Rhine River Bike Tour Reviews
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- ★★★★★ Lynn S
Magical ride along the Rhine
Rhine Bike Path: Mainz to Cologne
An amazing way to experience the Rhine - beautiful scenery at every twist and turn! The friends we were with had done a riverboat cruise in the same area last year but said that this was such a better way to experience it. Every promise made by the company was kept - bikes were there on time and well-equipped, luggage was ported safely and on time every day, hotels were clean and comfortable and always had great breakfasts to get us ready for the day of biking. Distances were good - shorter distance days were on days when there were lots of places we wanted to stop, longer distance days were still very beautiful but didn’t have as many places where we would have wanted to stop. The app was excellent - it isn’t easy to get lost biking along the Rhine but the app made sure that we didn’t. The only thing that might have made the app better is if it was possible to highlight any of the spots that we wanted to see. We really appreciated the effort made by the company to adjust our trip by one day so that we were able to visit the other couple’s son who was living relatively nearby one of our stops. We wouldn’t hesitate to book with this company again! Thanks so much!!
- What was the date of your tour?
- October 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- 3
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Roxanne
Best ever bike and barge tour!
Exploring the Neckar and Rhine Rivers and Valleys
We have been on five bike and barge excursions in Europe and this trip was by far the best ever experience in so many ways. Fantastic !
Our trip route had to be rerouted shortly before we started because a lock on the Neckar River was not working properly so no boat traffic was allowed. Instead we biked from Wurzburg to Mainz. The crew must have worked overtime to make modifications for our journey and should be commended for this effort.
The Merlijn barge is without a doubt a classy vessel. The barge was remodeled recently and it was truly a pleasure to travel on it. The beds were comfortable and the room spacious. The bathroom as well had nice shower and other upgrades like the lighted and fog free mirror. Plugs for devices were numerous and handy. Storage plentiful.
The crew of five were all very accommodating and hard working. They were a real team and this helped to create a very positive atmosphere. I can’t say enough about how each crew member helped to make the trip so memorable
The food was gourmet. Each day we started with a healthy breakfast ; we received a packed lunch. When returned from biking we had snacks and were WOWED with outstanding dinners. Truly incredible service and hospitality.
The biking paths were mostly paved and our stops in the small towns and villages for breaks and lunches were so much fun because you get the opportunity to see Germany. Thomas our leader was experienced and always concerned about safety. The riders had helmets outfitted with technology so he could communicate as we rode giving directions, cautions and interesting
points of interest. A review of the next days ride was explained after dinner each night. Almost every evening after dinner Thomas took us for an excursion around the town where we were docked. Because our riding route was changed Thom had to scramble to re familiarize himself with the path so he should get extra credit for this effort. There were 24 on this tour and it was well organized with safety a priority. ( I personally prefer smaller groups).
The route itself was fine especially given the last minute modifications. The paths well marked and very few challenges. Cobblestones in the towns we visited do require riders to be mindful.
We loved the trip. Our fellow passengers were very friendly and upbeat.
Thank you to the Merlijn crew for a truly wonderful trip.- What was the date of your tour?
- October 8-15
- How many tours have you completed?
- Five
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Roxanne
Best ever bike and barge tour!
Exploring the Neckar and Rhine Rivers and Valleys
We have been on five bike and barge excursions in Europe and this trip was by far the best ever experience in so many ways. Fantastic !
Our trip route had to be rerouted shortly before we started because a lock on the Neckar River was not working properly so no boat traffic was allowed. Instead we biked from Wurzburg to Mainz. The crew must have worked overtime to make modifications for our journey and should be commended for this effort.
The Merlijn barge is without a doubt a classy vessel. The barge was remodeled recently and it was truly a pleasure to travel on it. The beds were comfortable and the room spacious. The bathroom as well had nice shower and other upgrades like the lighted and fog free mirror. Plugs for devices were numerous and handy. Storage plentiful.
The crew of five were all very accommodating and hard working. They were a real team and this helped to create a very positive atmosphere. I can’t say enough about how each crew member helped to make the trip so memorable
The food was gourmet. Each day we started with a healthy breakfast ; we received a packed lunch. When returned from biking we had snacks and were WOWED with outstanding dinners. Truly incredible service and hospitality.
The biking paths were mostly paved and our stops in the small towns and villages for breaks and lunches were so much fun because you get the opportunity to see Germany. Thomas our leader was experienced and always concerned about safety. The riders had helmets outfitted with technology so he could communicate as we rode giving directions, cautions and interesting
points of interest. A review of the next days ride was explained after dinner each night. Almost every evening after dinner Thomas took us for an excursion around the town where we were docked. Because our riding route was changed Thom had to scramble to re familiarize himself with the path so he should get extra credit for this effort. There were 24 on this tour and it was well organized with safety a priority. ( I personally prefer smaller groups).
