Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path
Overview
The Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path takes you on a 215km journey from the golden capital of the Czech Republic to the heart of German Saxony. Starting in Prague, cycle through rural Czech Republic countryside following the Elbe River, past wineries, charming small towns, and hilltop castles.
After crossing into Germany, approach the striking Elbe Sandstone Mountains, visit the famous Bastei Bridge, and finish in Dresden, the gateway to Saxony. Each morning you'll wake up to a new adventure and enjoy a great mix of beautiful scenery, quaint villages, and culturally significant city centres. To appreciate the Czech Republic and Germany from atop a bike, this tour is a must.
Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path Overview
The Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path takes you on a 215km journey from the golden capital of the Czech Republic to the heart of German Saxony. Starting in Prague, cycle through rural Czech Republic countryside following the Elbe River, past wineries, charming small towns, and hilltop castles.
After crossing into Germany, approach the striking Elbe Sandstone Mountains, visit the famous Bastei Bridge, and finish in Dresden, the gateway to Saxony. Each morning you'll wake up to a new adventure and enjoy a great mix of beautiful scenery, quaint villages, and culturally significant city centres. To appreciate the Czech Republic and Germany from atop a bike, this tour is a must.
Start your journey by exploring Prague's legendary architecture that earned it the nickname “the Golden City.”
Cycle through Bohemian wine country, seeing castles, old towns, and impressive churches on the way.
Visit the stunning Bastei Bridge floating amongst the bizarre rock formations of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.
Finish your holiday in the historic city of Dresden with many beautiful attractions to explore.
Trip map for Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path
Barbara C.
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We went through 10Adventures not familiar with them at all, and it was the best decision we ever made!
Allyson K.
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Just an amazing experience. Absolutely lifechanging!
Amy D.
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It was a fantastic trip and Nadine was extremely responsive to all of our questions.
Itinerary for Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path
Arrival in Prague
Prague is one of the finest jewels of Europe, boasting breathtaking architecture and world-class arts and culture. Check in to your hotel and pick up your welcome package before heading out to enjoy the city for the rest of the day.
The Best of Prague
Prague is a historic city full of character and attractions, including the striking arches of the Charles Bridge dating back to the 14th century and the cobblestoned Old Town Square with Prague's Astronomical Clock, the oldest operating clock on the planet. Take the day to explore this beautiful city and all it has to offer.
Prague to Melnik
Today after breakfast, begin biking along the Vlatava River to the town of Melnik, the centre of Bohemian wine production. Stop at the stately Melnik Castle perched on a hilltop, with lovely views of the Elbe and Vlatvana rivers converging below.
You’ll spend the evening in Melnik. Pro tip? Try to find some traditional Czech strawberry and cheese dumplings (jahoda knedlíky) for dessert.
Melnik to Litoměřice
The route from Melnik to Litoměřice takes you past some interesting historical sites, including the former Jewish ghetto and fortified town of Terezin. From here you continue to the colourful town of Litoměřice, which has lovely squares, churches, and chalice houses.
Litoměřice to Děčín
Cycling along the Elbe, you'll reach the impressive clifftop Castle Střekov and then head to Děčín. Be sure to visit the baroque masterpiece of Děčín Castle, where famous pianist Frédéric Chopin went for inspiration.
Děčín to Bad Schandau/Pirna
After crossing into Germany, you'll soon catch a glimpse of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains rising in the distance. Enjoy the scenic views of the strange landscapes on both sides of the Elbe River.
You can either overnight in the spa town of Bad Schandau or carry on to Pirna.
Bad Schandau/Pirna to Dresden
The final day of your cycling adventure takes you past the Königstein Fortress, one of Europe's largest hilltop fortifications, and to the stunning Bastei Bridge, which seems to float amongst the bizarre rock formations of the Elbe Sandstone Mountains.
En route to Dresden, be sure to stop at the tranquil gardens of the Pillnitz Palace and Park.
Departure from Dresden
After checking out from the hotel you'll have the day free to explore Dresden's gorgeous cathedrals, museums, palaces, and charming old town. You can add on additional nights here or be transferred back to Prague to spend more nights there if you’re not done exploring yet.
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Dates and prices for Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path
This self-guided tour is always run as a private tour for your group only.
2025 Departures
The departures are daily, from April to October.
- Single room: from $1,225USD*
- Sharing a double room: from $895USD*
*-Pricing for this tour depends on the dates of your trip and all the prices are per person. Please click the booking button below to get the exact pricing for your trip dates.
What’s included for Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path
Meals
7 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights are included. Accommodations before and after the tour can be added as a supplement. Tour participants can also extend their stay at any of the overnight locations along the tour route.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation for your luggage from hotel to hotel is included throughout the tour. Airport transfers are not included.
Also Included
- 1 package with maps and information per room (in English)
- Service hotline during the walking tour
Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Guide services
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Visas if required
- Entrance fees to attractions
- Bike rental
Optional Extras
- Biking equipment rental:
- Touring bike
- E-Bike
- Speedometer
- Additional nights before, during, or after the tour
- Single occupancy upgrades
- Additional transfers
Accommodation for Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path
This tour is based in hotels. Hotels on this trip are 3-star and offer modern conveniences that can make this trip more pleasant. Rooms may have fireplaces or access to amenities such as hot tubs, steam rooms, or private decks to lounge on. If you prefer to upgrade to 4-star hotels, please ask us about this option.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. If you are a solo traveller or you prefer a single room, the required supplements are included in the listed prices.
Frequently asked questions for Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path
How hard is the Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path tour?
We rate this tour as a 3/5. The Elbe Cycle Path is fairly flat and the majority of the path is paved and well-maintained. Participants should be comfortable cycling approximately 20-55km per day for several consecutive days, potentially with the help of an e-bike if they desire.
Can I rent a bike?
Yes, you can rent a bike during the booking process. Rental bikes are standard touring bikes or electric pedal-assist bikes.
I’ve never been on a self-guided trip! How does it work?
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel as you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided all the information on which direction you need to go daily. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
What do the rental bikes come with?
All rental bicycles are supplied with the following accessories: one cable lock with key and one waterproof pannier per bicycle, one map holder and complete tool kit per room (tool kit: inner tube, pump, puncture repair kit, tire levers, cleaning cloth, allen key). Speedometers can be rented for 5 EUR per day.
Where do I pick up/drop off the rental bike?
The rental bikes will be delivered to your hotel at 8 am on Day 1. The bike will be picked up from the last hotel when the tour finishes.
Can I bring my own bike?
Yes. If you bring your own bike, it should be a road bike suitable for the demands of the tour.
Where do I park my bike at the end of the day?
Every hotel and guesthouse along the route provides safe and secure bicycle parking.
Can I bike in the other direction, from Dresden to Prague?
Yes, this tour can be done in the opposite direction. Ask us about this option if you’d prefer it.
Are meals included on the Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path tour?
7 breakfasts are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover cycling. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Prague to start this tour?
Fly into Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRD) and transfer to your hotel to begin this tour.
Where does the Prague to Dresden on the Elbe Cycle Path tour end?
The tour ends in Dresden when you check out of your hotel. You can fly out of Dresden Airport (DRS) or we can arrange transportation for you back to Prague.
Do I need a visa to travel to Germany or the Czech Republic?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Germany or the Czech Republic?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Germany or the Czech Republic?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Germany and Czech Republic for this tour?
The best time to travel to Prague and Dresden for this biking tour is from May to September when the weather tends to be warm and mostly clear.
Why book with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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