Cycling in Berlin

South of Berlin, the Spree cycle path covers a distance of 404 kilometers (251 miles). While this is largely a flat area, there are some hills, lakes and rivers to be found. Via Cottbus, the route leads to the three Spree sources in Upper Lusatia in Saxony. Spremberg dam presents a great opportunity to cool off with a swim on the way.

For more than 28 years, the Berlin Wall divided east and west Berlin. Today, you can cycle along the former borderline and take in exciting historical facts on the way. This unique cycle route circles the old city of Berlin over a distance of 160 kilometers (100 miles). 14 easy stages lead from Potsdamer Platz via Friedrichshain and Wannsee to Berlin-Mitte.

The TV tower at Alexanderplatz is the starting point for a perfect cycle tour of the city of Berlin. To take in all the important sights, head towards the Museum Island, the Holocaust memorial and Checkpoint Charlie. Alternatively, cycle through the government quarter and visit the State Opera and Humboldt University. Berlin is home to some magnificent parks with tree-lined lanes and lovely city views, such as Treptower Park, Tiergarten and Volkspark Friedrichshain.

The River Havel originates in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and flows towards Berlin. Many cyclists follow the course of the river to reach the German capital. But the vibrant city of Berlin is not the only attraction on the way. In Potsdam, you can visit Babelsberg Palace and Sanssouci, the former summer residence of Frederick, King of Prussia. And at the point where the River Havel and the River Elbe meet, the Hanseatic city of Havelberg awaits.

Kreuzberg is known as one of the most colorful neighborhoods in Berlin. To best explore this diverse area, look out for routes through parks and by the water – not only the River Spree but also the Landwehr canal offer up some wonderful cycle paths. The city of Potsdam is around 30 km (20 miles) away. The beautiful Lake Wannsee route leading there and the Sanssouci Park with its grand rococo palace as a destination are all the ingredients you'll need for a perfect day trip by bicycle.