The route itself was fine especially given the last minute modifications. The paths well marked and very few challenges. Cobblestones in the towns we visited do require riders to be mindful.
We loved the trip. Our fellow passengers were very friendly and upbeat.
Thank you to the Merlijn crew for a truly wonderful trip.- What was the date of your tour?
- October 8-15
- How many tours have you completed?
- Five
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Nicole Dupont
The trip.
Mosel Bike Path: Dreamy Mosel Valley from Trier to Koblenz
Perfect way to take your time , enjoy and see in détail what we want. Take time to meet amasing poeple along the bike path.
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Ed & Jill Nyland
Trip Was As Expected
Strasbourg to Mainz: Imperial Cities and Charming Landscapes Along the Rhine
The trip was enjoyable, the bikes were top notch, the trails were mostly well maintained except for a couple of remote and rough areas. The hotels were pleasant except for a very horrendous experience in Heidelberg. We were told that they were overbooked and they “stuck us” in a 7 story walk up hotel across the street., no elevator and no lobby. The hotel was dirty and not secure. We had to carry our two large bags and all of our bike gear up and down. The comment was “you look like you’re in good shape”. There was no real apology or accountability for their mistake. We were extremely angry and disappointed because we were looking forward to Heidelberg.
BikeTours.com staff reply from bozena_kusovac
Hi Ed and Jill,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We’re so sorry to hear about what happened in Heidelberg - we understand how upsetting and frustrating that must have been, especially when you were looking forward to that part of the trip. Please accept our sincere apologies. We’ll be addressing this directly with our partner to make sure it doesn’t happen again.
Bozena
- ★★★★★ Stuart Burns
Great experience
Rhine Bike Path: Mainz to Cologne
They say cycling is the ideal pace of travel, fast enough that the scene is always changing but slow enough that you can take much of it in. While the App is at time challenging to give accurate information when you need it on the whole it was a huge plus over using paper maps and probably better than Google Maps.
The accommodation was of mixed standards, some of it in less ideal locations and/or looking tired on the outside but internally the rooms were all clean, comfortable and with excellent showers.
We were lucky with the weather but if you got a good soaking every day you may struggle to dry kit, but the bag moving service worked impeccably, sometimes the bags were even waiting in our rooms rather than the lobby.
The question is would we do it again and would we use bike tours and the answer to both is yes. The support was very good and the experience was memorable, hugely enjoyable and a little bit of an adventure.- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- 1
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Peter Hitchen
Enjoyed very much. Well organised.
Rhine Bike Path: Mainz to Cologne
I felt that we were safe and in good hands should something have gone wrong - which it didn’t.
- What was the date of your tour?
- August 20265
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Patrick M
Great experience
Mosel Bike Path: Dreamy Mosel Valley from Trier to Koblenz
TL;DR summary - We had a great time and didn't realize biking the Mosel Valley was a bucket-list sort of vacation until we did it. One other item I would note is that this tour is listed as "family-friendly", but it's really geared to adults only.
The longer version - Overall, we had an excellent experience. I personally found the bike riding from the industrial area outside of Trier to Cochem as some of the most enjoyable bike riding I've done in my life. We generally stuck to the path near the Mosel and had lots of opportunities to enjoy small towns, get off the beaten path to hike/bike climb to beautiful views, and enjoy the scenery of the vineyards and hills around the Mosel. If I have the opportunity to bike around this area again, I'd jump at it.
The local tour operator was great. We had some issues on the road, and they were able to help us out including bringing a replacement bike and driving people from one stop to the next. They went above and beyond in my expectations.
I feel like there were some communication breakdowns between BikeTours and the local operator/hotel/vineyard that caused us some unneeded stress and center around having two kids as part of the biking party.
1. We were provided a biking option that didn't work - Prior to booking with BikeTours, I inquired about options for my 8 year-old daughter since this tour was labeled as "family friendly". BikeTours offered a Follow-me as the only option beyond a regular bike (a tandem and Tag-along were not options). I have one, and it worked well on other bike rides with my daughter when she was a little smaller so I was fine with it. When I followed up a couple weeks prior to the trip, BikeTours didn't have a Follow-me booked. I had to find the old email thread and send it over to BikeTours to show them what we had agreed to prior to the booking. Upon our arrival in Trier, the local tour operator had the Follow-me set up but seemed skeptical that it would work very well. They were right as the amount of weight on the back tire and back bike were too heavy to keep the bikes stable. My daughter ended up biking all by herself, and we never used the Follow-me. It would have been much better if we could have spoken with the local operator directly since they own the bikes to understand our options. BikeTours was a complicating and unnecessary middle-man.
