Two fascinating cities nestled in a beautiful river landscape – this bike tour from Prague to Dresden was a real highlight for us. Six varied days full of culture, nature, and exercise.

Day 1 – Arrival in Prague: Discovering the golden city

Our trip began in an environmentally friendly way by train – we reached the Czech capital Prague, also known as the “city of a hundred spires,” comfortably and stress-free. In the afternoon, we set off on foot to explore the historic old town. Particularly impressive were the Old Town Hall with its famous astronomical clock, Charles Bridge and, of course, Prague Castle – a fitting start to our tour.

Day 2 – From Prague to Mělník (approx. 70 km): Cycling along the Vltava

Our bikes and travel documents were already waiting for us at the start hotel. The first stage took us leisurely along the Vltava. Highlights along the way included the baroque Veltrusy Castle and the idyllic river landscape. Towards the end of the route, a short but challenging climb up to Mělník awaited us – a picturesque town high above the confluence of the Vltava and Elbe rivers, where we ended the evening.

Day 3 – Mělník to Litoměřice (approx. 52 km): History and enjoyment

On the third day, our route took us through quiet villages and small towns. We passed Dolní Beřkovice, Roudnice nad Labem and finally reached Terezín (Theresienstadt). The fortress and the memorial to the victims of the Nazi era left a lasting impression. In Litoměřice, we were finally greeted by a beautiful Baroque town square – a place to linger and enjoy.

Day 4 – Litoměřice to Děčín (approx. 52 km): Between castles and rocks

We continued along the Elbe River, enjoying impressive views of Schreckenstein Castle. Our destination was Děčín, whose castle towers high above the river. Opposite, we discovered the Schäferwand with its via ferrata climbing routes – an exciting contrast to the peaceful ride along the water.

Day 5 – Děčín to Dresden (approx. 70 km): Elbe sandstone and Baroque splendor

This stage combined two day trips: We cycled through the Saxon Switzerland National Park with views of the spectacular Elbe Sandstone Mountains – an impressive backdrop with bizarre rock formations. Via Bad Schandau, Königstein, Pirna, and Wehlen, we continued on to Dresden. There we had enough time in the afternoon to discover the baroque old town with the Semper Opera House, the Zwinger, and the Frauenkirche – a fitting end to our tour.

Day 6 – Return journey by train: with many impressions in our luggage

On the last day, it was time to say goodbye. We used the train again to travel home in an environmentally friendly and relaxed manner – with many wonderful memories in our luggage.

Conclusion: a cycling tour for the heart, legs, and senses

This tour was a successful mix of cultural highlights, moving history, and unforgettable nature. The route runs continuously along the Vltava and Elbe rivers and is also suitable for less experienced cyclists, with only a few inclines.

Practical: If you need a break or the weather isn’t cooperating, you can always shorten a section by train, as the entire route runs close to the railway.

The accommodations were also well chosen: a balanced mix of city hotels and cozy guesthouses rounded off the experience.

My conclusion: highly recommended for anyone who likes to experience nature and culture from the saddle of a bike!

About the trip: Cycling trip from Prague to Dresden