Berlin bike tours: Everything you need to know
Berlin now attracts 13.5 million visitors from around the world to celebrate its thriving culture and eventful history. This capital city boasts an eclectic art scene and hosts major events like the renowned Berlin Marathon and the magical Festival of Lights. Upon arrival, you will experience a flourishing city that exudes undeniable energy. Exploring Berlin can be done by train, but it is the bicycle tours that will reveal the city's true colors. On a Berlin bike tour you’ll have the perfect opportunity to embrace all that Berlin has to offer. At the same time, you’ll get to burn off the extra German beer and currywurst you undoubtedly will consume. Prost!
What to expect on a Berlin bike tour?
Much like the city itself with its "anything goes" attitude, there is something for everyone here. You can travel through history or embark on a journey of Berlin’s many parks and green spaces. Maybe you’d prefer to visit the city's trendiest neighborhoods to embrace the thriving alternative lifestyles. Regardless of what you choose, you’ll see that there is a scratch that will cure any itch in Berlin!
If pedaling through a city like a typical European is on your bucket list, Berlin is the perfect place to embrace your first experience safely. It has one of the highest rates of bicycle commuting in the world, with over 500,000 people rolling through the city every single day. It is such a standard part of life that in addition to the over 390 miles of bike paths, cyclists even have their own stoplights! By the end of your tour, you will feel like a real Berliner. Ja, gut!
The city's most sought-after tours range from 2.5 to 3.5 hours long and include English-speaking tour guides. With the exception of a few hills, the terrain tends to be flat, making it accessible to children and others who prefer an easy ride.
This is northern Germany, so the tours will typically take place, rain or shine. If you are visiting during the fall or winter seasons, be sure to pack comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, a warm coat, and raingear. Spring and summer in Berlin can be surprisingly warm and sunny, so don't forget your sunscreen and sunhat. If you follow these easy tips, you will be prepared to happily pedal through Berlin's past, present, and future.
Which are the best areas for a bike tour in Berlin?
You don’t need to look far because Berlin is overflowing with some of the most interesting bike tour locations. Whether exploring its vast history, embracing its charming countryside, or enjoying a refreshing route along the water, there are areas for everyone to enjoy.
Potsdamer Platz
Formerly divided by the Berlin Wall, Potsdamer Platz was a no man's land between the East and the West. In the years following reunification, this former wasteland has grown to become the heart of Berlin. From the city center, the bike paths lead to the East Side Gallery, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and if you have the energy, even allow you to ride along the entire wall.
Mauer Park
Exploring former East Berlin by bike leads you through fascinating territory, beginning at the once-divided Mauer Park. This expansive area was originally the border strip between the East and the West and was off-limits to everyone for 27 years. Since reopening to the public in 1994, the park offers a thriving flea market, weekend karaoke, and music festivals. Berliners do know how to party!
Tiergarten
Once Prussian royal hunting grounds, the 519-acre Tiergarten is Berlin's "green lung." The heart of Berlin life attracts cyclists, joggers, and family picnickers. With its many paths, you can enjoy the fresh air before heading into the government district to view some of the city's most iconic landmarks. The Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag building are just some of them.
Mitte
The central Mitte neighborhood reveals the somber history of the Nazi occupation. It includes the Jewish Secondary School, the oldest Jewish cemetery (now home to a memorial), and the Neue Synagoge, built in 1866 and beautifully restored in 1995.