2. We were booked at an Adults-only hotel. As best as I have been able to figure out, we booked this trip prior to an updated contract between the hotel and operator. I'm guessing the hotel changed over to adults-only recently but BikeTours did not communicate ages of my party to the hotel. The hotel was very accommodating and let us stay, but it was definitely awkward.
3. My two kids were booked for wine-tasting - again, the vineyard was accommodating and pulled out a couple grape juices for my kids to try, but it was definitely geared for adults. SHOW MOREWith that said, the local people made it work and the trip was still fun. It checked boxes for my brother and sister-in-law and for my family. However, I don't think BikeTours should mark this trip as "family friendly" - maybe more "family doable". The bike path is very flat and in good condition. The daily lengths are not super long. There are plenty of places to stop and get ice cream or other treat. Plus there is wine - lots and lots of it. But ultimately, this is a tour designed for adults, not for kids.
This is the second time we have used BikeTours. The first time was excellent all around (we did a family bike tour along the Danube - Linz to Vienna). This one was mostly good. Aside from the issues noted above, biking directions were clear, hotels were great, the route was spectacular, and booking was relatively painless.
SHOW LESS- What was the date of your tour?
- August 2025
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Tom Schulte
Enjoyable Days on the Rhine
Strasbourg to Mainz: Imperial Cities and Charming Landscapes Along the Rhine
The cities food and trails were great. App on our phone was a great guide. Majority of paths were in excellent condition . Bikes and luggage transfers were flawless. Thanks again BikeTours for a great adventure.
- ★★★★★ Thomas Murphy
A lovely experience
Strasbourg to Mainz: Imperial Cities and Charming Landscapes Along the Rhine
The cycle was a great experience we cycled on gravel routes and centuries old cobbles one more thing off our to do list. The towns we passed through were lovely. Some exquisite old buildings sights i will never forget. We did have a little panic one day. When we got to the ferry it wasn't crossing on the day. We did have an alternative route but about 5 or 6 k into that route there was roadworks so we were diverted off our diversion route. For awhile we got completely lost. Luckily we met a local couple out cycling who cycled with us to the bridge we were looking for..I have to mention that all the locals all along the way were friendly and helpful when needed. Yes I would recommend this cycling trip to anyone who would like to experience something slightly different from your normal cycling trip
- ★★★★★ Mary Giblin
"Moselle Valley by Bike: A Well-Organized and Scenic Trip"
Mosel Bike Path: Dreamy Mosel Valley from Trier to Koblenz
We recently completed a cycling trip from Trier to Koblenz, passing through the Moselle Valley. The experience was excellent overall—well-organized, scenic, and relaxing.
The bikes we hired were in good condition and comfortable for long days of riding. The bike paths along the Moselle were easy to follow, mostly flat, and well signposted, making navigation simple even without GPS.
Accommodation throughout the trip was high quality. We especially liked the Kessler-Meyer Wellness Hotel in Cochem, which had great facilities and a comfortable atmosphere. Another highlight was the Hotel Richtershof in Mülheim, which offered a very good wine list and a relaxing setting. In Koblenz, we stayed at the Mercure Hotel, which was conveniently located near the river and a short walk from the Deutsches Eck.
One of the highlights of the trip was a wine tasting in Traben-Trarbach, where we had the chance to sample local Rieslings. After reaching Koblenz by bike, we took the ferry along the Rhine and cycling back to the city—an enjoyable way to see a different stretch of river scenery.
The only small issue we encountered was that the bikes weren't waiting for us at the starting hotel in Trier. However, the rental company responded quickly, and the bikes were delivered within a few hours.
Overall, this was a smooth and enjoyable trip. The combination of good bikes, quality hotels, and a scenic, easy-to-navigate route made for a great experience.
- What was the date of your tour?
- July 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- 2
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat easier
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Arnold and Elmari Botha
Wonderful experience in a scenic environment!
Mosel Bike Path: Dreamy Mosel Valley from Trier to Koblenz
What was good:
- The hotels were first class in terms of location, breakfast, cleanliness and facilities
- The bicycles were in an excellent condition
- The Mosel is almost too beautiful to be true, with the winding river, vines, castles and picturesque villages
- The wine tasting was a very pleasant experience
- The roads were mostly dedicated cycle paths, fairly flat and in a good condition
- The Rhine cruise was a nice bonusWhere the tour can be improved upon:
- The instructions and directions for the Rhine cruise was totally absent - we did not know where to go
- The location of the wine tasting was also a bit obscure and hidden in the fine print
- We received vouchers for Trier but did not know what they were for and we arrived too late to use them
- The directions were not always clear and we got lost a few times (eg on Day 1 the notes say "You'll find the Hotel Moselblick here", but in fact one should take a turn-off BEFORE the hotel.)
