Prague to Dresden Self Guided Cycle Tour with 8 Reviews by Utracks

7 daysDuration

Private TourPrivate experience, no group joining

15 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

Prague, Czech Republic

Ends

Dresden, Germany

Highlights

Cycling through Bohemia along the Elbe River

Exploring the elegant city of Prague

Experiencing the timelessness of the river landscape

Discovering the beautifully restored sights of Dresden

Itinerary

Cycle through the Bohemian countryside from the fairytale city of Prague to Dresden on the Elbe River. This leisurely cycling holiday begins in the storybook city of Prague, where cobbled streets and Gothic spires set the scene for a remarkable adventure. Pedal along the tranquil Vltava and Elbe rivers, winding through a picturesque corridor of castles, vineyards and untouched countryside. Discover the charm of historic Melnik in the heart of Czech wine country, explore the fortress towns of Terezin and Litomerice, and ride beneath the dramatic Bohemian Highlands. Visit the romantic ruins of Strekov Castle, the elegant hilltop château in Decin, and cross into Germany to explore the stunning rock formations of Saxon Switzerland National Park. Cycle past the striking Bastei towers before reaching the beautifully restored baroque city of Dresden, home to the grand Zwinger Palace and the iconic Frauenkirche. Blending cultural treasures with spectacular scenery, this cross-border journey is the perfect way to experience the rich heritage and natural beauty of Central Europe at handlebar level.

day 1 - Join Prague

On arrival in Prague check into the hotel where you will receive your travel documents. The remainder of the day is free to begin your exploration of the city.

Optional guided tours are available on request, please ask our consultants:

- return cycle to Karlstejn Castle - operates daily except Monday, minimum 2 people (approx 6-7 hours, a pre-tour night is recommended).

- walking tour in Prague (3hrs)

day 2 - Pedal to Melnik in the heart of the Bohemian wine growing area (58-70km/35-42mi)

Today you will start cycling from your hotel in Prague. The total distance for today will vary depending on the location of your hotel in Prague. Despite the first small ascent, today's stage follows a nice trail to the heart of the Czech wine region - the town of Melnik. Just before you leave Prague, you pass the Troja Baroque Castle and then continue north following the bank of the Vltava River. You will cycle past some very interesting rock formations and deep valleys. Be sure to visit the castles in Nelahozeves or Veltrusy en route. Overnight in Melnik*, an old wine town at the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe Rivers. After the cycle you can relax with a glass of good wine or soft drink.

*Depending on availability, Category A accommodation may also be in nearby Liblice

Meals:Breakfast

day 3 - Cycle via the fortress of Terezin to Litomerice (50km/30mi)

Following the Elbe River (or in Czech "Labe River"), the cycle route leads out of Melnik past the Libechov Castle to the historic town of Roudnice. It then continues on the bend of the river to the fortress of Terezin. Named after Empress Maria Theresa, the vast fortress was built in the late 18th century covering an area of 3.89 square km / 2.5 square mile and during WWII was used as a concentration camp. After a visit to the fortress, continue a few kilometres to Litomerice with its beautiful houses. Take time to visit the underground cellars linked by tunnels, a section of which are open to the public.

Meals:Breakfast

day 4 - Cycle to Decin via Strekov Castle (52km/31mi)

Today's cycle will lead you mostly along the River Elbe, surrounded by hills with old ruins. En route you will pass the ruin of an old fortress Schreckenstein or Strekov Castle (literally meaning "horror castle"). It is situated on the right bank of the river perched on top of a 100m / 328ft high steep rock. Further along you reach the city of Usti nad Labem Aussig in the Bohemian Highlands (Ceské stredohorí). Continue cycling to the town of Decin, whose two sections straddle the river with the old town on the right bank. The main attraction of Decin is the town castle which has an incredible history from being a fort during the Seven Years’ War, to more recently used as a base for Soviet troops until 1991. It has also inspired artists and musicians including Chopin who wrote his Valse in A flat major there. In 2005 a full restoration was completed, bringing the castle back to its former glory, and a museum is now open to the public.

Meals:Breakfast

day 5 - Cycle across the border into Germany to Bad Schandau (25km/15mi)

Today you can decide whether you prefer to travel by bike or by boat to Hrensko. This border town is situated in the heart of the Czech-Saxon Switzerland National Park and offers many attractive activities. It is a wonderful region especially for those who love hiking. It offers many touristic trails leading through the scenery of the rocky towns, the mesas, the passes, deep gorges and hillsides. If you choose to hike, Pravcická Gate, the biggest natural rock bridge in Europe is not to be missed. You can then continue cycling on one of the many marked bike trails through this wonderful country, or combine a boat trip with ride through a romantic valley on a historical tram in Bad Schandau. In the afternoon you will cross the border to Germany, and stay overnight in the historic spa town of Bad Schandau.

*Please note the bridge at Bad Schandau is currently closed for maintenance. Alternate route suggested.

Meals:Breakfast

day 6 - Pass the Konigstein fortress en route to Dresden (48km/29mi)

This day is packed with historical sights! Shortly after leaving Bad Schandau you will see the haunting Königstein Fortress and just past the curve a beautiful rock formation with a romantic rock bridge and Bastei Ruin. If you have time, stop for a sightseeing tour of the town with its magnificent panoramic views. Later today you will cycle by the town of Pirna, where you will enter the region of the Dresden Valley. There are several beautiful castles and museums of music masters, such as Karl Maria Weber or Richard Wagner, both of whom used to compose in this area. At the end of the day you will reach the city of Dresden. Make sure you visit the famous sights such as Zwinger Palace and take a stroll through town.

*Due to the bridge closure when leaving Bad Schandau, a slight variation is offered.

Meals:Breakfast

day 7 - Trip concludes Dresden

Trip concludes after breakfast. Or you may choose to stay longer in this stunning city.

Meals:Breakfast

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What's Included

Accommodation

6 nights accommodation in mainly 3 star hotels or B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (upgrade to 4 star hotels or the best 3 star hotels/B&Bs (where 4 star is not available) - supplement applies).24 or 27 speed unisex bike rental with helmet, pannier, handlebar bag, lock and one repair kit per room

Meals

6 breakfasts - continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, cheese, occasionally eggs and meats, coffee, tea and juices.

Others

Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excessInformation pack including route notes and maps (per room booked)GPX data and off-line maps (smartphone required)Emergency hotline

What's Excluded

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