssen C02 or similar
  • Unisex model
  • Lightweight frame (available in 4 different sizes)
  • 8- or 11-speed
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Shimano Alfine gear hub
  • Max S5 Superflow saddle

Bikes available to rent (must be reserved at time of booking):

• Electrically assisted bike*: Gudereit, ISY, or similar
  • Unisex model
  • 7 gears
  • Bosch engine

*More about electrically-assisted bikes >

Included with the bike rental:

• Pannier bag
• Helmet
• Fixed lock
• Water bottle
• Towel

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

Tour Company