- The road works in Trier also confused us and it took us an extra hour to find the right path. (We met other cyclists who were confused as well)
- Most of the coffee shops and restaurants in the smaller towns were closed in the afternoon, which was disappointing and threw our plans in disarray!
- On Day 2 our luggage only arrived at the hotel after 6 pm despite it being a short route. As a result we had to attend the wine tasting in our cycling clothes.
- On Day 4 I cramped badly and phoned the Service Hotline to be picked up and taken to the hotel, but we were told that Pedalo does not provide that service, despite promises in the upfront communication that it does. What would have happened if one of us fell badly and broke an arm or damaged the bicycle, or if a torrential thunderstorm broke out? Surely there must be a rescue vehicle on stand-by?
- The info pack was insufficient in the absence of a personal briefing sessionDespite these points, it was a wonderful experience (albeit a bit expensive) and we would recommend it strongly to couples, families or friends.
Just a warning: Although I was reasonably fit and an experienced cyclist, I suffered on the long days. Cycling 60+ kilometers on normal touring bicycles is not a trivial exercise (especially in wind or rain), so please come prepared with properly padded cycling shorts, hydrate frequently, and get e-bikes if possible.
- What was the date of your tour?
- July 2025
- How many tours have you completed?
- 1
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- Somewhat harder
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ BH
Half and Half
Freiburg and the Alsatian Wine Road
Maybe it was the extreme heat but we found the first 3 days to be less than exciting. We were just thankful we didn’t have a strong head wind as we rode along the very exposed Rhine River embankment. Strasbourg was gorgeous but it was 98 at 4 pm. The ride west out of Strasbourg was beautiful, shady as it followed an old canal. Alsace was fantastic even though a few hills were probably at least 12%. Most surfaces were very nice. Obernai and Colmar were highlights. We rode our own touring bikes.
- ★★★★★ Laura S.
Bike, Barge, Fine Dining!
Amsterdam to Cologne along the IJssel and Rhine
What a super trip! The Merlin is a beautiful barge and the crew exceptionally welcoming. Meals were gourmet, the scenery beautiful, and the cycling was so perfect. Ilsa was a terrific guide - the picture of patience, a font of knowledge, and an expert cyclist. The small group size meant we were able to become acquainted with each other very quickly, which was fun. The staterooms were so comfortable and inviting. Superb service. This trip certainly exceeded my expectations.
- ★★★★★ M.Mark
A river bike ride
Mosel Bike Path: Dreamy Mosel Valley from Trier to Koblenz
Great place for a bike ride along a river and through wine country. Visiting towns along the way a nice bonus. Not much of altitude gain was also a plus.
- What was the date of your tour?
- June 2025
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Alfred B
Biking along the Rhine
Strasbourg to Mainz: Imperial Cities and Charming Landscapes Along the Rhine
If you are our age, 75-80, we recommend using an e-bike. We enjoyed the trip but definitely too hard with a touring bike at our age! The signage was 90% OK but there was about 10% questionable signage which needed google's help.
In our modern times, where everybody uses a handy, all hotels should have USB outlets, which was not the case - ★★★★★ Craig Brockway
First time Europe cyclers
Strasbourg to Mainz: Imperial Cities and Charming Landscapes Along the Rhine
Transfers were efficient and on time. Bikes were well maintained and easy to ride. Accommodation was comfortable, especially liked the guest house in Nierstien. Friendly host who told us about the great veiw from the hill.
- ★★★★★ Helen Seton
What a great bike ride
Mosel Bike Path: Dreamy Mosel Valley from Trier to Koblenz
We really had a splendid tour. The hotels were comfortable and the trail well marked. The scenery and historic villages were beautiful.
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
- ★★★★★ Jean Schlier
Mosel Trip Trier to Koblenz
Rhine Bike Path: Mainz to Cologne
Great laid back trip along the Mosel. We stopped for a wine tasting in a quaint winery along the route, enjoyed riding through the many vineyards and along the bike paths. There were a lot of flowers so very beautiful. A few too many areas riding alongside roads but it was usually along a bikepath right next to the road. We had a great time, a lot of laughs and enjoyed the little villages.
- What was the date of your tour?
- September 2024
- How many tours have you completed?
- 5
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
- Countries included in this tour?
- Germany
