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Biking in Germany

Discover 5 top cycling regions by train

Germany is an underrated cycling paradise. The country has an extensive network of cycle paths and trails through picturesque countryside, vast forests and charming villages. There is something for every cyclist, from the leisurely to the adventurous.

In just a few hours, you can travel by train to the most beautiful cycling regions just across the Dutch border. In this article, we take you to 5 top destinations and show you how to travel comfortably by bike. While you relax on the train, you can plan the details of your cycling route.

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1. Osnabrückland - Osnabrück

Osnabrückland offers a varied cycling experience with both flat cycle paths and hilly routes around the city. Mountain bikers and athletic cyclists can enjoy challenging climbs, while leisure cyclists can enjoy leisurely rides past lakes, green meadows and picturesque villages. It will take you 3.06 hours to travel by train from Amstersdam to Osnabrück.

2. Siebengebirge - Bonn

Just 3.16 hours from Amsterdam Central Station is the Siebengebirge, a beautiful nature reserve near Bonn. This region has an extensive network of cycle routes through rolling hills, up steep paths and densely wooded landscapes. The Siebengebirge is perfect for cyclists looking for a challenge and spectacular views of the Rhine. Whether you are a road cyclist, mountain biker or gravel rider, you will always find a good route. For recreational cyclists, the flatter paths along the Rhine are a more relaxed option.

3. Münsterland - Münster

The Münsterland is known as one of the best cycling regions in Germany, with almost 4,500 kilometres of cycle paths. One of the most famous routes is the 100 Castles Route, which takes you past many impressive castles and palaces. The Münsterland region also offers beautiful routes along the River Ems, where you can enjoy a variety of landscapes and old towns. Cycling in this area will also introduce you to the region's rich history, including ancient trade routes and Roman remains. The train will take you from Amsterdam to Münster in 3.24 hours.

4. Eifel - Kall

The Eifel, one of Germany's most beautiful natural regions, is perfect for a cycling weekend. With its vast forests, volcanic lakes and quaint villages, the Eifel is an ideal destination for cyclists looking for peace and nature. The Eifel region offers a variety of routes, from leisurely rides through the valleys to challenging climbs for more experienced cyclists. By train, you can reach Kall, a convenient base in the Eifel, from Amsterdam in 4.13 hours.

5. Bergische Land - Cologne

The Bergisches Land, near Cologne, has a varied landscape of green hills, river valleys and wooded areas. This region is ideal for cycling tours where you can enjoy both nature and culture. Discover old water mills and charming villages. You can travel from Amsterdam to Cologne by train in just 2.38 hours and get off in the heart of the city. What could be better than starting your bike ride next to Cologne's iconic cathedral?

Cycle routes in Germany

For mountain bikers, cyclists and gravel bikers, there are plenty of beautiful cycle routes to discover in Germany. Via platform Komoot you can easily find routes tailored to your preferences using handy filters. Whether you like challenging climbs or a leisurely ride through the countryside, there is always a route nearby to suit you.

Buying bike tickets for ICE International and Intercity Berlin

It is now very easy to take your bike on a trip to Germany. As well as Intercity Berlin, ICE International now has a separate carriage for bikes, so you can get to your favourite cycling destination in Germany in comfort.

The price of an international bike ticket depends on the route, but the bike reservation is free. You can easily book your bike ticket and reservation via:

NS International Customer Service: 030 - 23 000 23 (daily from 7.00 to 23.00 hours).
NS International desk at the stations Amsterdam Centraal, Schiphol Airport, Rotterdam Centraal, Utrecht Centraal or Arnhem Centraal.

Steps to planing your cycling adventure

Determine the destination and carrier. Before planning your trip, it is important to know your final destination and check which train operator will get you there. Depending on your destination, you will be travelling across the border on the ICE International or Intercity Berlin.
Check out the possibilities. Rules vary from train operator to train operator. Check in advance what you need to know on our 'Transporting bicycles on trains' page. Find out more about the differences between ICE International and Intercity Berlin.
First book your bike ticket by phone and then your train ticket online. We recommend that you book your bike ticket by phone first and then book your train ticket online. This way you can be sure that there is enough space for your bike on the train and you will not be charged extra for booking your train ticket by phone.

Key things to bear in mind

Book from a station near you. It is advisable to book a train from your nearest station, as the rush hour restriction for bicycles does not apply to international travellers. With an international (bike) ticket, you can take your bike with you during rush hour.
Check the measurements of your bike. Your bike must be parked in the bike racks provided, as this is compulsory on the high-speed lines. The racks are suitable for tyres up to 60mm wide. Normal bicycles are allowed, while fat bikes and electric bikes are allowed under certain conditions.

Read all the conditions for taking a bike on ICE International and Intercity Berlin.

Take your bike on regional trains in Germany

Taking a bike on regional trains in Germany is the same as on Dutch NS trains: you just need a bike ticket, not a reservation. Make sure you always book your bike ticket to your final destination, so you can travel with peace of mind.